These Garlic Sweet Potato Fries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, packed with a tasty garlic flavor. They are a fun and healthy snack or side dish!
Plus, who can resist that golden color? I like to serve them with a dip, but honestly, they are great just on their own. Perfect for any weekend munching! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Choose large, firm sweet potatoes for the best fries. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you can substitute with regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a different twist.
Olive Oil: This helps in making the fries crispy. Feel free to use canola oil or avocado oil instead if you prefer. Both have high smoke points and work well for roasting.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds amazing flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be used as a quicker substitute, but fresh is always better!
Smoked Paprika: This adds a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or use regular paprika or chili powder for a bit of heat.
Fresh Parsley: This is great for garnish, and adds freshness. You can also use cilantro or chives if you prefer a different herbal note.
How Do I Make Sure My Fries Are Crispy?
Crispy fries are all about the right technique. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Cut the sweet potatoes evenly for uniform cooking. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! Spread them out so the heat circulates around each fry for that perfect crisp.
- Tossing fries with the oil and seasonings well is key. Make sure every fry is coated!
- Flipping the fries halfway through baking ensures they brown evenly.
- Let them cool slightly before serving; they will crisp up even more as they sit.
With these tips, your Garlic Sweet Potato Fries will be a hit, crispy, and bursting with flavor! Enjoy!
Garlic Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fries:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus extra for sprinkling
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Garlic Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, so you can have delicious Garlic Sweet Potato Fries in about 40 minutes total! Perfect for a cozy snack or a side with dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure that your fries get nice and crispy. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized fries, about 1/2 inch thick. This will help them cook evenly. The more uniform the size, the better they’ll roast!
3. Season the Fries:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Make sure every fry is coated well in the mixture.
4. Bake the Fries:
Spread the fries out in a single layer on the lined baking sheet. Be sure not to overcrowd the fries—this helps them get crispy! If necessary, use a second baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
5. Flip and Finish Baking:
After 15 minutes, carefully flip the fries and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. You want them to be golden brown and crispy on the outside while tender on the inside.
6. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the fries are baking, mix together your garlic dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well, and chill it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the fries are golden and crispy, take them out of the oven. Sprinkle with a little extra salt and chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them warm with the garlic dipping sauce on the side for a fabulous snack. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Garlic Sweet Potato Fries!
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! Regular potatoes can be used if you prefer. Just keep in mind that they may have a different cooking time, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
How Can I Make These Fries Even Crispier?
To make your fries extra crispy, soak the cut sweet potatoes in water for about 30 minutes before drying and baking them. This helps remove excess starch. Also, spreading them out evenly on the baking sheet is essential for crispness.
Can I Make the Dipping Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The garlic dipping sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving to mix the flavors!
How Should I Store Leftover Fries?
If you have any leftovers, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help regain their crispiness.
