These air fryer sweet potato fries are crispy, golden, and totally addicting. I’ve made them dozens of times when I want something snacky, salty, and a little sweet—but still healthy-ish. They cook up in under 15 minutes, and once you nail the cut and seasoning, it’s impossible to mess them up. These are my go-to when I want a cozy night in or something easy to pair with a burger or wrap.
Why I Love This Recipe
I started making these on a weeknight when I was tired of soggy oven fries and didn’t want to deep fry. They were a game-changer!
- Fast and simple—just a handful of ingredients
- Super crispy without frying
- Works with different seasonings every time
- Perfect side for just about any meal
What You’ll Need
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste after frying)
- Optional: 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Makes: 2–3 servings
Total Time: 25 minutes (10 min prep, 15 min cook)
Macros (Per Serving, based on 3 servings)
Calories: 155
Carbs: 28g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 4g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Tossing the fries in a little cornstarch before air frying pulls moisture to the surface, so it evaporates quickly. That’s what gives you those crispy edges. Air frying circulates hot air around the fries, cooking them evenly and fast without using a ton of oil.
Pro Tips
- Cut the fries evenly so they cook at the same rate
- Don’t skip the cornstarch—it really does help with crispiness
- Work in batches if your air fryer is small; overcrowding steams the fries
- Shake the basket halfway through so nothing sticks
- Season again after cooking for the best flavor hit
Tools Needed
- Peeler
- Sharp knife
- Large bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Air fryer
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap olive oil for avocado oil
- Use cinnamon + sugar for sweet fries
- Add chili powder for spicy fries
- Try russet potatoes instead (adjust time slightly)
Make Ahead Tips
- Peel and cut the fries up to 2 days in advance; store in cold water in the fridge
- Mix the seasoning blend and keep it ready to go in a jar
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Step 1: Peel and Cut the Sweet Potatoes
Peel 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), then cut them into thin, even matchsticks—around 1/4-inch thick.
Step 2: Toss with Oil and Seasonings
In a large bowl, toss the cut sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (optional). Make sure every piece is coated evenly.
Step 3: Preheat and Load the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F. Spread the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket (cook in batches if needed).
Step 4: Air Fry the Fries
Air fry at 380°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Fries should be golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Season Again
Transfer to a bowl and sprinkle with a little extra salt if needed. Serve hot!
Leftovers and Storage
Store cooled fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–5 minutes to get them crispy again.
Common Mistakes
- Cutting fries too thick—they won’t get crispy
- Skipping the cornstarch—leads to limp fries
- Overcrowding the basket—steams instead of crisps
- Not shaking halfway—can cause uneven browning
What to Serve With
- Turkey or veggie burgers
- Grilled chicken wraps
- Garlic aioli or chipotle mayo for dipping
- A big side salad for a balanced plate
FAQ
Can I leave the skin on?
Yes! Just scrub the sweet potatoes well before cutting.
Can I make them without oil?
You can, but they won’t be quite as crispy.
Do I need to soak the fries first?
Not for sweet potatoes. That trick’s more for russets.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches so they crisp up properly.
Enjoy making these, and don’t forget to leave a comment if you try it out or have questions!