It’s a weeknight, you’re hungry, and there’s a sweet potato sitting in the basket like it’s waiting for a miracle. This is it. A crisp outside, fluffy center, zero oven heat-up time kind of miracle. Air fryer baked sweet potatoes make weeknight meals feel comforting and completely stress-free — without heating the whole house.
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Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potatoes
These air fryer baked sweet potatoes have everything you want: a tender, almost creamy center and a perfectly crisped skin. They cook faster than in the oven and require barely any effort.
Also, they’re naturally filling and go with anything — from eggs in the morning to chili at dinner. They’re ideal for meal prep or quick weekday dinners when you’re juggling too many things at once.
Ingredients
Here’s all you need:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes (around 6 oz each)
- Olive oil spray
That’s it. You can add toppings later depending on your mood — sweet, savory, or somewhere in between.
How to Make Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potatoes (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 – Prep the sweet potatoes
Start by scrubbing the sweet potatoes under water. You want to get rid of any dirt so the skin is actually enjoyable. Dry them well with a towel.
Then, use a fork to prick each potato a few times. This helps steam escape as they cook, which means better texture and no splitting.
Lightly spray each one with olive oil. This gives the skin that beautiful crisp edge we all love.
Step 2 – Air fry at the right temperature
Place the sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket. Make sure there’s space between them so hot air can flow all around.
Set your air fryer to 370°F and cook for 35 to 40 minutes. Flip them halfway through to get even cooking on both sides.
Step 3 – Check doneness
To check if they’re ready, slide a small knife into the center of one. It should go in easily, with no resistance.
If it still feels firm, give them 5 more minutes and check again. Once done, pull them out and let them cool slightly before slicing open.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use sweet potatoes that are similar in size. That way, they all cook evenly.
- Don’t cram the basket. Too many in at once means uneven cooking.
- Cooking time might vary. Some air fryer models run hotter than others, and potato size matters too.
Serving Ideas & Topping Inspiration
You can dress these up so many ways.
Sweet Toppings:
- Cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup
- A dollop of Greek yogurt and crushed walnuts
- Nut butter and banana slices
Savory Toppings:
- Black beans, salsa, and shredded cheese
- A spoonful of sour cream with chopped scallions
- Crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of smoked paprika
Just note that toppings aren’t included in the nutrition facts.
These also work beautifully as a base for my Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash with Veggies and Eggs.
FAQs
How do you cook a baked sweet potato in the air fryer?
Wash, dry, and prick the sweet potatoes. Spray with olive oil and cook at 370°F for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway. They’re done when a knife slides in easily.
Is it better to air fry or bake sweet potatoes?
Air frying is faster and gives you that amazing crispy skin without heating up the whole kitchen. It’s perfect for small batches and weeknight dinners.
How much time and temperature for sweet potatoes in an air fryer?
Cook at 370°F for 35 to 40 minutes. Medium-sized sweet potatoes work best. Always check with a knife to be sure they’re soft all the way through.
Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potato Recipe Card
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Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potato | Easy & Delicious Side
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Crispy skin, fluffy inside — these air fryer baked sweet potatoes are easy, healthy, and ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
4 medium sweet potatoes (about 6 ounces each)
Olive oil spray
Instructions
1. Wash and scrub sweet potatoes; dry thoroughly.
2. Prick each potato all over with a fork.
3. Lightly spray with olive oil.
4. Place in air fryer basket, ensuring space between each.
5. Air fry at 370°F for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway.
6. Check doneness with a knife; it should pierce easily.
7. Add desired toppings (not included in nutrition info).
Notes
Cooking time may vary depending on potato size and air fryer model.
Use potatoes of similar size for even cooking.
Great base for both sweet and savory toppings.
Cooked potatoes can be stored and reheated easily.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Air Fryer Recipes
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sweet potato (approx 6 oz)
- Calories: 146
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 72mg
- Fat: 0.3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
More Such Recipes
Love easy air fryer ideas? You’ll also enjoy:
- Crispy Air Fryer Churro Bites
- Easy Cinnamon Air Fryer Banana Chips
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs
Final Thoughts
Air fryer baked sweet potatoes are a simple, reliable side that feels like comfort food but still keeps things light and healthy. Whether you’re making a cozy weeknight bowl or prepping lunches for the week, these are always a good idea.
Give them a try this week, and let me know how you top yours! You can find me sharing more ideas over on Pinterest or Facebook.