Introduction
Sweet potato fries are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional potato fries. Their natural sweetness, combined with savory seasonings and a crispy texture, makes them a perfect snack or side dish. This recipe is simple, easy to follow, and results in perfectly baked sweet potato fries topped with savory Parmesan cheese.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 lbs sweet potatoes, washed and peeled (2 medium to large size sweet potatoes)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy these irresistible sweet potato fries as a delightful treat that everyone will love!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve crispy sweet potato fries.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a baking pan with parchment paper. This will prevent the fries from sticking and make for easier clean-up.
Step 3: Slice the Sweet Potatoes
Using a sharp non-serrated knife, carefully slice the washed and peeled sweet potatoes into thin wedges or 1/4-inch strips. Aim for uniformity in size for even cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Seasoning
In a large Ziploc bag, combine the sliced sweet potatoes and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Seal the bag tightly and shake it to coat the fries evenly with the oil.
Step 5: Add Spices
Add 2 teaspoons of garlic salt, 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the bag. Seal it again and shake until the fries are well-seasoned.
Step 6: Arrange on the Baking Pan
Spread the seasoned sweet potato fries onto the prepared baking pan in a single layer. Avoid overlapping to promote even cooking and crispiness.
Step 7: Bake the Fries
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Flip the fries halfway through the cooking time to allow both sides to brown and crisp. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.
Step 8: Add Cheese
After removing the fries from the oven, immediately sprinkle them with 1/2 cup of fresh grated Parmesan cheese while they are still hot, allowing the cheese to melt slightly.
Step 9: Serve
Garnish the fries as desired and serve them warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
Storage
For best results, serve the fries immediately. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or cheeses. Options like paprika, rosemary, or feta cheese can enhance the flavor profile.
Cooking Time
Ovens may vary, so adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve your desired level of crispness.
Cook techniques
Prepping Sweet Potatoes
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes before slicing them into thin wedges or 1/4-inch strips. This ensures they cook evenly and have a nice texture.
Coating in Olive Oil
Using a large Ziploc bag to combine the sliced sweet potatoes with olive oil allows for an even coating. Seal the bag tightly and shake to ensure all pieces are coated uniformly.
Seasoning Evenly
After adding garlic salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the Ziploc bag, seal it again and shake well to distribute the seasoning. This method ensures that every fry gets an even distribution of flavor.
Arranging for Baking
Spread the seasoned sweet potato fries onto a lined baking pan in a single layer. This prevents them from steaming and helps achieve a crispy texture.
Monitoring Baking Time
Bake the fries for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning and ensure both sides are crispy and golden.
Adding Parmesan
As soon as the fries come out of the oven, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over them. The heat will slightly melt the cheese, enhancing flavor and texture.
FAQ
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, other types of potatoes can be used, but the cooking time and texture might vary based on the variety.
How can I make these fries spicier?
You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add other spices like paprika or chili powder to enhance the spiciness.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Can I prep these sweet potato fries in advance?
Yes, you can slice and season the fries in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Conclusion
This delicious recipe for Parmesan Sweet Potato Fries is a perfect combination of crispy texture and savory flavors. The use of garlic salt and cayenne pepper adds a delightful kick, while the fresh grated Parmesan cheese provides a rich finishing touch. It’s an ideal side dish or snack that can elevate any meal, satisfying both taste buds and cravings.
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