Crispy Oven Sweet Potato Fries (Print Version)

Crispy oven-baked sweet potato fries with smoked paprika and garlic—tender inside, a quick vegetarian, gluten-free side in 45 minutes.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and cut into fry-shaped sticks

→ Oils & Fats

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Spices & Seasonings

03 - 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus extra for finishing
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
08 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
02 - Place the cut sweet potato sticks in a large mixing bowl. If using cornstarch, sprinkle it over the fries and toss until lightly and evenly coated.
03 - Drizzle olive oil over the sweet potatoes and toss to combine. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir thoroughly until every piece is evenly seasoned.
04 - Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer across both prepared baking sheets, ensuring they do not touch each other for maximum crispiness.
05 - Bake for 15 minutes, then carefully flip each fry with a spatula. Rotate the baking sheets between oven racks and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the fries are golden and crispy on the edges.
06 - Remove from the oven and sprinkle with additional sea salt if desired. Serve immediately while hot as a snack or alongside your main course.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The cornstarch trick makes these taste almost fried without a single drop of deep fry oil.
  • Smoked paprika transforms a humble root vegetable into something you will crave at midnight.
02 -
  • If the fries overlap on the tray they will steam instead of roast and you will end up with soggy disappointment instead of crunch.
  • Soaking the cut fries in cold water for thirty minutes before drying and seasoning removes surface starch and dramatically improves the final texture.
03 -
  • Let the baking sheets preheat in the oven for five minutes before spreading the fries on them for an instant sizzle on the bottom.
  • Parchment paper is helpful but if you want maximum crispiness, place the fries directly on a lightly oiled bare baking sheet.

Go Back