Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

There's nothing quite like Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes for a quick, healthy, and tasty side dish. These cubes come out crispy on the outside with a tender, meltinyourmouth center. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping ahead, they bring a wonderful combination of sweet and smoky flavors that complement a variety of meals.

I first made these during a hectic week when I needed something fast and satisfying. Now they are a staple in my kitchen, requested by everyone from my kids to my friends during dinner gatherings.

Ingredients

• Sweet potatoes: Two large sweet potatoes peeled and cubed into halfinch pieces to promote even cooking and crispiness
• Olive oil: One tablespoon olive oil to help achieve that golden caramelized exterior avocado oil works well as a substitute for a neutral flavor
• Salt: Half a teaspoon salt to bring out the natural sweetness and balance the flavors
• Black pepper: Half a teaspoon black pepper providing just the right kick without overpowering
• Garlic powder: Half a teaspoon garlic powder for a subtle depth of savory aroma
• Smoked paprika: Half a teaspoon smoked paprika for a gentle smoky note that pairs beautifully with sweet potato
• Cinnamon: Half a teaspoon cinnamon optional for those who prefer a sweet variation and warm spice undertones
• Fresh parsley: Fresh parsley to garnish adding bright freshness
• Honey or maple syrup: Honey or maple syrup to drizzle for an extra sweet finish
• Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese for a salty, savory topping that adds richness

Instructions

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 uniform halfinch cubes. The consistent size ensures everything cooks evenly and crisps up nicely on all sides.

Season the Sweet Potatoes:

Place the cubed sweet potatoes into a mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over them and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and if you prefer, cinnamon. Toss everything together thoroughly until every cube is evenly coated with the oil and spices, which builds flavor right from the start.

Air Fry the Sweet Potatoes:

Arrange the cubes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding so the cubes crisp rather than steam. Cook them for about 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning on all sides. You will know they're done when the edges are golden and crispy while the centers remain tender.

Serve and Enjoy:

Transfer the sweet potato cubes to a serving dish and garnish however you like. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can bring out the natural sweetness, or sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for a savory contrast. Serve them hot as a snack, side dish, or even as a topping on salads or grain bowls.

The smoky paprika is my favorite touch, adding a subtle warmth and complexity. I remember making this for a family game night, and the bowl vanished before the next round even started. It's definitely comfort food you can feel good about.

Storage Tips

Store leftover cubes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for three to five minutes to bring back that crispy texture. Avoid freezing sweet potatoes for this recipe as they tend to get mushy after thawing.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap olive oil for avocado or coconut oil depending on your preference. For smoky flavor, chipotle powder works wonderfully if you want more heat. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can replace parsley for a different herbal note.

Serving Suggestions

These cubes pair perfectly with scrambled eggs and avocado for breakfast. They also complement grilled chicken or steak beautifully as a side. Try them with a dipping sauce like chipotle mayo, ranch, or a drizzle of honey mustard for snacks.

Serve these sweet potato cubes hot for best texture and flavor. They reheat quickly in the air fryer to restore crispiness.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I make these without oil?

Yes, omitting oil will reduce crispiness, but using a light spray can help achieve a better texture without much added fat.

→ Can frozen sweet potatoes be used?

Frozen cubes can be used but increase the cooking time by 3-5 minutes and shake the basket occasionally for even cooking.

→ What seasonings work well besides the basics?

Try adding cumin, chili powder, Italian herbs, or brown sugar to customize the flavor profile to sweet or savory preferences.

→ How do I get the crispiest cubes?

Cut the potatoes evenly, avoid overcrowding the basket, and consider air frying 2-3 minutes longer for extra crispiness.

→ What are good serving suggestions?

Serve alongside eggs and avocado for breakfast, pair with chicken or steak, use as salad toppings, or dip in ranch or chipotle mayo.