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How to Bake Perfect Sweet Potatoes

Two fluffy baked sweet potato halves seasoned generously with flaky salt and pepper.

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Learn the simple method for baking sweet potatoes to achieve a fluffy, tender interior and a slightly caramelized skin. This easy oven recipe works well for weeknight dinners or holiday side dishes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium sweet potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
  2. Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
  3. Prick each sweet potato several times all over with a fork. This allows steam to escape during baking.
  4. Rub the exterior of each potato with olive oil or melted butter.
  5. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.
  6. Place the seasoned sweet potatoes directly onto the oven rack. Do not use foil.
  7. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. The potatoes are done when you can easily pierce the center with a fork.
  8. Remove from the oven. Slice open the top of each potato and gently fluff the interior flesh with a fork. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For faster cooking, you can microwave the potatoes for 3-5 minutes before baking.
  • If you prefer a sweeter flavor, sprinkle a small amount of brown sugar over the potatoes before baking.
  • These baked sweet potatoes pair well with savory toppings like goat cheese or sweet toppings like cinnamon butter.

Nutrition