Crispy Baked Sweet Potato (Printable)

Golden, crisp baked sweet potatoes seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic for a tasty side.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled (approx. 28 oz)

→ Oils & Seasonings

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1½ teaspoons cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for gluten-free)
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
06 - ½ teaspoon sea salt, plus extra for serving
07 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

# How-to Steps:

01 - Set oven to 425°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - Slice sweet potatoes into ⅜ inch thick sticks, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
03 - Place cut fries in a large bowl, cover with cold water, and soak for 30 minutes for enhanced crispiness. Drain and pat dry thoroughly.
04 - Toss dried fries evenly with cornstarch. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix to coat thoroughly.
05 - Spread fries in a single layer on prepared sheets, avoiding overlap to ensure crispiness.
06 - Bake for 15 minutes, then flip fries and rotate baking sheets. Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until golden and crisp.
07 - Remove from oven and let fries rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with extra salt if desired and serve immediately.

# Expert Pointers:

01 -
  • They're crispy on the outside and creamy inside without deep frying, so your kitchen won't smell like a fryer for days.
  • You can make a huge batch in under an hour with minimal hands-on time, leaving you free to prep a sauce or set the table.
  • Sweet potatoes pack natural sweetness and nutrients, making these feel less like a guilty indulgence and more like real food.
02 -
  • Drying the fries thoroughly after soaking is non-negotiable; any excess water will steam them instead of crisping them, and all your care will be wasted.
  • The cornstarch coating is what sets these apart from sad, soft baked fries—don't skip it or reduce the amount, as it's the secret to that restaurant-quality crunch.
  • Flipping halfway through and rotating your trays prevents burnt edges and ensures even cooking; this extra step takes 30 seconds and changes everything.
03 -
  • Keep your oven temperature consistent and your baking sheets positioned in the middle rack for even heat distribution; a too-hot oven can char the outside before the inside cooks through.
  • The finishing salt is crucial—add it while the fries are still warm so it sticks and seasons every bite, not just what falls off immediately.

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