Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Make Sweet Potato Fries Recipe in just 55m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Fries
Seasoning & Oil
Finishing (optional)
Method
Fries
- 1
Prepare potatoes
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and peel the whole sweet potatoes if desired. Cut each sweet potato into even fries about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick and roughly 3 inches long. Aim for consistent size so they cook evenly. As you cut, place pieces in a bowl of cold water to prevent immediate browning.
- 2
Soak and dry
Soak the cut fries in cold water for 20–30 minutes (or at least 10 minutes) to remove excess surface starch — this helps them crisp. After soaking, drain and spread fries on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and pat thoroughly dry. Excess moisture will prevent crisping.
Seasoning & Oil
- 3
Coat fries
Place the dry fries in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the fries and toss gently to coat evenly — this creates a light crispy crust. Add the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss until every fry is lightly and evenly coated.
- 4
Arrange and bake
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and spread the fries in a single layer with space between pieces (use two pans if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12 minutes, then remove the sheet, flip or shuffle the fries for even browning, and rotate pans between racks if using two. Continue baking another 8–12 minutes until edges are browned and fries are crisp to your liking. Total bake time typically 20–24 minutes depending on thickness and oven.
- 5
Optional extra-crisp step
If you want extra crispness, after initial bake remove fries and increase oven to 450°F (230°C). Return fries for an additional 3–6 minutes, watching closely so they don't burn. Or finish under a preheated broiler for 1–2 minutes, keeping a close eye.
Finishing (optional)
- 6
Finish and serve
Remove fries from oven and immediately transfer to a serving bowl or platter. While still hot, toss with grated parmesan and chopped parsley if using. Squeeze a lemon wedge over some or all fries for brightness. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.