Name: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries Recipe: Crispy and Flavorful
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes (1.5 lbs, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch fries); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Optional: Fresh parsley (sea salt); Suggested Pairings: Sparkling water (ketchup)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries are a crispy, flavorful side dish or snack, perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or game nights. This healthier alternative to traditional fries, featuring tender sweet potatoes with a golden, crispy exterior and a sweet-savory seasoning blend, delivers bold flavors with minimal oil. Presented on a white ceramic platter, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of sea salt, this Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries recipe offers a vibrant, rustic aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a simple air fryer method with accessible ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings wholesome, comforting charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Fries:

2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and cut into 1/4-inch fries
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh parsley, sea salt
Suggested Accompaniments: Ketchup, garlic aioli, or ranch dip
Suggested Pairings: Sparkling water, iced tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Air fryer, cutting board, sharp knife, large bowl, tongs, measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Prep Sweet Potatoes: Peel sweet potatoes and cut into 1/4-inch thick fries, keeping them uniform for even cooking. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess starch.
Season Fries: In a large bowl, toss sweet potato fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). Taste a small pinch of the seasoning mix (without raw potato) and adjust with more salt or paprika for a balanced, savory flavor.
Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Air Fry: Place fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding (work in batches if needed). Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket or tossing with tongs halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Serve: Arrange fries on a white ceramic platter. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of sea salt. Serve with ketchup, garlic aioli, or ranch dip, paired with sparkling water or iced tea.

Tips for Better Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Cut fries uniformly to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Taste and adjust the seasoning before air frying to balance sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
Pat fries dry after rinsing to remove starch for maximum crispiness.
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
Present on a white ceramic platter to highlight the golden fries and vibrant garnishes.
Make ahead: Cut and season fries up to 1 day in advance; store in the fridge and air fry when ready.
Shake the basket during cooking to ensure all sides crisp evenly.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with parsley or sea salt for a rustic, vibrant pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Fries: Naturally gluten-free; confirm dipping sauces are gluten-free.
Low-Sodium Sweet Potato Fries: Reduce salt to 1/2 tsp and use low-sodium dipping sauces.
Spicy Sweet Potato Fries: Increase cayenne to 1/2 tsp or add 1/4 tsp chili powder.
Herbed Sweet Potato Fries: Add 1 tsp dried rosemary or thyme to the seasoning mix.
Parmesan Sweet Potato Fries: Sprinkle 2 tbsp grated Parmesan over fries after air frying.
Cinnamon Sweet Potato Fries: Replace savory seasonings with 1 tsp cinnamon and 1 tbsp brown sugar for a sweet version.
Vegan Sweet Potato Fries: Naturally vegan; serve with vegan dipping sauces like tahini or vegan ranch.
Garlic Butter Sweet Potato Fries: Toss with 1 tbsp melted butter and 1/2 tsp minced garlic after air frying.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freeze cooked fries in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; reheat in the air fryer at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway.
Serve hot for the best crispy texture and bold flavors.
Use as a side dish or snack for dinners or gatherings.
Pair with sparkling water or iced tea to complement the sweet-savory flavors.
Present on a white ceramic platter with garnishes for a vibrant, rustic charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings (1 cup each):

Calories: 180 kcal
Total Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 620mg
Total Carbohydrates: 34g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 3g
Vitamin A: 400% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 20% Daily Value
Calcium: 4% Daily Value
Iron: 6% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sodium options reduce sodium). High in fiber and vitamin A; light and satisfying.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries recipe delivers a crispy, flavorful side dish or snack perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. It transforms simple ingredients into a wholesome favorite. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a go-to. The golden fries and savory seasoning delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing charm.