If you’re craving a crispy, flavorful snack or side dish, sweet potato waffle fries are the perfect choice! These fries are not only visually appealing with their fun waffle shape, but they also pack a delicious sweet and savory flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether baked in the oven or cooked in an air fryer, sweet potato waffle fries are a healthier and tastier alternative to regular fries.
I love how versatile these fries are—you can enjoy them as a snack, a side to your favorite burger, or even as a base for delicious toppings like melted cheese or avocado. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with a variety of seasonings, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, crunchy treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A Crispy and Flavorful Experience
These fries are perfectly crispy on the outside while staying soft and tender inside, giving you the ideal balance of textures.
Easy to Prepare
You don’t need to be a kitchen expert to make these fries. With a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up a batch effortlessly.
Healthier Alternative
Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and fiber, making these fries a more nutritious option than regular fries.
Customizable Flavors
From sweet to spicy, you can season your sweet potato waffle fries in countless ways to suit your taste preferences.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or serving up a side for dinner, these fries are a guaranteed hit.
Key Ingredients and Tools
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s take a look at the key ingredients and tools you’ll need to make the best sweet potato waffle fries.
Ingredients:
- Sweet Potatoes: 2 large, peeled and cut into waffle shapes.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons to coat the fries and help them crisp up.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon for added depth of flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon for a hint of smokiness.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Cornstarch (Optional): 1 tablespoon to achieve extra crispiness.
- Fresh Herbs: Such as parsley, for garnish.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle over fries for extra flavor.
- Chili Powder: For a spicy kick.
- Cinnamon Sugar: For a sweet twist.
Tools:
- Waffle Fry Cutter: Essential for achieving that perfect waffle shape.
- Baking Sheet or Air Fryer Basket: Depending on your preferred cooking method.
- Parchment Paper: For easy cleanup.
- Mixing Bowl: To evenly coat fries with seasonings.
- Tongs: To flip the fries during cooking.
Now that we’ve got everything ready, let’s move on to preparing and cooking these delicious sweet potato waffle fries.
How to Make Sweet Potato Waffle Fries at Home
Making sweet potato waffle fries at home is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to achieve perfectly crispy and delicious fries every time.
Preparing the Fries
- Peel and slice: Start by peeling your sweet potatoes and slicing them into waffle shapes using a waffle fry cutter.
- Soak for crispiness: Soak the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a crispier texture.
- Pat dry: Drain the sweet potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove any excess moisture.
Seasoning Your Fries for Maximum Flavor
- Coat with oil: In a large mixing bowl, toss the fries with olive oil to ensure an even coating.
- Add seasonings: Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the fries, mixing well to distribute the flavors.
- Optional cornstarch: For extra crispiness, add a tablespoon of cornstarch and toss to coat evenly.
Cooking: Air Fryer vs. Oven Baked
Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the fries: Place the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Check crispiness: Cook until the fries are golden and crispy.
Oven-Baked
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Arrange on baking sheet: Spread the fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides crisp up evenly.
- Broil for crispiness: In the last 2 minutes, broil the fries for extra crunch.
Serving and Dipping Ideas
Once your sweet potato waffle fries are perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve them with delicious dips and toppings.
Popular Dipping Sauces:
- Garlic Aioli: Creamy and flavorful.
- Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy favorite.
- Spicy Ketchup: Classic with a kick.
- Ranch Dressing: Cool and creamy.
Toppings to Elevate Your Sweet Potato Waffle Fries:
- Melted Cheese: Sprinkle cheddar or mozzarella on top.
- Crumbled Bacon: For a savory, smoky touch.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.
Creative Twists
Want to take your sweet potato waffle fries to the next level? Try these creative ideas to switch things up:
Sweet and Spicy
Coat your fries with a mix of honey and a dash of cayenne pepper for a balance of sweet and heat.
Parmesan Herb
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs for a cheesy, herby twist.
Tex-Mex Style
Top your fries with seasoned ground beef, sour cream, and chopped green onions for a Tex-Mex flair.
Sweet Dessert
Drizzle with caramel sauce and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a delicious dessert option.
Loaded
Add toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and pico de gallo for a loaded fries experience.
Troubleshooting Tips
Running into issues with your sweet potato waffle fries? Here are some helpful tips to fix common problems:
Why Are My Fries Not Crispy?
Ensure you’ve soaked the sweet potatoes beforehand and patted them completely dry. Overcrowding in the air fryer or oven can also lead to soggy fries.
Why Do My Fries Burn?
Sweet potatoes cook faster than regular potatoes, so keep an eye on them and reduce cooking time if needed.
How Can I Keep My Fries Warm?
If you’re making fries in batches, keep them warm in the oven at 200°F (95°C) until ready to serve.
What If My Fries Are Too Soft?
Try increasing the cooking time slightly and ensure you’re using high enough heat for that perfect crunch.
With these easy troubleshooting tips, you can enjoy perfectly crispy and delicious sweet potato waffle fries every time!
Bonus Recipe: Spicy Sweet Potato Waffle Fries
If you’re looking to add a little heat to your crispy fries, this spicy version is just what you need. With a perfect blend of spices and a hint of sweetness, these fries will satisfy your craving for something bold and delicious.
Ingredients:
- Sweet Potatoes: 2 large, peeled and sliced into waffle shapes.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for coating.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon for smokiness.
- Cayenne Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon for added flavor.
- Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon to enhance taste.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
- Chili Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon for extra heat.
Directions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) or your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the waffle fries with olive oil until evenly coated.
- Mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle the spice mix over the fries, tossing to coat evenly.
- Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on a baking sheet.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, or bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the spicy crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Cut Sweet Potatoes Into Waffle Fries?
You’ll need a special waffle fry cutter, which helps create the signature crisscross pattern. Carefully slice the potato using even pressure for consistent shapes.
Can I Freeze Sweet Potato Waffle Fries?
Yes! After slicing and seasoning, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container and store for up to 3 months.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Sweet Potato Waffle Fries?
To retain crispiness, reheat them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
Are These Healthier Than Regular Fries?
Yes! Sweet potatoes contain more fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants compared to regular potatoes, making them a nutritious choice.
How Can I Make My Fries Crispier?
Soaking the cut sweet potatoes in cold water and patting them dry before cooking helps remove excess starch, which enhances crispiness.
What Are the Best Dipping Sauces for Sweet Potato Waffle Fries?
Popular options include garlic aioli, honey mustard, spicy ketchup, and even maple syrup for a sweet touch.
Can I Make Them Without Oil?
Yes, you can bake them without oil, but they may turn out less crispy. A light spray of cooking spray can help achieve a better texture.
How Long Do Cooked Sweet Potato Waffle Fries Last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
What’s the Best Seasoning for Sweet Potato Waffle Fries?
Classic combinations include garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of cinnamon for a unique twist.
Conclusion
Sweet potato waffle fries are a delicious, crispy, and versatile snack or side dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer them savory, spicy, or sweet, they’re easy to make and even easier to love.
If you’re looking for more great recipes, check out our Quick and Easy Peanut Butter Fudge for a sweet treat to complement your meal.
Try these delicious sweet potato waffle fries today and enjoy their perfect combination of flavor and crunch!