An air fryer recipe for sweet potatoes is one of the easiest ways to get crispy, caramelized results without turning on your oven or heating a pot of oil. The circulating hot air hits every surface evenly, which means you get that golden, slightly crunchy exterior and a soft, creamy center in roughly half the time. Whether you're making fries, wedges, or a whole baked sweet potato, the air fryer handles all of it with minimal fuss.
In our research, aggregate user reviews across major air fryer brands consistently report cook times of 12 to 20 minutes for cut sweet potatoes at 380°F to 400°F, compared with 35 to 45 minutes in a conventional oven. That speed, plus the fact that you only need about a teaspoon of oil per potato, is why this method has become a weeknight staple for so many households. Let's walk through everything you need to know to nail it every single time.
Why Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes Turn Out Better Than Oven-Baked
Air fryers use rapid convection heating, which means a fan circulates super-hot air around the food at high speed. This creates a Maillard reaction on the surface of the sweet potato much faster than a static oven can. The result is deeper browning, better caramelization, and a texture that's closer to frying without the oil bath.
Here's what makes the difference in practice:
- Faster cook times. Most air fryer sweet potato recipes finish in 12 to 25 minutes, depending on the cut. An oven typically needs 35 to 50 minutes at comparable temperatures.
- Less oil needed. You'll use roughly 1 to 2 teaspoons of oil per medium sweet potato in an air fryer, versus 1 to 2 tablespoons for oven roasting. Deep frying, by comparison, submerges the food entirely.
- More even browning. The circulating air hits all sides, so you don't get the "burnt top, raw bottom" problem that happens when sweet potatoes sit still on a sheet pan.
- Concentrated sweetness. Because the air fryer cooks faster and at higher effective heat, the natural sugars in the sweet potato caramelize more intensely. The flavor is noticeably richer.
One thing to keep in mind: air fryer models vary in wattage, typically between 1,200W and 1,800W. A higher-wattage unit will cook faster, so always check for doneness a couple of minutes early the first time you try a new recipe in your specific machine.
Which Sweet Potato Variety Works Best in an Air Fryer
Not all sweet potatoes behave the same way under high-heat convection. The variety you pick affects crispiness, cook time, and how sweet the final result tastes.
Beauregard is the most widely available variety in US grocery stores. It has a good balance of moisture and starch, which means it crisps up nicely on the outside while staying fluffy inside. This is the safest all-purpose choice for air frying.
Jewel and Garnet are very similar to Beauregard, with slightly higher moisture content. They work well for wedges and whole baked sweet potatoes but can be a touch harder to get super crispy as fries unless you soak them first.
Okinawan (purple) sweet potatoes have a denser, starchier flesh and a more subtle, nutty sweetness. They hold their shape beautifully and develop a gorgeous deep purple color. They take a few minutes longer to cook through because of the density.
Hannah (white) varieties are drier and less sweet. They produce a more potato-like flavor and a firmer texture, which some people actually prefer for savory seasoning blends.
For the crispiest fries, go with Beauregard or Jewel. For whole baked sweet potatoes where you want a creamy, almost custard-like center, Garnet is hard to beat. If you're cooking for kids or want something visually striking, the Okinawan purple variety is a great conversation starter.
How to Prep Sweet Potatoes for the Air Fryer (Step by Step)
Proper prep is the single biggest factor between soggy, uneven results and perfectly crispy sweet potatoes. Every step here matters.
Step 1: Wash and scrub. Rinse each sweet potato under cool running water and scrub the skin with a vegetable brush. If you're leaving the skin on (which adds texture and nutrients), you want it completely clean. If you prefer peeled, use a standard vegetable peeler after washing.
Step 2: Cut uniformly. This is where most people go wrong. Uneven pieces mean some burn while others stay raw. Aim for consistent shapes:
- Fries: ½-inch thick sticks, roughly 3 inches long
- Wedges: Cut the potato in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 4 to 6 wedges
- Cubes: ¾-inch to 1-inch pieces, all roughly the same size
- Whole: Choose medium potatoes, about 5 to 7 ounces each, for even cooking
Step 3: Soak (optional but recommended for fries). Submerge cut sweet potatoes in cold water for 15 to 30 minutes. This draws out excess surface starch, which is the main culprit behind soggy, limp fries. Skip this step for whole baked sweet potatoes.
Step 4: Dry thoroughly. Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Any leftover moisture will create steam in the air fryer basket, and steam is the enemy of crispiness.
Step 5: Oil and season. Place the dried pieces in a bowl and toss with 1 to 2 teaspoons of a high-smoke-point oil per medium sweet potato. Avocado oil and refined olive oil both work well. Add your seasonings and toss again until every piece is evenly coated.
The whole prep process takes about 10 minutes if you skip soaking, or 25 to 40 minutes if you soak. Either way, don't rush the drying step. It's the difference between a great result and a disappointing one.
The Best Oil and Seasoning Combinations for Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
The oil you choose affects both flavor and how well the sweet potato crisps. The seasoning is where you can really make this recipe your own.
Best Oils for Air Frying
| Oil | Smoke Point | Flavor | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avocado oil | 520°F (271°C) | Neutral | Maximum crispiness, all-purpose |
| Refined olive oil | 465°F (240°C) | Mild | Everyday use, Mediterranean flavors |
| Coconut oil (refined) | 450°F (232°C) | Slightly sweet | Sweet seasoning blends |
| Grapeseed oil | 420°F (216°C) | Neutral | Budget-friendly option |
Avoid extra virgin olive oil for air frying. Its smoke point sits around 375°F, which is right at the temperature you're cooking at, and it can produce a bitter taste and excess smoke.
Savory Seasoning Blends
- Classic: Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, black pepper
- Southwest: Cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime zest, salt
- Spicy: Cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper
- Herb-forward: Dried rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, sea salt
Sweet Seasoning Blends
- Cinnamon sugar: Ground cinnamon, brown sugar, pinch of salt
- Warm spice: Cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, maple drizzle after cooking
- Simple: Just a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt to let the natural sweetness shine
Use about ½ to 1 teaspoon of seasoning blend per medium sweet potato. Toss the cut pieces in oil first, then add seasoning. The oil helps the spices stick and promotes even browning. If you're going the sweet route, add any sugar-based toppings in the last 2 minutes of cooking to prevent burning.
If you're looking for an air fryer that handles these recipes consistently across different batch sizes, our guide to the best 5 qt air fryer with presets covers models with dedicated root vegetable programs that take a lot of the guesswork out of timing.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: Temperature, Time, and Technique
This is the cut most people start with, and it's also the one where technique matters the most. Follow these guidelines and you'll get restaurant-quality fries from your countertop.
Temperature: Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Some recipes call for 400°F, which works but increases the risk of burning, especially on thinner cuts. 380°F gives you a wider window to get crispy edges without charring.
Time: Cook for 12 to 16 minutes total. The exact time depends on your air fryer's wattage and how thick you cut the fries.
The shake routine: This is non-negotiable. Shake the basket at the 5-minute mark, again at 10 minutes, and once more at 13 minutes if needed. Each shake repositions the fries so every surface gets direct airflow. Skipping this step is the number one reason people end up with uneven results.
Single layer only. Do not pile fries on top of each other. Overcrowding traps steam and guarantees soggy spots. If you're cooking for more than two people, work in batches. A 5.8-quart basket comfortably holds fries from about 2 medium sweet potatoes in a single layer.
Doneness check: The fries are ready when the edges are deep golden brown and slightly wrinkled, and the interior is fork-tender. If they look pale at the 12-minute mark, give them 2 more minutes. If the edges are darkening fast but the centers still feel firm, drop the temperature to 360°F and cook another 3 to 4 minutes.
For whole sweet potatoes, the approach is different. Pierce the skin 4 to 5 times with a fork to let steam escape, then cook at 375°F for 25 to 35 minutes depending on size. The potato is done when a knife slides into the center with no resistance. Let it rest for 2 minutes before cutting it open, the interior continues to steam and soften during that window.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges and Cubes: Quick Reference Guide
Wedges and cubes cook faster than fries and are more forgiving on cut precision. They're also easier to fit into a single layer in the basket, which makes them a solid choice when you're cooking for a crowd.
Sweet Potato Wedges
Cut each potato in half lengthwise, then slice each half into 4 to 6 wedges depending on the potato's size. Aim for pieces that are roughly 1 inch thick at the widest point.
- Temperature: 380°F (193°C)
- Time: 15 to 20 minutes
- Shake: At 7 minutes and again at 14 minutes
- Doneness sign: Edges are caramelized and slightly puckered, the tip of a knife slides through the thickest part with zero resistance
Wedges hold up well to bold seasonings. Toss them in oil and a Southwest or herb-forward blend before loading the basket. Because of their flat surface area, they develop beautiful char spots on the cut sides.
Sweet Potato Cubes
Cubes work best at about ¾ inch to 1 inch. Anything smaller and they dry out before the center softens. Anything larger and the exterior overcooks.
- Temperature: 390°F (199°C)
- Time: 12 to 15 minutes
- Shake: Every 4 minutes for even browning on all sides
- Doneness sign: Golden on at least 3 sides, soft all the way through when pierced
Cubes are ideal for grain bowls, salads, and meal prep containers. They reheat well in the air fryer too. Spread them back in a single layer at 360°F for 3 to 4 minutes and they crisp right back up.
Fries vs. Wedges vs. Cubes: At a Glance
| Cut | Cook Time | Temp | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fries (½-inch) | 12 to 16 min | 380°F | Snacking, dipping, kids |
| Wedges | 15 to 20 min | 380°F | Side dishes, bold seasonings |
| Cubes (¾ to 1 inch) | 12 to 15 min | 390°F | Meal prep, bowls, salads |
If you're cooking cubes or wedges in larger quantities, a bigger basket helps. We rounded up the best extra large capacity air fryer options if you routinely batch-cook for four or more people.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Soggy or Burnt Sweet Potatoes
Most air fryer sweet potato failures come down to one of five preventable errors. Here's what goes wrong and how to fix it.
Overcrowding the Basket
This is far and away the most common mistake. When sweet potatoes are piled on top of each other, hot air can't circulate between the pieces. The result is steaming instead of crisping, and you end up with a pile of limp, pale potatoes.
Fix: Work in batches. A single layer with a little space between each piece is what you're after. If you can see the bottom of the basket between potatoes, you're in good shape.
Skipping the Drying Step
Even after soaking and rinsing, there's surface moisture clinging to the cut potatoes. That moisture turns to steam the moment it hits the hot basket, and steam softens the exterior before it has a chance to crisp.
Fix: Pat every piece dry with a clean towel or paper towels after washing or soaking. This takes 60 seconds and makes a noticeable difference.
Wrong Oil or No Oil
Sweet potatoes have a relatively low surface fat content compared to regular potatoes. Without at least a light coat of oil, the surface dries out and turns chalky rather than crisping. On the flip side, too much oil drips through the basket and can smoke or cause the seasoning to slide off.
Fix: Use 1 to 2 teaspoons of a high-smoke-point oil per medium sweet potato. Toss in a bowl first, then season. The coating should be light and even, not dripping.
Inconsistent Cut Sizes
A mix of thick and thin pieces in the same batch guarantees that some pieces burn while others stay raw. The thin fries char in 8 minutes; the thick ones need 16.
Fix: Take an extra minute to cut everything to roughly the same thickness. A sharp chef's knife and a steady cutting board are all you need. If you have a mandoline slicer, even better for fries.
Forgetting to Shake
Without agitation, the side of the sweet potato sitting against the basket doesn't get the same airflow as the exposed side. You'll end up with one crispy face and one pale, soft face every single time.
Fix: Set a timer. Shake the basket at regular intervals: every 4 minutes for cubes, every 5 to 7 minutes for fries and wedges. Some air fryer models have a rotisserie or auto-stir function that handles this for you.
How Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes Compare to Deep-Fried and Oven-Baked
Each cooking method produces a noticeably different result. Understanding the tradeoffs helps you pick the right one for what you're after.
Air Fryer vs. Deep Fryer
Deep frying produces the crispiest possible exterior because the food is submerged in oil heated to 350°F to 375°F. The entire surface crisps simultaneously. But it requires a quart or more of oil, creates a strong smell in the house, and adds significant calories.
Air frying gets you about 80% of the crispiness with roughly 90% less oil. A medium air-fried sweet potato with 1 teaspoon of oil clocks in at around 145 calories. The deep-fried equivalent can easily top 310 calories per serving, according to USDA FoodData Central values for fried sweet potatoes.
Air Fryer vs. Conventional Oven
A standard oven relies on radiant heat from the top and bottom elements, with no forced air circulation (unless you have a convection oven, and even then the fan is weaker than an air fryer's). This means longer cook times and less surface browning.
Oven roasting a batch of sweet potato fries at 425°F typically takes 35 to 45 minutes with a flip halfway through. The air fryer finishes the same cut in 12 to 16 minutes at 380°F. The oven also requires you to heat a large appliance that draws 2,000 to 5,000 watts, while most air fryers run at 1,200 to 1,800 watts.
For flavor concentration, air frying wins. The rapid airflow drives off surface moisture faster, which intensifies the natural sugars and creates deeper caramelization in less time.
Air Fryer vs. Microwave
Microwaving a sweet potato is fast, about 5 to 7 minutes for a whole potato, but the texture is completely different. The interior steams, the skin stays rubbery, and there's zero browning anywhere. It's a functional option when speed is the only priority, but it competes with a different goal than air frying.
Quick Comparison
| Method | Cook Time | Oil Needed | Crispiness | Calories (per potato) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air fryer | 12 to 25 min | 1 to 2 tsp | High | ~145 |
| Deep fryer | 3 to 5 min | 1 to 2 quarts | Highest | ~310+ |
| Conventional oven | 35 to 50 min | 1 to 2 tbsp | Medium | ~185 |
| Microwave | 5 to 7 min | None | None | ~103 |
If you're curious how air frying stacks up against traditional frying in more detail, our breakdown of whether deep fry is the same as air fryer digs into the science behind both methods.
Tips for Getting Crispy Results Every Time
These are the small adjustments that separate good air fryer sweet potatoes from great ones. None of them take much effort, but they compound into noticeably better results.
Preheat the basket. Run the air fryer empty at your cooking temperature for 2 to 3 minutes before loading the potatoes. A hot basket sears the surface on contact, which jumpstarts the crisping process. Not every manufacturer recommends this, but aggregate user reviews across Ninja, Cosori, and Philips models consistently report better texture with preheating.
Don't skip the soak for fries. Submerging cut fries in cold water for 15 to 30 minutes removes surface starch. Less starch means less gumminess and better browning. Dry them thoroughly afterward.
Use parchment liners with cutouts. Perforated parchment paper designed for air fryers keeps the basket clean while still allowing airflow through the holes. Solid parchment blocks the bottom vents and defeats the purpose of convection cooking.
Go heavier on seasoning than you think. Some seasoning falls off during shaking and ends up at the bottom of the basket. Start with about 50% more spice blend than you'd use for oven roasting.
Let them rest after cooking. Sweet potatoes continue to crisp for about 1 to 2 minutes after they come out of the basket. The residual heat finishes driving off surface moisture. Resist the urge to eat them straight from the basket, they'll be softer than if you wait just a minute.
Cook in a single batch, then hold. If you need to serve everyone at once, cook the first batch and keep it warm in an oven set to 200°F while the second batch cooks. Stacking hot potatoes on a plate traps steam and softens the crispy exterior within minutes.
Match the cut to the occasion. Fries for snacking and dipping. Wedges for plated side dishes. Cubes for meal prep and bowls. Whole potatoes for a baked potato experience.
Picking the right shape for the meal saves time and improves the eating experience.
For those cooking in tighter spaces like RVs or campervans, the best air fryer for small space roundup covers compact models that still deliver solid results with sweet potatoes and other root vegetables.
How to Batch-Cook Sweet Potatoes for Meal Prep
Air fryer sweet potatoes are one of the best meal prep vegetables out there. They hold up in the fridge for 4 to 5 days, reheat without turning to mush, and pair with almost any protein or grain. The key is planning your batches around your air fryer's capacity.
Planning Your Batch
A standard 5-quart basket handles about 2 to 3 medium sweet potatoes in a single layer. If you're prepping for a full week, that means 2 to 3 batches. Budget about 20 minutes per batch including loading and unloading, so the whole process takes roughly an hour for a week's worth of sides.
Cut all your potatoes at once before you start cooking. Keep them submerged in a bowl of cold water between batches to prevent browning. Dry each batch thoroughly before oiling and loading.
Best Cuts for Meal Prep
Cubes and wedges reheat better than fries. Fries tend to lose their crispiness after refrigeration and can turn leathery. Cubes at ¾ inch to 1 inch hold their shape and texture through multiple reheats.
Portion into single-serving containers after cooking. A typical serving is about 1 cup of cubed sweet potatoes, which is roughly half a medium potato. Let them cool to room temperature before sealing the lid to avoid condensation buildup.
Reheating
The air fryer is also the best tool for reheating. Spread the refrigerated sweet potatoes in a single layer at 360°F for 3 to 5 minutes. They'll crisp back up close to their original texture. The microwave works in a pinch but softens the exterior significantly.
If you're prepping meals for a family of six or more, a larger air fryer cuts the number of batches in half. Our picks for the best air fryer for large family of 6 cover models with the capacity to handle bigger loads without sacrificing crispiness.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are versatile enough to anchor a meal or play a supporting role. Here are combinations that work well, whether you're building a quick weeknight dinner or assembling a weekend grain bowl.
As a Side Dish
- With grilled chicken or roasted thighs. The sweetness of the potato balances savory, herb-seasoned chicken perfectly.
- Alongside a burger. Swap regular fries for sweet potato wedges and you've instantly upgraded the plate.
- Next to a steak. A sprinkle of smoked paprika and black pepper on the sweet potatoes ties them to a seared ribeye or strip.
- With baked fish. Cod, salmon, and tilapia all pair well. The mild flavor of the fish lets the sweet potato shine.
In Bowls and Salads
- Grain bowl: Air fryer sweet potato cubes over quinoa or brown rice, with black beans, avocado, pickled onion, and a lime-cilantro dressing.
- Harvest salad: Cubed sweet potatoes on a bed of mixed greens with dried cranberries, goat cheese, pecans, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
- Taco bowl: Southwest-seasoned sweet potato cubes with ground turkey, corn, salsa, and shredded cheese.
Dipping Sauces
Fries and wedges beg for something to dip into. A few reliable options:
- Garlic aioli: Mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt
- Sriracha mayo: Equal parts mayo and sriracha with a squeeze of lime
- Honey mustard: Dijon mustard, honey, a splash of apple cider vinegar
- Ranch: Classic for a reason, especially with kids
- Tahini sauce: Tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water to thin
Toppings for Loaded Sweet Potato Wedges
Turn wedges into a meal by loading them up after cooking:
- Black beans, corn, shredded cheese, sour cream, and scallions
- Pulled pork with a drizzle of barbecue sauce
- Crumbled feta, chopped walnuts, and a honey drizzle for a sweet-savory option
- Chili and shredded cheddar for a loaded nacho-style plate
If you're cooking sweet potatoes as part of a larger air fryer meal, it helps to know what else the appliance handles well. Our guide on how to cook cod fillets in the air fryer walks through a protein that pairs beautifully with sweet potato sides and cooks in about the same time window.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
Proper storage keeps leftovers tasting good for several days. The main enemies are moisture and air exposure, both of which degrade texture fast.
Refrigerator Storage
Let cooked sweet potatoes cool to room temperature, about 15 to 20 minutes. Transfer them to an airtight container lined with a paper towel. The towel absorbs excess moisture and helps maintain the exterior texture.
They'll keep for 4 to 5 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below, per USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service guidelines for cooked vegetables. Stack containers with the potatoes in a single layer if possible. Piling them deep compresses the pieces and creates soggy spots.
Freezer Storage
Air-fried sweet potatoes freeze surprisingly well. Spread cooled pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 2 hours. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents the pieces from clumping into a solid block.
Frozen sweet potatoes keep for up to 3 months. Label the bag with the date so you know when to use them by.
Reheating Methods Compared
| Method | Time | Texture Result | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air fryer (360°F) | 3 to 5 min | Crispy, close to fresh | Fries, wedges, cubes |
| Oven (375°F) | 8 to 10 min | Moderately crispy | Larger portions |
| Skillet (medium heat) | 4 to 6 min | Crispy on one side | Small batches |
| Microwave (high) | 1 to 2 min | Soft, steamed | When speed matters most |
The air fryer is the clear winner for reheating. It restores the crispy exterior better than any other method. The microwave is fine if you're tossing the sweet potatoes into a soup, stew, or blended dish where texture doesn't matter.
For frozen sweet potatoes, add 2 to 3 extra minutes to the air fryer reheat time. No need to thaw first. Going straight from freezer to basket actually works better because the temperature differential helps crisp the exterior.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
Do you need to pierce sweet potatoes before air frying them?
Yes, if you're cooking them whole. Piercing the skin 4 to 5 times with a fork allows steam to escape. Without those vent holes, pressure builds inside and the sweet potato can burst open in the basket, making a mess and potentially creating a burn risk. For cut pieces like fries, wedges, and cubes, piercing isn't necessary since steam escapes naturally from the cut surfaces.
Should you peel sweet potatoes before air frying?
It's entirely a matter of preference. The skin is edible and contains a good amount of fiber and nutrients. When air fried at the right temperature, the skin becomes slightly chewy and adds a pleasant textural contrast. If you dislike the texture of skin, peel before cutting.
Just know that peeled potatoes lose a small amount of moisture faster, so watch the cook time.
Can you air fry sweet potatoes from frozen?
Yes. Frozen sweet potato fries or cubes go straight into the air fryer with no thawing needed. Add 3 to 5 minutes to the cook time and shake the basket an extra time or two. The results won't be quite as crispy as fresh-cut, but they're a solid option for convenience.
Spread frozen pieces in a single layer and increase the temperature by 10°F to compensate for the cold start.
Why are my air fryer sweet potatoes burning on the outside but raw inside?
This usually means the temperature is too high or the pieces are too thick. Drop the temperature by 15°F to 20°F and add 3 to 5 minutes to the cook time. Also check your cut size. Pieces thicker than 1 inch need more time for heat to reach the center without charring the exterior.
For whole sweet potatoes, wrapping them loosely in foil for the first half of cooking insulates the exterior and lets the interior catch up.
How much oil do you really need?
One to two teaspoons per medium sweet potato is the sweet spot. That's enough to promote browning and help seasoning stick without making the potatoes greasy. Using an oil mister gives you the most even, controlled coating. Pouring oil directly onto the potatoes in the basket almost always results in too much pooling at the bottom.
Can you use cooking spray in an air fryer?
Use caution with aerosol sprays. Many contain lecithin, which builds up on nonstick coatings over time and damages the surface. If you want a spray application, fill a manual oil mister with your preferred oil instead. It gives the same light, even coat without the additives that harm the basket.
Are air fryer sweet potatoes healthy?
Sweet potatoes are nutrient-dense regardless of cooking method. They're high in beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. Air frying preserves a comparable nutrient profile to oven baking while using significantly less oil than deep frying. Per USDA FoodData Central, a medium baked sweet potato with skin contains about 103 calories, 2.3 grams of fiber, and over 400% of the daily value for vitamin A.
Adding 1 teaspoon of oil increases the calorie count by roughly 40 calories.
What size air fryer do you need for sweet potatoes?
A 4-quart model handles 1 to 2 medium sweet potatoes per batch, which is enough for 2 servings. A 5 to 6-quart model fits 2 to 3 medium potatoes and works better for families or meal prep. If you're regularly cooking for 4 or more people, an 8-quart or larger unit saves significant time. For a detailed breakdown by household size, our guide to the best air fryer for large family of 8 covers the models with the most usable capacity.
How do you keep sweet potatoes from sticking to the basket?
A light coat of oil on the potatoes themselves is usually enough. For extra insurance, use a perforated parchment liner designed for your specific air fryer model. Avoid stacking or overcrowding, as trapped moisture is the main cause of sticking. If potatoes do stick, soak the basket in warm soapy water for 10 minutes before scrubbing.
Never use metal utensils on a nonstick basket.
Can you season sweet potatoes before air frying, or should you season after?
Season before. The oil acts as an adhesive for dry spices, and the high heat of the air fryer toasts the seasoning into the surface of the potato. Adding spices after cooking results in a dusty, uneven coating that falls off with every bite. The one exception is delicate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley.
Toss those on after cooking so they keep their color and brightness.