These garlic sweet potato fries are a tasty twist on regular fries! They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a yummy garlic flavor that makes them hard to resist.
I love serving them as a snack or a side dish. Just watch out, they disappear fast—everyone wants a second helping! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! I prefer using orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for their sweetness. If you’re in a crunch, you can substitute them with regular potatoes or even butternut squash!
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely richness. You can swap it with avocado oil for higher heat tolerance or even coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic boosts the dish’s flavor. If you don’t have fresh, use garlic powder (1 teaspoon), but fresh is always best!
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a salty, nutty flavor. For a vegan option, try nutritional yeast or year-round vegan cheese alternatives.
How Do I Get My Sweet Potato Fries Extra Crispy?
Getting those fries crispy is all about moisture control! Follow these steps for the best results:
- Cut sweet potatoes into uniform fries. This helps them cook evenly.
- Soak the cut fries in water for at least 30 minutes before baking. This removes excess starch.
- Dry the fries thoroughly with a kitchen towel before coating them in oil and spices.
- Spread fries on the baking sheet without overlapping—crowding them steams rather than crisps. Use two sheets if you need!
- Flip them halfway through baking to ensure both sides crisp up.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have the best garlic sweet potato fries around!
How to Make Garlic Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: ranch or garlic aioli for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake. You’ll have warm, crispy garlic sweet potato fries ready in just 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is a crucial step because a hot oven helps your fries get crispy. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Next, peel the sweet potatoes if you like (the skin can add great texture and nutrients if left on). Cut the sweet potatoes into even-sized fries, about 1/2 inch thick. The more uniform the pieces, the more evenly they will cook.
3. Season the Fries:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every fry is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings for the best flavor.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread the fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Be careful not to overcrowd them; this will help them crisp up better. If needed, use two sheets to ensure they have enough space.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the fries in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. After that, flip them over so they cook evenly, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until they are golden and crispy around the edges.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once your fries are done baking, take them out of the oven and immediately sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top while they are hot. This allows the cheese to melt slightly and adds a burst of flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your garlic sweet potato fries hot, alongside your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or garlic aioli. Enjoy every crispy bite!
Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious, crunchy garlic sweet potato fries!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes add a wonderful sweetness, you can substitute them with regular russet or Yukon gold potatoes. Just note that the baking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye on them!
How Should I Store Leftover Fries?
To store leftovers, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to regain some crispiness.
Can I Make These Fries Without Garlic?
Yes, if you’re not a garlic fan or need a low-FODMAP version, feel free to omit the garlic. You could also experiment with other seasonings like herbs, onion powder, or a sprinkle of chili powder for some heat!
How Can I Make These Fries Extra Crispy?
Soaking the cut sweet potatoes in water for at least 30 minutes before baking helps to remove excess starch, leading to crispier fries. Make sure to dry them well before tossing them in oil and spices!
