If you’ve been searching for the ultimate snack or side that’s bursting with flavor and texture, look no further than this Crispy Cajun Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli Recipe. These fries are golden and crunchy on the outside, tender and sweet on the inside, and perfectly seasoned with a smoky, zesty Cajun blend that wakes up your taste buds. Paired with a bold and creamy spicy aioli, this dish is like a party in every bite—a wonderful twist on the classic sweet potato fry that will quickly become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here—just simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create that crave-worthy balance of crispiness and flavor. Each component plays its part, from the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes to the heat and aroma of the Cajun spices and the cooling yet spicy aioli dip.
- 2 large sweet potatoes: Choose firm, vibrant sweet potatoes for the best texture and natural sweetness.
- 2 tbsp avocado oil: This oil’s high smoke point ensures the fries become crispy without burning.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- 1/2 tsp pepper: Adds a subtle kick and balances sweetness perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Gives an aromatic depth without overpowering the fries.
- 1/2 tsp cayenne powder: Brings that signature Cajun heat and spice.
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme: A subtle herbal note to brighten the seasoning mix.
- 1/4 tsp paprika: Adds smokiness and a beautiful, warm color.
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise: The creamy base for the spicy aioli.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon: Adds a refreshing tang to the aioli.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Echoes the fries’ seasoning in the dip for harmony.
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (Texas Pete recommended): Delivers a satisfying heat boost and tang.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances flavors and seasons the aioli.
- 1/4 tsp pepper: Adds a mild sharpness to the dip.
How to Make Crispy Cajun Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Sweet Potatoes
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, the perfect temperature for getting those fries crispy without drying them out. Next, slice your sweet potatoes into thin, long fries—aim for uniform size so they cook evenly. Placing them on a baking sheet will get them ready for seasoning and roasting.
Step 2: Mix Your Cajun Seasoning
Combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, cayenne powder, dried thyme, and paprika in a small bowl. This homemade Cajun seasoning is the flavor powerhouse in your Crispy Cajun Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli Recipe, bringing a balanced heat and aromatic punch that elevates the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Step 3: Coat Potatoes with Oil
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over your cut sweet potatoes. Use your hands to toss and coat the fries thoroughly. This step is key to achieving that golden crispy exterior while locking in the sweet and tender inside.
Step 4: Add Cajun Spices to Potatoes
Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning you mixed earlier evenly over the oiled sweet potatoes. Then toss them again using your hands to make sure every fry is covered in that zesty, spicy mix. This ensures flavor in every single bite.
Step 5: Bake the Fries
Place the seasoned fries in a single layer and bake them for 40 minutes. Don’t forget to flip them at the 20-minute mark—that little turn helps both sides get that irresistible crust you want from a Crispy Cajun Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli Recipe.
Step 6: Broil for Extra Crispiness
If you love your fries super crispy, switch your oven to broil on high for 1 to 2 minutes once baking is done. Keep a watchful eye to avoid burning, but this quick broil step can create an incredible crunch that’s totally worth it.
Step 7: Whip Up the Spicy Aioli
Mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, hot sauce, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and tweak the seasoning or heat level if needed—this creamy, spicy aioli is the perfect dipping sauce to accompany your fries and tie all those Cajun flavors together.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Grab those freshly baked sweet potato fries while they’re hot, and dunk them generously into your spicy aioli. This Crispy Cajun Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli Recipe is all about bold flavors and textures, making it an addictive snack or side you’ll want to make again and again.
How to Serve Crispy Cajun Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your fries by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and a fresh, herbal contrast to the smokiness. A light dusting of flaky sea salt right after baking can also enhance the crunch and flavor experience.
Side Dishes
These fries are incredible on their own, but they also make a fantastic companion to grilled chicken, burgers, or a fresh garden salad. Their spicy, sweet crunch adds dimension whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or craving comfort food at home.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Crispy Cajun Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli Recipe in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper for a cozy vibe. Or get fancy by plating them alongside an avocado and black bean salsa or drizzling a bit of smoked paprika oil over the top to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover sweet potato fries, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days, although they’re best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze your cooked fries by first letting them cool completely and then spreading them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This helps keep them from sticking together. Frozen fries can last up to a month.
Reheating
To bring back that signature crisp, reheat your fries in a hot oven at 375 degrees for about 10 minutes or until they are warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the texture. Reheat the spicy aioli separately or fresh each time.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Regular russet potatoes will work great, but keep in mind that sweet potatoes naturally have more moisture and sweetness, which makes this recipe uniquely flavorful.
Is avocado oil necessary or can I use another oil?
You can substitute other oils with high smoke points like grapeseed or sunflower oil, but avocado oil does enhance the crispiness while adding a subtle flavor that complements the spices well.
How spicy is the aioli sauce?
The aioli has a nice kick thanks to the hot sauce and cayenne in the fries. You can always adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your spice tolerance for a milder or more fiery dip.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Swap the mayonnaise for a vegan mayo alternative, and you’ll have a completely plant-based Crispy Cajun Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli Recipe that’s just as delicious.
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
Peeling is optional. Keeping the skin on adds extra texture and nutrients, plus it crisps up beautifully. Just make sure to wash them well before slicing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about biting into these Crispy Cajun Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli Recipe—the mix of flavors and textures makes it an unbeatable snack or side. It’s simple enough to whip up any night of the week but special enough to impress friends and family. Give this recipe a try and discover just how addictive sweet potato fries can be when they’re seasoned and sauced just right!
Print
Crispy Cajun Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Crispy Cajun Sweet Potato Fries are a deliciously spiced, oven-baked snack perfect for satisfying your craving for something crunchy and flavorful. Tossed in a homemade blend of Cajun spices and avocado oil, these fries bake to a perfect crisp and are paired with a zesty, spicy aioli made from mayonnaise, lemon juice, and hot sauce. A simple, flavorful, and slightly spicy side or snack that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Fries
- 2 large sweet potatoes, sliced into thin long fries
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne powder
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Spicy Aioli
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (recommend Texas Pete or similar)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare sweet potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C). Slice the sweet potatoes into thin, long fries as shown in the reference photo. Arrange them evenly on a baking sheet.
- Make Cajun seasoning: In a small bowl, combine 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp cayenne powder, 1/4 tsp dried thyme, and 1/4 tsp paprika to create your Cajun spice blend.
- Coat fries with oil: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over the sweet potato fries. Using your hands, toss and massage them until each fry is fully coated with oil.
- Season fries: Slowly sprinkle the prepared Cajun seasoning over the fries. Toss with your hands again to ensure the seasoning evenly covers all pieces.
- Bake the fries: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 40 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through (around the 20-minute mark) to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Broil for extra crispiness: After baking, if you prefer your fries extra crispy, broil them on high for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Prepare the spicy aioli: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, juice of half a lemon, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Adjust seasoning or hot sauce quantity based on taste preference.
- Serve: Serve the hot, crispy Cajun sweet potato fries with the spicy aioli for dipping.
Notes
- Cut sweet potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- For a spicier aioli, add extra hot sauce to taste.
- If you don’t have avocado oil, use another high smoke point oil like canola or grapeseed oil.
- Be careful during broiling as fries can burn quickly.
- This recipe yields about 2 servings, perfect as a side or snack.
