Baked Sweet Potato in Air Fryer | Crispy Skin, Fluffy Inside, Ready Fast

Introduction: The Easiest Way to Bake Sweet Potatoes

Baking sweet potatoes in an air fryer is one of the quickest and most delicious ways to prepare them. You get all the comfort of oven-baked sweet potatoes — soft, fluffy insides and crisp, caramelised skins — in a fraction of the time. Whether served as a side dish, healthy lunch, or stuffed with your favourite toppings, air-fried sweet potatoes are a convenient and tasty choice.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potatoes

⚡ Faster Than Oven-Baking – Ready in around 30–40 minutes
🌱 Healthier Option – No need for excess oil or butter
🧡 Naturally Sweet & Nutritious – High in fibre, vitamin A, and antioxidants
✅ Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and reheat easily

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes (about 200–300g each)
1 tsp olive oil (optional)
Pinch of salt
Optional: herbs, spices, or toppings of your choice

How to Make Baked Sweet Potatoes in the Air Fryer – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly.
Pat dry with kitchen paper.
Use a fork to prick a few holes in each potato to release steam.
Optionally, rub the skins with olive oil and a pinch of salt for extra crispiness.

Step 2: Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 190°C (if your model requires preheating).
Place the sweet potatoes in the basket with space between them.
Cook for 35–40 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Check doneness by piercing with a knife or skewer — it should slide in easily.

⏱️ Smaller potatoes may be ready in 30 minutes, larger ones may take up to 45.

Step 3: Serve

Slice open and fluff the inside with a fork.
Add butter, seasoning, or toppings to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Top with butter, sea salt, and cracked black pepper
Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt with chives
Try sweet toppings like cinnamon, maple syrup, and pecans
Fill with beans, cheese, and salsa for a Mexican-inspired meal
Serve alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or roasted veggies

Flavour Variations

Spicy: Sprinkle with chilli powder or smoked paprika
Garlic & Herb: Rub with garlic granules and mixed herbs before cooking
Cheesy: Top with grated cheddar and place back in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes
Loaded: Add beans, avocado, sour cream, and hot sauce for a filling bowl

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Don’t overcrowd the basket – good air circulation is key
No foil needed – air frying crisps the skin naturally
Use similar-sized potatoes so they cook evenly
If the skin’s browning too fast, reduce the temperature slightly

Storage & Reheating

Store in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat in the air fryer at 160°C for 5–7 minutes until warmed through
Also delicious cold in salads or sliced into grain bowls
Freeze baked sweet potatoes (whole or halved) for up to 3 months

Conclusion

Baking sweet potatoes in the air fryer is a simple and foolproof method for a healthy, hearty meal. With minimal prep, no mess, and faster cook times than the oven, it’s the perfect go-to side or base for a nourishing dish. Once you try it, you’ll never look at sweet potatoes the same way again!