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The Foolproof Guide to Perfectly Baked Sweet Potatoes

Two halves of fluffy baked sweet potatoes, seasoned with coarse salt and pepper, ready to eat.
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Learn the simple method for baking sweet potatoes to achieve fluffy insides and perfectly cooked skins every time. This guide covers the basic technique and offers five ways to serve them.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed clean
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Prick each sweet potato several times deeply all over using a fork. This allows steam to escape and prevents bursting.
  3. Rub the exterior of each potato lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with coarse salt and pepper.
  4. Place the potatoes directly on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. Start checking for doneness at 45 minutes.
  6. The potatoes are done when you can easily pierce the center with a fork and the skin is slightly crisp.
  7. Remove from the oven. Let them cool for 5 minutes before slicing open lengthwise. Fluff the inside flesh with a fork.
  8. Serve immediately with your choice of toppings or proceed to a variation recipe.

Notes

  • For a crispier skin, bake directly on the oven rack instead of on a baking sheet.
  • If you are preparing these for meal prep, allow them to cool completely before storing them whole in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • To make Cinnamon Butter Sweet Potato: Mix 2 tablespoons softened butter with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1 tablespoon maple syrup. Spoon over the hot, opened potato.
  • To make Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes: Scoop out the flesh, mix with 1/4 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and a pinch of salt. Refill the skins and bake for 10 more minutes until heated through.
  • For Baked Sweet Potato Wedges: Cut potatoes into uniform wedges, toss with oil and seasonings, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastethisplate.com/baked-sweet-potatoes-foolproof-guide/