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How to Bake Perfect Sweet Potatoes: Fluffy and Tender Every Time

A fluffy baked sweet potato, split open and seasoned with pepper, served on a white plate.

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Learn Leo’s simple, no-fuss method for baking sweet potatoes in the oven. You will achieve a perfectly cooked potato with a creamy interior and caramelized skin. This is the ultimate healthy side dish for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium sweet potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water. Scrub the skin well to remove any dirt.
  3. Pat the potatoes completely dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve a crispier skin.
  4. Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape during baking.
  5. Rub the outside of each potato lightly with olive oil.
  6. Sprinkle the potatoes evenly with sea salt and black pepper.
  7. Place the seasoned potatoes directly onto the oven rack. Do not use foil; this method requires direct heat for the best skin.
  8. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes. You know they are done when you can easily pierce the center with a knife or fork.
  9. Remove the potatoes from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before slicing them open lengthwise.
  10. Fluff the inside flesh with a fork and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For an extra sweet treat, you can top the baked sweet potato with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon after cooking.
  • If you are short on time, you can bake sweet potatoes in the microwave for a quicker result, though the skin will not be as caramelized.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; reheat leftovers in the oven for the best texture.

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