Name: Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large sweet potatoes; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper

If you’re looking for a snack or side dish that’s simple, wholesome, and downright crave-worthy, let me introduce you to my all-time favorite Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries. These beauties are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with vibrant spices — all without a drop of oil. Whether you’re serving them up with burgers, sandwiches, or just enjoying them with your favorite dipping sauce, these fries promise flavor and satisfaction every single time. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make these again and again!

Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It doesn’t get much easier than these Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries, but each ingredient plays a key role. The spices lend depth and a gentle kick, while the sweet potatoes themselves bring gorgeous color and natural sweetness to every bite.

Sweet potatoes: Choose three large, firm sweet potatoes for that perfect balance of mellow sweetness and hearty texture.
Smoked paprika: This gives a subtle smokiness and bold color that lifts up the fries’ flavor.
Garlic powder: Adds an irresistible savory edge and brings the whole spice mix together.
Onion powder: Deepens the flavor and pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the potatoes.
Cayenne pepper: Just a touch delivers a warm, gentle heat without overwhelming the fries.
Salt: Essential for drawing out the earthy sweetness and balancing flavors.
Pepper: Adds a hint of sharpness and jazzes up the taste.

How to Make Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees F, ensuring it’s piping hot. This high temperature is the secret to drawing out the natural sugars and achieving that craveable, slightly crispy exterior. While the oven heats up, scrub your sweet potatoes well. Leaving the skins on adds both nutrients and texture, but feel free to peel them if you prefer.

Step 2: Cutting the Fries

Take a sharp knife and cut each sweet potato into fries, aiming for pieces about ½-inch thick. Try to be as even as possible — this matters more than you might think, since evenly cut fries cook at the same rate and get that signature crisp outside without overcooking.

Step 3: Season the Fries

In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Place the sweet potato fries into a large mixing bowl or, for easy cleanup, a big ziplock bag. Sprinkle over the spice mix and toss thoroughly until every fry is evenly coated and gleaming with zest.

Step 4: Arrange for Baking

Spread the seasoned fries out in a single layer on a non-stick baking sheet. If needed, use two sheets! The key to successful Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries is to avoid crowding the pan. This way, each fry has its own little space to crisp up with pride.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the fries in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Resist the urge to flip or move them around at first. After 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet — your fries should be slightly golden at the edges, soft in the middle, and ready to wow. If you want them on the crispier side, you can pop them back in for an extra 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

How to Serve Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, I love adding a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs—think parsley or cilantro—for a bright pop of color. A dusting of flaky sea salt right after baking also takes the flavors up a notch. If you’re a fan of heat, a tiny pinch of extra cayenne at the end can add another layer of zing to your Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries.

Side Dishes

These fries are absolute champions alongside anything grilled, like veggie burgers, barbecue chicken, or fish tacos. They also make an irresistibly colorful addition to salads and grain bowls, bringing contrast and heartiness without being heavy.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve them up in parchment-lined baskets for the full diner experience, or pile them high on a rustic wooden board if you’re feeding a crowd. You can also stack them in glass cups for individual servings—perfect for a fun dinner party appetizer. Whatever you do, make sure to put your favorite dipping sauces front and center for maximum fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries leftover (a rare event in my house), let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to three days, making them perfect for meal prep or next-day snacking.

Freezing

For longer-term storage, you can freeze baked fries. Lay them out on a tray so they’re not touching, freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag. They keep in the freezer for up to two months and are great for quick reheating later!

Reheating

To enjoy leftover Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries at their best, reheat them in a hot oven (around 425 degrees F) for about 5-7 minutes. This helps bring back that lovely crispness. Avoid the microwave, which can make them soggy—your taste buds will thank you.

FAQs

How do I make my Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries crispier?

For the crispiest fries, make sure to cut them evenly, avoid overcrowding the pan, and bake at a high temperature. Arranging them in a single layer lets the hot air circulate, helping to crisp the edges beautifully.

Can I make these fries with other types of potatoes?

Absolutely! While sweet potatoes deliver a unique, mildly sweet flavor and vibrant color, you can use regular russet potatoes for a classic fry. Just keep in mind that regular potatoes may need slightly less cooking time.

Are Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries healthy?

Yes, they’re naturally gluten-free, vegan, and baked instead of fried, so you skip the extra oil and calories. Plus, sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dish as nourishing as it is delicious.

What are the best dipping sauces for sweet potato fries?

These fries love company—try them with tangy ketchup, creamy garlic aioli, sriracha mayo, or even a simple yogurt dip with lemon and herbs. The natural sweetness of the potatoes fits beautifully with both savory and spicy flavors.

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

Nope! As long as you scrub them thoroughly, leaving the skins on actually adds extra fiber and flavor. Plus, the edges get delightfully crisp in the oven, adding even more texture to your sweet potato fries.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably special about pulling a tray of golden Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries from the oven—each bite is a reminder that simple ingredients can absolutely steal the show. Give this easy recipe a try, and let it become your go-to for healthy comfort food that never compromises on flavor!