Few things in life are as satisfying as a plate of hot, crispy sweet potato fries fresh out of the oven. The scent of roasted garlic fills your kitchen, the cheese melts into a golden crust, and that first salty, crunchy bite makes the world feel right again.
Whether you’re serving them as a side for dinner, a game-day snack, or a late-night treat, these Garlic & Parmesan Sweet Potato Fries deliver everything: flavor, texture, and comfort in every bite.
This is the only crispy sweet potato fries recipe you’ll ever need — perfectly seasoned, easy to bake or air fry, and endlessly addictive.
Why You’ll Love These Garlic & Parmesan Sweet Potato Fries
- Crispy and golden every time — whether oven-baked or air-fried.
- Easy, healthy, and flavorful — real ingredients, minimal oil.
- Kid-approved and adult-obsessed — a fun, finger-friendly snack.
- Versatile — serve as a side, snack, or loaded appetizer.
- Naturally sweet and savory — with hints of garlic, herbs, and nutty cheese.
- Customizable — go spicy, smoky, or herby with simple tweaks.
No soggy fries here — every piece stays crisp and light.
Garlic & Parmesan Sweet Potato Fries
Equipment
- Baking sheet + parchment paper (or air fryer basket)
- Sharp knife & cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons & cups
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes peeled or skin-on (cut into ¼-inch fries)
- 2 tbsp olive oil — or avocado oil for crispier texture
- 3 cloves garlic finely minced or 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese — plus extra for serving
- 1 tsp paprika smoked or sweet
- ½ tsp sea salt — adjust to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder — for ultra-crispy coating
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Optional Dipping Sauce Ideas:
- Garlic aioli
- Creamy ranch
- Marshmallow dip sweet contrast for fall gatherings!
Instructions
- Prep the Sweet Potatoes:Rinse and pat dry your sweet potatoes. Cut them into thin, even sticks — about ¼ inch thick for perfect crispiness.
- Toss with Oil & Seasoning:In a large bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and cornstarch. Toss fries until evenly coated. Pro Tip: A touch of cornstarch helps achieve that restaurant-style crispy edge!
- Arrange for Crispiness:Spread fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet — no crowding! This ensures air circulation for even roasting.
- Bake or Air Fry: Oven method: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air fryer method: Cook at 380°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
- Add Parmesan Finish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan right after baking so it melts beautifully over the hot fries. Garnish with parsley.
- Serve Hot: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce — garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or even a fun marshmallow dip for contrast!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- To reheat, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes until crispy again.
- Avoid microwaving — it makes fries soft.
- You can freeze baked fries for up to 2 months; reheat directly from frozen.
Nutrition
Little Secrets for Success
- Soak cut fries in cold water for 20–30 minutes to remove starch — crispier results guaranteed.
- Dry thoroughly before seasoning to prevent sogginess.
- Use cornstarch sparingly — just enough for that delicate crunch.
- Always bake on parchment, not foil, to avoid sticking.
- Sprinkle Parmesan after baking, not before — this prevents burning.
Fun Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add chili powder, cayenne, or crushed red pepper.
- Loaded Fries: Top with melted cheese, scallions, and crispy bacon.
- Herby Mediterranean: Toss with oregano, rosemary, and feta instead of Parmesan.
- Sweet Marshmallow Twist: Drizzle with melted marshmallow dip for a playful fall vibe.
- Vegan Friendly: Skip Parmesan — sprinkle nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
- Purple Power: Try purple sweet potatoes for a vibrant, Instagram-worthy look.
Perfect Pairings
- Pair with Turkey Sliders, Grilled Chicken, or Veggie Burgers.
- Add a Homemade Garlic Aioli or Honey Mustard Dip on the side.
- Try with our Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders for a full family meal.
A Bite Full of Health
Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. Combined with olive oil and garlic, they make a healthy, oven-baked alternative to traditional fries. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt for any diet — perfect for guilt-free snacking or a colorful dinner side.
Questions You Might Have (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Slice the fries and store them in cold water in the fridge up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q2: Can I skip cornstarch?
You can, but you’ll lose some crispiness. It’s worth adding for that perfect crunch.
Q3: Can I make them in the air fryer frozen?
Absolutely. Just increase cooking time by 3–5 minutes and shake halfway.
Q4: What’s the best dip for sweet potato fries?
Try garlic aioli, chipotle mayo, or even a sweet marshmallow dip for a fun twist.
Q5: How do I prevent soggy fries?
Avoid overcrowding and always pat the sweet potatoes completely dry before cooking.
Q6: Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
Freshly grated melts better and adds stronger flavor — worth the tiny extra effort!
Nothing beats a batch of homemade crispy sweet potato fries — garlicky, cheesy, and full of cozy flavor. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy a snack that’s as wholesome as it is addictive.
If you loved this Garlic & Parmesan Sweet Potato Fries recipe, leave a comment below and 📌 pin it for later — because once you taste these, you’ll never go back to store-bought!
