Introduction
As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, there’s a distinct chill in the air that calls for cozy, comforting meals. What better way to embrace the flavors of fall than with a delicious serving of Loaded Sweet Potato Fries? These crispy, golden fries are not only a satisfying snack but also a delightful side dish that packs a punch of seasonal spices and vibrant toppings.
Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins and fiber, and when transformed into crispy fries, they become the perfect canvas for a medley of fall flavors. Imagine the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and paprika perfectly mingling with gooey melted cheese, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of zesty sauce—all layered atop a bed of crispy sweet potato goodness.
Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, looking for a satisfying vegetarian option, or simply craving a comfort food treat, these Loaded Sweet Potato Fries will be a hit at any table. So grab your baking sheets and let’s dive into the autumnal deliciousness of these loaded fries!
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and cover a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
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- Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into thin fries, roughly 1/4 inch thick.
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- In a spacious bowl, combine the sweet potato fries with olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper until evenly coated.
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- Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer on the lined baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap.
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- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until the fries achieve a golden brown and crispy texture.
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- While the fries are baking, prepare the toppings. In a small bowl, blend the sour cream with a bit of salt if preferred.
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- Once the fries are finished, take them out of the oven and evenly scatter the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese on top.
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- Place the loaded fries back in the oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
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- Take them out from the oven and allow them to cool for a minute. Add dollops of sour cream, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro if desired.
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- Serve immediately and savor this comforting autumn dish with your loved ones!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Sweet Potatoes: 2 large, peeled and cut into fries
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for roasting
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Fall Spices:
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
- Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or a dairy-free alternative
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits or a plant-based alternative
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
- 1/4 cup sour cream or a vegan sour cream substitute
- 1/4 cup guacamole (optional)
- Fresh Herbs: Cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven will help achieve crispy fries.
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Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into even-sized wedges or matchsticks, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick to ensure they bake uniformly.
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Soak the Fries (Optional): For extra crispiness, soak the sweet potato fries in cold water for about 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch. After soaking, drain and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
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Season the Fries: In a large mixing bowl or on a baking sheet, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, making sure they are evenly coated. Then, sprinkle in the fall spices – a mixture of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cayenne for a hint of heat, along with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to customize the spice blend to your preference!
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Arrange on Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Spread the sweet potato fries in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. This helps them bake evenly and achieve that perfect crisp.
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Bake the Fries: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Flip the fries halfway through the baking time to ensure they crisp up on all sides. The fries should be golden brown and crispy when done.
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Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the sweet potato fries during the last few minutes of baking. Ovens can vary, so you may need to adjust the time. The edges should be crispy, and the centers fluffy.
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Season Again (Optional): As soon as they come out of the oven, taste the fries and sprinkle a little more salt or spices if needed. This is the perfect time to add any extra flavor before serving!
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Cool and Serve: Let the fries cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving dish. This allows them to crisp up a bit more. Serve hot, optionally topped with your favorite shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or a drizzle of sauce for extra flavor!
Enjoy your deliciously spiced Loaded Sweet Potato Fries, perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in!
Serving Suggestions
Loaded Sweet Potato Fries with Fall Spices make for a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
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As a Side Dish: Pair these flavorful fries with your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or a hearty veggie burger. The sweet and savory notes of the fries complement rich meats beautifully.
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Game Day Snack: Serve your loaded sweet potato fries as a fun and filling snack during game day gatherings. Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as spicy sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or classic ketchup for guests to enjoy.
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Salad Topping: Chop the loaded fries into bite-sized pieces and toss them atop a fresh greens salad to add a delicious crunch and a burst of flavor. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette for a unique twist.
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Brunch Treat: Elevate your brunch by serving these fries alongside poached eggs and avocado. The combination of textures and flavors makes for a satisfying and trendy dish.
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Vegetarian Platter: Incorporate the loaded sweet potato fries into a veggie platter. Pair with hummus, tzatziki, or yogurt dip to create a colorful and healthy spread for your guests.
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Bowl Meal: Use the fries as a base for a hearty bowl meal. Top with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, avocado, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a filling and nutritious option.
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Garnish with Fresh Herbs: For an extra pop of flavor, sprinkle your loaded sweet potato fries with fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or chives before serving. This adds a lovely freshness and color to the dish.
No matter how you choose to enjoy these Loaded Sweet Potato Fries with Fall Spices, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of autumn!
Conclusion
Loaded Sweet Potato Fries with Fall Spices are the ultimate comfort food for this cozy season. The sweet and savory combination of perfectly baked sweet potatoes topped with a medley of warming spices, fresh toppings, and creamy drizzles creates a delightful dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering, a side dish for a festive meal, or simply savor them on a chilly evening, these fries are sure to impress.
Feel free to get creative with your toppings—substituting ingredients or adding your favorite flavors can make this dish uniquely yours. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheese varieties, or even a dollop of your favorite salsa or guacamole for a twist!
So, gather your ingredients, embrace the flavors of fall, and dig into this mouthwatering treat. Your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy every crunchy, sweet, and spice-filled bite!
