These Sweet Potato Fries Oven Baked are a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes—perfect for snack lovers, meal preppers, and anyone looking to add a nutritious twist to their side dishes. This recipe creates fries that are tender on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and generously seasoned for maximum flavor. With simple ingredients and a few key techniques, you’ll be able to bake sweet potato fries that rival any restaurant version. Whether you're serving them with burgers, bowls, or dipping sauces, this recipe is easy, reliable, and incredibly enjoyable.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Yield: About 4 cups
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled (optional) and cut into ¼–½-inch fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (helps create crispiness)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional seasoning ideas:
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (for heat)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon + pinch of sugar (for a sweet variation)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan + parsley (post-baking)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even browning. - Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Scrub or peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into evenly sized sticks about ¼–½ inch thick. Uniform cuts help the fries cook at the same rate. - Optional: Soak for Extra Crispiness
Place the cut fries into a bowl of cold water for 20–30 minutes to remove excess starch. This helps reduce moisture and promotes browning. Drain and dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel—moisture will prevent crisping. - Coat with Cornstarch
Add the dry sweet potato sticks to a large bowl and toss with cornstarch until lightly coated. This is a key step for crisp edges. - Add Oil and Seasoning
Drizzle the olive oil over the coated fries and toss well. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all fries are evenly seasoned. - Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not overcrowd—use two sheets if needed. Crowding causes steaming instead of crisping. - Bake the Fries
Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the tray and flip the fries. Return to the oven and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until edges are crisp and golden. - Season and Serve
Sprinkle with a little extra salt if desired and serve hot with your favorite dips like chipotle mayo, garlic aioli, or honey mustard.
Tip: Sweet potatoes brown quickly at high heat. Keep an eye on the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated values
- Calories: 195
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 31g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Total Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 2g
- Vitamin A: 377% DV
- Vitamin C: 4% DV
- Potassium: 438mg
Conclusion
These Sweet Potato Fries Oven Baked are a simple, wholesome, and incredibly flavorful side that works for busy weeknights or weekend meal prep. With just a few easy methods—like soaking, drying, and using cornstarch—you’ll consistently achieve lightly crisp, beautifully seasoned fries every time. They pair wonderfully with dips, main dishes, or can be enjoyed on their own as a nutrient-packed snack. Make a batch today and savor the comfort of homemade sweet potato fries right out of the oven!
