Best Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Craving a satisfying snack that aligns with your gluten-free lifestyle? Look no further! These oven-baked sweet potato fries are the answer. They’re incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes. If you’re a fan of simple, wholesome recipes, you’ll also love our Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes. And for another delicious side dish, be sure to check out this Parmentier Potatoes, too!
This recipe transforms humble sweet potatoes into crispy, golden fries that are perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack. Baked to perfection, they achieve that ideal balance of a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. The best part? They are naturally gluten-free, vegan, and can easily fit into Whole30 and Paleo diets!
Ready to ditch the deep fryer and embrace a healthier, tastier fry? Let’s dive into the secrets of making the best oven-baked sweet potato fries!
Why Bake Sweet Potato Fries?
Baking sweet potato fries is a game-changer for those seeking a healthier and equally delicious alternative to traditional frying methods. Sweet potatoes themselves are nutritional powerhouses, loaded with fiber, essential vitamins, and antioxidants. They offer a naturally sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with a variety of seasonings.
By baking instead of frying, you drastically reduce the calorie count and eliminate the need for unhealthy oils. A drizzle of olive oil is all you need to achieve that satisfying crispiness while benefiting from its heart-healthy properties. Plus, these fries are incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into various dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegan, Whole30, and Paleo.
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How to Make the Best Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Ready to make some delicious and guilt-free baked sweet potato fries? Follow these simple step-by-step instructions for oven-baked perfection. For those who prefer air frying, we’ve included instructions for that too!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Soak the Sweet Potato Fries: Place your cut sweet potato fries in a large bowl and cover them completely with cold water. Let them soak for about 30 minutes, or even longer if you have time (you can even soak them overnight in the fridge). Soaking is optional, but it really helps to make the fries extra crispy! Once soaked, drain the water and thoroughly dry both the fries and the bowl.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). The key to getting that perfect crisp on your baked sweet potato fries is high heat!
- Season the Fries: Return the dried fries to the now-dry bowl. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil, ensuring all fries are coated. Add your favorite seasonings, but hold off on the salt for now.
- Bake the Fries: Spread the seasoned sweet potato fries in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the fries aren’t overcrowded. If necessary, use two baking sheets. Bake for about 15 minutes, then carefully remove the pan from the oven. Flip each fry over, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer without any overlapping. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the fries are nice and crispy.
- Final Seasoning and Cooling: Once the fries are crispy to your liking, remove them from the oven. Now, season them with salt (adding it later helps them get crispier in the oven). Sprinkle with any additional seasoning you desire. Transfer the fries to a cooling rack and let them cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps maintain their crispness.
Air Fryer Instructions
Prefer using an air fryer? No problem! Coat the sweet potato fries with olive oil and spices as per the recipe directions. Air fry the sweet potato fries in batches, cooking them in a single layer at a time. Fry at 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) for about 18-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to flip the fries. When they’re nearly done, dust with more spice to taste and air fry for an additional 3 minutes. Season with salt and additional spices to your liking.
Tips for Extra Crispy Fries
- Soaking: Don’t skip the soaking step! It really does help to remove excess starch and create a crispier fry.
- High Heat: A high temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crisp.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure the fries are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will steam the fries instead of baking them.
- Flip Them: Flipping the fries halfway through ensures even cooking and crisping on all sides.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy baked sweet potato fries!
Best Ever Gluten-Free Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Craving crispy, flavorful fries without the gluten? Look no further! These oven-baked sweet potato fries are the perfect solution. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and naturally gluten-free. Get ready for fries that are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
- 3 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed clean and cut into wedges or thick battons (1/4 inch thick or so)
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (I used Private Reserve Greek EVOO)
- Seasoning of your choice (I used 2 tsp za’atar, 1 1/2 tsp sweet paprika, and pinch of cayenne pepper.)
- Salt
- For Tahini Sauce (optional): 1 homemade Tahini sauce recipe
Nutritional Benefits of Gluten-Free Baked Sweet Potato Fries
These aren’t just any fries; they’re a powerhouse of nutrients! Sweet potatoes are naturally gluten-free and packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Baking them instead of frying slashes the fat content while still delivering that satisfying crunch. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits:
- Naturally Gluten-Free: Sweet potatoes are a fantastic alternative to traditional potatoes for those avoiding gluten.
- Rich in Vitamins: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, crucial for vision and immune function. They also contain vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant.
- High in Fiber: Fiber aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps you feel full and satisfied.
- Good Source of Potassium: Potassium is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
- Antioxidant Power: The vibrant orange color of sweet potatoes comes from beta-carotene, an antioxidant that protects your cells from damage.
Tips for the Crispiest Gluten-Free Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Want to achieve fry perfection? Follow these tips for the ultimate crispy, gluten-free experience:
- Soaking is Key (Optional): Soaking the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes helps remove excess starch, leading to crispier fries. Drain them thoroughly and pat them dry before tossing with oil and spices. A Large Mixing Bowl is perfect for this step.
- High Heat is Your Friend: Bake at a high temperature (425°F/220°C) to ensure the fries crisp up properly.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Spread the fries in a single layer on a Baking Sheet lined with parchment paper. Overcrowding steams the fries instead of baking them. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- Flip ‘Em: Flip the fries halfway through baking to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides.
- Season After Baking: Add salt after baking to prevent it from drawing out moisture and making the fries soggy.
- Cooling Rack: Place the baked fries on a Cooling Rack for a few minutes before serving. This allows excess steam to escape, keeping them crispy.
- Choose the right Olive oil : Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil for best results.
Gluten-Free Variations and Substitutions
Customize these baked sweet potato fries to suit your dietary needs and preferences:
- Spice it Up: Experiment with different spice blends! Try smoked paprika and cayenne for a smoky kick, or garlic powder and parmesan cheese (if not dairy-free) for an Italian-inspired flavor.
- Herbaceous Delight: Toss the fries with fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic twist.
- Make it Sweet: Add a touch of maple syrup or coconut sugar to the olive oil before tossing for a hint of sweetness.
Air Fryer Option
Prefer air frying? These sweet potato fries are fantastic in the air fryer too! Simply follow the recipe instructions, but instead of baking, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these gluten-free baked sweet potato fries with your favorite dipping sauce! Tahini sauce is a delicious and healthy option, but you can also try ketchup, mustard, or a homemade aioli. They’re a perfect side dish for burgers, sandwiches, or grilled chicken.
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
To prepare this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Mixing Bowls – A set of sturdy mixing bowls in various sizes is essential for preparing the ingredients.
Find Mixing Bowls on Amazon - Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements are crucial for baking and cooking.
Find Measuring Cups and Spoons on Amazon - Baking Sheets – For evenly baked goods and roasted vegetables.
Find Baking Sheets on Amazon - Whisks – Perfect for beating eggs and making smooth sauces.
Find Whisks on Amazon - Spatulas – Ideal for folding ingredients and scraping bowls clean.
Find Spatulas on Amazon - Food Processors – A versatile tool for chopping, slicing, and pureeing.
Find Food Processors on Amazon - Saucepans – For simmering sauces and cooking grains.
Find Saucepans on Amazon - Chef’s Knives – A good chef’s knife is essential for all your chopping needs.
Find Chef’s Knives on Amazon - Cutting Boards – Protect your countertops with a sturdy cutting board.
Find Cutting Boards on Amazon
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