Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Air fryer sweet potato fries are the perfect balance of sweet and savoury with an irresistibly crispy finish—without the heavy oil of deep frying. They’re healthier, quick to make, and a great side dish for burgers, sandwiches, or even as a snack with your favourite dip.

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 500 g), peeled and cut into thin fries
• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)

How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

1. Prepare the potatoes: Peel and cut sweet potatoes into thin, even fries (about ¼ inch thick).
2. Soak (optional): For maximum crispiness, soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat completely dry.
3. Season: Place fries in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with cornstarch (if using), and toss with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Preheat air fryer: Heat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3 minutes.
5. Cook: Arrange fries in a single layer in the basket (work in batches if needed). Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crisp.
6. Serve: Sprinkle with a little extra salt and serve hot with dips like garlic mayo, ketchup, or sriracha aioli.

You Must Know

• Even cuts = even cooking: Thin, uniform fries crisp up better.
• Don’t overcrowd: Too many fries in the basket will steam instead of crisp.
• Cornstarch trick: A light dusting helps mimic restaurant-style fries.

Topping Variations

• Spicy: Add cayenne or chilli powder.
• Sweet & Savoury: Toss with cinnamon and a pinch of brown sugar.
• Herby: Mix with dried rosemary or thyme before air frying.
• Cheesy: Sprinkle with grated parmesan after cooking.

Make It a Meal

Pair your sweet potato fries with:

• Burgers (beef, chicken, or veggie)
• Grilled sandwiches like air fryer grilled cheese
• BBQ chicken or ribs
• Fresh salad bowls

Pro Tips

• Preheat your air fryer every time for crispier results.
• Shake the basket halfway through for even browning.
• If cooking multiple batches, keep finished fries warm in a 90°C oven until serving.

Recipe FAQs

Q: Can I make these without oil?
Yes, but they’ll be less crispy. Use at least a light spray of oil for the best texture.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (360°F) for 3–4 minutes until hot and crispy again.

Q: Can I leave the skin on?
Absolutely! Just scrub the sweet potatoes well and cut into fries—skins add extra fibre and texture.

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Print Recipe

Crispy air fryer sweet potato fries are delicious and healthier, made with just a small amount of oil!

• Author: Julia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x
• Category: Side Dish, Snack
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled (about 12 oz)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon sweet paprika
• fresh black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Method 1: Quicker prep, need to cook in batches, less crispy.

1. Preheat the air fryer. Spray the air fryer basket with oil.
2. Peel each sweet potato and slice into even 1/4-inch thick planks, then into 1/4-inch thick fries.
3. Toss fries with oil, salt, garlic powder, black pepper and paprika.
4. Air fryer 380°F about 12 minutes in 2 or 3 batches, depending on the size of the basket without overcrowding, turning the fries or shaking the basket half way.
5. Transfer sweet potato fries to large plate and serve right away with your favorite dipping sauce.

Method 2: Longer prep, cooks in one batch, crispier fries!

1. Peel each sweet potato and slice into even 1/4-inch thick planks, then into 1/4-inch thick fries.
2. Submerge sweet potatoes in large bowl of hot tap water and let them sit for 10 minutes. Drain potatoes, transfer to paper towel–lined rimmed baking sheet, and thoroughly pat dry.
3. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 teaspoon of the oil in a clean, dry bowl, then transfer all to the air fryer basket.
4. Place basket in air fryer (no need to preheat) and air fry 350F degrees 8 minutes, then shake and cook, 5 more minutes.
5. Transfer sweet potatoes back to the empty bowl and toss with the remaining oil, salt and spices.
6. Spray the basket with oil and return the sweet potatoes to the air fryer.
7. Increase the temperature to 380F degrees, and cook until golden brown and crisp, about 4 to 5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
8. Transfer sweet potato fries to large plate and serve right away with your favorite dipping sauce.