Welcome to another delightful edition of Mangia Mondays! Today, I’m diving into one of my absolute favorites—baked sweet potato fries. These are the perfect combination of nutritious and delicious, and I can’t wait to share my go-to recipe with you.
For the past 32 weeks, Kristin from Delightfully Dowling and I have been hosting this foodie extravaganza, and it’s been such an amazing journey. Each week brings new recipes, ideas, and inspiration, and today, it’s all about celebrating the sweet, earthy goodness of sweet potatoes.
Why Sweet Potatoes?
Let’s talk about the star of the show—sweet potatoes! These vibrant tubers are more than just a pretty face on your plate. Packed with nutrients like vitamins B6, A, and C, as well as potassium and fiber, sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of health benefits. They’re naturally low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making them a guilt-free choice for just about any meal.
But let’s be honest—while I appreciate all the nutritional perks, the real reason I love sweet potatoes is simple: they taste amazing. Roasted to perfection, they transform into a sweet, caramelized treat that’s impossible to resist. Add a little seasoning, keep the skins on for texture, and you’ve got a dish that’s as wholesome as it is satisfying.
Sweet Potato Fries: The Perfect Sidekick
Sweet potato fries are a staple in my household, and I’m thrilled that even my picky-eater kids adore them. The best part? They don’t even notice when I spice things up! The seasonings enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes without overpowering them, making these fries a versatile side dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ready to make your own? This recipe serves my family of five perfectly, with no leftovers. If you’re cooking for a larger group or just want extras, you might want to double the quantities. Trust me, these fries disappear fast!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- About 3 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, chopped (not too finely)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
Prep the Oven and Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly, as you’ll want to keep the skins on for added texture and nutritional benefits. Slice each potato in half lengthwise, place the flat side down, and cut into uniform fries. Aim for about 1/2 to 1-inch thickness. Don’t stress about perfection—sweet potatoes have quirky shapes, so just do your best!
Season the Fries
Spread the fries out on a baking sheet along with the chopped garlic. Drizzle with olive oil, ensuring they’re evenly coated but not swimming in oil. In a small bowl, combine the salt, chili powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the fries and toss everything together to distribute the flavors evenly.
Bake to Perfection
Bake the fries for 30-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through with a spatula. You’ll know they’re done when they’re fork-tender and slightly caramelized around the edges. If you prefer your fries extra crispy, reduce the oven temperature to 200°F after baking and let them dry out for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips for Mixing It Up
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can mix white (russet) potatoes with your sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that russet potatoes typically need about 10 more minutes of baking time to reach fork-tenderness. To make life easier, keep the two varieties separate on the baking sheet. That way, you can remove the sweet potatoes when they’re done and let the russets finish baking.
These baked sweet potato fries are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Serve them as a side dish for dinner, pair them with eggs and bacon for breakfast, or enjoy them as a snack on their own. No matter how you eat them, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.
I wish I had a plate of these fries in front of me right now—they’re just that good! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or whipping up a casual family meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Do you have a favorite recipe, a restaurant review, or any foodie-related content you’d like to share? Join us for Mangia Mondays! This weekly celebration of all things delicious is the perfect place to connect with fellow food enthusiasts and discover new ideas. We’d love to see what you’re cooking up!
Here’s to a fantastic start to your week, filled with good food and great company. Thank you for stopping by, and I hope you enjoy these baked sweet potato fries as much as I do.
Let’s keep the Mangia Mondays tradition alive and thriving—happy cooking!
