Description
This recipe for Perfectly Baked Sweet Potato delivers tender, naturally sweet potatoes with a slightly crispy skin. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, baked sweet potatoes make a comforting side dish or a wholesome base for a hearty meal. Optional olive oil and salt enhance flavor and texture for perfection every time.
Ingredients
Scale
Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
Optional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the sweet potatoes evenly.
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove dirt and pat them dry with a towel, ensuring the skin crisps up nicely.
- Pierce Potatoes: Use a fork to pierce each sweet potato several times. This lets steam escape during baking and prevents bursting.
- Optional Flavoring: Rub each sweet potato with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt to add flavor and help create a crispy skin, if desired.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack for optimal heat circulation.
- Bake: Bake for 45-60 minutes until you can easily insert a fork into the center, indicating they are tender and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Let the sweet potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed plain or customized with toppings like butter, cinnamon, or sour cream.
Notes
- Baking time may vary depending on the size of the sweet potatoes; larger ones may require longer baking.
- For extra crispy skins, try baking them directly on the oven rack without foil.
- Microwaving before baking can reduce overall cooking time.
- Sweet potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days once cooked.
- Customize your baked sweet potato with toppings such as cheddar cheese, chives, or brown sugar.
