How To Microwave A Sweet Potato

Food & Recipes

How To Microwave A Sweet Potato

If you want a fluffy, caramelized sweet potato but don’t want to wait for the oven, try using your microwave instead.

With over 30 years of recipe testing, I’ve found a method that gives you tender, steamed insides and crispy skins. You won’t need foil or any extra steps.

Why Microwave Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes cook in less than 10 minutes in the microwave, compared to an hour in the oven. They’re also full of vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants.

Microwaving helps sweet potatoes keep their moisture, so the texture is similar to baking. This is great for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Choose firm, medium-sized sweet potatoes (about 6-8 ounces) for even cooking. Avoid any with sprouts or soft spots.

Tools You’ll Need

Gather these basics for success:

  • Paper towels (for drying)
  • Fork (for piercing)
  • Microwave-safe plate
  • Sharp knife (for venting)
  • Optional: Microwave-safe cover or damp towel

No special gadgets required. This keeps it accessible for home cooks.

Step-by-Step: How to Microwave a Sweet Potato

Follow these steps for fluffy, hot results. Times are based on a 1000-watt microwave. Adjust as needed.

Step 1: Select and Prep

Pick a medium sweet potato (about 6-8 oz). Rinse under cool water and pat dry with paper towels.

Drying the potato helps prevent soggy skin, since too much moisture can cause uneven steaming.

Step 2: Pierce the Skin

Use a fork to poke 6 to 8 deep holes all around the sweet potato, making sure to reach the inside.

This lets steam escape and keeps the potato from bursting. I’ve learned this the hard way!

Step 3: Microwave First Round

Place on a microwave-safe plate. Cook on high for 5 minutes.

If your microwave doesn’t have a turntable, turn the potato halfway through cooking. Check if it’s tender with a fork.

Step 4: Finish and Crisp

Flip the potato. Microwave 3-5 more minutes until fork-tender (total 8-10 minutes).

The inside should reach 205 to 210°F for the best fluffy texture.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the sweet potato sit for 2 to 3 minutes so the steam can finish cooking it inside.

Slice open lengthwise—fluff with a fork. Add toppings like butter, cinnamon, or savory options.

Expert Tips for the Best Microwaved Sweet Potato

Microwaving is not only quick, but you can also adjust it to your taste. Here are some tips I’ve tested:

  • Crispier Skin: After cooking, rub with a teaspoon of olive oil. Microwave 1 extra minute uncovered.
  • Batch Cooking: Don’t stack. Arrange in a circle for even heating.
  • Power Adjustment: For a 700W microwave, add 20% more time. For example, 10 minutes becomes 12.
  • Frozen Sweet Potatoes: Thaw first, then follow the steps. Add 2-3 minutes.

When I first started blogging, unevenly cooked sweet potatoes once ruined a dinner party. Now, I always weigh them to make sure they cook evenly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t skip piercing—steam buildup causes bursts.

Avoid wrapping in foil; microwaves hate metal. Plastic wrap? Only if labeled microwave-safe.

If you overcook sweet potatoes, they can turn dry and mushy. Check them early to avoid this.

If the skin splits a little, don’t worry. It’s just a cosmetic issue. You can still scoop out the inside and enjoy.

Flavor Variations: 5 Delicious Ways to Top Your Microwaved Sweet Potato

Try these toppings to go beyond plain sweet potatoes. They all go well with the natural flavor.

Savory Southwest Style

Mash in black beans, avocado, lime, and cilantro. Drizzle hot sauce.

Sweet Cinnamon Butter

Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Dollop generously.

Cheesy Loaded

Top with shredded cheddar, chives, and bacon bits. Broil 1 minute to melt.

Thai-Inspired

Peanut butter, sriracha, green onions, and crushed peanuts.

Mediterranean

Feta, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and oregano.

Each topping idea takes less than 2 minutes to add after cooking and serves one person.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Medium Sweet Potato)

Microwaving keeps about 90% of the sweet potato’s nutrients. Here’s what you get in one medium potato:

  • Calories: 100
  • Carbs: 24g (mostly complex)
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Vitamin A: 400% DV
  • Potassium: 15% DV

Sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index, which helps keep blood sugar steady. This makes them a good choice for people with diabetes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

Reheat: Microwave 1-2 minutes with a damp paper towel on top. This revives steam. Freeze cooked halves for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight, then reheat.

FAQs

How long to microwave a sweet potato?
Medium (6-8 oz) takes 8-10 minutes on high, flipping halfway for even cooking.

Do you need to poke holes in a sweet potato before microwaving?
Yes, pierce 6-8 times with a fork to vent steam and prevent explosions.

Can you microwave more than one sweet potato at once?
Yes, up to 4 in a single layer; add 2-4 minutes total time.

Why is my microwaved sweet potato still hard in the middle?
Increase the time by 1-2 minutes, or use a higher wattage; test with a fork.

Is microwaving sweet potatoes healthy?
Yes, microwaving keeps more vitamins A and C than boiling does, so it’s a quick way to get a nutrient boost.