There’s something irresistibly comforting about a batch of crispy fries fresh out of the oven — and these Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli are the healthy upgrade we all need! Instead of deep frying, the sweet potatoes are baked to golden perfection, resulting in crisp edges and soft, tender centers.

The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the creamy, garlicky aioli, creating a harmony of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, party snack, or late-night comfort food, these fries are an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms a simple vegetable into something extraordinary. The contrast between the caramelized sweetness of the fries and the zesty, smooth garlic aioli is divine. It’s also completely guilt-free — baked instead of fried, rich in fiber, and naturally gluten-free.

Plus, it’s a flexible recipe. You can spice up the fries, swap the aioli flavor, or even make it vegan. Every time I make it, it disappears in minutes — it’s that good!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Crispy and healthy: Oven-baked, not deep-fried — less oil, more flavor.
• Sweet and savory balance: The garlic aioli perfectly complements the sweet potato flavor.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and big rewards.
• Perfect side or snack: Great for burgers, grilled dishes, or as a standalone appetizer.
• Customizable: Works with a variety of seasonings, dips, and cooking styles.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 45–50 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 230 kcal per serving (including aioli)

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Side Dish / Snack / Appetizer
• Cuisine: American / Modern Fusion

Ingredients

For the Baked Sweet Potato Fries

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries (about ½ inch thick)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for crispiness)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika (optional for a smoky touch)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Garlic Aioli

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
• 1 tsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel the sweet potatoes (optional) and cut them into even sticks — about ½ inch thick.
3. Soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes (this removes excess starch and helps them crisp up).
4. Drain and pat completely dry using paper towels.

Step 2: Season the Fries

1. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil until evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss again to coat uniformly.

Step 3: Bake the Fries

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Arrange fries in a single layer — avoid overcrowding for maximum crispiness.
3. Bake for 15 minutes, flip each fry, then bake another 15–20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
4. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes (they’ll crisp up more as they cool).

Step 4: Make the Garlic Aioli

1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Refrigerate until serving.

How to Serve

Serve the Baked Sweet Potato Fries hot, with a generous side of Garlic Aioli for dipping.
They pair perfectly with:

• Burgers or sandwiches
• Grilled meats or veggie patties
• Salads or Buddha bowls
• As a snack for movie nights or parties

Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of sea salt before serving for extra flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Soak the fries: This is the key to removing excess starch for crispier results.
• Use cornstarch: It gives the fries a light, crunchy coating.
• Avoid overcrowding: Overlapping fries will steam instead of bake.
• Flip halfway: Ensures even browning.
• For extra crispiness: Finish with 2–3 minutes under the broiler (watch closely!).

Variations

• Spicy Sweet Potato Fries: Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or chipotle powder to the seasoning.
• Herb-Infused Fries: Toss with dried rosemary, thyme, or oregano before baking.
• Parmesan Fries: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the fries right after baking.
• Vegan Aioli: Use vegan mayo and add a dash of nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
• Yogurt Dip Alternative: Mix Greek yogurt with lemon, garlic, and dill for a lighter option.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes until crisp. Avoid microwaving — it will make them soggy.
• Freezing: Freeze raw (seasoned but uncooked) fries on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to cooking time.

Special Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife or fry cutter
• Large mixing bowl
• Parchment-lined baking sheet or silicone mat
• Oven (or air fryer)
• Small bowl for aioli
• Whisk

FAQ

Q1: Why aren’t my fries crispy?
A: Make sure you soak and dry them well, use cornstarch, and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Q2: Can I air fry instead of bake?
A: Yes! Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Q3: Can I skip the aioli?
A: Sure! You can serve the fries with ketchup, ranch, or sriracha mayo instead.

Q4: Can I leave the skin on?
A: Absolutely — it adds texture and nutrients!

Q5: How long should I soak the fries?
A: Soak at least 30 minutes, but up to 1 hour for best results.

Conclusion

These Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli are proof that healthy food can be absolutely delicious. With their crisp edges, soft centers, and luscious garlic dip, they’re an easy win for any occasion — from family dinners to casual get-togethers.

They’re nutritious, customizable, and completely addictive — the perfect balance of comfort and health. Once you try these, you’ll never crave greasy fast-food fries again.