These Garlic Sweet Potato Fries are crispy, tasty, and full of flavor! Tossed in garlic and baked to perfection, they make a delicious side dish or snack.
Honestly, what’s better than sweet potatoes and garlic? I love munching on these while binge-watching my favorite shows. They’re so good, I could eat them every day! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness and vibrant color make them perfect for fries. If sweet potatoes aren’t available, try using butternut squash or regular potatoes as an alternative.
Olive Oil: This gives the fries a lovely crispiness. For a different flavor, you can substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil. Just keep in mind that coconut oil will add a subtle coconut taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a strong flavor. You can use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch, but I recommend fresh for the best taste. If you’re sensitive to garlic, try using shallots or onion powder instead.
Smoked Paprika: This is optional but adds a great smokiness. You can swap it with regular paprika or even chili powder for some heat!
How Do I Get My Sweet Potato Fries Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispiness comes down to a few key techniques. First, cutting the fries evenly will ensure they cook at the same rate. A mix of cornstarch and oil can help as well!
- After cutting the fries, soak them in cold water for 30-60 minutes. This removes excess starch and helps them crisp up.
- Be sure to dry them thoroughly before tossing in oil and seasonings—moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- Spread the fries on the baking sheet in a single layer. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping.
- Flipping them halfway through cooking ensures even cooking and browning.
Try these tips, and your fries will turn out crispy and delicious every time!
Garlic Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large sweet potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or tarragon, chopped (for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty side or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is important, as a hot oven helps to make the fries crispy. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into even fries, aiming for about ¼ to ½ inch thick. The more uniform the size, the more evenly they will cook, so take your time here!
3. Season the Fries:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Make sure all the fries are nicely coated with the oil and seasonings—this will bring out the flavors!
4. Bake the Fries:
Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded; this is key for getting that crispy texture. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to make sure both sides get golden brown and crispy.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once the fries are baked to perfection, take them out of the oven and sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley or tarragon for an added touch of flavor. Serve them warm with your favorite dips, like ketchup or a creamy herb dip.
Enjoy your savory and crispy Garlic Sweet Potato Fries! They’re perfect for sharing, or you might just want to keep them all to yourself!
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes add a unique flavor and sweetness, russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work just as well. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly; regular potatoes might need a minute or two longer to achieve the same crispiness.
How Can I Make These Fries Spicier?
If you like a kick, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix! Start with a small amount (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon) and adjust according to your taste. You can also serve them with hot sauce for an extra spicy dipping option.
Can I Prepare the Fries in Advance?
Yes! You can cut the sweet potatoes ahead of time. Just soak them in cold water to prevent browning, then drain and dry thoroughly before tossing with oil and seasonings. Bake them fresh for the best texture!
How to Store Leftover Fries?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help them crisp back up.