Julia Koch
Sweet, crispy, and just the right amount of savory, Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries are the ultimate sidekick to any meal or a snack-worthy treat all on their own. Their natural sweetness intensifies when cooked, and the air fryer gives them a perfectly golden crunch without all the oil from traditional deep frying.
What sets these fries apart is their irresistible texture—crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Tossed with simple seasonings and a light dusting of cornstarch, they deliver maximum flavor with minimum fuss. Once you’ve tried these, you might never go back to the frozen bagged variety.
What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Should I Use?
Look for firm, medium-sized sweet potatoes with a deep orange flesh—these tend to be sweeter and have a creamy interior that cooks beautifully in the air fryer. Jewel and Garnet varieties are great options. Make sure they’re free of blemishes or soft spots.
Ingredients for the Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
- Sweet Potatoes: The star of the recipe, they bring both sweetness and a soft, rich texture when cooked.
- Olive Oil: Just a light drizzle helps the fries crisp up nicely without getting greasy.
- Cornstarch: This is the secret weapon for crunch—it gives the fries that delicate, golden crisp coating.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle savory depth.
- Paprika: Brings mild heat and a touch of smokiness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish and a bit of herby brightness.
How To Make the Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Step 1: Peel and Cut
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into thin, uniform sticks—about 1/4 inch thick. Keeping the size consistent ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Soak and Dry
Place the fries in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes. This draws out some of the starch and helps them crisp. After soaking, dry them thoroughly with a kitchen towel.
Step 3: Season and Coat
Toss the dry fries in olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are evenly coated for the best flavor and texture.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 minutes. A preheated fryer helps to start the crisping process right away.
Step 5: Cook in Batches
Place the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once golden and crispy, remove the fries and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving and Storing Your Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Serve your fries fresh out of the air fryer while they’re hot and crispy. They’re delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, chipotle mayo, or even a touch of maple syrup for extra sweetness. These also make a great side to burgers, sandwiches, or salads.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes to bring back the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get my sweet potato fries crispy in the air fryer?
Make sure to soak the fries in water and dry them well before seasoning. The cornstarch coating also plays a key role in getting that crisp texture.
Can I leave the skin on the sweet potatoes?
Absolutely. Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients. Just be sure to scrub them clean.
Why are my fries burning or getting too dark?
Overcrowding the basket or cooking at too high a temperature can cause burning. Make sure the fries are in a single layer and keep an eye on cooking time.
Can I make these oil-free?
Yes, but they may not get as crispy. You can skip the oil, though a spritz of cooking spray helps.
What can I serve these with?
They pair well with burgers, wraps, grilled meats, or can be enjoyed on their own with a variety of dips.
Are sweet potato fries healthier than regular fries?
They contain more fiber and vitamins like A and C, making them a slightly more nutritious option than white potatoes.
Want More Air Fryer Snack Ideas?
You might also like the Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower, a zesty veggie-forward option with crunch and tang. Or try Air Fryer Honey BBQ Explosion Chicken for a bold, saucy bite.
For more comfort food with a twist, take a look at the Air Fried Potato Wedges—hearty and golden with a pillowy center. The Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles Recipe also offers a surprising snackable crunch you didn’t know you needed.
If you want to go sweet, the Raspberry Crescent Rolls offer a delightful end to your air fryer adventure.
Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out
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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you try a different seasoning mix? Add a special dipping sauce? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others customize it.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, these Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries are a quick and healthy snack or side. With just a handful of ingredients and no deep frying required, they’re easy to make and hard to stop eating.
Ingredients
2 medium sweet potatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Peel sweet potatoes and cut into 1/4 inch sticks.
- Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and dry thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, toss fries with olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
- Arrange fries in a single layer in the basket. Cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes soaking)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
