Introduction
Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and versatile ingredient that can elevate any meal. When prepared as cubes and air-fried, they transform into crispy, golden bites that are both satisfying and delicious.
Using an air fryer not only reduces the amount of oil needed but also significantly cuts down on cooking time. This method maintains the natural sweetness of the potatoes while providing a delightful crunch that makes them a favorite for both kids and adults.
Whether served as a side dish, added to salads, or enjoyed as a snack, sweet potato cubes in the air fryer are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation to bring this tasty dish to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions & Preparation
- Begin by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into 1-inch cubes. Aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the spices are well incorporated.
- Add the sweet potato cubes to the bowl and toss them in the seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the sweet potatoes will start cooking immediately and helps achieve that crispy texture.
- Once preheated, place the seasoned sweet potato cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding for optimal air circulation.
- Cook the sweet potatoes in the air fryer for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking. Check for tenderness and adjust cooking time as needed.
- Once the sweet potatoes are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute.
- If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your perfectly crispy sweet potato cubes!

FAQs
What if my sweet potato cubes are too soft?
If the cubes are soft, they may need a little more time in the air fryer. Check them frequently until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
Can I use other seasonings for the sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices like cayenne pepper for heat or cinnamon for a sweet twist.
Why are my sweet potato cubes sticking to the air fryer basket?
Ensure you coat the cubes well with oil prior to cooking. You can also lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?
The sweet potatoes should be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. You can test them by piercing a cube with a fork.
Can I cook frozen sweet potato cubes in the air fryer?
Yes, but they may require a longer cooking time. Start with an additional 5-10 minutes and check for doneness.
What should I do if the sweet potato cubes are overcooked?
If the cubes are burnt or overly crispy, reduce the cooking time for your next batch and monitor them closely.
Conclusion
Crispy sweet potato cubes made in the air fryer are a quick and healthy addition to any meal. Their rich flavor and satisfying crunch make them a versatile choice for any occasion.
Try serving them with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside grilled meats for a delightful combination. Enjoy the process of cooking and the delicious results that follow!
Recipe Card
Perfectly Crispy Sweet Potato Cubes in the Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into 1-inch cubes. Aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the spices are well incorporated.
- Add the sweet potato cubes to the bowl and toss them in the seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the sweet potatoes will start cooking immediately and helps achieve that crispy texture.
- Once preheated, place the seasoned sweet potato cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding for optimal air circulation.
- Cook the sweet potatoes in the air fryer for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking. Check for tenderness and adjust cooking time as needed.
- Once the sweet potatoes are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute.
- If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your perfectly crispy sweet potato cubes!
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.