The Ultimate Loaded Sweet Potato Fries
Forget soggy oven-fries. This recipe delivers extra-crispy sweet potato fries thanks to a secret ingredient (cornstarch!), piled high with all the classic fixings: melted sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, cool sour cream, and fresh green onions. It's the definitive version of the snack you know and love.
Ingredients
- 2 Large sweet potatoes, scrubbed and dried
- 2 tsp Cornstarch
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 6 slices Thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Sour cream
- 2 Green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 Jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
Steps
- 1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
Slice the sweet potatoes into uniform 1/4-inch thick fries.
- 3
In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the potato fries and toss until they are thoroughly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- 4
Drizzle the olive oil over the seasoned fries and toss again until every fry is lightly coated.
- 5
Spread the fries onto the prepared baking sheet in a single, even layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- 6
Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and carefully flip the fries over.
- 7
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
- 8
Mound the hot fries in the center of the baking sheet and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- 9
Transfer the fries to a serving platter. Garnish with crumbled bacon, dollops of sour cream, sliced green onions, and optional jalapeño slices. Serve immediately.
Pro tips
- A coating of cornstarch is the key to achieving a crispy exterior on your baked fries; it absorbs moisture and creates a crunchy crust.
- For maximum crispiness, ensure the fries are not touching on the baking sheet. Use two sheets if necessary to prevent them from steaming.
- Bloom your spices by tossing them with the dry fries before adding any oil. This helps the flavors adhere better.
- Forgooey, browned cheese, switch the oven to the broiler setting for the final minute of cooking, but watch closely to prevent it from burning.