Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

If you’ve ever craved the crispy, golden texture of fries without the guilt of deep-frying, you’re going to fall in love with this recipe. These air fryer sweet potato fries are the perfect combination of crunchy outside and tender inside, offering a healthier twist on a classic comfort food.

I created this recipe on a chilly Sunday afternoon when all I wanted was something warm, crispy, and comforting—but without the heavy oil and calories of traditional fries. I had a couple of sweet potatoes lying around and thought, why not see what my air fryer can do?

The result? A crispy, caramelized, sweet-yet-savory snack that I now make almost every week. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a casual dinner, or simply need a snack to nibble on during movie night—these air fryer sweet potato fries check every box.

And once you try them, you’ll see why this simple side dish is such a game-changer.

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about sweet potato fries that makes them irresistible, and the air fryer takes them to a whole new level.

First, it’s the texture. You get a satisfying crunch on the outside and a fluffy, soft interior without using a ton of oil. The natural sugars in sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully in the air fryer, giving each bite a hint of crisp sweetness that’s hard to replicate with white potatoes.

Second, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can season these fries a dozen different ways—think smoky paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon and sugar, or even a Cajun twist. You can enjoy them as a snack, pair them with burgers, or even toss them into a breakfast bowl.

But perhaps what I love most is how easy and mess-free they are. There’s no need for a vat of oil, no hot splatter, no draining. Just a few ingredients, a quick shake of the basket, and 15 minutes later, you’re done.

They’re healthy enough to eat guilt-free, satisfying enough to curb your craving, and simple enough to whip up on a whim. That’s the sweet spot—pun intended.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity.

You don’t need any fancy ingredients or obscure spices. Everything here is probably already in your kitchen, and if it’s not, it’s easily available at any grocery store.

Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect batch of crispy, golden air fryer sweet potato fries:

• Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm, medium-sized sweet potatoes with smooth skin. Orange-fleshed varieties like Beauregard or Garnet are ideal because they crisp well and have a rich, sweet flavor.
• Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon is enough. It helps the fries brown and adds a touch of richness. You can also use avocado oil if you prefer a higher smoke point.
• Cornstarch (optional but recommended): This is the secret weapon for achieving that perfect crisp exterior. It creates a light coating that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.
• Seasonings: At its most basic, all you need is sea salt. But here’s where you can have fun—paprika for smokiness, garlic powder for depth, black pepper for a little heat. Want to go bold? Add chili powder or cumin. Sweet tooth? Try cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar.

That’s it. Just a few humble ingredients, and you’re on your way to fry perfection.

How Much Time Will You Need

One of the best things about this recipe is how quick it is. You don’t need to plan hours ahead or stand over a hot stove.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

• Prep time: 10–15 minutes (peeling, slicing, and seasoning)
• Cook time: 15–20 minutes in the air fryer, depending on thickness
• Total time: Around 30 minutes start to finish

It’s a great recipe to make last-minute when you’re short on time but still want something fresh and homemade.

How to Make This Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Step – 1: Wash and Peel

Start by scrubbing your sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Peel the skins off using a vegetable peeler. While you can keep the skins on for extra fiber and texture, I prefer peeling them for that classic fry feel.

Step – 2: Slice Evenly

Slice the sweet potatoes into fries about 1/4 inch thick. Try to make them as uniform in size as possible. This ensures even cooking and prevents smaller pieces from burning while the larger ones are still soft.

Step – 3: Soak in Water

Place your cut fries into a bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. This removes excess starch and helps them crisp up better in the air fryer.

Step – 4: Dry Completely

After soaking, drain the fries and pat them dry using a clean towel or paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispness, so make sure they’re completely dry before moving on.

Step – 5: Toss with Oil and Cornstarch

In a large mixing bowl, toss the fries with olive oil to coat evenly. Then, sprinkle in a teaspoon of cornstarch and your chosen seasonings. Toss again until everything is evenly coated.

Step – 6: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. Preheating helps the fries start cooking immediately and promotes better browning.

Step – 7: Air Fry in Batches

Place the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them—air circulation is key to crispy fries. You may need to cook in two or three batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step – 8: Cook and Shake

Cook the fries for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping. If your fries are thicker, they may need a bit longer.

Step – 9: Check and Adjust

Once they’re golden brown and crispy, remove the fries and let them cool for a minute or two—they’ll crisp up even more as they rest. Taste and sprinkle with extra salt if needed.

Step – 10: Serve Hot

Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy, paired with your favorite dipping sauce.

Substitutions

Don’t have a certain ingredient? No problem. There are plenty of easy swaps to help you customize or improve this recipe based on your pantry or dietary preferences.

If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil or grapeseed oil work great and have higher smoke points, making them ideal for air frying.

Instead of cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch—both will give that crispy finish. For a slightly more rustic texture, you can even skip the starch entirely.

Looking to change up the flavor profile? Swap in seasoned salt, curry powder, or everything bagel seasoning for a totally different take. If you’re feeling adventurous, truffle oil or a splash of balsamic glaze after frying can add a gourmet twist.

These fries are incredibly flexible—you can make them your own with just a few tweaks.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

These fries are great on their own, but they also shine as a side dish with all kinds of meals.

Here are three delicious pairings that turn them into a complete feast:

• Grilled Chicken Sandwich: The slight sweetness of the fries pairs beautifully with a smoky, savory grilled chicken sandwich.
• Veggie Burger: A plant-based burger and these fries are a match made in comfort food heaven—delicious and satisfying without being heavy.
• Garlic Aioli Dip: Okay, technically not a dish, but it’s the perfect creamy, garlicky complement to the fries. Also try chipotle mayo or honey mustard for extra flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving air fryer sweet potato fries, presentation really elevates the whole eating experience. Instead of just tossing them on a plate, consider arranging them neatly in a small basket lined with parchment paper for a rustic, casual vibe. This also helps absorb any excess oil and keeps the fries crispy.

For a pop of color and extra flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives over the fries just before serving. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a drizzle of flavored olive oil (like chili or garlic-infused) can also add an appealing visual and taste boost.

Serve them hot and fresh, ideally right out of the air fryer, because these fries are at their crispiest and most flavorful then. If you’re serving a crowd, place small ramekins of dipping sauces—such as garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or tangy yogurt dip—around the platter to encourage sharing and interaction.

Presentation is not just about looks—it’s about enhancing the overall flavor journey, making the simple sweet potato fry feel like a gourmet treat.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

If you want to take your air fryer sweet potato fries to the next level, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by:

• Cut Evenly: The secret to fries that cook evenly is consistent size. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer to keep your fries the same thickness. This prevents some fries from being undercooked while others burn.
• Soak to Remove Starch: Don’t skip the soaking step. This removes excess starch and significantly improves the crispiness. For best results, soak for at least 30 minutes, or even longer if you have the time.
• Pat Dry Thoroughly: Moisture is enemy number one when it comes to crispiness. Be meticulous about drying your fries after soaking. Use a clean kitchen towel or multiple layers of paper towels.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Give your fries plenty of room in the air fryer basket. Air needs to circulate freely to crisp up the fries. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Toss Halfway Through Cooking: Shaking or tossing the fries midway ensures all sides get evenly browned.
• Use Cornstarch: This is a game-changer for texture. The cornstarch creates a delicate crust that crisps up beautifully in the hot air.
• Add Seasonings After Cooking: For herbs like parsley or spices like smoked paprika, a light sprinkle after frying keeps the flavors bright and fresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is straightforward, a few common pitfalls can spoil the outcome. Avoid these to get perfect fries every time:

• Skipping Soaking: Without soaking, the fries will be soggy and less crispy.
• Leaving Fries Wet: Moist fries steam instead of crisp, so dry them thoroughly before cooking.
• Overcrowding the Basket: Too many fries at once block the hot air circulation, resulting in uneven cooking.
• Using Thick or Uneven Cuts: Inconsistent fry sizes cause uneven cooking—some fries will burn while others remain underdone.
• Cooking at Too Low Temperature: Sweet potato fries need a high temperature (around 400°F) to caramelize and crisp properly.
• Not Shaking the Basket: If you don’t shake halfway, fries can cook unevenly, leaving some soggy spots.
• Not Eating Immediately: Sweet potato fries lose their crispiness quickly, so serve them right away.

How to Store It

If you have leftovers—and they’re usually rare—it’s best to store them properly to preserve their flavor and texture.

• Allow fries to cool completely at room temperature before storing. Storing hot fries can cause condensation and sogginess.
• Place them in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb any moisture.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

When reheating, avoid the microwave as it makes fries soggy. Instead, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness.

For longer storage, you can freeze uncooked fries after soaking and drying. Lay them flat on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook them straight from frozen in the air fryer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! Regular russet or Yukon gold potatoes work well in the air fryer. Adjust cook time slightly, as they may cook faster or slower depending on thickness.

Do I have to peel the sweet potatoes?

No, peeling is optional. Leaving the skins on adds fiber and a rustic texture, but peeling gives a more traditional fry feel.

Can I make these fries gluten-free and vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan as long as you use plant-based oil and avoid non-vegan seasonings or dips.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake these fries in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy but still delicious.

How do I make these fries extra crispy?

Soaking, drying, using cornstarch, and not overcrowding the basket are your best bets. Also, cook at a high temperature and shake the basket to promote even cooking.

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