You probably love the idea of crispy fries but want a healthier alternative to deep frying. I remember my first attempt at making these and they turned out soft and soggy. After years of testing I discovered the secret to getting that perfect crunch right in your own kitchen. These oven baked sweet potato fries are sweet and salty and incredibly satisfying. You will love how they pair with almost any main dish from beef burgers to grilled chicken.

Why You Will Love These Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

I am telling you these are a total game changer for your weeknight dinners. First off they use significantly less oil than traditional fries which makes me feel a lot better about eating a giant pile of them. The natural sweetness of the potatoes caramelizes beautifully in the oven and creates these little charred bits that are just amazing. You only need a few basic pantry ingredients and the whole thing is naturally gluten free and vegan friendly too. It is so easy that you will wonder why you ever bought the frozen bags.

They use significantly less oil than traditional fries.
The natural sweetness of the potatoes caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
You only need a few basic pantry ingredients.
This recipe is naturally gluten free and vegan friendly.

Ingredients for Perfect Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

You do not need much to make these happen. If you do not have olive oil you can totally use avocado oil instead. I always keep these spices on hand because they make everything taste better.

2 large sweet potatoes which you can peel or leave unpeeled based on your preference.
2 tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil.
1 teaspoon of cornstarch which is the secret for extra crispiness.
1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Salt and black pepper to taste.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

When you are at the store look for sweet potatoes that are firm and have smooth skin. You want to avoid any that have soft spots or little sprouts growing out of them. I find that smaller to medium sized potatoes often have a more consistent texture and that really helps them cook evenly in the oven so you do not end up with some burnt ones and some raw ones.

Step by Step Guide to Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Total time is about 45 minutes. Prep time takes 15 minutes and the actual cook time is 30 minutes. Trust the process and do not skip the soaking part.

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cut the sweet potatoes into even matchsticks about 1/4 inch thick.
Soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch because this step is vital for crispiness.
Pat the fries completely dry with a clean kitchen towel. Any moisture will cause them to steam instead of crisp up.
In a large bowl toss the fries with cornstarch first then add the oil and spices.
Spread the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet and make sure you do not crowd them.
Bake for 15 minutes and then flip them using a spatula.
Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the edges are browned and crispy.

How to Avoid Soggy Fries

The biggest mistake people make is overcrowding the pan. If the fries touch each other they release steam and that is the enemy of crunch. Use two baking sheets if necessary to ensure every fry has its own space. Also remember to add salt only after they are done baking to prevent them from drawing out moisture too early while they are in the oven.

Expert Tips for Extra Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

I have made these a thousand times and these little tricks always work. You want that high heat and plenty of space on the tray.

Always use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper if you enjoy a spicy kick.
Keep a close eye on the oven during the last 5 minutes as sweet potatoes can burn quickly due to their sugar content.
Let the fries rest on the baking sheet for two minutes after taking them out because they firm up as they cool slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Can I make these ahead of time?

These fries are definitely best served immediately. If you have leftovers you should reheat them in an air fryer or oven at 400 degrees for a few minutes to regain their texture. Avoid the microwave because it will make them soft and sad.

Do I have to peel the sweet potatoes?

No you do not have to peel them at all. The skin contains extra fiber and adds a nice rustic texture to the fries. Just make sure to scrub the skins thoroughly before you start cutting them up.

What dipping sauce goes well with these?

A garlic aioli or spicy mayo works wonderfully. If you want something savory a simple beef broth based gravy is great. If you want something sweet you can try a honey mustard dip.

Nutritional Facts for Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Here is the estimated data per serving so you know exactly what you are getting.

Calories: 160 kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 4g
Vitamin A: 150 percent of Daily Value