Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli

These Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli are the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and healthy. The sweet potatoes are baked to perfection with a touch of olive oil and seasoning, resulting in a crispy exterior and soft interior. Paired with a creamy, garlicky aioli, they make for an irresistible snack, side dish, or appetizer.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Fries:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

For the Garlic Aioli:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Sweet Potato Fries

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Toss the sweet potato fries in a large bowl with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

2. Bake the Fries

Spread the sweet potato fries in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded to ensure they crisp up. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

3. Make the Garlic Aioli

While the fries are baking, prepare the garlic aioli by combining mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), and salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well-combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

4. Serve

Once the sweet potato fries are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish, if desired. Serve immediately with the garlic aioli on the side for dipping.

Expert Tips

• Crispier Fries: For extra crispy fries, try soaking the cut sweet potatoes in water for 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch. Be sure to pat them dry before tossing in the oil and seasoning.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the fries for a spicy kick.

• Vegan Option: Make the aioli vegan by using a plant-based mayonnaise and omitting the Dijon mustard.

Why This Dish Works

These Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fries, offering a sweet, savory flavor while being lighter thanks to the baking method. The garlic aioli adds a creamy, flavorful dip that complements the fries perfectly, making this dish both satisfying and delicious.

Conclusion

Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli are a crispy, healthy, and flavorful snack or side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the rich flavor of sweet potatoes and the creamy garlic aioli, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.