How to Make the Perfect Sweet Potato in the Air Fryer 

If you’ve never made a sweet potato in the air fryer, you’re missing out on one of the easiest, most delicious ways to turn this humble root vegetable into a versatile dish. With its naturally sweet flavor, crispy skin, and tender, fluffy interior, an air-fried sweet potato is not just healthy but also incredibly satisfying.

Plus, it’s quick and fuss-free to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Looking to add that perfect side dish to your meal? We’ve got you covered with our list of super simple and delicious sides for you to try.

The perfect sweet potato made in the air fryer


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How to Cook a Sweet Potato in the Air Fryer 

Here’s how to make a single sweet potato in the air fryer step by step:

Ingredients:

The perfect sweet potato made in the air fryer

Directions:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). 
  2. Using a fork, pierce the sweet potato several times to allow steam to escape while cooking. 
  3. Lightly rub the sweet potato with olive oil, then season it with paprika, dried basil, salt, and pepper for a flavorful, crispy skin. 
  4. Place the sweet potato in the air fryer basket and cook for 30-40 minutes. Flip the sweet potato halfway through to ensure even cooking. 
  5. Once tender (you can poke it with a knife or fork to test), carefully remove the sweet potato from the air fryer and allow it to cool for a few minutes. 

That’s it! You have a perfectly cooked sweet potato that’s crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.

Easy Air Fryer Recipes:

Storing a Cooked Sweet Potato 

Cooked sweet potatoes are not only easy to make but also store very well. If you’ve got leftovers (or plan to batch-cook), here’s how to properly store them:

  • Refrigerator: Once the sweet potato is completely cool, store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. A cooked sweet potato will stay good in the fridge for up to 5 days
  • Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze cooked sweet potatoes. Wrap them tightly or store them in freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, they can last in the freezer for up to 10-12 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the sweet potato in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the air fryer or oven for the best texture. 

How Long Can a Cooked Sweet Potato Sit at Room Temperature? 

If you’re not planning to eat your cooked sweet potato right away, avoid leaving it at room temperature for longer than 2 hours, as this may lead to spoilage. Always refrigerate or freeze it promptly to keep it fresh and safe to eat.

The perfect sweet potato made in the air fryer

Fun Variations to Elevate Your Sweet Potato 

The beauty of an air-fried sweet potato is its versatility. Here are some mouthwatering ways to take your sweet potato to the next level:

  • For a Sweet Treat: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The combination of creamy and sweet is irresistible. 
  • Tex-Mex Style: Top with black beans, salsa, shredded cheese, and avocado for a protein-packed, spicy twist. 
  • Mediterranean Flare: Drizzle with tahini, toss on some fresh arugula, and finish with a squeeze of lemon for a savory dish. 
  • Stuffed and Satisfying: Fill it with sautéed spinach, onions, mushrooms, and feta for a hearty vegetarian meal. 
  • Breakfast Hash Base: Add scrambled eggs, cooked bacon, bell peppers, and onions for a breakfast-inspired creation. 
  • Sweet Potato Fries: After cooking, slice the sweet potato into wedges, toss with your favorite spices, and air fry for an additional 5-10 minutes. 

With these variations, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or spicy, there’s a way to customize your air-fried sweet potato to keep it exciting.

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Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air-Fried Sweet Potatoes 

To ensure your sweet potato turns out picture-perfect every time, here are a few handy tips:

  • Choose the Right Size: Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes for quicker and more even cooking. Larger ones may require more time, while smaller ones could cook too quickly. 
  • Even Coating: Ensure the olive oil and seasoning are evenly rubbed onto the skin for the perfect crispy texture. 
  • Pierce Wisely: Those fork pokes aren’t just for show! They allow steam to escape during cooking, which prevents the sweet potato from bursting in your air fryer. 
  • Flip Halfway: To guarantee even cooking and crisping, flip the sweet potato halfway through the cook time. 
  • Test for Doneness: To check if your sweet potato is ready, poke it with a knife or fork. If it easily slides through, your potato is perfectly tender.
The perfect sweet potato made in the air fryer

Sweet Potato Simplicity 

There you have it—a foolproof recipe for making a sweet potato in the air fryer, complete with storage tips, creative variations, and pro tips to get it just right. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a side dish, or even a main meal, this recipe has you covered.

If you give this air fryer sweet potato recipe a try, be sure to experiment with the variations and see which one becomes your favorite. And remember—sweet potatoes might be simple, but when done right, they’re simply amazing. Enjoy!

The perfect sweet potato made in the air fryer

Sweet Potato in the Air Fryer

Yield: 1 potato
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Discover the secrets to making the perfect sweet potato in the air fryer with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Get an easy recipe and tips from real food experts here!

Ingredients

  • 1 sweet potato
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dry basil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). 
  2. Using a fork, pierce the sweet potato several times to allow steam to escape while cooking. 
  3. Lightly rub the sweet potato with olive oil, then season it with paprika, dried basil, salt, and pepper for a flavorful, crispy skin. 
  4. Place the sweet potato in the air fryer basket and cook for 30-40 minutes. Flip the sweet potato halfway through to ensure even cooking. 
  5. Once tender (you can poke it with a knife or fork to test), carefully remove the sweet potato from the air fryer and allow it to cool for a few minutes
Nutrition Information
Yield 1 Serving Size 1
Amount Per Serving Calories 225Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 0mgSodium 1205mgCarbohydrates 24gFiber 4gSugar 8gProtein 2g

I am not a nutritionist. All nutrition values have been automatically generated. If you have questions, please have a professional look at the ingredients and help you with new values.

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