Sweet Potato Waffle Fries Recipe

Preheat and prepare

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a convection oven, set to 400°F (200°C). Place a large rimmed baking sheet in the oven while it preheats to warm (this helps fries crisp). Line a second baking sheet with parchment if desired.

Wash and dry

Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry with kitchen towels — removing surface moisture is important for crisping.

Cut waffle fries

Using a waffle-cut mandoline or crinkle/waffle cutter, slice the sweet potatoes into waffle fries. To make the characteristic lattice, rotate the sweet potato 90 degrees between passes and slice across the potato in 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick slices. Aim for uniform thickness so they cook evenly.

Toss with coating

Place the waffle-cut sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Sprinkle the cornstarch evenly over the pieces and toss gently to coat — this creates a light dry layer that promotes crisping. Drizzle the olive oil over the fries and toss to coat. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, sea salt, and black pepper over the fries and toss again until every piece is evenly seasoned.

Arrange on baking sheet

Remove the preheated baking sheet from the oven and either lightly spray or brush with a thin film of oil, or place parchment on a cool baking sheet. Arrange the waffle fries in a single layer with minimal overlap. Work in batches if necessary — overcrowding causes steaming and soggy fries.

Bake and flip

Bake for 12 minutes, then use a thin spatula or tongs to carefully flip each waffle fry. Return to the oven and bake another 8–12 minutes until edges are crisp and golden-brown. Total baking time will be 20–24 minutes depending on thickness and oven. If you want extra crispness, broil for 1–2 minutes while watching closely.

Cool and rest

Remove fries from the oven and transfer to a wire rack set over a sheet pan to let air circulate and maintain crispness for 3–5 minutes. If you stacked them on a plate they will steam and soften.

Taste and adjust seasoning: sprinkle the hot fries with additional sea salt if needed. Scatter chopped parsley and grated Parmesan over the fries if using.

Serve immediately with lime wedges and ketchup or spicy mayo for dipping. To make a quick spicy mayo: mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise with 1–2 tbs Sriracha (to taste) and 1 tsp lime juice.