I have to admit, I used to think sweet potato fries were tricky. Every time I tried baking them, they ended up soft, limp, or unevenly cooked.

Then I discovered the air fryer and everything changed. Now, making perfectly crispy, golden sweet potato fries is not only easy but also healthier than traditional frying.

These fries get that beautiful crisp on the outside while staying tender and naturally sweet on the inside.

I love tossing them with a little seasoning and honestly, they are so addictive you might find yourself sneaking a few before dinner even hits the table.

In this guide, I am going to show you exactly how I make my favorite air fryer sweet potato fries.

You will learn my tricks for extra crispiness, the seasonings I swear by, and a few tasty dipping sauces that take them over the top. By the end, you will be making fries that taste like they came from a restaurant but without all the oil or hassle.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Healthier than deep-fried fries. I use just a little oil or sometimes none at all and still get that golden, crispy exterior.
• Super crispy every time. I will share my simple tricks so you never have to deal with soggy fries again.
• Quick and easy. Prep takes minutes, cooking is fast, and cleanup is a breeze.
• Customizable. I love experimenting with garlic, paprika, cinnamon, or even chili powder. You can season them however you like.
• Perfect side or snack. I often serve them with burgers, sandwiches, or just grab a handful as a snack. They are satisfying, flavorful, and naturally sweet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this easy air fryer sweet potato fries recipe, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Seasonings & Variations:

• Spicy Fries – Add cayenne pepper or chili powder.
• Sweet & Savory – Sprinkle with cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar.
• Garlic Parmesan – Toss with grated Parmesan and fresh garlic after air frying.
• Herb-Infused – Add rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning.

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How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Step 1: Cut the Sweet Potatoes

I usually leave the skin on for a bit of extra texture, but you can peel them if you prefer. I slice them into ¼-inch thick fries because thinner fries get wonderfully crispy while staying soft inside. Try to make the pieces as uniform as possible so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Soak for Extra Crispiness

If you have time, I soak my sweet potato fries in cold water for 30 minutes. This removes some of the starch and helps them crisp up beautifully.

After soaking, I drain them and pat them completely dry. Trust me, even a little moisture can prevent them from getting that perfect crunch, so don’t skip this step if you can.

Step 3: Season the Fries

I love tossing the fries in just a touch of olive oil so they get a nice golden finish. Then I sprinkle salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper evenly over them.

I like to get my hands in there and toss them thoroughly to make sure every fry is coated. This step is where the flavor really starts to shine, and you can play around with spices depending on what you like.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

I preheat my air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Once it’s hot, I arrange the fries in a single layer in the basket. Make sure not to overcrowd them, because otherwise they steam instead of crisping.

I cook them for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. I usually keep a close eye at the end so they come out golden, crispy at the edges, and perfectly tender inside.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

I serve the fries immediately while they are at their crispiest. Sometimes I sprinkle a little extra salt or fresh herbs on top for a little extra flavor punch.

They pair beautifully with ketchup, garlic aioli, or even a creamy yogurt dip. Every time I take a bite, I love the contrast of crispy outside and soft, naturally sweet inside.

Tips for the Crispiest Sweet Potato Fries

Here’s what I do to make my fries perfect every time:

• Cut evenly – I always make sure fries are the same size for even cooking.
• Soak in water – Removing starch is key to crispiness.
• Pat dry completely – Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
• Use just enough oil – Too much oil makes them soft, too little can leave them dry.
• Don’t overcrowd – Air needs to circulate for crisping, so I cook in batches if needed.
• Shake halfway through – I like to shake or toss them once during cooking to ensure every fry gets golden.
• Finish with salt – A little extra seasoning right out of the fryer enhances flavor and crunch.

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Best Dipping Sauces

I love pairing my sweet potato fries with sauces, and here are my favorites:

• Classic Ketchup – The simple, timeless option.
• Garlic Aioli – Mayo, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Rich and creamy.
• Spicy Sriracha Mayo – A little heat and tang that makes the fries addictive.
• Honey Mustard – Sweet and tangy perfection.
• Avocado Ranch – Creamy, herby, and refreshing; my go-to for summer fries.

Variations I Love

1. Garlic Parmesan
I sometimes like to sprinkle my fries with freshly grated Parmesan and a pinch of garlic powder right after air frying. The heat melts the cheese slightly, and it gives every fry a savory, indulgent flavor. If you love cheesy snacks like I do, this one’s a must-try.

2. Spicy Cajun
On days when I’m craving something bold, I toss my fries with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and black pepper. You get a smoky, slightly spicy edge that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the sweet potato. If you like heat, you can adjust the cayenne to your taste—I usually like just enough to make my lips tingle.

3. Lemon Herb
Sometimes I want something bright and fresh. I sprinkle lemon zest, parsley, and a little thyme over my fries after cooking. The citrus adds a fresh zing, and the herbs make the fries taste elevated, like they belong at a fancy bistro. I love serving these with grilled fish or chicken.

4. Chili Lime
If you’re feeling adventurous, try tossing your fries with chili powder and a squeeze of lime. The tanginess balances the sweetness perfectly. I like to make this when I want a snack that feels fun and vibrant, and honestly, I often find myself eating them straight from the basket.

5. Sweet & Smoky
I sometimes mix a little smoked paprika and brown sugar with my fries before air frying. The sugar caramelizes slightly while the smoked paprika adds depth. This variation feels like a treat, almost dessert-like, and I love how the edges get that extra crisp.

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FAQs

1. Why are my sweet potato fries soggy?
Too much moisture, too much oil, or overcrowding the basket. Pat them dry, use just enough oil, and cook in batches.

2. Do I have to peel them?
No, the skin adds texture and fiber. Just wash them well.

3. Can I make these without oil?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. Using parchment paper can prevent sticking if you skip the oil.

4. How long do they take to cook?
At 380°F, they usually take 12-15 minutes depending on thickness.

5. Can I store and reheat them?
Yes! Store uncooked fries in water in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Reheat cooked fries in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.

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Final Thoughts

Making air fryer sweet potato fries is my favorite quick and healthy snack. They’re crispy, flavorful, and effortless, and I love experimenting with different seasonings and dips.

Once you master this method, I promise you’ll be making fries for breakfast, lunch, and dinner—they’re that addictive. Try it yourself, and let me know how they turn out!