These spicy garlic sweet potato fries are a tasty and healthier twist on regular fries! They’re crispy, slightly sweet, and have a kick of heat from the spices.
If you’re anything like me, you might end up eating more than you intended! Perfect for a snack or as a side dish, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness pairs well with the spices. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you might use regular potatoes, but the flavor will be a bit different.
Olive Oil: This is to coat the fries for that crispy texture. You can substitute it with avocado oil or vegetable oil if necessary. I like avocado oil for its mild flavor and high smoke point.
Garlic Powder: It’s a key flavor here. If you prefer fresh, minced garlic can be used but may burn faster, so add it later in the cooking process.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds the heat! If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce or replace it with a milder pepper like paprika or even chili powder for a different flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Adding herbs like parsley or cilantro gives color and freshness. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them or switch to chives for a mild onion flavor.
How Do You Get Sweet Potato Fries Extra Crispy?
Getting fries crispy can be tricky, but it’s all about technique! Here’s how to make your fries golden and crunchy:
- Make sure to cut the sweet potatoes evenly. This ensures all fries cook at the same rate.
- Soak the cut fries in water for at least 30 minutes before baking. This removes excess starch and helps them crisp up nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give them space so they cook evenly and become crispy.
- Flip the fries halfway through cooking for even browning. This is key for ensuring all sides are crispy!
With these tips, you’ll have delicious, crunchy fries ready to elevate your snack game! Enjoy every bite!
Spicy Garlic Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more for sprinkling)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Optional: dipping sauce such as garlic aioli or ranch
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need roughly 40 minutes to enjoy these delicious sweet potato fries!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is essential for getting those fries crispy. While the oven heats up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light grease.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Next, peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized fries, around 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Cutting them evenly will help them cook uniformly. Remember, the more uniform the size, the better they’ll cook!
3. Coat the Fries:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil until they are nicely coated. This oil helps to crisp them in the oven.
4. Season Them Up:
Add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Toss the fries again until they are fully covered in the tasty seasoning. Yum!
5. Spread on the Baking Sheet:
Now, take those seasoned fries and spread them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure not to overlap them—this is key for crispiness!
6. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the fries for 25-30 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through cooking. This helps all sides get nice and crispy!
7. Finish and Season:
Once they’re golden and crispy on the edges, take them out of the oven. If you like, sprinkle a bit more salt to enhance the flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These fries are best served hot! You can garnish them with some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce like garlic aioli or ranch for delicious dipping!
Enjoy your crispy, spicy garlic sweet potato fries—they’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, you can! Regular potatoes will work, but they won’t have the same sweetness. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them as they bake to achieve the desired crispiness.
How Can I Make These Fries Spicier?
If you want an extra kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. For a smoky flavor with heat, try adding a bit more smoked paprika!
Can I Make These Fries Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the fries and season them in advance. Just store the uncooked fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness, instead of microwaving them which can make them soggy.
