5-Ingredient Crispy Sweet Potato Fries in the Air Fryer
There’s something about wing night that just brings everyone to the table. Last weekend, I made a big batch of my favorite airfryer chicken wings, and as usual, they disappeared in no time. But halfway through dinner, I found myself thinking, “These wings need something on the side… something crispy, a little sweet, and still healthy.”
That’s when these crispy sweet potato fries came back into the picture and honestly, I don’t know why I ever stopped making them.
My kids love them because they’re fun to dip and taste like a treat. I love them because they’re naturally sweet, full of fiber, and fit perfectly into the healthy eating plan I’m trying (and usually struggling) to stick with. They’re golden, crisp, and surprisingly easy to make in the airfryer no deep frying, no guilt.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
- Quick & easy From pantry to plate in under 25 minutes.
- Healthier than traditional fries hello, healthy air fryer fries!
- Naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and customizable.
- Kid-approved. Husband-approved. Me-approved.
- They’re basically a hug in fry form.
Looking for even more cozy, healthy ideas? Try these Best Frozen Chicken Wings or this dreamy Air Fryer Chicken.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes (about 2 large or 3 medium)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch for that magic crispy coating
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional spices: garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne (for a kick!)
How to Make These Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Step 1: Slice Like a Pro (or a Hungry Mom)
Peel your sweet potatoes and cut them into fries about ¼-inch thick. Not too thin (they’ll burn), not too thick (they won’t crisp). Think “Goldilocks,” but fries.
Step 2: Soak for That Perfect Crunch
Soak the fries in cold water for 30 minutes (if you have the time!). This draws out excess starch and gives you restaurant-level crispiness. Pat them very dry with a clean towel.
Step 3: Toss with the Good Stuff
In a large bowl, toss the fries with cornstarch first this helps that dreamy outer crisp. Then add olive oil (or skip for no-oil version) and your seasonings. Make it spicy, make it savory, make it yours.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Spread the fries in a single layer (no crowding, please!). Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Step 5: Serve & Devour
Once golden and crispy, hit them with a sprinkle of sea salt. Serve immediately with your favorite sauce.
Need inspiration? Check out this roundup of the The Best Air Fryer Chicken Wings Crispy & Zesty
. Spoiler: the chipotle-lime aioli is a total game-changer.
Tips for the Crispiest Sweet Potato Fries Ever
- Don’t skip the cornstarch It’s the secret weapon.
- Dry your fries well after soaking moisture = mushy.
- Avoid overcrowding Give those fries room to breathe and crisp up.
- Shake the basket halfway So everyone gets equal crisping love.
And if you’re going oil-free, just keep an eye on them they’ll still get crispy, but they might brown a little faster.
A Little Family Memory
I can’t make these fries without thinking of movie nights with my mom. She’d cut the potatoes into uneven wedges, toss them with whatever spices she felt like that day, and bake them until they were just shy of burning. We’d sit on the couch, ketchup in one bowl and ranch in another, laughing and talking over every bite.
These homemade sweet potato fries bring that memory right back. Every. Single. Time.
🍗 This side is featured in my full roundup: What to Serve with Chicken Wings. Discover more crispy, cheesy, and fresh pairings!
FAQs About Sweet Potato Fries in the Air Fryer
Can I make these sweet potato fries ahead of time?
Sure! You can slice and soak them ahead, then pat dry and store in the fridge until ready to air fry.
Are these gluten-free fries?
Yes! As long as your cornstarch is certified gluten-free, you’re good to go.
Can I skip the oil entirely?
Absolutely. Check out this guide to Best Way to Make Chicken Wings in Air Fryer Crispy for the best technique.
What are the best dipping sauces for sweet potato fries?
You need to try maple mustard, spicy aioli, or even a cinnamon-yogurt blend. More ideas here.
If you’re like me and always on the hunt for healthier, faster ways to feed your people (without sacrificing flavor), these crispy sweet potato fries might just be your new weeknight staple. Simple ingredients, bold flavor, and absolutely no soggy fry regrets.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Large Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and cut into fries
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
Instructions
- Peel sweet potatoes and cut into thin fries of even thickness.
- Soak the fries in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, toss fries with cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Add olive oil and salt to the fries, tossing until well coated.
- Place fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
