Sweet Potato Waffle Fries Recipe

Preheat and prepare

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) if baking, or preheat an air fryer to 400°F (200°C). If you plan to shallow-fry, heat a heavy skillet with 1/4 inch oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Line a baking sheet with parchment if baking.

Cut waffle fries

Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes. Using a waffle-cut or crinkle-cut mandoline or a crinkle cutter, slice the sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick waffle- or crinkle-style slices. Turn the potato between cuts as needed to create the waffle pattern. Aim for consistent thickness so they cook evenly.

Dry and toss with cornstarch

Pat the cut sweet potato pieces very dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Place them in a large bowl and sprinkle the cornstarch over the slices. Toss gently and evenly until each piece has a light coating of cornstarch; this creates a crisper exterior.

Season and oil

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle the seasoned oil over the coated sweet potato pieces and toss until evenly coated.

Arrange for cooking

If baking: arrange the waffle fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet without overlapping. Lightly mist or brush the tops with the neutral oil. If using an air fryer: arrange fries in a single layer in the basket (work in batches if necessary) and lightly spray with neutral oil. If shallow-frying: prepare to add a few pieces at a time, not overcrowding the skillet.

Cook until crisp

Baking: Roast for 12 minutes, flip each piece, then roast another 8–12 minutes until edges are crisp and browned. Air fryer: cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until crisp. Shallow-fry: fry in hot oil 2–3 minutes per side until deep golden and crisp, then transfer to paper towels to drain.

Finish and serve

Immediately after cooking, taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt if needed. Serve hot so the waffle fries are crisp. If cooking in batches, keep finished fries warm on a wire rack in a low oven (200°F/95°C) until all are done.

Combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, minced chipotle in adobo, lime juice, honey, and salt in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and taste, adjusting chipotle or lime for desired heat and brightness. Chill for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve alongside the sweet potato waffle fries.