Here’s a simple, foolproof way to make a baked sweet potato that’s fluffy on the inside and caramelized on the outside:
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet potato (or more, depending on servings)
- Olive oil (optional)
- Salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Prep the sweet potato:
- Wash and scrub the sweet potato to remove dirt.
- Pat dry with a paper towel.
- Pierce the skin several times with a fork (to allow steam to escape).
- Optional: Rub a little olive oil and sprinkle salt on the skin for extra flavor and crispiness.
- Bake:
Place the sweet potato directly on a baking sheet or oven rack. Bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on size. It’s done when a fork or knife slides easily into the center. - Serve:
- Slice open and fluff the inside with a fork.
- Optional toppings: butter, cinnamon, brown sugar, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of salt and pepper for savory style.
💡 Tips:
- For faster baking, you can microwave for 5–8 minutes first, then finish in the oven for a crisp skin.
- Sweet potatoes vary in size; check them at 45 minutes to avoid overcooking.
If you want, I can also give a creative flavor twist version of baked sweet potatoes, like a dessert-style or savory herb version.
Do you want me to do that?