Prep the Sweet Potatoes: Start by washing the sweet potatoes thoroughly. You can use a brush to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel to make sure they cook evenly.
Pierce the Potatoes: Use a fork to pierce the sweet potatoes several times on each side. This allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing them from bursting.
Microwave Option (for quicker cooking): For an even faster cooking time, you can microwave the sweet potatoes first! Place the pierced sweet potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and microwave them on high for 5-7 minutes, depending on their size. This step softens the potatoes, reducing the air frying time. After microwaving, proceed to the next steps.
Coat with Olive Oil: Rub the sweet potatoes with olive oil, ensuring they’re evenly coated. This will help them crisp up in the air fryer. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (195°C) for 3-5 minutes. This ensures that the sweet potatoes cook evenly from the start.
Air Fry the Sweet Potatoes: Place the sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overlapping to ensure even cooking. Air fry at 390°F for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The sweet potatoes are done when you can easily pierce them with a fork.With microwave option: Air fry at 390°F for 15-20 minutes (if you’ve microwaved them), flipping halfway through the cooking time. The sweet potatoes are done when you can easily pierce them with a fork. Serve: Once they’re cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Let them cool for a few minutes before cutting them open. Fluff the inside with a fork, and add any of your favorite toppings, such as a pat of butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon and brown sugar, or even some marshmallows for a festive treat.