Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes with Garlic Herb Seasoning
Crispy air-fried sweet potato cubes seasoned with garlic and herbs deliver a healthy, flavorful snack or side dish in minutes. Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight meals.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs or 700g)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (or thyme)
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
Optional add-ins: A pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, grated Parmesan for extra richness, or a squeeze of lime juice after cooking for brightness.
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes (peeling is optional but recommended for a cleaner texture). Cut them into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Soak the cubes in cold water for 5–10 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispier results. Drain and pat them dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
2. Season the Cubes
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil until evenly coated. In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, rosemary, parsley, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the potatoes and toss until every cube is well coated.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures the sweet potatoes start cooking immediately, which is key to achieving that crispy exterior.
4. Air Fry in Batches
Arrange the sweet potato cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to promote even browning. The cubes are done when golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, spray the cubes lightly with oil halfway through cooking.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the sweet potato cubes from the air fryer and let them cool for 2–3 minutes. Serve warm as a side dish, snack, or even atop a salad. For a dipping sauce, pair with garlic aioli, chipotle mayo, or a simple yogurt dip.
Nutritional Benefits
Per serving (approx. 1 cup):
- Calories: ~120
- Total Fat: 4.5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Vitamin A: 200% DV
- Vitamin C: 30% DV
Flavor Variations to Try
- Spicy Cajun: Swap the herb seasoning for 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, a pinch of cayenne, and ½ tsp smoked paprika.
- Mediterranean: Use oregano, basil, and a sprinkle of feta cheese after cooking.
- BBQ Sweet: Toss the cooked cubes with 1 tbsp BBQ sauce and a dash of liquid smoke.
- Asian-Inspired: Replace the herbs with 1 tsp ginger powder, ½ tsp garlic powder, and a drizzle of sesame oil after cooking.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Freezer: Spread cooked cubes on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour before transferring to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes.
- Meal Prep: Pair with quinoa, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. The cubes also work well in grain bowls or wraps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw sweet potatoes in the air fryer?
No, sweet potatoes must be pre-cooked or par-cooked to achieve the right texture. Raw sweet potatoes are too dense and won’t cook evenly in the air fryer.
What’s the best oil to use?
Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, olive oil, or coconut oil. Avoid butter or oils with low smoke points.
How do I make these cubes extra crispy?
Ensure cubes are dry before seasoning, avoid overcrowding the air fryer, and shake the basket every 5 minutes during cooking. A light oil spray halfway through also helps.
What Our Readers Say
Rating: 4.8/5
Reviews: 124
“These sweet potato cubes are a game-changer! Crispy, flavorful, and so easy to make.” – Jamie L.