This Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries Recipe gives you crispy, golden fries with tender centers without deep frying or excess oil. Sweet potatoes naturally caramelize in the air fryer, creating a lightly crisp exterior while staying soft and fluffy inside. The result is a healthier version of classic fries that still delivers big flavor.

These fries are quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for busy weeknights, snacks, or side dishes. With just a few pantry spices and an air fryer, you can have restaurant style sweet potato fries on the table in under 20 minutes.

If you love easy air fryer recipes like Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Wings or Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries [Quick & Easy]

Why Make Sweet Potato Fries in the Air Fryer?

Air frying is one of the best ways to cook sweet potato fries because it uses circulating hot air to create crisp edges without deep oil immersion.

Benefits of Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Less oil than deep frying
Faster than oven baking
Crisp texture with soft centers
Easy cleanup
More consistent results

Sweet potatoes already have natural sweetness, so air frying enhances their flavor instead of masking it.

What Makes Sweet Potato Fries Different?

Sweet potatoes contain more natural sugars and less starch than regular potatoes. Because of this:

They brown faster
They don’t get quite as crunchy as russet fries
They have a softer interior

When cooked correctly in the air fryer, they develop crispy edges while staying tender inside exactly how sweet potato fries should be.

ingredients for air fryer sweet potato fries — Simple ingredients are all you need for air fryer sweet potato fries

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients (with measurements)

2 medium sweet potatoes
Choose firm, evenly shaped potatoes for uniform cooking.
1½ tablespoons olive oil
Enough to help crisp without making them greasy.
½ teaspoon salt
Balances the sweetness.
½ teaspoon paprika
Adds mild warmth and color.
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Gives savory depth.
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Seasoning Add Ins

Smoked paprika
Cajun seasoning
Chili powder or cayenne
Onion powder
Cinnamon (for sweet version)

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Sweet Potatoes:
Orange fleshed sweet potatoes work best. Avoid very large ones—they cook unevenly.

Oil:
Avocado oil is great for high heat. Olive oil adds flavor.

Seasoning:
This base seasoning is neutral and works with most meals. Adjust based on what you’re serving them with.

How to Cut Sweet Potato Fries (Very Important)

Cutting fries evenly is the key to consistent cooking.

Wash and dry sweet potatoes
Peel if desired (optional)
Cut into ¼ inch thick planks
Slice planks into even sticks

Avoid cutting fries too thin—they’ll burn before the inside cooks.

crispy air fryer sweet potato fries close up — Golden, crispy edges you’ll love

How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Preheating helps fries crisp immediately.

Step 2: Season the Fries

Place cut sweet potatoes in a large bowl.
Drizzle with olive oil and toss until evenly coated.
Add salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Toss again.

Step 3: Arrange in Air Fryer Basket

Place fries in a single layer in the basket.
Do not overcrowd. Cook in batches if needed.

Step 4: Air Fry Until Crispy

Cook for 14–18 minutes, shaking the basket every 4–5 minutes.
Fries should be golden with lightly crisp edges.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Taste and add extra salt if needed.
Serve hot for best texture.

How to Get Them Extra Crispy

Sweet potato fries won’t be as crunchy as regular fries, but these tips help:

Dry fries thoroughly before seasoning
Use minimal oil
Avoid overcrowding
Shake basket frequently
Cook a few minutes longer if needed

Patience makes a big difference.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries Recipe

Serve immediately for best results
Cut fries evenly for consistent cooking
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket
Always dry fries thoroughly before cooking
Use cornstarch for extra crispiness
Shake the basket halfway through

Flavor Variations

Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Fries

Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garlic powder after cooking.

Spicy Sweet Potato Fries

Add chili powder or cayenne to seasoning mix.

Sweet Cinnamon Fries

Skip savory spices. Add cinnamon and a pinch of sugar.

Cajun Style Fries

Use Cajun seasoning and serve with ranch dip.

Dipping Sauce Ideas

Garlic aioli
Chipotle mayo
Honey mustard
Ranch dressing
Spicy ketchup
Spicy Mayo

Sweet potato fries pair perfectly with creamy dips.

air fryer sweet potato fries serving suggestion — The perfect side dish for burgers, wraps, or bowls

Serving Suggestions

These fries are incredibly versatile.

Serve with burgers or sandwiches
Pair with grilled chicken or fish
Use as a snack or appetizer
Add to grain bowls or salads

They work for lunch, dinner, or game night.

Make Ahead & Storage Tips

Can You Prep Ahead?

Yes. You can cut sweet potatoes ahead of time and store them submerged in cold water in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Dry well before cooking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container
Refrigerate up to 3 days

Reheating

Reheat in air fryer at 375°F for 3–5 minutes
Avoid microwaving it makes them soggy.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 170–200
Fat: 6–7g
Carbohydrates: 28–32g
Fiber: 4–5g

Healthier than traditional fries, with more nutrients.

Common Problems & Fixes

Fries are soggy:
Too much oil or overcrowding.

Burning edges:
Cut too thin or cooked too hot.

Uneven cooking:
Sizes not uniform or basket not shaken.

FAQs About Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Do I need to soak sweet potatoes?

No. Sweet potatoes are low in starch, so soaking isn’t necessary.

Can I use frozen sweet potato fries?

Yes. Cook straight from frozen and add 3–5 minutes.

Should I peel them?

Optional. Skin adds texture and fiber.

Are these kid friendly?

Yes. Skip spicy seasonings for kids.

Why This Recipe Works

Simple ingredients
Reliable air fryer method
Balanced seasoning
Crispy edges with soft center
Easy to customize

It’s a dependable, repeat-worthy recipe.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries Recipe delivers crispy, flavorful fries with minimal oil and effort. Perfect as a healthy side dish, snack, or appetizer, these fries are easy enough for busy weeknights and tasty enough for special meals.

If you love easy air fryer recipes like Roasted Delicata Squash with Crispy Onions or Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries Recipe

This Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries Recipe delivers perfectly crispy edges with a tender, fluffy center every time. Lightly seasoned and air-fried to golden perfection, these fries bring out the natural sweetness of the potatoes without excess oil. They’re a quick, healthier side or snack that pairs beautifully with just about anything.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 180 kcal