When that fry craving hits but you’re looking for something a little healthier, these crispy air fryer sweet potato fries are the perfect solution. They’re golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with natural sweetness and savory spice. Whether you’re dipping them in your favorite sauce or serving them as a side dish, these fries bring bold flavor and crunch — with way less oil than traditional deep-fried versions.
Behind the Recipe
This recipe came together one busy weeknight when I needed something fast, comforting, and satisfying. I had sweet potatoes on the counter and a new air fryer begging to be used. After a few trial runs (and several delicious test batches), I landed on the perfect balance of seasoning, thickness, and cook time. What started as a quick side dish quickly became a weekly go-to, especially when those salty snack cravings hit.
Recipe Origin or Trivia
Sweet potato fries have exploded in popularity in recent years, thanks to their vibrant color, unique flavor, and health benefits. While traditional fries trace back to Belgium and France, sweet potatoes are native to Central and South America, and have been enjoyed for thousands of years. The air fryer is a modern twist, using rapid hot air to create that crispy texture without the need for deep frying. It’s a beautiful marriage of ancient roots and modern convenience.
Why You’ll Love Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
This recipe checks all the boxes for snack time, meal time, and anytime in between.
Versatile: Works as a snack, side dish, or base for loaded fries.
Budget-Friendly: Just a few simple pantry ingredients.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 25 minutes with minimal prep.
Customizable: Choose your spices, herbs, or dipping sauces.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves fries — especially when they’re healthier.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep and soak ahead for maximum crispiness.
Great for Leftovers: Re-crisps easily in the air fryer or oven.
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Getting that perfect crunch is all about technique and timing.
- Soak the fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Dry them thoroughly before seasoning to avoid sogginess.
- Cut into even sticks (about 1/4-inch thick) for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket — cook in batches for best results.
- Shake halfway through cooking for an even golden finish.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Minimal tools, maximum crisp.
Air Fryer: The hero of this recipe for that irresistible crunch.
Sharp Knife: To cut even, uniform fries.
Cutting Board: A stable surface for safe slicing.
Large Bowl: Perfect for soaking and seasoning the fries.
Paper Towels or Clean Dishcloth: To dry the fries thoroughly.
Ingredients in Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
A few ingredients go a long way in delivering that crispy, crave-worthy flavor.
- Sweet Potatoes: 2 large. Naturally sweet and rich in nutrients.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. Helps the fries crisp and carry flavor.
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon. The secret to that ultra-crispy coating.
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon. Adds a smoky, savory depth.
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. For that subtle punch of flavor.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon. Brings out the natural sweetness.
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon. For a gentle kick.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to play with what you have on hand.
Olive Oil: Avocado oil or sunflower oil also work well.
Cornstarch: Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch are good substitutes.
Smoked Paprika: Use chili powder or cumin for a different twist.
Garlic Powder: Onion powder or a pinch of cayenne if you like heat.
Black Pepper: Swap with crushed red pepper for extra spice.
Ingredient Spotlight
Sweet Potatoes: These vibrant orange tubers are rich in fiber, beta-carotene, and natural sugars. Their soft interior pairs perfectly with a crispy exterior when air fried.
Cornstarch: It may seem like a small addition, but this powder creates a light coating that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer. It’s a must for that fry-shop texture.
Instructions for Making Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Let’s bring on the crunch. Follow these easy steps for fry perfection.
-
Preheat Your Equipment:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes while you prep the fries. -
Combine Ingredients:
Wash, peel, and cut sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick sticks. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and pat completely dry. -
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
In a large bowl, toss the dry fries with olive oil, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly coated. -
Assemble the Dish:
Place fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd. Work in batches if needed. -
Cook to Perfection:
Air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until fries are golden and crisp on the edges. -
Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle with a bit more salt or fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy immediately while they’re at peak crispiness. Trust me, they won’t last long!
Texture & Flavor Secrets
These fries are the perfect balance — crunchy edges with a pillowy, soft center. The cornstarch creates a delicate shell, locking in moisture while encouraging that golden crisp. The spices bring warmth and depth, with the natural sweetness of the potato shining through every bite.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
A few helpful hints to get the crispiest sweet potato fries every time:
- Use a mandoline slicer for uniform cuts if you have one.
- Let fries rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking to firm up.
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to restore crunch.
What to Avoid
Avoid these common fry fails:
- Overcrowding the air fryer, which leads to steaming, not crisping.
- Skipping the cornstarch — it makes a big difference.
- Using wet potatoes. Moisture kills crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 3
Calories per serving: 180
Note: These are approximate values.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes soak)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes active (55 minutes total with soak)
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Soak and dry the fries ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to air fry. Leftover fries can be kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days and re-crisped in the air fryer. Freeze uncooked, seasoned fries in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a bag for longer storage.
How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Serve with garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or maple mustard dipping sauce. These fries also pair beautifully with veggie burgers, grain bowls, or even as a topping for a salad with tahini drizzle.
Creative Leftover Transformations
Don’t let any fries go to waste. Try these ideas:
- Chop and add to a breakfast scramble or tofu hash.
- Turn into loaded fries with avocado, salsa, and black beans.
- Toss into a warm quinoa salad for added texture.
Additional Tips
Take your fries to the next level:
- Add a squeeze of lime for brightness.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and sea salt for a sweet-savory twist.
- Drizzle with truffle oil before serving for a gourmet finish.
Make It a Showstopper
Serve in a parchment-lined basket or cone, topped with flaky sea salt and finely chopped parsley. Add a trio of colorful dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer setup.
Variations to Try
- Cajun Style: Use Cajun seasoning blend for a spicy kick.
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne and a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Herb & Garlic: Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme before air frying.
- Parmesan Crusted: Toss with vegan parmesan before serving.
- Lemon Pepper: Add fresh lemon zest and cracked pepper for zing.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I skip the soaking step?
It’s optional, but soaking helps remove starch and makes them crispier.
Q2: Can I make these oil-free?
Yes, but they may be less crispy. Use a spritz of water to help the seasoning stick.
Q3: Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
No, the skin is edible and adds extra texture and nutrients.
Q4: Can I bake these instead?
Yes, bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q5: Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze seasoned uncooked fries and air fry straight from frozen.
Q6: How long do they stay crispy?
Best enjoyed right after cooking, but can be reheated in the air fryer.
Q7: What’s the best dipping sauce?
Garlic aioli, chipotle mayo, or even ketchup all work well.
Q8: Can I use white sweet potatoes?
Yes, they’re slightly drier but still delicious.
Q9: Why are my fries soggy?
They were either too wet or overcrowded in the air fryer.
Q10: How do I store leftovers?
Keep in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
Conclusion
If you’ve been searching for the ultimate crispy, flavorful, and healthier fry, this recipe is your new best friend. These air fryer sweet potato fries deliver everything you want in a fry — crunchy, savory, just the right amount of sweet — without the deep-fried guilt. Trust me, they’re worth every bite and then some.
Print
Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (+30 min soak)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes active (55 minutes total)
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries are golden, crunchy, and irresistibly delicious. Made with just a few ingredients, they’re the perfect healthy side or snack you’ll want to make on repeat.
Ingredients
- 2 large Sweet Potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch sticks
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
- Peel and cut sweet potatoes into uniform fries. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and pat completely dry.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss fries with olive oil, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Place fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; work in batches if necessary.
- Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until fries are golden and crispy.
- Sprinkle with more salt or herbs if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dip.
Notes
- Soaking fries removes excess starch for a crispier result.
- Use a mandoline slicer for even cuts.
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer to restore crunch.
- Add cinnamon or chili powder for flavor variations.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg