Mouthwatering Moxie’s Sweet Potato Fries: The Ultimate Baked & Air Fryer Recipe

If you’re a true connoisseur of sweet potato fries, prepare to be absolutely delighted. Like many food enthusiasts, I’ve often left restaurants feeling a pang of disappointment, convinced I could replicate or even surpass the dishes at home. But then there are those rare culinary encounters that leave a lasting impression, challenging your cooking prowess and inspiring you to recreate that magic in your own kitchen. My experience at Moxie’s was precisely one of those exceptional moments.

This Moxie’s Sweet Potato Fries recipe is a game-changer. It’s designed to bring the vibrant flavors and perfect crispiness of that restaurant favorite right to your table, with the flexibility to either bake them in the oven or achieve air-fried perfection. What truly sets these sweet potato fries apart, however, is their undeniable pairing with my copycat Moxie’s Mayo Garlic Dip. They are, quite simply, a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re looking for a delectable side dish to complement your main course or a satisfying snack any time of year, these spicy sweet potato fries deliver on every front.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Sweet Potato Fries

Crafting delicious sweet potato fries doesn’t require a lengthy list of ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural sweetness of the potatoes to shine, enhanced by just a few key components that bring out their best flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sweet Potatoes (Yams): The star of the show. Choose firm, medium to large sweet potatoes. While often used interchangeably, “yams” in North America usually refer to orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, which are perfect for fries due to their natural sweetness and soft texture when cooked.
• Cajun Seasoning: This is where the “spicy” in our spicy sweet potato fries comes from. Cajun seasoning typically includes paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano, providing a warm, zesty, and slightly fiery kick that transforms plain fries into something extraordinary.
• Kosher Salt: Its coarse texture adheres beautifully to the fries, providing a pleasant crunch and distributing saltiness evenly. Avoid fine table salt, which can over-salt quickly and not provide the same textural benefit.
• Olive Oil (for baking) or Non-Propellant Cooking Spray (for air fryer): The type of oil is crucial for achieving that desired crispiness. Olive oil is excellent for baking, offering a lovely flavor. For air frying, a non-propellant cooking spray like avocado or canola oil is recommended because it helps distribute a thin, even layer of oil without interfering with the air fryer’s non-stick coating. These oils also have a high smoke point, ideal for the intense heat of an air fryer.

Flavorful Variations & Smart Substitutions

While the original recipe delivers an authentic Moxie’s experience, sometimes you need to get creative based on what you have on hand or what your taste buds crave. Here are some excellent variations and substitutions to keep your sweet potato fries exciting:

• Cajun Seasoning Alternatives: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, don’t fret! Creole seasoning is a fantastic alternative, offering a similar blend of spices with slightly different proportions. Chili powder can also work in a pinch, providing a warm, earthy spice, though you might want to add a dash of garlic powder and onion powder to round out the flavor. For a completely different twist, try smoked paprika for depth, or a blend of cumin and coriander for an exotic touch.
• Kosher Salt Swaps: The key here is a coarse salt. Sea salt is an excellent substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar texture and salinity. Avoid fine table salt as it can easily over-salt and doesn’t offer the same textural appeal. For a gourmet touch, consider flaky Maldon sea salt sprinkled on after cooking.
• Oil Options: For baking, you can easily substitute olive oil with another light vegetable oil like canola oil, grapeseed oil, or even melted coconut oil (though this will impart a subtle coconut flavor). When using an air fryer, stick to non-propellant oils with high smoke points. Avocado oil is a popular choice for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, while canola oil is also a reliable option. Avoid aerosol sprays that contain propellants, as these can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer basket over time.
• Sweetness Boost: For those who enjoy a sweeter fry, a tiny sprinkle of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup mixed with the oil and spices before cooking can add an extra layer of deliciousness.
• Herbaceous Twist: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, finely chopped and tossed with the potatoes, can add an aromatic dimension to your fries.

My first encounter with these legendary sweet potato fries was during a casual summer evening at Moxie’s in Lethbridge. I was never particularly enthusiastic about sweet potato fries before that night; they were simply the most appealing snack item on the patio menu, a convenient choice while enjoying a drink. Moxie’s, for those unfamiliar, is a popular Canadian restaurant chain, somewhat akin to the “Original Joe’s” chain in the United States, known for its lively atmosphere and diverse menu. Little did I know, this seemingly ordinary order would become a culinary revelation. After just one bite of those perfectly seasoned, crispy fries paired with their incredible dipping sauce, my family and I shared a collective gasp of appreciation: “Wow. THESE fries with THAT dip!” We were so utterly captivated by the flavor and texture that we promptly ordered a second round. And let me assure you, it wasn’t just the craft beer talking, although they do indeed pair *exceptionally well* with a cold, refreshing brew!

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Achieving perfectly crispy sweet potato fries, whether baked or air-fried, is all about technique. Follow these detailed steps for the best results, ensuring your fries are golden brown and wonderfully tender inside.

How to Make Spicy Baked Sweet Potato Fries:

Once baked to perfection, taste and add any additional salt if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!

How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries:

The air fryer offers a faster, often crispier, and healthier alternative to deep-frying or even baking, using significantly less oil. Here’s how to get perfect results:

What to Serve with Your Amazing Sweet Potato Fries

While these spicy sweet potato fries are incredible on their own, a truly exceptional dipping sauce elevates them to another level. You absolutely must try them with my Garlic Mayo Dipping Sauce for Sweet Potato Fries – it’s the authentic Moxie’s pairing and they truly belong together! If you prefer a dip with a bit more kick, my Spicy Chipotle Mayo Dip is another fantastic choice that complements the sweetness and spice of the fries perfectly.

Beyond being a sensational snack, these healthy fries make an excellent side dish for a variety of main courses. Their sweet and savory profile pairs wonderfully with:

• Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The rich, smoky flavor of pulled pork (as shown below) is beautifully balanced by the spicy sweetness of the fries. The textures also provide a delightful contrast.
• Air Fryer Roast Chicken (with lemon, rosemary, and garlic): The bright, aromatic notes of the chicken find a perfect counterpart in the hearty, spiced sweet potato fries, making for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
• Salmon Fillet Burgers (with frozen salmon): The omega-rich goodness of salmon, whether in a burger or as a fillet, benefits from the earthy sweetness and spice of the fries. It’s a healthy and flavorful combination.
• Greek Chicken Souvlaki: The vibrant flavors of Greek-marinated chicken, often served with tzatziki, pair surprisingly well with sweet potato fries, offering a delightful twist on traditional sides.
• Sloppy Joes: The savory, slightly sweet, and tangy profile of sloppy joes finds a comforting partner in these fries, perfect for a casual family dinner.
• Tuna Burgers: A lighter, protein-packed burger choice that benefits from the hearty and flavorful addition of sweet potato fries.
• Slow Cooker Beef on a Bun: Similar to pulled pork, the tender, flavorful slow-cooked beef is a classic comfort food that is perfectly complemented by the robust flavors of spicy sweet potato fries.

Essential Equipment for Homemade Fries

Having the right tools can make all the difference in preparing these delicious sweet potato fries efficiently and effectively. While minimal equipment is needed, a couple of items can greatly enhance your cooking experience:

• Sheet Pan (Rimmed Baking Sheet): Absolutely essential for the baked method. A rimmed sheet pan prevents oil and fries from falling off during baking. Using a dark metal pan can also help with browning and crisping.
• Large Bowl: Perfect for tossing the sweet potato fries with oil and seasonings, ensuring every piece is evenly coated.
• Air Fryer: If you choose the air fryer method, this appliance is your best friend. Modern air fryers, like the Ninja Foodi 2-Drawer (affiliate link), circulate hot air to produce crispy results with significantly less oil, making them a healthier alternative to deep-frying.
• Potato Chipper (French Fry Cutter): While not strictly necessary, a potato chipper (affiliate link) makes the process much easier and ensures that all your fries are uniformly cut. Uniformity is key for even cooking and consistent crispiness. If fries are of varying thicknesses, some will burn while others remain undercooked.

Flexible Serving Size

This recipe is designed to serve 6 people generously. However, flexibility is key in the kitchen! If you need to adjust the recipe to half, double, or even triple the amount, you can easily do so. In the full recipe card below, simply click on the blue servings number, choose your desired amount, and watch the ingredient quantities adjust automatically. This makes it effortless to cook for a small family gathering or a larger party.

Weight Watchers Points (Air Fryer Method)

For those mindful of their dietary intake, especially if following Weight Watchers, these sweet potato fries can be a guilt-free indulgence when made in the air fryer. When prepared using a 5-second spray of a zero-point oil like Chosen Avocado oil (applying 3 seconds for the first spray and then 2 seconds midway through cooking, before shaking), these fries come out to 0 WW points. This makes them an incredibly appealing and healthy option for a snack or side dish that won’t derail your diet goals.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Leftover spicy sweet potato fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and bring back some of their crispiness, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes, or pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until heated through and slightly re-crisped. For longer storage, cool the fries completely and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container or Ziplock freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

So, if you’re like me and were utterly captivated by Moxie’s signature sweet potato fries, you’re going to love the satisfaction of recreating them at home. With this recipe, you can achieve that perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and crispy goodness right in your own kitchen. They really are the ultimate snack, appetizer, or side dish that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress!

And for more delicious air fryer vegetable fry ideas, be sure to try my Air Fryer Parsnip Fries and Air Fryer Carrot Fries!