Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the joy of making oven baked sweet potato fries! Seriously, there’s nothing quite like the smell of those sweet potatoes roasting in the oven, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. They’re crispy on the outside and perfectly soft on the inside—just divine! Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to regular fries, which is a win-win in my book. Not only do sweet potatoes add a vibrant color to your plate, but they’re also packed with nutrients like fiber and vitamins. When I’m craving something crispy and satisfying, these fries are my go-to. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll wonder why you ever reached for frozen fries again!
Ingredients for Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the most delicious oven baked sweet potato fries. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes: Make sure they’re firm and free of blemishes. Sweet potatoes can vary in size, but two large ones should give you a generous amount of fries.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This not only helps the fries crisp up but also adds a lovely flavor. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best results!
- 1 teaspoon salt: A must for enhancing the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: This adds a hint of smokiness and beautiful color to the fries. You can use regular or smoked paprika, depending on what you have on hand.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: This gives the fries that extra punch of flavor—trust me, it makes a difference!
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just a touch for some subtle heat. You can always add more if you like a bit of spice!
That’s it! Simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a treat that’s both satisfying and guilt-free.
How to Prepare Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Getting those oven baked sweet potato fries just right is all about following some simple steps. Don’t worry—I’ll guide you through it, and soon you’ll have crispy, golden fries that will wow your taste buds. Let’s dive in!
Preheating the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your fries start cooking immediately, giving them that perfect crispy exterior. While your oven is heating up, you can prep the sweet potatoes!
Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
Now, grab those sweet potatoes and give them a good wash under running water to remove any dirt. Then, peel them with a vegetable peeler—don’t skip this step, as the skin can be a bit tough! Once peeled, slice the sweet potatoes into thin fries, about 1/4 inch thick. The thinner the fries, the crispier they’ll get, so go for it!
Mixing the Seasoning
In a large mixing bowl, it’s time to combine your seasoning. Pour in the olive oil, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Whisk it together until it’s all nicely blended. This mixture is what’s going to give your fries that mouthwatering flavor, so make sure it’s well combined!
Coating the Fries
Now, add your freshly cut sweet potato fries to the bowl with the seasoning. Toss them around gently, making sure every fry is evenly coated with that delicious mixture. I like to use my hands for this—just get in there and give them a good toss! It’s a bit messy, but totally worth it.
Baking the Fries
Spread the seasoned fries out in a single layer on a baking sheet. This is crucial because overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy fries—no thanks! Bake them in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. About halfway through, flip them over gently to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden and crispy!
Serving Suggestions
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for just a minute before serving. These fries are fantastic on their own, but you can also dip them in your favorite sauce—think spicy mayo or creamy avocado dip. They’re perfect as a side dish or a snack, and trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!
Tips for Success
Getting those oven baked sweet potato fries just right can really elevate your dish, so here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:
- Soak for Extra Crispiness: If you want your fries to be extra crispy, soak the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps remove excess starch and leads to a crunchier texture. Just be sure to drain and pat them dry before tossing with the seasoning!
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Feel free to get creative with your seasonings! Experiment with different spices like cayenne pepper for heat, or even add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a savory twist. The flavor possibilities are endless!
- Use a Parchment Liner: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper can help prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, it helps the fries cook evenly without burning!
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your fries as they bake. If you notice them browning too quickly, you can lower the temperature slightly. The perfect fry is golden and crispy!
- Serve Immediately: These fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re still warm and crispy. If you have leftovers, you can always reheat them in the oven to regain some of that crunch.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress with your homemade oven baked sweet potato fries. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutrition of these amazing oven baked sweet potato fries! While I’m not a nutritionist, I can give you a rough estimate of what you’ll find in each serving. Just keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on the size of your sweet potatoes and how much oil you use.
- Calories: Approximately 180
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
These tasty fries are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients—thanks to those sweet potatoes! They’re a great source of fiber and vitamins, making them a healthier choice compared to traditional fries. So, feel good about indulging in this crispy goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve gathered some common questions you might have about making these delicious oven baked sweet potato fries. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered!
Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! If you have any leftover fries (which is rare in my kitchen!), let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember, they’re best enjoyed fresh!
How do I reheat them?
To bring back that crispy texture, I recommend reheating them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spread the fries on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You want them to be warm and crispy again!
Can I make these fries ahead of time?
You can prep the sweet potatoes and toss them in the seasoning, then store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just toss them in the oven when you’re ready for that crispy goodness!
What if I don’t have paprika?
No problem at all! If you’re out of paprika, feel free to substitute it with your favorite seasoning. A bit of chili powder or even a dash of cayenne pepper can add a fun kick!
Can I use other types of potatoes?
You sure can! While sweet potatoes are my favorite for their natural sweetness, you can use regular potatoes or even other root veggies like carrots or parsnips. Just keep an eye on the baking time as they may vary.
What dipping sauces pair well with these fries?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love them with a spicy mayo, creamy ranch, or even a simple avocado dip. You can also serve them with ketchup or homemade garlic aioli for a classic touch!
Got more questions? Feel free to reach out, or just dive into the kitchen and let your creativity flow with these oven baked sweet potato fries!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Alternative: These oven baked sweet potato fries are a nutritious choice compared to regular fries, packed with vitamins and fiber!
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious fries in no time—perfect for any cooking skill level!
- Crispy & Delicious: The combination of high heat and the right seasoning gives you that crave-worthy crispy texture with a sweet, savory flavor.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and dips to make them uniquely yours—spicy, cheesy, or herby, the choice is yours!
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in, hosting friends, or looking for a fun side dish, these fries fit the bill!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy snacks or sides throughout the week without compromising on taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve whipped up a batch of those scrumptious oven baked sweet potato fries and are left with some leftovers—what to do? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here’s how to store them properly and get that crispy goodness back when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
First, let the fries cool completely before storing. This is crucial because if you put warm fries in a container, they can get all soggy—yikes! Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label the container if you have other leftovers in there!
Now, when it comes to reheating, the oven is your best friend. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Spread the fries out in a single layer on a baking sheet—this helps them regain their crispiness. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even heating. You want them to be warm and crispy, just like when you first made them!
If you’re in a hurry, you could use a microwave, but they won’t get that lovely crunch back. If you go this route, just heat them in short bursts, checking often so they don’t get too soft. But trust me, the oven method is worth the extra few minutes!
And there you have it! With these easy storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your delicious sweet potato fries fresh out of the oven even days later. Happy munching!
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Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries: 5 Joyful Steps to Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Oven baked sweet potato fries are a healthy and delicious alternative to regular fries. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes.
- Cut the sweet potatoes into thin fries.
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Add the sweet potato fries to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, soak the sweet potatoes in water for 30 minutes before baking.
- Experiment with different seasonings for a unique flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: oven baked sweet potato fries
