Airfryer Spiced Sweet Potatoes

Name: Airfryer Spiced Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish

Highlighted under: Vibrant Wellness Recipes

I absolutely love making Airfryer Spiced Sweet Potatoes because they're not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The combination of spices creates a warm and inviting aroma that fills the kitchen, making it a delightful experience. It’s my go-to side dish for any meal, and the best part is that they cook quickly in the air fryer, making them perfect for busy weeknights. If you’re looking for a tasty way to enjoy sweet potatoes, this recipe is definitely a must-try!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:30:28.065Z

When I first tried Airfryer Spiced Sweet Potatoes, I was amazed at how crispy they came out without the excess oil. The air fryer circulates hot air, cooking them evenly and quickly, which keeps them tender on the inside while creating a perfect crunch on the outside. I experimented with different spices, and I found that a blend of cumin, paprika, and garlic powder elevates the natural sweetness beautifully.

One of my favorite tips is to cut the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces. This not only aids in even cooking but also enhances the presentation. Try pairing them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs after cooking for an extra burst of flavor. I promise, these will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You'll Love It
Bursting with flavor from aromatic spices
Crispy texture with tender insides
Quick and easy to prepare in an air fryer

Understanding Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are nutrient-dense and provide a slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory spices in this recipe. When choosing sweet potatoes, look for those that are firm, smooth, and without any blemishes. The subtle sweetness and earthy undertones pair beautifully with the spices, making them an ideal canvas for this dish. I prefer using medium-sized sweet potatoes for even cooking; larger ones may not crisp up properly in the air fryer.

Peeling the sweet potatoes is essential, as it allows the spices to adhere better to the flesh. However, if you're short on time or prefer more texture, you can leave the skins on. The skins contain nutrients and will add extra crispiness. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly if you choose not to peel.

Perfecting the Seasoning

The combination of cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder gives these sweet potatoes a unique, layered flavor. The smoky notes from the paprika enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while cumin adds an earthy warmth. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste; for instance, adding a pinch of cayenne can introduce a delightful kick. Make sure to coat the sweet potatoes evenly for optimal flavor, and don’t be shy with the seasoning or the olive oil—this will help achieve that perfect crispy exterior.

If you're looking for a unique twist, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg for warmth or even a touch of maple syrup before air frying for an added sweet note. Just be cautious with quantities, as too much sweetness can overpower the dish.

Serving and Storing

These spiced sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served as a side dish with proteins like grilled chicken or fish, or they can easily stand alone as a vegetarian main. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley right before serving to add a pop of color and freshness. Pair them with a yogurt dip or a squeeze of lime for an extra layer of flavor. They also make an excellent addition to salads or grain bowls, adding a satisfying, hearty element.

If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, spread them back in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to regain that delightful crispiness. Freezing is also an option; just be aware that the texture might change slightly after thawing, but they will still taste great.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your Airfryer Spiced Sweet Potatoes:

Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish

Make sure to use fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Airfryer Spiced Sweet Potatoes:

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Air Fry the Potatoes

Transfer the seasoned sweet potatoes to the air fryer basket, spreading them out in a single layer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Check for Doneness

After 15 minutes, check for doneness by piercing the sweet potatoes with a fork; they should be tender and slightly crispy on the edges.

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the sweet potatoes from the air fryer and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serve these delightful sweet potatoes as a side dish with your favorite protein!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice mix. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your sweet potato cubes and your air fryer model for the best results.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the sweet potatoes aren’t cooking evenly, it might be due to overcrowding the air fryer basket. To prevent this, cook them in batches to ensure proper air circulation. Overcrowding can lead to soggy pieces instead of the crispy texture we’re aiming for. Additionally, if they seem undercooked after the suggested cooking time, check the size of your cubes; larger pieces will require more time to become tender.

Another common issue is achieving the perfect crispiness. If they aren't crisping up as desired, toss them in a little more olive oil before the final shake, which can help them brown nicely. The air fryer needs to be adequately preheated, so don't skip that step for best results.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable! If you're cooking for a larger group, simply increase the quantities. For every additional sweet potato, increase the olive oil and spices accordingly to maintain balance in flavor. Just make sure you keep the cooking times and temperatures similar; you might need to adjust them slightly if you have a larger volume in the basket, but keep an eye on the doneness as you go.

For meal prep, consider making a big batch at the start of the week. You can easily reheat the spiced sweet potatoes as needed. Just ensure they’re stored in a single layer in your container to help maintain texture during refrigeration or freezing.

Healthy Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up this dish, you can substitute the olive oil with a light spray of cooking spray or use vegetable broth to toss the sweet potatoes instead. This will still allow the spices to stick while reducing the overall calorie count. Alternatively, if you're avoiding oil altogether, consider using an air fryer-specific cooking spray which typically has less fat content.

For those following a specific dietary program, swapping ground cumin with taco seasoning can provide a zesty twist that complements many dishes. Likewise, trying different types of paprika, such as sweet or hot, can lend different flavor profiles to the recipe, making it versatile for various tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unpeeled sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can leave the skins on if you prefer, just make sure to wash them thoroughly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.

→ Can I add other spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices like cinnamon for a sweet twist or onion powder for added depth.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan and gluten-free!