Tired of soggy sweet potato fries?
We’ve cracked the code to achieving restaurant-style crispiness right in your air fryer!
After countless hours of testing, we’re excited to share our foolproof method for making the most addictively crispy sweet potato fries you’ve ever tasted!
Essential Ingredients for Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 pound)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
How to Cut Sweet Potatoes for Perfect Air Fryer Fries
The secret to perfectly crispy fries starts with the cut! Here’s how to get it right:
- Wash and dry sweet potatoes thoroughly
- Cut off the ends
- Slice potatoes lengthwise into ¼-inch thick planks
- Cut each plank into ¼-inch wide strips
- Aim for uniform size (about 4 inches long and ¼ inch thick)
- Keep the skin on for extra nutrients and crispiness
Tips for Extra-Crispy Results
Want to achieve that coveted crunch? Here are my tried-and-true tips:
- Soak cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch
- Pat COMPLETELY dry with paper towels
- Toss with cornstarch before adding oil and seasonings
- Never overcrowd the air fryer basket
- Shake the basket every 5 minutes during cooking
- Work in batches if necessary for optimal crispiness
Step-by-Step Air Fryer Instructions
- Soak cut sweet potato fries in cold water for 30 minutes
- Drain and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels
- Place dried fries in a large bowl
- Sprinkle with cornstarch and toss until evenly coated
- Add oil and seasonings, toss well to coat
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C)
- Arrange fries in a single layer in the basket, don’t overcrowd
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking basket every 5 minutes
- If needed, cook for additional 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness
- Season with additional salt while hot if desired
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Not getting the results you want? Here are solutions to common issues:
- Soggy fries: Ensure potatoes are completely dry after soaking
- Burning: Reduce temperature to 370°F or reduce cooking time
- Uneven cooking: Cut fries in uniform sizes and don’t overcrowd
- Not crispy enough: Try cooking in smaller batches
Best Dipping Sauces and Serving Suggestions
Take your fries to the next level with these delicious dipping options:
- Spicy Aioli: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha and lime juice
- Honey Mustard: Combine equal parts honey and Dijon mustard
- Maple Cinnamon: Mix maple syrup with a pinch of cinnamon
- Classic Ketchup: Try mixing in a dash of smoked paprika
- Garlic Herb: Combine Greek yogurt with minced garlic and herbs
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I make these ahead of time?
Best served fresh, but can be reheated in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F.
Do I really need to soak the fries?
Yes! Soaking removes excess starch and helps achieve maximum crispiness.
Can I skip the cornstarch?
While possible, cornstarch significantly improves the crispy exterior.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I use different seasonings?
Absolutely! Try Italian seasoning, curry powder, or taco seasoning.
Air Fryer Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes about 1 pound
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
Instructions
- Soak cut sweet potato fries in cold water for 30 minutes
- Drain and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels
- Place dried fries in a large bowl
- Sprinkle with cornstarch and toss until evenly coated
- Add oil and seasonings, toss well to coat
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C)
- Arrange fries in a single layer in the basket, don’t overcrowd
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking basket every 5 minutes
- If needed, cook for additional 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness
- Season with additional salt while hot if desired
Notes
- Cut uniform sizes
- Soak and dry thoroughly
- Use cornstarch coating
- Don’t overcrowd
- Shake every 5 minutes
- Serve immediately