Air Fryer Sweet Potato

A Crispy, Flavor-Packed Delight

If you’re on a quest for a versatile, healthy, and mouthwateringly delicious side dish, look no further than air fryer sweet potatoes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is a game changer. Sweet potatoes are not just a Thanksgiving staple; they are a year round favorite packed with nutrients, flavor, and texture that can elevate any meal. When cooked in an air fryer, these vibrant orange tubers transform into crispy on the outside, tender on the inside morsels of perfection, making them an irresistible option for anyone who loves healthy yet satisfying food.

“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.”

Virginia Woolf

Plus, with the air fryer’s magic touch, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of roasted sweet potatoes without the excess oil and calories. Ready to dive into a world of crispy goodness? Let’s explore why you’ll love this air fryer sweet potato recipe, how to make it, some handy tips, and frequently asked questions to ensure your sweet potato journey is as smooth as possible.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Sweet Potato Recipe

1. Health Benefits Galore: Sweet potatoes are packed with essential nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. They’re a healthier alternative to regular potatoes, boasting a lower glycemic index and more complex carbohydrates that keep you fuller for longer.
2. Crispy, Yet Soft: The air fryer gives sweet potatoes a crispy exterior that’s reminiscent of deep-fried snacks, but without the guilt. Inside, they remain soft and tender, creating a delightful contrast of textures with every bite.
3. Quick and Easy: With the air fryer, you can whip up a batch of these golden beauties in under 20 minutes. No need to preheat the oven or wait for ages to get that perfect crisp.
4. Versatile Flavors: Sweet potatoes have a naturally sweet flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings. You can keep it simple with salt and pepper, add a touch of sweetness with cinnamon and brown sugar, or spice things up with smoked paprika and garlic powder.
5. Perfect for Any Meal: Air fryer sweet potatoes are the perfect side dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Serve them alongside eggs in the morning, with a fresh salad for lunch, or as a side to your favorite protein for dinner. They’re also an excellent snack option, just as tasty on their own!

How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
   • Start by washing and scrubbing the sweet potatoes thoroughly. There’s no need to peel them unless you prefer them without the skin. The skin adds a nice texture and contains extra nutrients.
   • Cut the sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes or wedges, about ½ to ¾ inch thick. Consistent sizing ensures they cook evenly.
2. Season:
   • In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato pieces with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. For an extra kick of flavor, add smoked paprika and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. This step helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
4. Cook:
   • Place the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding as it may lead to uneven cooking.
   • Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping. If needed, cook in batches.
5. Check for Doneness:
   • The sweet potatoes are ready when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender when pierced with a fork. If they need more time, add an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve:
   • Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy as is. They’re delicious hot and fresh out of the air fryer!

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

1. Cut Evenly: For uniform cooking, ensure the sweet potato pieces are similar in size. This prevents some pieces from burning while others remain undercooked.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cooking in batches is key if you want each piece to be perfectly crispy. Overcrowding leads to steaming, which results in a softer texture.
3. Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Sweet potatoes are versatile and can handle a variety of seasonings. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors like chili powder, cumin, or even a dash of cayenne for a spicy twist.
4. Use Parchment Paper for Easy Cleanup: If you want to minimize mess, place a small piece of parchment paper in the basket before adding the sweet potatoes. This will make cleanup a breeze!
5. Check for Doneness Early: Air fryers can vary in cooking times, so start checking your sweet potatoes around the 10-minute mark. You can always add more time if needed.

“There is no sincerer love than the love of food.”

George Bernard Shaw

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Recipe FAQ

Flatbread Fun

Make a quick and delicious Naan Flatbread Pizza for any meal.

People Also Ask

1. How long does it take for a sweet potato to go in an air fryer?

Cooking sweet potatoes in an air fryer typically takes 35-40 minutes at 375°F (190°C):

• Whole sweet potatoes: Cook for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
• Cubed sweet potatoes: Smaller pieces take about 15-20 minutes, depending on size, with occasional shaking or stirring. Always check for doneness by piercing with a fork; they should be tender.

2. Why do you soak sweet potatoes in water before air frying?

Soaking sweet potatoes before air frying has several benefits:

• Removes excess starch: Soaking helps remove starch from the surface, which allows the sweet potatoes to crisp up better.
• Improves texture: Soaked sweet potatoes have a crispier outside and a tender inside when air-fried.
• Recommended method: Soak for at least 30 minutes, then pat dry thoroughly before cooking.

3. Why soak sweet potatoes before frying?

Soaking sweet potatoes before frying serves a similar purpose:

• Promotes crispiness: Removing surface starch prevents sogginess and ensures a crispy texture.
• Even cooking: Soaking also helps the sweet potatoes cook evenly. This step is optional but highly recommended for achieving the best results.

4. What happens if you don’t soak potatoes before air frying?

If you don’t soak sweet potatoes before air frying:

• Less crispiness: The starch on the surface can prevent the sweet potatoes from crisping up properly.
• Denser texture: They may turn out softer and less golden. While skipping soaking won’t ruin the dish, it’s an easy way to improve the texture.

5. Do you coat potatoes in oil before air frying?

Yes, coating sweet potatoes in oil before air frying is recommended:

• Enhances crispiness: A light coating of oil helps the sweet potatoes brown and crisp up.
• Adds flavor: Oil carries seasonings better, ensuring even coverage.
• Tip: Use just 1-2 teaspoons of oil per batch to avoid making the potatoes greasy.

6. Why are my potatoes not crispy in the air fryer?

Potatoes might not turn crispy in the air fryer for several reasons:

• Too much moisture: If the sweet potatoes aren’t dried thoroughly after soaking, they may steam instead of crisping.
• Overcrowding: Overfilling the air fryer basket prevents proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking.
• Insufficient oil: Too little oil can result in a less crispy texture.
• Low temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature won’t create the desired crunch. Stick to 375-400°F (190-200°C) for optimal results. To fix this, ensure the sweet potatoes are dry, use enough oil, and avoid overcrowding.

Common Mistakes When Making Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes:

1. Skipping the soak: Not soaking sweet potatoes can result in less crispy fries or cubes.
2. Overcrowding the basket: Filling the air fryer basket too much prevents proper airflow and even cooking.
3. Using too much oil: While a light coating is essential, excess oil can make the sweet potatoes greasy and soggy.
4. Inconsistent sizes: Unevenly cut pieces will cook at different rates, leading to some being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
5. Cooking at the wrong temperature: Too low a temperature can prevent crispiness, while too high can burn the edges before the inside is tender.

Conclusion

Air fryer sweet potatoes are a healthy and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. To achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness, soak the sweet potatoes to remove excess starch, coat them lightly in oil, and avoid overcrowding the basket. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes like inconsistent cuts or skipping the soaking step, you’ll create perfectly crispy and flavorful sweet potatoes every time. Whether as fries, cubes, or whole, air fryer sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit!

Air Fryer Sweet Potato

Thomas J. Moss

“CrispyAir Fryer Sweet Potatoes: A Simple, Irresistible, Flavor-Packed Side Dish”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings 4

Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

• Air Fryer,
• cutting board,
• Knife
• Mixing bowl

Ingredients

  

• 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
• Start by washing and scrubbing the sweet potatoes thoroughly. There’s no need to peel them unless you prefer them without the skin. The skin adds a nice texture and contains extra nutrients.
• Cut the sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes or wedges, about ½ to ¾ inch thick. Consistent sizing ensures they cook evenly.
• Season:
• In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato pieces with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. For an extra kick of flavor, add smoked paprika and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
• Preheat the Air Fryer:
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. This step helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
• Cook:
• Place the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding as it may lead to uneven cooking.
• Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping. If needed, cook in batches.
• Check for Doneness:
• The sweet potatoes are ready when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender when pierced with a fork. If they need more time, add an additional 2-3 minutes.
• Serve:
• Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy as is. They’re delicious hot and fresh out of the air fryer!

Notes

You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional flavor. Make sure to shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 120 | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1.5g | Sodium: 150mg | Potassium: 438mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 0.8mg

Let me know!

Did you find this post helpful? By leaving a star rating and share, it will help others find my recipes.