Crispy Sweet Potato Cubes

These Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes offer a perfect blend of crispiness and tenderness with sweet and savory flavors that brighten any meal or snack time. They come together quickly and require minimal effort, making them a goto side dish for busy days or a nutritious addition to your meal prep routine. The goldenbrown edges make every bite satisfying, while the soft interior keeps you coming back for more.

I first made these during a weekend when I wanted something quick and wholesome and now they have become a regular on my table. My family loves them for their natural sweetness combined with a touch of smoky paprika.

Ingredients

• Two large sweet potatoes: peeled and cut into cubes for natural sweetness and a tender texture
• One tablespoon olive oil: to help crisp the cubes and bring out flavor avocado oil works well too for a milder taste
• Half a teaspoon salt: to enhance the overall flavor of the sweet potatoes
• Half a teaspoon black pepper: for a little subtle heat
• Half a teaspoon garlic powder: to add a savory note that complements the sweetness
• Half a teaspoon smoked paprika: for depth and a smoky undertone Spanish smoked paprika is a great choice if you can find it
• Half a teaspoon cinnamon: for those who want a sweet, warm twist a little goes a long way here
• Optional garnishes: such as fresh parsley for brightness, honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness, and Parmesan cheese for a savory finish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into halfinch cubes. This size helps them cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior while remaining soft inside.

Step 2: Season the Sweet Potatoes:

In a mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cinnamon if using. Mix thoroughly so every cube is evenly coated with the seasoning and oil which helps with caramelization and flavor absorption.

Step 3: Air Fry the Sweet Potatoes:

Place the seasoned sweet potato cubes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd so air circulates well for even crisping. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to turn the cubes for goldenbrown edges on all sides.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy:

Transfer the crispy cubes to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley, drizzle with honey or maple syrup, or sprinkle Parmesan cheese according to your preference. Serve hot alongside your favorite main dish or enjoy as a wholesome snack.

My favorite part about this recipe is the smoked paprika which adds a deep smoky flavor that transforms simple sweet potatoes into something special. I vividly recall a dinner where my family declared these cubes the star of the meal because they were so addictive and comforting.

Storage tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat and regain crispiness, pop them back into the air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for three to five minutes. Avoid freezing because sweet potatoes tend to become mushy and lose texture when thawed.

Ingredient substitutions

If you do not have smoked paprika, try a little chili powder or cumin for a different smoky or earthy vibe. For oil, avocado oil and even light vegetable oils work fine, though olive oil adds extra flavor. You can swap fresh parsley garnish for cilantro or basil depending on what you have on hand.

Serving suggestions

These sweet potato cubes are fantastic with breakfast dishes like eggs and avocado. For dinner, they pair well with grilled chicken or steak. Adding them to salads or grain bowls not only brings texture but also a sweet pop of color. For snacks, try dipping in ranch, chipotle mayo, or honey mustard for different flavor profiles.

Enjoy every crispy, caramelized bite of these Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes and watch how this simple dish becomes a family favorite in no time.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I prepare sweet potato cubes without oil?

Yes, omitting oil results in less crispiness but retains great flavor. Light cooking spray helps enhance crunch.

→ Is it possible to use frozen sweet potatoes?

Frozen cubes work well but require an additional 3-5 minutes of air frying, with occasional shaking for even cooking.

→ What seasonings pair well with sweet potato cubes?

Try cumin, chili powder, Italian herbs, or a touch of brown sugar to vary the flavor profile.

→ How can I ensure even cooking of the cubes?

Cut sweet potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes and shake the air fryer basket halfway through for consistent browning.

→ What are some serving suggestions for these cubes?

They’re delicious alongside eggs and avocado, as a snack with dipping sauces, or atop salads and grain bowls for added texture.