1. Why are my sweet potato fries soggy and not crispy?

The most common reason for soggy sweet potato fries is moisture . Make sure to soak them , then dry them thoroughly before baking. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, and don’t skip the cornstarch coating — it’s essential for that signature crunch.

2. Can I make oven baked sweet potato fries in advance?

Yes! You can cut and soak the fries up to 24 hours ahead . Store them in cold water in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, drain, dry, season, and roast as directed for best results.

3. Are sweet potato fries healthier than regular fries?

Generally, yes. Sweet potatoes are richer in fiber and vitamins like beta-carotene . And because these fries are baked, not fried , they’re significantly lower in fat and calories compared to traditional French fries.

Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries – Best Method for Crisp

Name: Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes: peeled and cut into 1/4-inch matchsticks; 2 tablespoons olive oil: helps to crisp the fries and add richness; 1 tablespoon cornstarch: key for a crispy exterior; 1 teaspoon salt: enhances natural sweetness and overall flavor; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: adds mild heat and balance; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: introduces a savory aroma; 1/2 teaspoon paprika: offers smoky, earthy flavor; Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or cumin for extra heat or depth

Description

These oven baked sweet potato fries are a healthier twist on a classic comfort food. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re seasoned with simple spices and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a side dish, snack, or appetizer — naturally gluten-free and vegan.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large sweet potatoes: peeled and cut into 1/4-inch matchsticks
2 tablespoons olive oil: helps to crisp the fries and add richness
1 tablespoon cornstarch: key for a crispy exterior
1 teaspoon salt: enhances natural sweetness and overall flavor
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: adds mild heat and balance
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: introduces a savory aroma
1/2 teaspoon paprika: offers smoky, earthy flavor
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or cumin for extra heat or depth

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into uniform 1/4-inch thick matchsticks.
Soak the fries in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and dry thoroughly.
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil until evenly coated.
Sprinkle in cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any optional spices. Toss again to coat well.
Arrange fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching.
Bake for 20 minutes, flip the fries, then bake for another 10–15 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Remove from oven and serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

Soaking the fries is essential for maximum crispiness.
Make sure to dry the fries thoroughly after soaking.
Don’t overcrowd the pan or the fries will steam instead of crisp.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and help with even browning.
These fries are best eaten fresh but can be reheated in the oven or air fryer.

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 150g)
Calories: 210
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg