Sweet Potato Waffle Fries Recipe

Preheat and prep

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). If using an air fryer, preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it. If you have a waffle-cutting tool or mandoline with a waffle blade, set it up; otherwise use a crinkle cutter or a sharp knife to create lattice/waffle cuts.

Cut the sweet potatoes

Cut each peeled sweet potato into 1/4- to 3/8-inch thick waffle slices: first slice lengthwise, then rotate 90 degrees and slice again using the waffle blade or crinkle cutter so each slice has a lattice pattern. Aim for uniform thickness so they cook evenly. You should have roughly 20–24 waffle fries from 2 large sweet potatoes.

Dry and coat

Place the waffle slices in a large bowl or on a clean kitchen towel and pat dry to remove surface moisture. Toss the dry slices with cornstarch until evenly coated; the cornstarch helps crisp the surface. Drizzle the olive oil over the slices and toss to coat. Sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper over the fries and toss again to distribute spices evenly.

Arrange for cooking

Arrange the seasoned waffle fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet with space between pieces so hot air can circulate. If using an air fryer, arrange in a single layer in the basket (cook in batches if necessary). Lightly spray or brush the tops with cooking spray or a little extra oil to promote browning.

Bake or air-fry

Oven: Bake for 18–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through (at about 10–12 minutes), until edges are crisp and centers are tender. Air fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–16 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping halfway through. Exact time depends on thickness and appliance—watch closely toward the end to avoid burning.

Finish

When fries are crisped to your liking, remove from oven/air fryer and immediately season with a light sprinkle of salt to taste. Let rest 2–3 minutes to set before serving so they firm up slightly.

Whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, maple syrup, hot sauce, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more hot sauce for heat, or more maple for sweetness. Chill until ready to serve. Serve alongside the warm waffle fries.