There’s something irresistibly comforting about a plate of warm fries — especially when they’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. But what if you could enjoy that same indulgent crunch without deep-frying or using excess oil? That’s where Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli come in.
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and the bold, creamy richness of homemade garlic aioli — creating a combination that’s both wholesome and gourmet. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a weekend snack, or a side for your favorite sandwich or burger, these baked sweet potato fries will steal the show.
In this post, you’ll find everything you need to make them perfectly — from how to cut your fries for maximum crispness to expert tips for making a silky, flavorful aioli from scratch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier than regular fries: These are baked, not fried, which means less oil and more nutrients.
- Crispy perfection: With a few simple tricks like soaking and coating in cornstarch, you’ll achieve a crisp exterior and soft interior every time.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and no fancy equipment required.
- Versatile: Serve them as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer — they pair beautifully with almost anything.
- Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian: Perfect for most diets, with easy swaps for a vegan-friendly version.
What Makes Sweet Potato Fries Special
Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness and earthy depth that makes them stand apart from traditional white potatoes. They’re rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making them a nutrient-packed alternative. When baked correctly, they develop beautifully crisp edges while staying tender inside.
Unlike deep-fried versions, these fries are baked at a high temperature, which caramelizes their natural sugars, creating a slightly smoky sweetness that complements the bold flavors of the garlic aioli perfectly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple yet flavorful. Every ingredient plays a role in balancing texture and taste.
For the Baked Sweet Potato Fries
- 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into even ¼-inch sticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil – helps achieve a crisp exterior without making the fries greasy
- 1.5 tsp cornstarch – the secret to extra crunch
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika – adds a subtle smokiness
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder – for savory depth
- 0.5 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp chili flakes (optional) – for a hint of heat
For the Garlic Aioli
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise (use halal or vegan mayo as needed)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp olive oil (optional, for smoother texture)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s break down how to make Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli from start to finish.
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Begin by washing, peeling, and cutting your sweet potatoes into uniform sticks. Aim for ¼-inch thick fries — if they’re too thick, they’ll stay soft inside; too thin, and they may burn. Consistency ensures even baking and the right balance of crunch and tenderness.
After cutting, soak the fries in cold water for 20–30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which is key to getting crisp fries instead of soggy ones.
Step 2: Dry Completely
Once soaked, drain the fries and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is crucial — any remaining moisture can cause steaming instead of roasting, preventing that signature crispiness.
Step 3: Season the Fries
Transfer the dry fries to a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, cornstarch, and all seasonings — smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Toss well until each fry is evenly coated. The cornstarch forms a light coating that helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the fries out in a single layer, ensuring there’s space between each piece. Overcrowding causes steam buildup, which softens the fries.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through. The fries should turn golden-brown and slightly caramelized around the edges. For extra crispiness, broil them for an additional 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Aioli
While the fries are baking, whip up the garlic aioli. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning — add more lemon for tang or more garlic for intensity.
For a milder version, roast the garlic beforehand to mellow its sharpness and deepen the flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the outer layer to firm up slightly for maximum crunch. Serve immediately with your freshly made garlic aioli on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a professional touch.
Tips for Perfect Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Even with simple recipes, small techniques make all the difference. Here are a few expert tips:
- Soak before baking: Always soak the cut fries in cold water — it removes starch and helps them bake evenly.
- Dry thoroughly: Any moisture left will turn your fries soggy. Pat them until completely dry before seasoning.
- Use cornstarch: It’s the secret to crispy oven-baked fries. It absorbs moisture and adds a light crust.
- Space them out: Bake in a single layer — never crowd your baking sheet. Use two trays if needed.
- Flip halfway through: This ensures both sides cook evenly and crisp up.
- High heat is key: 220°C (425°F) caramelizes the sugars for that golden, slightly smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to serve them:
- As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken sandwiches, veggie burgers, or wraps for a balanced meal.
- As a Snack: Serve in paper cones or small bowls with aioli for dipping — perfect for game nights or picnics.
- For Brunch: Combine with poached eggs and avocado toast for a hearty, wholesome brunch spread.
- With Other Dips: Try pairing with spicy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or a cool yogurt-based dip for variety.
Variations to Try
Want to customize your fries? Here are a few fun and flavorful variations:
- Spicy Cajun Fries: Toss with a mix of paprika, cayenne, and onion powder for a Southern-style twist.
- Herb-Infused Fries: Add rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a fragrant, Mediterranean-inspired version.
- Cheesy Sweet Potato Fries: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top right after baking for a savory, cheesy finish.
- Vegan Garlic Aioli: Swap the mayo with vegan mayonnaise and use roasted garlic for a plant-based alternative.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage:
If you have leftovers, let the fries cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
To bring back their crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.
Freezing:
You can also freeze uncooked fries. After cutting and soaking, dry thoroughly, arrange on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then store in freezer bags for up to 1 month. Bake straight from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutritional Benefits
Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrition. Each serving provides:
- High in fiber for digestive health
- Rich in beta-carotene (Vitamin A) which supports vision and immune function
- Loaded with antioxidants that help combat inflammation
- Contains slow-digesting carbs for sustained energy
Pairing them with garlic aioli also adds a flavorful source of healthy fats, especially if you use olive oil-based mayonnaise.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the soak: It’s tempting to skip soaking, but it’s crucial for crisp fries.
- Not drying properly: Damp fries steam instead of roast.
- Using too much oil: This can make them greasy and limp. Stick to about 2 tablespoons per batch.
- Low oven temperature: Anything below 200°C (400°F) won’t create that caramelized crust.
- Crowding the tray: Give your fries room to breathe. Overlapping fries trap steam and turn soggy.
Final Thoughts
Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli prove that comfort food doesn’t have to be unhealthy. With the right preparation techniques, you can achieve crispy, golden fries that taste indulgent yet nourishing. The garlic aioli adds a layer of sophistication — creamy, zesty, and just garlicky enough to make each bite irresistible.
This dish is perfect for sharing with friends, serving alongside dinner, or simply treating yourself to a wholesome homemade snack. Once you try them, you’ll realize why baked sweet potato fries are a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli Recipe
Description
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside — these Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli are a healthy and delicious alternative to regular fries. Made with golden roasted sweet potatoes and served alongside a creamy, garlicky aioli dipping sauce, this recipe is perfect for snacks, sides, or guilt-free comfort food. Naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and bursting with flavor, it’s an easy dish you can enjoy any time of the year.
Ingredients
For the Baked Sweet Potato Fries:
For the Garlic Aioli:
Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Wash, peel, and cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized fries — about ¼-inch thick. Make sure all fries are similar in size so they cook evenly. Soak them in cold water for 20–30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps them crisp up better.
Preheat and Dry the Fries
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Drain the soaked fries and pat them completely dry with a clean towel — any moisture will make them soggy.
Season the Fries
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the dry sweet potato fries with olive oil, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Mix well until every fry is evenly coated.
Arrange for Baking
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the fries in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Crowded fries will steam instead of crisp. Use two trays if needed.
Bake Until Crispy
- Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through. For extra crispiness, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Make the Garlic Aioli
- While the fries are baking, prepare the aioli. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Refrigerate until serving.
Serve and Enjoy
- Once the fries are golden and crisp, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm with your homemade garlic aioli for dipping. You can sprinkle a bit of chopped parsley or extra smoked paprika on top for a nice finish.
Note
Crispiness Tip: Soaking and drying the fries thoroughly is key to getting them crispy. Cornstarch helps coat them for that perfect crunch.
Storage: Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 200°C for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cumin or cinnamon for a different flavor twist.
- Make it spicy with cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- For a vegan version, use vegan mayonnaise for the aioli.
Serving Suggestion: These fries pair beautifully with grilled chicken wraps, burgers, or as a side for hearty salads.
