Roasted Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

Crispy edges, fluffy interiors, and caramelized sweetness – these roasted sweet potatoes in air fryer deliver restaurant-quality results without heating up your entire kitchen. Did you know that sweet potatoes are packed with more beta-carotene than carrots?

This simple recipe transforms ordinary sweet potatoes into an extraordinary side dish that’s ready in just 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy, delicious, and foolproof.

Unlike our popular honey garlic roasted carrots that take 45 minutes in the oven, these sweet potatoes cook faster and more evenly in the air fryer. Get ready to fall in love with this game-changing cooking method!

What is Roasted Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer?

Ever wondered why we call it “roasted” when we’re using an air fryer? Well, the magic of circulating hot air creates that same golden, caramelized exterior you’d get from traditional oven roasting – but in half the time!

These little orange powerhouses get beautifully crispy on the outside while staying perfectly tender inside. As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these sweet potatoes definitely know the shortcut! Ready to discover why air fryer sweet potatoes are about to become your new obsession?

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer:

Perfect Texture Every Time

The air fryer’s powerful circulation creates the most incredible contrast – crispy, caramelized edges that give way to fluffy, tender centers. No more soggy or unevenly cooked sweet potatoes! The concentrated heat transforms the natural sugars into a beautiful golden crust that’s absolutely irresistible.

Budget-Friendly Family Favorite

Making roasted sweet potatoes in air fryer costs a fraction of what you’d pay for similar sides at restaurants. Sweet potatoes are incredibly affordable year-round, and this method uses less energy than heating your entire oven. Feed your whole family a nutritious, delicious side dish without breaking the bank.

Endless Flavor Possibilities

From simple salt and pepper to exciting spice blends, these sweet potatoes are a blank canvas for your creativity. Try cinnamon and brown sugar for a dessert-like treat, or go savory with rosemary and garlic.

Unlike our popular air fryer Brussels sprouts that have a distinct flavor profile, sweet potatoes pair beautifully with both sweet and savory seasonings. Ready to create your own signature version at home?

How to Make Roasted Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer:

Quick Overview

This foolproof recipe delivers perfectly roasted sweet potatoes with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The air fryer’s intense heat circulation creates crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors that rival any restaurant.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4 people

Key Ingredients for Roasted Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer:

2 pounds medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme)

Pro tip: Choose sweet potatoes that are similar in size for even cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prep Your Sweet Potatoes

Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them completely dry with paper towels. Cut into uniform 1-inch cubes, leaving the skin on for extra nutrition and texture. The key is keeping pieces similar in size so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Season Generously

Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until every piece is well-coated. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix thoroughly with your hands or a large spoon until the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes. This ensures the sweet potatoes start cooking immediately when you add them, creating that perfect crispy exterior.

Step 4: Arrange in Air Fryer Basket

Place the seasoned sweet potato cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd – work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting, which prevents that coveted crispy texture.

Step 5: Cook and Shake

Cook for 12 minutes, then carefully shake the basket or flip the pieces with tongs. This ensures even browning on all sides. Continue cooking for another 8-13 minutes until the edges are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

Pierce the largest piece with a fork – it should go through easily. The exterior should be golden brown and slightly crispy, while the interior remains fluffy and tender. If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Remove from the air fryer and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. These roasted sweet potatoes in air fryer are best enjoyed immediately while the exteriors are still crispy.

What to Serve Roasted Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer With:

These versatile sweet potatoes complement a wide variety of main dishes. Pair them with grilled chicken, pork tenderloin, or beef roast for a complete meal. They also work beautifully alongside other roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots.

For lighter options, serve them over mixed greens with a balsamic vinaigrette, or add them to grain bowls with quinoa and roasted chickpeas. The natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with tangy goat cheese or creamy avocado.

Don’t forget beverages! These sweet potatoes are delicious with everything from crisp white wines to warming spiced ciders.

Top Tips for Perfecting Roasted Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer:

Choose the Right Size

Select medium-sized sweet potatoes for the most even cooking. Very large ones may be tough on the outside before the center is done, while tiny ones might overcook quickly.

Don’t Skip the Oil

Even though it’s an air fryer, that light coating of oil is crucial for achieving crispy, golden exteriors. Without it, the sweet potatoes will cook but won’t develop that beautiful caramelized crust.

Avoid Overcrowding

Cook in batches if needed to ensure proper air circulation. Overcrowded baskets lead to steaming rather than roasting, resulting in soggy sweet potatoes instead of crispy ones.

Shake Halfway Through

This simple step ensures even browning on all sides. Set a timer so you don’t forget – it makes a huge difference in the final texture.

Check Your Air Fryer Model

Cooking times may vary slightly between different air fryer models. Start checking for doneness at the 18-minute mark and adjust accordingly.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Store leftover roasted sweet potatoes in air fryer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They’ll lose some crispiness but remain delicious for meal prep or quick sides.

For best results when reheating, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore some crispiness. You can also reheat in a regular oven at 400°F for 5-7 minutes.

These sweet potatoes freeze well for up to 3 months. Freeze them in single layers on baking sheets first, then transfer to freezer bags. Reheat frozen sweet potatoes directly in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

For meal prep, these work wonderfully in grain bowls, salads, or as quick side dishes throughout the week. Just remember they’re best when eaten fresh and hot!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to peel sweet potatoes before air frying?

No! The skin adds nutrition, fiber, and helps hold the shape during cooking. Just scrub them well and leave the skin on for the best texture and flavor.

Can I make roasted sweet potatoes in air fryer without oil?

While you can skip the oil, it won’t give you the same crispy, caramelized exterior. The oil helps with browning and prevents sticking. If avoiding oil, use cooking spray for similar results.

How do I know when sweet potatoes are done?

They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a fork easily piercing through the largest piece. The interior should be fluffy and tender.

Can I cook whole sweet potatoes in the air fryer?

Yes, but pierce them all over with a fork first and increase cooking time to 35-45 minutes depending on size. Cubed sweet potatoes cook more evenly and quickly.

What’s the best temperature for air fryer sweet potatoes?

400°F (200°C) is ideal for achieving crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors. Lower temperatures won’t give you the same caramelization.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/4 recipe)
Calories	180
Total Fat	7g
Saturated Fat	1g
Sodium	590mg
Total Carbohydrates	28g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Total Sugars	6g
Protein	2g
Vitamin A	184% DV
Vitamin C	37% DV
Potassium	448mg