Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these baked sweet potato fries are a healthy and delicious side dish. Seasoned with a simple blend of spices and baked to perfection, they're a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
For 4 servings
Preheat oven and prepare the sweet potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them or leave the skin on for extra fiber.
- Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform 1/4-inch thick fries.
Season the fries
- In a large bowl, add the sweet potato fries.
- Drizzle with olive oil and toss well to coat each fry evenly.
- Sprinkle the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the fries.
- Toss again until the fries are fully coated in the spices.
Bake the fries until crispy
- Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, use two if necessary.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, flip the fries using a spatula.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until they are crispy and lightly browned.
Garnish and serve
- Remove the fries from the oven and let them cool for a minute on the pan.
- If using, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra crispy fries, soak the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then dry them completely before seasoning.
- 2Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Give the fries space to bake, not steam.
- 3Ensure all fries are cut to a similar size for even cooking.
- 4For a different flavor profile, try adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder to the spice mix.
Adapt it for your goals.
Quick
Use an air fryer instead of the oven. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
healthyHealthy
Reduce the olive oil to 1 tablespoon and use an oil spray to lightly coat the fries to lower the fat content further.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the smoked paprika and black pepper. Season simply with salt and a little garlic powder.
spicySpicy
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes along with the other spices for a spicy kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin A
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A, essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.
Good Source of Fiber
With the skin on, sweet potatoes provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps you feel full.
Complex Carbohydrates
They provide complex carbohydrates that offer a steady release of energy, making them a great choice for a balanced meal.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, baked sweet potato fries are a healthy alternative to deep-fried french fries. They are rich in Vitamin A, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, and baking them with minimal oil keeps the fat content low.