Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges: The Crispy, Healthy Hack You Need
Sweet potato wedges are the underdogs of the snack world—delicious, nutritious, and somehow still overlooked. But toss them in an air fryer, and boom: crispy edges, tender centers, and zero guilt. No deep-frying, no soggy disappointments, just perfection in 15 minutes.
Why settle for mediocre fries when you can have wedges that taste like they’re from a gourmet bistro? Spoiler: Your oven is jealous.
Why This Recipe Slaps
Air fryer sweet potato wedges are the ultimate combo of easy, healthy, and stupidly delicious. The air fryer gives them a crispy exterior without drowning them in oil, and the natural sweetness of the potatoes means you don’t need a ton of seasoning.
Plus, they’re versatile—eat them as a side, snack, or even breakfast (no judgment here).
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (scrubbed and cut into wedges)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked or regular)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of cayenne for heat, or cinnamon for a sweet twist
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the potatoes: Cut them into wedges—about 8–12 per potato, depending on size. Pro tip: Keep the skins on for extra fiber and texture.
- Season: Toss the wedges with oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Massage the spices in like you’re giving them a spa day.
- Air fry: Arrange the wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
No overcrowding, or they’ll steam instead of crisp.
- Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. If they’re not crispy enough, add 2–3 more minutes.
- Serve: Eat immediately. Warning: They disappear faster than your motivation to meal prep.
How to Store Leftovers (If You Have Any)
Let the wedges cool completely, then stash them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–5 minutes to revive the crispiness. Microwaving is an option, but you’ll end up with sad, limp wedges. You’ve been warned.
Why You Should Make These Regularly
Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants, making these wedges a guilt-free snack.
The air fryer cuts calories by using minimal oil, and the short cook time means you’re never more than 15 minutes away from crispy goodness. Plus, they’re kid-friendly, meal-prep-friendly, and Netflix-binge-friendly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the basket: This leads to steaming, not crisping. Cook in batches if needed.
- Skipping the flip: Not flipping = uneven cooking.
Don’t be lazy.
- Underseasoning: Sweet potatoes can handle bold flavors. Don’t be shy.
- Cutting wedges too thin: They’ll burn before crisping. Aim for 1/2-inch thickness.
Alternatives to Spice Things Up
- Spicy version: Add cayenne or chili powder.
- Sweet version: Swap paprika for cinnamon and a drizzle of honey.
- Cheesy version: Sprinkle with grated parmesan after cooking.
- Herb version: Toss with rosemary or thyme before air frying.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead?
Absolutely.
Russet or Yukon gold potatoes work great, but adjust the cook time—they might need a few extra minutes.
Do I need to soak the wedges first?
Nope. Soaking removes starch for crispier oven fries, but the air fryer handles it without the extra step.
Why are my wedges not crispy?
You probably overcrowded the basket or didn’t use enough oil. Fix those two things, and you’re golden.
Can I freeze these?
Technically yes, but the texture suffers.
IMO, they’re best fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer sweet potato wedges are the lazy cook’s secret weapon—minimal effort, maximum reward. They’re healthy, customizable, and so good you’ll forget they’re not junk food. Make them once, and you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with store-bought fries.
Now go forth and air fry like a pro.
