Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes Recipe
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Sweet potatoes are delicious and nutritious, but did you know you can make them even better using an air fryer? Air fryer sweet potatoes come out crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, all with less oil and hassle.
In just a short amount of time, your air fryer can turn sweet potatoes into a perfect side dish or snack. The simple ingredients and easy steps make this recipe a go-to for busy weeknights. Plus, there are so many ways to season and top your sweet potatoes, keeping things exciting every time.
From quick tips to creative toppings, this guide will help you make the best air fryer sweet potatoes. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this method is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)
To make air fryer sweet potatoes, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Here’s a list of what you need and some possible substitutes.
Main Ingredients:
- Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm and unbruised sweet potatoes. You can use any variety.
- Olive Oil: Adds crispiness and flavor. Substitute: You can use avocado oil or melted coconut oil.
- Salt: Enhances the taste. Substitute: Sea salt or kosher salt.
Optional Seasonings:
- Paprika: Adds a mild heat. Substitute: Smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a rich taste. Substitute: Onion powder.
- Pepper: Black pepper is common. Substitute: White pepper or cayenne for more heat.
Additional Tips:
- For a sweet version, skip the paprika and garlic powder. Use cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar.
- If you prefer oil-free, you can skip the oil. Just ensure your air fryer basket is non-stick or lightly spray it.
Remember, these ingredients are flexible. Feel free to adjust them based on what you have in your kitchen.
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C).
Wash and Dry the sweet potatoes thoroughly.
Poke Holes all over the potatoes using a fork. Aim for at least 10-12 pokes per potato.
Drizzle with Oil. Use about 1 teaspoon of olive oil for each potato and rub it in with your hands.
Season the potatoes with sea salt. You can sprinkle them lightly or more generously, depending on your taste.
Transfer the sweet potatoes to the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in a single layer with some space between them.
Cook in the air fryer for about 20-25 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
Shake the Basket a couple of times during cooking to ensure even cooking.
For Sweet Potato Cubes
Peel and Cube your sweet potatoes into 1-inch chunks.
Toss in a Bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Cubes for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket a few times during cooking.
Check for Doneness by poking with a fork. They should be tender.
Enjoy your air fryer sweet potatoes!
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Preheat your Air Fryer: Preheating helps cook the sweet potatoes evenly. Set the air fryer to the required temperature before placing the sweet potatoes inside.
Poking Holes: Use a fork to poke holes all over the sweet potatoes. This allows steam to escape and makes them cook more evenly.
Oil and Seasoning: Drizzle a bit of oil on the sweet potatoes to get a crisp skin. Use neutral oil or olive oil. For extra flavor, sprinkle sea salt or your favorite seasoning.
Checking for Doneness: To check if your sweet potatoes are done, poke them with a fork. They should be tender inside. If not, add a few more minutes.
Batch Cooking: If cooking for a crowd, you can cook multiple sweet potatoes in one go. Just make sure they aren’t touching each other in the air fryer basket.
Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Sweet potatoes need space for the hot air to circulate and cook evenly.
Storing Leftovers: Place leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to four days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the sweet potatoes back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F. This will help maintain their crispiness.
Freezing: Cooked sweet potatoes can be frozen. Wrap them in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
You can create various air fryer sweet potato recipes by changing up seasonings and methods.
Spicy Sweet Potatoes: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
Sweet & Savory: Toss sweet potatoes with a blend of brown sugar and cinnamon for a delicious sweet twist.
Herb-Infused: Season with rosemary or thyme for a fragrant, earthy flavor.
You can also change up the cuts.
- Fries: Cut into thin strips for crispy sweet potato fries.
- Chunks: Cut into 1-inch chunks for perfectly crispy yet tender bites.
- Rounds: Slice into rounds for a unique shape and texture.
Pair your sweet potatoes with different dips.
- Ketchup or mustard for a classic feel.
- Ranch dressing or aioli for a creamy experience.
- Sriracha mayo for a spicy touch.
Serve your sweet potatoes creatively.
- Side Dish: Perfect with grilled meat or fish.
- Salad Topping: Add to your salad for a warm, hearty ingredient.
- Bowl Meal: Combine with grains, greens, and a protein for a complete meal.
Changing up a few ingredients or cutting styles can bring a whole new flavor and experience to your air fryer sweet potatoes. Try some of these variations and discover your favorite way to enjoy them!
