Description
Craving a simple, delicious side dish that’s perfect for any meal? Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes deliver a crispy exterior and silky, creamy interior in less time than a traditional oven, with no preheating required
Ingredients
Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes use minimal ingredients for a flavorful, healthy dish. Here’s what you’ll need for 2 servings:
- Two 8-ounce sweet potatoes, scrubbed: The star, providing a sweet, creamy base.
- 2 teaspoons olive oil: Promotes crispy skin.
- Kosher salt: ½ teaspoon, enhances flavor.
- Freshly ground black pepper: A few grinds, adds subtle spice.
- Unsalted butter, for serving: Adds richness (about 1-2 teaspoons per potato).
- Chopped fresh chives, for serving: Adds fresh, oniony flavor (about 1-2 teaspoons per potato).
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and creamy, they crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
- Olive Oil: Ensures a golden, crispy exterior.
- Salt and Pepper: Enhance the natural flavors.
- Butter and Chives: Provide a classic, rich, and fresh topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Sweet Potatoes: Use yams or purple sweet potatoes; adjust cooking time if sizes vary (6-10 ounces).
- Olive Oil: Swap with avocado oil, melted butter, or coconut oil.
- Butter: Replace with plant-based butter or omit for vegan.
- Chives: Substitute with green onions, parsley, or omit.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter or top with vegan sour cream or avocado.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; no substitutions needed.
- Flavor Variations:
- Sweet Maple Sweet Potatoes: Drizzle with 1 teaspoon maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon after cooking.
- Savory Garlic Sweet Potatoes: Rub with ½ teaspoon garlic powder before air frying.
- Spicy Sweet Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder with the salt and pepper.
- Loaded Sweet Potatoes: Top with sour cream, bacon bits, or shredded cheese.
- Marshmallow Sweet Potatoes: Top with mini marshmallows and broil briefly after air frying.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: two 8-ounce sweet potatoes, 2 teaspoons olive oil, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, black pepper, butter, and chives.
- Ensure you have a 6-quart air fryer.
- Scrub sweet potatoes under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Tip: Choose similar-sized potatoes for even cooking; prick with a fork if you prefer softer skin.
Step 2: Season
- In a medium bowl, toss the sweet potatoes with 2 teaspoons olive oil, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and a few grinds of black pepper until evenly coated.
Tip: Rub oil and seasonings thoroughly to ensure crispy, flavorful skin.
Step 3: Air Fry
- Place the potatoes in the basket of a 6-quart air fryer, ensuring they don’t touch for even air circulation.
- Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the interior is tender (a fork or knife should pierce easily).
Tip: Check at 35 minutes; smaller potatoes may cook faster, larger ones may need up to 45 minutes.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Carefully remove the potatoes (they’ll be hot) and cut lengthwise along the top to open, being cautious of steam.
- Fluff the interior with a fork and season with a pinch of salt.
- Top each with a pat of butter (1-2 teaspoons) and a sprinkle of chopped chives (1-2 teaspoons).
- Serve hot, about 1 potato per serving.
Tip: Let potatoes cool slightly before cutting to avoid steam burns; customize toppings to taste.