Crispy Sweet Potato Fries with Mouth-watering Garlic Mayo
Attention all food lovers! I bring you one of the most tempting and flavorful recipes that will leave your taste buds tingling with joy. If you’re in need of a snack or an appetizer to impress your guests, then look no further. Our sweet potato fries with basil salt & garlic mayonnaise recipe is a perfect choice for any occasion or craving.
Sweet potatoes are not just your regular spuds; they provide excellent health benefits and are packed with vitamins and minerals. Not to mention, we’ll be making them into quite possibly the most delicious fries you’ve ever tasted.
With a crispy exterior and a tender interior, these fries are the perfect combination of savory and sweet. As if that wasn’t already enough, we’ll be elevating them to a whole new level by seasoning them with homemade basil salt and serving them with a garlicky mayonnaise dipping sauce.
In this article, we will provide you with an easy-to-follow recipe with detailed instructions, helpful tips, and variations to suit your preference. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, our recipe guarantees success.
Get ready for an enjoyable culinary experience – let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Looking to add a nutritious and delicious side dish to your meals? Look no further than these mouthwatering sweet potato fries with basil salt and garlic mayonnaise. This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters, as it offers a combination of savory flavors and crisp texture that is hard to resist.
One of the reasons you’ll love this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a standalone appetizer or pair it with your favorite protein for a filling, nutritious meal. What’s more, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences by adjusting the level of salt, garlic, or basil salt used.
Another great feature of this recipe is its nutritional value. Sweet potatoes are a rich source of vitamin A, fiber, and other essential nutrients that our bodies need to stay healthy. By swapping regular potatoes with sweet potatoes in this recipe, you’re adding a nutritious twist without sacrificing flavor.
Finally, this recipe is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, there are plenty of substitution and variation options provided in this article so that you can adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs or preferences.
So whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or an impressive appetizer for your next dinner party, these sweet potato fries with basil salt and garlic mayonnaise are sure to be a hit!
Ingredient List

Here is a list of ingredients you will need to make these delicious Sweet Potato Fries with Basil Salt and Garlic Mayonnaise:
For Sweet Potato Fries:
- 5 Sweet potatoes, cut into 1.5-inch fries
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Fresh ground black pepper
For Basil salt:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
For Garlic Mayonnaise:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 Garlic clove, minced or pressed
- 2 teaspoons Lemon juice
Note that the number of servings for this recipe is six. You can adjust the measurements accordingly if you are making this recipe for fewer or more people.
Make sure to get fresh sweet potatoes and garlic cloves and check the expiration date on your mayonnaise. Additionally, choose extra virgin olive oil to give your sweet potato fries some extra flavor.
The Recipe How-To

Now that we’ve covered the introduction and the reasons why this sweet potato fries recipe is one to be loved, let’s get into the details of how to cook them into crispy perfection. Trust me, you’ll want to take your time with these bad boys.
Ingredient Prep
First, preheat your oven to 425°F. Cut 5 sweet potatoes into 1/5 inch fries and put them into a bowl of cold water. Let them soak for at least an hour. This process removes some of the starch, resulting in a crunchier exterior that can get crispy without burning.
After an hour, drain the sweet potato fries and blot dry with paper towels or a lint-free kitchen towel until they are as dry as possible. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl, add 3 tablespoons olive oil, and toss to evenly coat them.
Next, make the basil salt by combining 1 tablespoon kosher salt, 2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper, and chopped fresh basil leaves (about 2 tablespoons) in another small bowl.
For garlic mayonnaise ingredients, In another small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, finely minced garlic (1 grated garlic clove), a dash of lemon juice and salt, until well combined.
The Cooking Process
Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat, then spread out the sweet potato fries in a single layer. You may need to use two sheets so they don’t overlap because crowdedly fries won’t get crispy. They’ll end up steaming each other instead of getting browned and crisp.
Sprinkle the basil salt generously over the sweet potato fries while they’re still hot from the oven, gently stirring them with tongs in order to combine all their flavors pleasantly.
In another small bowl, combine mayo onion mixture and lemon juice for Garlic Mayonnaise Dip when sweet potato fries are cooking in oven.
Bake the sweet potato fries for 20-25 minutes, periodically stirring up so they cook evenly without sticking together — or until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
Serving Time
Once done remove Sweet Potato Fries from oven and sprinkle some additional basil salt over it right away for an extra burst of flavor. Serve along with garlic mayonnaise dip on side rubbed with giada de laurentiis aioli recipe for dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Now that you’ve nailed down this basic recipe, feel free to use it as a guidepost for experimenting with other seasonings like harissa or garlic parmesan on top of these baked sweet potatoes cut into shoe-string style for one heck of an appetizer or dinner!
Substitutions and Variations

Are you looking to put a spin on the classic sweet potato fries recipe? There are plenty of ways to switch it up and make the dish your own. Here are some substitutions and variations to consider for this recipe:
1. Seasonings: You can use a variety of seasonings besides basil salt to sprinkle over your sweet potato fries. For example, try garlic parmesan, harissa, or a spicy chili powder blend.
2. Dipping sauce: While garlic mayonnaise is a tasty choice, other dipping sauces can be paired with sweet potato fries as well. Consider trying aioli with roasted red pepper, sriracha mayo, or even plain old ketchup.
3. Cut of sweet potatoes: Instead of cutting your sweet potatoes into fries, try using a spiralizer to create curly fries or wedges for a heartier bite.
4. Baked or air-fried: While this recipe calls for baked sweet potato fries, you could also experiment with an air fryer to give them extra crispiness.
5. Seasonal variations: Depending on the time of year, you might have access to different fruits and vegetables that you could incorporate into this recipe. For example, in the fall you might try pairing your sweet potato fries with an apple cider dipping sauce.
Whatever substitutions or variations you choose, be sure to enjoy the process of creating a personalized version of this crispy and flavorful appetizer.
Serving and Pairing

One of the best aspects of these Sweet Potato Fries with Basil Salt & Garlic Mayonnaise is how versatile they are in terms of serving and pairing. This dish can make for a great appetizer, side dish or even a hearty snack.
First off, let’s talk about pairing. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with a wide variety of savory dishes. These fries taste great served alongside grilled meats, such as juicy beef burgers or succulent BBQ chicken. You could also try pairing them with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a healthy twist.
As an appetizer, these fries will be the star of any party. Serve them on a platter with an array of dipping sauces such as ketchup, aioli or spicy harissa for your guests to choose from. The garlic mayonnaise dipping sauce that accompanies this recipe is a perfect match for these crispy and flavorsome fries.
Another fun way to serve this dish is to use them as a base for loaded fries. Top your sweet potato fries with reinvented toppings such as crispy bacon bits, feta cheese crumbles or sautéed mushrooms to create a more indulgent experience.
If you’re looking for something new to try in terms of presentation, cut the sweet potatoes into thinner strips and stack them like Jenga blocks in small cups or shooters. You could even top them off with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle some fresh chives on top for added flavor and visual appeal.
Overall, the possibilities are endless when it comes to serving and pairing these Sweet Potato Fries with Basil Salt & Garlic Mayonnaise recipe. Get creative and experiment with different flavors – you won’t be disappointed!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

Ah, sweet potato fries with basil salt and garlic mayonnaise is a dish that we can’t get enough of! And fortunately for us, it’s also incredibly versatile when it comes to make-ahead times, storing and reheating.
Making these fries ahead of time is a cinch. Simply prepare the sweet potato fries according to the recipe instructions, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. You can even freeze these fries in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months – just be sure to reheat them properly.
To reheat pre-cooked fries that have been stored in the fridge, simply pop them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes or until they’re crispy and heated through.
As for leftovers, it’s best not to refrigerate already-made mayo as they might turn into a funky consistency simply leave it out on the counter covered with cling film. Mix well before using.
Storing mayo and fries together isn’t recommended either as this will only result in soggy fries.
We certainly don’t blame you if you want more of this dish in your life! And now that you know how easy it is to make ahead, store and reheat these sweet potato fries with basil salt and garlic mayonnaise – all you have to do is whip up another batch whenever you’re craving them.
Tips for Perfect Results

There are some crucial tricks you will want to keep in mind when making the perfect sweet potato fries with basil salt & garlic mayonnaise. Here are my top tips to ensure a crispy, well-seasoned fry that pairs perfectly with the savory garlic mayo.
Firstly, it is important to ensure that your oven is preheated to at least 425 degrees Fahrenheit. The high temperature will help your fries cook more quickly, which is essential for getting that crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and tender inside.
Next, when you’re cutting your sweet potatoes, make sure that the pieces are all uniform in size. This will help them cook evenly and prevent some from being undercooked while others are overdone. Also, do not overcrowd the baking sheet when you’re ready to bake. If they’re too close together, they won’t crisp up as nicely as they should.
Another important tip is to soak your sweet potato fries in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will remove any excess starch from the potatoes and help them get crispy when baked or fried. After soaking, make sure to thoroughly dry them by patting them with a paper towel.
When seasoning your fries, be liberal with both the basil salt and garlic mayonnaise. The flavor of these two components is what really takes this dish to another level.
Lastly, if you want to take your sweet potato fries with basil salt & garlic mayonnaise to the next level, try air-frying them instead of baking them in the oven. This will give you an even crisper fry without all of the added oil from traditional frying.
Follow these tips and tricks for the perfect sweet potato fries with basil salt & garlic mayonnaise every time. Your taste buds (and guests) will thank you!
FAQ
As with any recipe, there may be some questions or concerns that pop up while making sweet potato fries with basil salt and garlic mayonnaise. Fear not, for we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and addressed them thoroughly. Read on to ensure you have all the information you need for perfecting this delectable dish.
Why won’t my sweet potato fries get crispy?
If you want crispy sweet potato fries instead of soggy ones, you need to make sure they are spread out in an even layer with enough space between them so that they don’t touch. It’s particularly important when you’re preparing a large batch of fries, as you should avoid piling them on top of each other on just one baking pan. Instead, opt for spreading them out evenly over two pans, or cook them in separate batches. This will ensure that they come out crispy and delicious every time.
Should sweet potatoes be soaked before frying?
If you’re looking to achieve crispy sweet potato slices, consider soaking them before frying. While it’s not required, soaking the slices in cold water can actually help to release some of the starch, making them more readily available to crisp up. This little trick can make a big difference in the texture of your sweet potato fries.
How do I make sweet potato fries that aren’t soggy?
If you want to make delicious homemade fries, there are some important steps to follow. Firstly, you should ensure that your fries are cut into thin slices. Secondly, before adding oil, it is best to toss the sliced fries in cornstarch. This will help to give your fries a crispy texture. Thirdly, divide your fries into two pans and arrange them in even layers, to allow them to cook evenly. Finally, bake your fries at a temperature of 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that your fries are cooked thoroughly and are crispy on the outside.
Why do you soak sweet potatoes before baking?
Before starting to make your potato wedges, it’s recommended to soak them in cold water. This process helps to eliminate excess starch that causes the wedges to turn into a dense and soggy mess while cooking. By reducing the starch content, you increase the likelihood of getting soft, airy wedges. Remember to soak them for at least one hour to achieve the best results.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Sweet Potato Fries with Basil Salt & Garlic Mayonnaise recipe is a must-try for all cuisine enthusiasts. The combination of the crispy, baked sweet potato fries and the flavorful basil salt & garlic mayo dipping sauce make this dish an irresistible appetizer or side dish to any meal. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple directions, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress their guests with their culinary skills.
I highly recommend trying out different variations of this recipe by swapping out the sweet potatoes for regular potatoes or even experimenting with different herbs in the mayo dipping sauce. The possibilities are endless!
So, next time you’re in the mood for a new and exciting dish, give this Sweet Potato Fries with Basil Salt & Garlic Mayonnaise recipe a try. Trust me, your taste buds won’t regret it!

Sweet Potato Fries With Basil Salt & Garlic Mayonnaise Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 sweet potatoes, cut into about 1 by 5-inch fries
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- Place the sweet potato "fries" on a foil-lined baking sheet and toss with the olive oil. Bake until golden, about 45 minutes.
- Meanwhile combine the basil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. In another small bowl combine the mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice, and stir to combine.
- When the sweet potato fries come out of the oven, sprinkle with the basil salt. Serve with the garlic mayonnaise alongside for dipping.
Your own notes
Nutrition
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Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.