Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Fries
The weekend is here and we are craving delicious veggie burgers and fries and there’s just something undeniably satisfying about a plate of perfectly crisp, golden sweet potato fries. They manage to hit that sweet-and-savory balance in a way regular fries just can’t, with their naturally caramelized edges and soft, creamy centers. Best of all, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home—and baking them in the oven means you can skip the hassle (and extra oil) of deep-frying while still enjoying fries that are crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Sweet potato fries have become a beloved side dish and snack for good reason. They bring a boost of nutrition to the table with fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants, all while feeling like the ultimate comfort food. The key to getting them just right comes down to a few simple tricks: cutting them evenly, not crowding the pan, and roasting at a high heat so they can crisp rather than steam. A light coating of oil helps them caramelize beautifully, while a touch of seasoning—like smoked paprika and garlic powder—adds the perfect savory punch.
This recipe keeps things simple and wholesome, delivering fries that are flavorful enough to stand on their own but versatile enough to pair with any dipping sauce you love. Whether you’re serving them alongside burgers, tossing them into a grain bowl, or enjoying them straight off the pan for a cozy night in, these oven-baked sweet potato fries are bound to become a favorite.
Plus, they’re easy to customize: add cayenne for a spicy kick, cinnamon for warmth, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet twist. However you season them, you’ll end up with fries that are as nourishing as they are addictive—crispy, golden, and utterly irresistible.
Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Ingredients
2 large sweet potatoes (about 1½ pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prep the sweet potatoes: Wash and peel the sweet potatoes (peeling is optional if you like the skin). Cut them into thin, even sticks—about ¼ inch thick for crispier fries.
Soak (optional): For the crispiest fries, soak the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and pat completely dry with a clean towel.
Season: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato sticks with olive oil. If using, sprinkle on cornstarch and toss again to coat lightly—this helps them crisp up. Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne, tossing until evenly coated.
Bake: Spread the fries on the baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between each fry (this prevents steaming). Bake for 15 minutes, flip, then bake another 10–15 minutes until golden and crispy.
Serve: Let the fries cool slightly, then serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce—like chipotle aioli or spicy ketchup.
These oven-baked sweet potato fries prove that a healthy side dish can be just as satisfying as classic comfort food. With their crisp edges, tender centers, and perfectly balanced seasoning, they’re a delicious twist on traditional fries. Best of all, this easy sweet potato fries recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a crowd-pleaser for any table.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side, a nutritious snack, or a fun appetizer for guests, these crispy sweet potato fries fit the bill. Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and the magic of high-heat roasting turn everyday sweet potatoes into an irresistible treat.
Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, sprinkle on extra seasoning for a flavor boost, or customize them with a sweet or spicy twist. However you enjoy them, this recipe guarantees the best oven-baked sweet potato fries every single time.
