The Quickest and Easiest Method to Microwave a Sweet Potato

If you're a fan of sweet potatoes but pressed for time, microwaving them is your best bet. It drastically reduces the cooking time by 45 to 55 minutes. Plus, as a 2018 study shows, microwaving helps retain more nutrients in the potato. All cooking methods lead to some nutrient loss, but the faster the cooking, the more nutrients your sweet potato keeps. For instance, microwaving a sweet potato preserves significantly more nutrients like folate and vitamins A and C compared to boiling it. Keep reading to learn how to microwave a sweet potato.

How Long to Microwave Sweet Potatoes for Perfect Results

Since sweet potatoes come in all shapes and sizes, there's no universal cooking time. As a general rule, one sweet potato takes about five minutes to cook in the microwave, with an additional two minutes for each extra potato.

How to Microwave Sweet Potatoes

There's no need to wrap your sweet potato in plastic or a towel—its skin acts as its natural jacket, keeping it safe.

Instructions

1. Wash sweet potatoes under running water using a produce brush, then pat dry.
2. Use a fork to pierce the skin of each sweet potato 5-6 times.
3. Place the sweet potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and cook for 5-10 minutes—five minutes for one potato and two extra minutes for each additional potato. Remember to rotate them halfway through the cooking time.
4. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the sweet potatoes. If it goes in easily, they're ready. If not, continue microwaving them in one-minute intervals until soft.

How Can I Tell When a Sweet Potato Is Fully Cooked?

You’ll know your microwaved sweet potato is ready when a fork easily slides through both the skin and flesh. Alternatively, use a knife to cut into the potato—if it glides into the center effortlessly, your sweet potato is done. If you prefer not to pierce or cut your sweet potato, gently squeeze it on both sides. If the potato yields slightly and feels soft, it’s time to enjoy it.

Toppings for Sweet Potatoes

The choice of toppings for your microwaved sweet potato is entirely up to you. A simple yet satisfying option is a dollop of salted butter paired with freshly ground black pepper. For a fall-inspired twist, try a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg, or top it with shredded coconut and toasted pecans. If you prefer savory toppings, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese, seasoned black beans, or a spoonful of protein-packed Greek yogurt.

Bonus Sweet Potato Recipes

Microwaving sweet potatoes goes beyond just cooking them in their skin! Try these quick and easy microwave-friendly sweet potato side dishes, ready in less than 10 minutes.

1. Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients

• One or more sweet potatoes
• Unsalted butter
• Salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the sweet potatoes in the microwave according to the instructions above.
2. Cut the potatoes in half using a knife.
3. Scoop out the flesh into a bowl, and mash it with butter and salt using a potato masher or simply a fork. For a more rustic feel, keep the skins on, which also adds extra nutrients.

2. Crispy Sweet Potato Chips

Ingredients

• One or more sweet potatoes
• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Cut a circle of parchment paper to fit your microwave-safe plate, then lightly coat the paper with cooking spray.
2. Thinly slice a sweet potato, ideally using a mandolin (an adjustable blade slicer).
3. Arrange one-quarter of the potato slices in a single layer on the parchment paper. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Microwave on high for 4 minutes, then check for crispiness.
5. Continue microwaving in 30-second increments until the slices are crisp. Repeat this process with the remaining potato slices, salt, and pepper.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is there any distinction between "baking," "cooking," or "steaming" sweet potatoes in the microwave?

  No, there is no difference in this context. These terms all describe the same basic process of cooking sweet potatoes in the microwave.

• Can I microwave sweet potatoes that are cut into pieces?

  Yes, you can microwave sweet potato pieces. For best results, cut them into uniform sizes, like one-inch cubes. Lay the cubes in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate and loosely cover with a dry paper towel. Microwave on high for about 3 minutes, then test for doneness by poking them with a fork. If the fork slides in easily, they’re ready. If not, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until they’re soft enough for your liking.

• Is it possible to overcook a sweet potato in the microwave?

  Yes, sweet potatoes can be overcooked in the microwave. Signs that your potato is overdone include a dry exterior and a soggy interior. To avoid this, cook your sweet potato for around five minutes, then check it. If it’s not fully cooked, microwave it for 30-second intervals until it’s tender to your liking.

• Should I pierce the sweet potato before microwaving it?

  Yes, you should prick your sweet potato all over with a knife or fork before microwaving. This step allows steam to escape during cooking and prevents the potato from potentially bursting in the microwave.