Perfect Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 45 minutes | Cost estimate: $2–5 | Serves: 2

Okay, mamas, let’s be real: dinnertime can be a battlefield. Between picky eaters and never-ending to-do lists, sometimes just getting something – *anything* – on the table feels like a win. That’s where these air fryer sweet potatoes come in! They’re ridiculously easy, super healthy, and even my kiddo (who thinks most veggies are the enemy) will happily gobble them up. Plus, no preheating the oven? Yes, please! I remember my own mom making sweet potatoes when I was little, and the smell alone brings back the best memories. These are a total lifesaver, especially on those nights when you need a side dish that practically cooks itself. So, let’s get that air fryer humming!

Why You’ll Love These

These air fryer sweet potatoes are about to become your new favorite side dish! Here’s why:

• Super Easy – Literally just poke, air fry, and eat! The steps can’t be simpler.
• Quick Cooking Time – Forget waiting forever for the oven to preheat. The air fryer is much faster, getting dinner on the table sooner.
• Healthy & Delicious – Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and fiber, and they taste amazing with just a little salt and pepper.
• Crispy Skin, Fluffy Inside – The air fryer creates the perfect texture contrast – a lightly crisp skin with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior.
• Versatile – Dress them up with your favorite toppings, from savory to sweet, to make it a totally new meal every time.

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, about the same size
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or more to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (optional, for serving)

How to Make

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Thoroughly wash the sweet potatoes. There’s no need to peel them! Using a fork, poke holes all over each sweet potato. This is important so steam can escape while they cook, preventing explosions (yes, seriously!).
2. Air Fry the Sweet Potatoes: Place the sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket, or they won’t cook evenly.
3. Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 40 to 55 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are puffed up and easily pierced with a fork.
   

   Note: The exact cooking time will vary depending on the size and shape of your sweet potatoes, as well as your specific air fryer. Start checking for doneness around 40 minutes.

   
   
4. Season and Serve: Carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the air fryer. Slice them open lengthwise and gently fluff the insides with a fork. Top with salt, pepper, and butter or olive oil, if desired. Get creative with your toppings!

Tips & Tricks

Here are a few little secrets to ensure your air fryer sweet potatoes are the absolute best:

• Don’t use foil! Wrapping them in foil will steam the sweet potatoes instead of allowing the skins to get nice and crispy.
• Preheating (maybe) Some air fryers need preheating. Check your manual! If needed, preheat to 400F for 3-5 minutes.
• Extra Flavor Boost: A little sprinkle of garlic powder, chili powder, or smoked paprika can take these to the next level!
• Storage: Cooked sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or air fryer.
• Reheating Hack: To re-crisp the skin, pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

Dietary Variations

Want to adapt this recipe to fit your dietary needs? Here are a few ideas: