Baked Sweet Potato Recipe In The Microwave

Name: Baked Sweet Potato Recipe In The Microwave
Prep time: 1 min
Cook time: 5 min
Ingredients: 2 sweet potatoes; 2 tbsp olive oil

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The only downfall to making potatoes is the wait! Don’t let this stop you from enjoying this perfect side dish! You can quickly and easily prepare a baked sweet potato recipe in the microwave.

Perfectly cooked sweet potato with a pat of butter melting in the center.

Why This Recipe Works

I love me a good baked sweet potato, but so often I just don’t have the time (or patience) to wait for them to bake in the oven. Dinner in 30 minutes is a thing in my house for a reason. I prefer being as efficient as possible in the kitchen and when I’m hungry, I want food quickly.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, I’m happy to teach you my foolproof method for cooking baked sweet potatoes in the microwave for an easy side! I literally cannot tell it has been cooked any other way than in the oven.

It is just as creamy-dreamy and it takes five minutes, a fraction of the time its oven-baked counterpart requires. Microwave potatoes are the easiest way to enjoy a healthy meal in less time!

Recipe Ingredients

Sweet potato – One whole sweet potato is the only necessary ingredient! If using an extra large potato you may need to cook it beyond the 5-minute mark, adding time as needed. Small sweet potatoes can be checked starting at the 4-minute mark.

Don’t forget to poke holes in the potato before placing it into the microwave!

Olive oil and seasonings – Olive oil and added seasonings will provide a boost of flavor to the end result. Coconut oil can be used in place of olive oil, if desired.

Options for seasonings to be rubbed on before cooking include seasoning salt (such as Lawry’s), salt and pepper, paprika, garlic powder, sugar or your favorite herbs or spices.

How To Make A Baked Sweet Potato Recipe In The Microwave

Step 1

Run under cold water, scrubbing the outside of the potato with fingers or a small brush, until clean. Pat dry with a paper or kitchen towel. Stab small holes all around the potato with fork tines as a steam escape while cooking.

Hand holding a sweet potato with holed poked into the skin.

Step 2

Rub approximately 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the entire surface of each potato.

Olive oil being poured over sweet potatoes.

Place potatoes (one at a time) on microwaveable plate and cook for 5 minutes in the microwave, flipping halfway through.

Sweet potato sitting on a plate in a microwave.

Step 3

If a fork or knife cannot be easily inserted into the center of the potato after cooking, microwave in 30-second increments until fork tender. Use a sharp knife to cut down the center lengthwise before adding toppings of choice.

Recipe Notes

You may wrap a damp paper towel around the potato as it cooks to prevent hard spots from forming. As long as you do not overcook, these hard spots will not occur.
Expert tip: Use an oven mitt to remove from the microwave after cooking. It will be steaming hot!
Store leftovers in plastic wrap or an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat as needed in the microwave.

Delicious Fillings and Favorite Toppings for Sweet Potatoes

Add a pat of butter, along with a sprinkle of cinnamon and brown sugar.
Maple syrup is a delicious indulgent treat.
Smear your favorite nut butter into the center.
A little olive oil or butter with a sprinkling of salt is simple and delish.
Go the classic route! Add shredded cheese, sour cream and chives.
Check out this Stuffed Sweet Potato Recipe for a bunch of stuffing and topping ideas that will fill you up! Hint: black beans, chicken and shredded chicken included!

Baking sheet filled with roasted sweet potatoes.

How Long Do Cooked Sweet Potatoes Last

If you have leftovers and you are wondering whether to toss or eat.. read this article for information about how long cooked sweet potatoes last, and so much more!

What To Serve With Sweet Potatoes

In need of ideas about what to serve alongside this tasty orange food? Check out this roundup of 20 delicious ideas: what to serve with sweet potatoes.

Is The Skin of a Sweet Potato Edible

As long as the skin of the potato is washed thoroughly before consuming, it is 100% edible. In fact, sweet potato peels are nutritious, containing fiber, vitamin C, antioxidants and potassium.

The Difference Between Sweet Potatoes and Yams

I was confused for so many years after cutting into a sweet potato only to find white potatoes! Was it really a sweet potato or was it a yam? It is rare to find an actual yam in a U.S. grocery store. What you are seeing when you go to the store are two varieties of sweet potatoes.

The label “yam” at the store is actually a sweet potato with brown skin with a deep shade of orange inside. What is labeled “sweet potato” at the store is a sweet potato with lighter skin and also lighter flesh. This variety is more firm in texture and not as fluffy when cooked.

When you purchase sweet potatoes for this recipe, you will want to purchase the “yam” variety! No more potato confusion, phew!

FAQ About Sweet Potatoes

Can sweet potatoes be eaten raw?

Sweet potatoes can be eaten raw, but digestive issues may occur so consume with caution.

Are sweet potatoes healthy?

Sweet potatoes contain a high amount of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and weight loss. They are also rich in vitamin a, vitamin c and other vitamins and minerals. Especially the orange and purple varieties are rich in antioxidants.

Are sweet potatoes fattening?

Sweet potatoes are not fattening. They are considered a healthy alternative to normal potatoes and can help in achieving weight loss.

Are sweet potatoes keto?

Sweet potatoes are naturally high in carbs, so they are excluded from keto diet plans.

Are sweet potatoes carbs?

Sweet potatoes are considered to be a high-carb food.

Can sweet potatoes go bad?

Sweet potatoes last 4 weeks sitting in the pantry and approximately 12 weeks when stored in the fridge.

Stuffed loaded sweet potato with a fork sticking into it.

More Sweet Potato Recipes

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