These Classic Crispy Sweet Potato Fries strike the ultimate balance: wonderfully crispy on the outside, tender and fluffy on the inside, with a subtle hint of warmth from garlic and smoked paprika. Naturally sweet and seasoned to perfection, they make an incredible side dish, snack, or appetizer for any meal.

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 25–30 minutes

• Total time: 40–45 minutes

• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into uniform 1/4-inch thick matchsticks

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (the secret weapon for crispiness)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt (plus extra for finishing)

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

• Optional: Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Soak the Sweet Potatoes (For Maximum Crispiness)

Place the cut sweet potato fries in a large bowl and cover them completely with cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 1 hour). This draws out excess starch, which prevents them from getting soggy. Drain thoroughly and pat them completely dry with clean paper towels.

2. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil a wire cooling rack placed inside the baking sheet (the wire rack allows air circulation for crispier fries).

3. Coat with Cornstarch

Place the dry sweet potato fries into a large clean bowl. Sprinkle the cornstarch over them and toss thoroughly until every fry has a very light, even coating.

4. Add Oil and Seasonings

Drizzle the olive oil over the cornstarch-coated fries. In a small separate bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over the fries and toss well until everything is evenly coated.

5. Arrange on the Pan

Spread the fries out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Crucial step: Do not crowd the pan! If the fries overlap, they will steam instead of roast. Use two baking sheets if necessary.

6. Roast to Perfection

Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven, gently flip the fries using a spatula, and spread them back out. Return to the oven for another 8 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.

7. Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt and fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Chef’s Tips for Success

• Cut Uniformly: Try to slice your fries as evenly as possible so they bake at the same rate.

• Don’t Skip the Soak: Soaking removes surface starches that hinder crisping. If you are short on time, even a 15-minute soak helps!

• Air Fryer Adaptation: You can easily adapt this recipe for an air fryer! Cook at 380°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.