If you’re looking for a crunchy, flavorful snack that’s easy to make at home, sweet potato chips are a fantastic choice. These crispy slices of sweet potato offer a perfect balance of natural sweetness and saltiness, making them addictive from the very first bite. You’ll enjoy a wholesome treat that feels indulgent but uses just a few simple ingredients.
Why We Love This Sweet Potato Chips Recipe
What’s not to love about homemade sweet potato chips? First, the simplicity stands out—you only need three main ingredients, and the steps are straightforward enough for anyone to follow. The result is a crispy, light chip that highlights the natural flavor of the sweet potato without being greasy or overly salty.
Another reason this recipe is a winner is how adaptable it is. You can season your chips just how you like—maybe a touch of paprika, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet-savory combo. The oven-baked method also means less oil, making the chips a guilt-free snack you can enjoy any time of day. Whether you want a quick crunchy bite or a party snack, these chips fit perfectly into your day.
Finally, the satisfying crunch and fresh, vibrant color make these chips both visually appealing and delicious. You’ll find yourself reaching for one after another, and they make a wonderful accompaniment to dips, sandwiches, or even salads. It’s an easy way to elevate your snack game with something homemade and wholesome.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Chips
To make these sweet potato chips, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that you probably have in your kitchen already.
- 1 large sweet potato, washed and dried (about ½ pound)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for greasing your baking sheet
- ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon sea salt, with additional salt for finishing
How to Make Sweet Potato Chips
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This high heat helps the chips become crispy without drying out too much.
Begin preparing your sweet potato by trimming an inch off both ends to create flat surfaces. Using a mandolin slicer set to about ⅛-inch thickness is ideal because it ensures uniform slices that bake evenly. If you don’t have a mandolin, carefully slice the sweet potato with a sharp knife into thin, round discs as evenly as possible.
Next, place your sliced sweet potato chips in a mixing bowl and toss them with the tablespoon of olive oil until every piece is lightly coated. This oil layer is crucial for helping the chips crisp up in the oven without sticking to the pan.
Prepare your baking sheet by brushing it lightly with olive oil. Spread out the sweet potato slices in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap or touch too much. This spacing allows hot air to circulate, creating that perfect crunch. Sprinkle sea salt over the chips now, but keep it light—it’s easier to add more after baking if needed.
Put the baking sheet in the center or upper rack of your oven, away from direct heat at the bottom. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, checking at around 10 minutes to make sure they don’t burn. Flip the chips halfway through baking to brown both sides evenly.
You’ll notice some chips crisp up faster than others, especially if your slices vary slightly in thickness. Thin slices may be ready closer to 15 minutes, while thicker ones might need the full 20. If chips seem soft when you first take them out, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps them crisp even more.
If after cooling some chips still aren’t crispy enough, you can pop them back in the oven for a few more minutes or place the baking sheet inside the turned-off oven with the door slightly open to dry them out further. Once crisped to your liking, sprinkle a little more sea salt for extra flavor and serve.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Chips
Sweet potato chips are wonderfully versatile, making them a fantastic snack or side dish. You can serve them on their own for a light and crunchy treat that satisfies your salty cravings while delivering a subtle sweetness.
If you want to elevate your snack experience, pair the chips with dips like hummus, guacamole, or a creamy yogurt-based dip. Their natural sweetness complements savory and tangy flavors beautifully. You might also enjoy them alongside sandwiches, burgers, or wraps as a crunchy contrast to soft bread.
For a party or gathering, place these chips in a large bowl with a variety of dipping sauces so everyone can mix and match. They also work well crumbled over salads or soups to add texture and a hint of natural sweetness. Whatever way you serve them, these chips bring a colorful, crisp element that’s sure to impress.
Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Chips
To get the best results with your sweet potato chips, keep a few expert pointers in mind. First, uniform slicing is key. A mandolin slicer makes this easy and helps ensure all chips cook evenly. If you slice by hand, try to make the thickness as consistent as possible.
Second, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Giving each chip enough space helps hot air circulate, which is essential for achieving a crisp texture. If you need to, use two baking sheets rather than stacking chips close together.
Third, keep an eye on your chips while baking. Sweet potatoes vary in moisture content and slice thickness, so chips may crisp up faster or slower than expected. Checking at the 10-minute mark and flipping halfway ensures they don’t burn and cook evenly.
Finally, don’t skip the cooling step. Chips often feel soft right out of the oven but will crisp up as they cool on the baking sheet. If they’re still soft after cooling, a short additional bake or drying in the warm oven can help.
You can also experiment with seasonings once you’ve mastered the basic recipe. Try sprinkling smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili flakes, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist.
How to Store Sweet Potato Chips
Once your sweet potato chips are completely cool, store them in an airtight container or a resealable bag at room temperature. This keeps them crisp and fresh for up to three days.
If you find that they soften during storage, simply spread the chips on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about five minutes. This will revive their crunch without drying them out too much.
Avoid storing the chips in the refrigerator, as the moisture can make them soggy. Keeping them sealed tightly and at room temperature ensures they stay crispy and tasty.
Variations of Sweet Potato Chips
While the basic sweet potato chip recipe is delicious, you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the sea salt before sprinkling on the chips. This adds warmth and a lively flavor to every bite.
For a smoky twist, sprinkle smoked paprika or ground cumin on your chips right after baking. These spices deepen the flavor and give your chips a slightly exotic note.
If you prefer a sweeter chip, try dusting them lightly with cinnamon and a pinch of brown sugar after baking. This combination transforms your chips into a delightful sweet treat perfect for snacking or even dessert.
You can also experiment with different oils, like avocado or coconut oil, which lend their own subtle flavors and can make the chips even more nutritious.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Potato Chips
What makes sweet potato chips different from regular potato chips?
Sweet potato chips are made from sweet potatoes, which have a naturally sweeter flavor and a softer texture compared to regular potatoes. They also contain more fiber and vitamins like vitamin A.
Can I use a knife if I don’t have a mandolin slicer?
Yes, you can slice the sweet potato with a sharp knife. Just try to cut the slices as thin and even as possible for best results, although a mandolin slicer helps achieve uniform thickness and crispiness.
How long do homemade sweet potato chips last?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay crisp and fresh for up to three days. Re-crisp them in the oven if they soften.
Can I add other seasonings besides salt?
Absolutely! Sweet potato chips are very versatile. You can add spices like paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, or chili flakes depending on your flavor preference.
Are sweet potato chips healthier than store-bought chips?
Usually, yes. When you make them at home, you control the amount and type of oil and salt, avoiding additives and preservatives often found in packaged chips.
Sweet Potato Chips
Equipment
- Oven
- Mandolin Slicer
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet potato washed and dried (about ½ pound)
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil plus extra for greasing
- 1/8 tsp. sea salt with additional salt for finishing
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim an inch off both ends of the sweet potato. Using a mandolin slicer, slice into ⅛-inch thick rounds. If using a knife, try to slice as uniformly as possible.
- In a mixing bowl, toss sweet potato slices with olive oil until lightly coated.
- Brush a baking sheet with olive oil and spread sweet potato slices in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, checking at 10 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even browning.
- If chips are soft after baking, let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. They will crisp up as they cool.
- For extra crunch, return any soft chips to the oven for a few more minutes. Sprinkle with additional sea salt before serving.
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