There’s something incredibly satisfying about the aroma of freshly baked sweet potatoes filling your kitchen. It’s a scent that instantly makes a house feel like a home, and when those vibrant orange beauties come out of the oven, golden and crispy, it’s pure magic. Forget greasy fast-food fries; this recipe transforms a humble vegetable into an addictive snack or side dish that I can’t get enough of. Paired with a creamy, zesty homemade garlic aioli, these sweet potato fries are guaranteed to become your new favorite obsession.
The first time I whipped these up, I was aiming for a healthier alternative to my usual potato fries, but what I got was so much more. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, enhanced by a hint of smoked paprika, is absolutely stunning. And that garlic aioli? It’s so easy to make and takes the whole experience to another level. If you’re tired of the same old takeout and craving something truly delicious that you can feel good about, you’ve found your match.
When dinner feels a little too predictable, or when you need a show-stopping appetizer that’s deceptively simple, I reach for this recipe. These aren’t just sweet potato fries; they’re a crispy, flavor-packed revelation. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with that irresistible crunch that we all crave. And the creamy, garlicky dip is the ultimate companion, cutting through the richness and making every fry a moment of pure joy.
I remember one particularly frantic evening when I needed a last-minute side for a barbecue, and this recipe saved the day. It comes together with minimal fuss, using ingredients you likely already have. The oven does most of the work, transforming simple sweet potatoes into something truly special. The resulting crispy baked sweet potato fries, especially when dunked into a luscious, homemade garlic aioli, are always a massive hit with everyone, making them my go-to for parties or just a cozy night in.
Why the Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli Dip Will Become Your New Go-To?
Crispy sweet potato fries are a game-changer for weeknight dinners or get-togethers, offering a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness that’s miles beyond typical fast food. They’re incredibly easy to make, transforming simple ingredients into a show-stopping side dish or appetizer. The homemade garlic aioli is the perfect creamy, tangy counterpoint, elevating every bite. Plus, you can customize the spices for endless flavor fun! And if you enjoy this, you might also love our Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Veggies for another easy, flavorful meal.
Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli Dip Ingredients
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For the Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
- Sweet Potatoes – Aim for firm, evenly shaped ones for consistent cooking; these bring the natural sweetness and tender interior.
- Olive Oil – Extra virgin olive oil works beautifully, helping create that perfect crispy exterior and carrying the seasonings.
- Cornstarch – This secret weapon is key to achieving that delightfully crispy coating that fries up golden brown.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds a warm, smoky depth that complements the sweet potatoes wonderfully.
- Garlic Powder – Boosts the savory notes, echoing the flavors in the aioli.
- Sea Salt – Essential for seasoning, bringing out all the delicious flavors in both the fries and the dip.
- Black Pepper – A pinch adds a subtle warmth to balance the sweetness.
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For the Creamy Garlic Aioli
- Mayonnaise – Your creamy base; use a good quality mayo for the best texture and flavor.
- Garlic – Freshly minced is best for a bold, pungent kick that defines the aioli.
- Lemon Juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty note that cuts through the richness.
- Dijon Mustard – Tiny bit adds a subtle tang and helps emulsify the dip for a silky smooth finish.
- Sea Salt – Just a touch to enhance the aioli’s savory notes.
- Black Pepper – A small grind for a hint of spice.
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Optional Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – Finely chopped for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
How to Make Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli Dip
- Prep Fries: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into ½-inch thick sticks. Submerge them in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which is key for crispiness.
- Dry and Season: Thoroughly drain the sweet potato fries and pat them completely dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss them with olive oil, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until every piece is evenly coated.
- Bake Fries: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer, ensuring they have space to crisp up. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip each fry and rotate the pans. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown and delightfully crisp at the edges. Sprinkle with a little extra salt while they’re hot!
- Make Aioli: While the fries are baking, whisk together mayonnaise, minced fresh garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until perfectly smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Arrange these beautiful, oven-baked sweet potato fries on a platter while they’re still warm. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve immediately with the chilled garlic aioli dip.
Optional: Fresh parsley makes a lovely colorful garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips
- Soaking Matters: Soaking sweet potatoes removes starch for maximum crispiness. Don’t skip this step for the best sweet potato fries!
- Dry Them Well: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Pat your fries very dry after soaking them.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give fries space on the baking sheet. Overlapping fries leads to steaming, not crisping.
- Flip and Rotate: This ensures even browning and that irresistible crunch on all sides.
- Serve Promptly: These are best enjoyed immediately after baking for peak crispiness.
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli Dip?
Build a full meal around this craveable snack with these irresistible pairings that promise deliciousness.
- Juicy Burgers: The perfect partner for classic comfort food that satisfies every craving.
- Grilled Chicken: Creates a wholesome and balanced weeknight dinner that appeals to everyone.
This pairing offers a delightful contrast in flavors and textures, making mealtime exciting. - Hearty Salads: Adds a touch of satisfying warmth and crunch to lighter, fresher dishes.
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The smoky sweetness of the fries beautifully complements savory pork.
- Veggie Wraps: Elevates a simple lunch with a complex, flavorful side.
- Fish Tacos: A fun, flavorful addition that brings a touch of festive flair to your plate.
- Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy crunch is an excellent counterpoint to the sweet, savory fries.
- Lemonade: A simple, refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of the fries and dip.
Storage & Freezing for Sweet Potato Fries
- Fridge Storage: Store leftover crispy sweet potato fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within 2–3 days to maintain some crispiness.
- Freezer Tips: For longer storage, freeze cooled fries on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. This prevents sticking and ensures optimal quality.
- Reheating for Crispiness: Reheat fries on a baking sheet at 400°F (204°C) for 8–10 minutes. This method helps to revive their delightful crispiness.
- Aioli Storage: The homemade garlic aioli dip stays fresh in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Make Ahead Options
This Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Creamy Garlic Aioli Dip recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights and entertaining! You can prepare the garlic aioli dip up to 3 days in advance and store it, covered, in the refrigerator; its flavors will meld beautifully. While the fries themselves are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the component of cutting and soaking the sweet potato fries up to 24 hours ahead of time, then drain and pat them completely dry just before tossing with oil and seasonings and baking. This makes assembling them for baking a breeze, ensuring you can achieve that coveted crispy texture with minimal last-minute effort, making this a perfect meal prep strategy.
Sweet Potato Fries Variations
Let’s get creative and make these already delicious fries truly your own with a few easy twists!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of sriracha to the aioli for a fiery delight.
- Herby Twist: Mix in finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme into the aioli for an aromatic, earthy flavor.
- Smoky Aioli: Incorporate a bit more smoked paprika into the dip for an intense, smoky profile.
- Parmesan Delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the fries during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Cinnamon Sugar Treat: Toss baked fries with a little cinnamon and sugar for a sweet, dessert-like treat.
- Vegan Aioli: Use vegan mayonnaise as the base for a completely plant-based creamy dip.
- Garlic Herb Fries: Add dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning to the fries before baking.
- Black Garlic Aioli: Blend in some black garlic for a sweet, balsamic-like depth to the aioli.
Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli Dip Recipe FAQs
Can I use russet potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes offer a delightful natural sweetness, russet potatoes can also be used for a more classic potato fry experience. Just follow the same prep and cooking instructions for a delicious result.
How do I ensure my sweet potato fries are extra crispy?
The secret to super crispy fries lies in a few key steps. First, soaking the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes is crucial for removing excess starch. Second, patting them completely dry before seasoning is non-negotiable. Finally, spreading them in a single layer on the baking sheet and flipping them halfway through ensures even cooking and that desired crunch.
How should I store leftover sweet potato fries and aioli?
Leftover fries are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. While they might lose some crispness, you can revive them by reheating on a baking sheet at 400°F (204°C) for 8-10 minutes. The garlic aioli dip is also happy in the fridge in a covered container for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze sweet potato fries?
Yes, you can! For the best results, consider freezing them before baking. After cutting and drying the sweet potatoes, toss them with the seasonings and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen (they’ll likely need an extra 5-10 minutes) at 400°F (204°C). Baked fries can also be frozen, but their texture might be a bit softer upon reheating.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into ½-inch thick sticks. Submerge them in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Thoroughly drain the sweet potato fries and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Toss them with olive oil, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and spread the fries in a single layer. Bake for 15 minutes, flip each fry, rotate the pans, and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- While the fries are baking, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
- Arrange the sweet potato fries on a platter while still warm, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately with the garlic aioli dip.