Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries for a Stunning Side

The first time I made oven baked sweet potato fries for Thanksgiving, they stole the spotlight from everything else on the table. Crispy, golden, salty-sweet — they vanished faster than the turkey. That moment made me realize: sometimes, the simplest things are the most wanted. These fries check every box, especially when you want something wholesome that still feels like a treat.

Oven baked sweet potato fries are the healthier, tastier answer to regular fries. They’re crisp on the edges, tender in the middle, and packed with flavor. Plus, they’re so easy to make at home. You get full control over seasoning, spice level, and crispiness — all with just a handful of ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet potatoes are naturally rich in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. But beyond the nutrition, this recipe gives you freedom. You can go smoky, spicy, sweet, or savory with your seasonings.

Kids love them. Guests love them. They’re great for Thanksgiving or as a weeknight side. Also, because they’re oven baked, you skip the grease but still get that satisfying crunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these crispy fries, you’ll need:

• 2 pounds orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (about 3 large)
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 to 2 tablespoons seasoning of your choice

Seasoning options include chipotle powder, smoked paprika, pumpkin pie spice, Chinese five-spice, garam masala, or Cajun seasoning. Mix and match depending on your mood or the occasion.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 450°F. For extra crispiness, you can go up to 500°F. Place the baking sheet in the oven while it heats. This step is key — the hot pan helps the fries start crisping right away.

Prep and Cut the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes or leave the skin on for more texture. Cut them into evenly sized wedges or rounds, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Even cuts help everything bake at the same rate.

Season the Fries

In a large bowl, toss the cut sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and your chosen spices. Use your hands or a large spoon to make sure everything is well coated. This helps build that golden, flavorful crust.

Bake Until Crispy

Spread the fries on the hot baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 15 to 25 minutes, flipping once after 10 minutes. Watch closely during the final stretch. The darker the fries, the crispier they’ll get thanks to caramelization.

Rest and Serve

Let the fries cool for 5 minutes before serving. That quick rest helps the edges firm up while the insides stay soft. Serve them warm with your favorite dip or sauce.

Tips for the Crispiest Sweet Potato Fries

Cut the fries evenly to make sure they cook properly. Bake only one sheet at a time to avoid steaming. For extra browning, sprinkle a bit of sugar on the fries before baking. You can also replace half the olive oil with melted butter for added richness. Don’t worry if some fries get really dark — natural sugars bring out amazing crispiness and flavor.

Seasoning Variations

These fries are a blank canvas. Here are a few seasoning combos to try:

• Chipotle powder with lime zest for a smoky, tangy flavor
• Pumpkin pie spice and sea salt for a sweet holiday twist
• Smoked paprika and garlic powder for something savory
• Cajun seasoning if you want a little kick
• Garam masala with a pinch of brown sugar for warmth

Feel free to get creative and find your own favorite blend.

How to Tell When They’re Done

Look for a deep golden brown color, especially around the edges. They should feel crisp on the outside and soft in the center. Letting them sit for a few minutes after baking makes a big difference in texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe (Recipe Card)

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More Such Recipes

If you love veggie sides, try crispy roasted sweet potatoes for the perfect savory side dish. You might also enjoy Parmesan zucchini fries as a delicious low-carb alternative or air fryer baked potatoes with fluffy interiors and crispy skins. For a full plate, pair with roasted green beans with garlic and parmesan for a balanced veggie pairing.

Final Thoughts

Oven baked sweet potato fries are cozy, colorful, and so easy to make. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just dinner on a chilly night, these fries bring comfort to the table.

Try them with different spices, dips, or even a drizzle of maple syrup. They’re simple but so satisfying. And once you make them, they might just become your new go-to side.

Need more inspiration? Check out our recipes on Pinterest or join the fun on Facebook.