Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Table of Contents
Oh, sweet potatoes, how you take me back! I remember the cozy afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of baking wafted through the air, embracing us like a warm hug. One of the simplest joys was making crispy oven baked sweet potato fries. These fries weren’t just a snack; they were tiny golden memories, wrapped in a crunchy coat, and shared with laughter and stories. There’s something so wonderfully nostalgic about them — maybe it’s the way they bring people together around the table or how they’re the perfect blend of crispy and tender. These are the kind of fries that make you feel at home, comforting and familiar, yet excitingly delicious every single time.
Sweet potatoes, with their natural sweetness and vibrant hue, transform into the most delightful fries with just a touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of spices. The garlic and paprika add a savory warmth that pairs beautifully with the sweet potato’s natural flavor, creating a dish that’s both comforting and irresistibly tasty. Making these fries is blissfully simple, perfect for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices. It’s a recipe that invites you to dive in, no stress, only joy — because cooking should always feel like a cozy gathering rather than a chore.
As a busy mom, I love how these fries fit into our lives so effortlessly. They’re quick enough for those whirlwind weeknight dinners and special enough for a weekend treat. And let’s not forget, they’re a healthier alternative to regular fries, leaving you satisfied without the guilt. Whether you’re serving these up as a side dish or a snack, they’re sure to become a family favorite, just as they have in my home. So, let’s gather around the kitchen and make some memories with these crispy delights!
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
These Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are more than just a side dish; they’re a celebration of flavor and simplicity. Here’s why they deserve a spot on your table:
- Deliciously Crispy Texture: Achieving that perfect crispiness is easier than you think, making every bite a delightful crunch. The trick is in the soaking and the cornstarch, which help to draw out moisture and add that extra crispy layer.
- Healthier Option: Packed with vitamins and fiber, sweet potatoes are a nutritious alternative to traditional fries. They’re lower in calories and packed with nutrients, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of garlic and paprika elevates the natural sweetness, offering a perfect balance of savory and sweet. You can adjust the spices to cater to your family’s preference, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already, making this recipe both affordable and easy to prepare. It’s a great recipe for those last-minute dinner plans when you need something quick and delicious.
- Kid-Friendly: These fries are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them perfect for family dinners or casual snacks. They’re finger food that’s both fun and nourishing, encouraging even picky eaters to try something new.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To whip up these delightful bites, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade snacks.
- Baking Sheet: Ensures even baking and helps achieve that crispy texture. A sturdy, non-stick baking sheet is ideal, but lining it with parchment paper can also prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Large Bowl: Perfect for tossing your sweet potato fries with oil and spices. A wide, deep bowl allows you to coat the fries evenly without making a mess.
- Sharp Knife: For cutting the sweet potatoes into uniform fries. A sharp knife is essential for safety and precision, ensuring you get even pieces that cook at the same rate.
- Paper Towels: Essential for drying the fries after soaking, which helps them crisp up in the oven. Patting them dry is crucial to remove excess water and achieve that desired crunch.
- Oven Mitts: For safely handling the hot baking sheet. Protect your hands from burns and make transferring the sheet in and out of the oven a breeze.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled (optional) and cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch for extra crispiness
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet inside the oven while it heats to get it nice and hot. This preheating step is critical as it helps the fries start cooking immediately, searing the outside and locking in moisture.
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes (optional) and cut them into 1/4 inch thick fries. Try to make them as uniform as possible to ensure they cook evenly. Consistency in size is key to achieving that perfect texture.
- Soak the Fries: Place the cut sweet potato fries in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which is key to getting crispy fries. Soaking also helps in keeping the fries from sticking together.
- Season the Fries: After soaking, drain and pat the fries dry with a paper towel to remove moisture. In a large bowl, toss the fries with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. If you’re using cornstarch for extra crispiness, sprinkle it in now and toss everything together. The cornstarch acts as a light coating that crisps up beautifully in the hot oven.
- Bake the Fries: Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Spread the fries in a single layer on the sheet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Flipping the fries ensures they brown evenly on all sides.
- Check for Crispiness: Once the fries are crisp and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. The cooling period allows the exterior to firm up, making them extra crunchy.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 10 minutes • Cooking Time: 25 minutes • Total Time: 35 minutes • Calories: 180 • Servings: 4
Note: For extra crispiness, make sure the fries are spaced out and not overlapping on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which will result in soggy fries.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
These Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries not only promise delightful flavors but also come with some surprising benefits:
- Sweet Potatoes: Rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, they support eye health and boost your immune system. They are also a good source of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body, promoting healthy skin and vision.
- Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that enhances flavor and helps absorb the sweet potatoes’ nutrients. It contains monounsaturated fats, which are known to reduce inflammation and may have beneficial effects on genes linked to cancer.
- Garlic Powder: Adds flavor while offering anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits. It’s packed with compounds like allicin, which is known for its health properties.
- Paprika: Provides a smoky undertone and is packed with antioxidants. It adds color and depth to dishes without overpowering them.
- Cornstarch: Optional, but creates a crispier texture without adding calories or fat. It’s a gluten-free alternative that enhances the fry’s crunch.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
These fries are versatile companions to various beverages and dishes, making them perfect for any occasion:
- Avocado Dip: Creamy and fresh, this dip complements the fries’ crispy texture and adds a healthy twist. Mash ripe avocados with lime juice, salt, and a touch of garlic for a smooth, rich dip.
- Grilled Chicken: A protein-packed, flavorful main that balances the sweetness of the fries. Season the chicken with herbs and spices that mirror those in the fries for a cohesive meal.
- Homemade Ketchup: A classic pairing that’s easy to make and lets you control the sweetness. Blend ripe tomatoes with vinegar, sugar, and spices for a condiment that’s fresher than store-bought.
- Spicy Mayo: A tangy and spicy option for those who love a little heat with their fries. Mix mayonnaise with sriracha or hot sauce for a creamy dip with a kick.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
If you find yourself with leftover crispy oven baked sweet potato fries (which is rare in my home!), storing them properly will help preserve their deliciousness for later enjoyment. Place any cooled fries in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days.
To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and pop them back into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they regain their crispiness. Avoid the microwave as it tends to make them soggy. For a quick snack, these fries are perfect for topping on salads or adding to wraps for a delightful crunch.
As we wrap up this culinary journey through the simple joys of making crispy oven baked sweet potato fries, I hope you’re feeling inspired to bring a bit of warmth and nostalgia into your own kitchen. These fries are a testament to how comforting and satisfying homemade cooking can be. Whether you’re creating new family traditions or savoring cherished memories, cooking is all about sharing love and laughter around the table. So, let’s keep stirring up those delightful moments, one easy peasy recipe at a time.
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Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet inside the oven while it heats to get it nice and hot.
- Peel the sweet potatoes (optional) and cut them into 1/4 inch thick fries. Try to make them as uniform as possible to ensure they cook evenly.
- Place the cut sweet potato fries in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which is key to getting crispy fries.
- After soaking, drain and pat the fries dry with a paper towel to remove moisture. In a large bowl, toss the fries with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. If you’re using cornstarch for extra crispiness, sprinkle it in now and toss everything together.
- Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Spread the fries in a single layer on the sheet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once the fries are crisp and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
