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

Scale

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.

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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.