Name: Microwave Sweet Potato
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 2 sweet potatoes I used medium-sized ones

When you need a fast, no-fuss side dish, this Microwave Sweet Potato is your answer. Light, fluffy, and ready in just 5 minutes, it’s one of the easiest ways to enjoy this naturally sweet, nutrient-packed vegetable—no oven required.

Why You’ll Love It

Ready in minutes – Just scrub, pierce, and microwave!
Naturally healthy – No oil or butter required unless you want it.
Perfect texture – The inside turns soft and creamy, while the skin gets slightly crisp.
Versatile – Great as a side dish, base for a loaded potato, or mashed into sweet treats.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sweet Potatoes: Choose ones that are smooth and firm. Any variety works—orange-fleshed, purple, or even Japanese.
Optional Toppings: Keep it simple with butter and salt or dress it up with things like cinnamon, maple syrup, nut butter, or even chili and cheese.

How to Microwave Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Prep the Potato
Scrub the sweet potato thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat dry with a towel.

Step 2: Poke Holes
Use a fork to pierce the potato all over (about 6–8 times). This allows steam to escape while cooking and prevents it from bursting.

Step 3: Microwave
Place the sweet potato on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Check and Finish Cooking (if needed)
If the sweet potato is still firm, microwave in 1-minute bursts until it’s soft when pierced with a fork.

Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing open and adding toppings.

Tips for Success

Cooking more than one? Microwave them one at a time for best results.
For extra tender skin, wrap the sweet potato in a damp paper towel before microwaving.
To crisp the skin, rub it with a little olive oil before microwaving.
Size matters: A small sweet potato may take 4–5 minutes, while a large one might take up to 7–8 minutes.

Serving Ideas

Classic: Butter + salt + cracked pepper
Sweet: Cinnamon + honey or maple syrup + pecans
Savory: Greek yogurt + green onions + everything bagel seasoning
Hearty: Black beans + avocado + salsa
Kid-friendly: Peanut butter + banana slices

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap cooked and cooled sweet potatoes in foil or freezer bags. Freeze up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave in 30-second bursts or reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to wrap sweet potatoes in a paper towel?
It’s optional. A damp paper towel can help retain moisture and soften the skin, but the potato will still cook well without it.

Why do I need to poke holes in the potato?
This allows steam to escape during cooking. Skipping this step can lead to a messy microwave explosion.

Can I microwave more than one sweet potato at a time?
Yes, but increase the cook time and check each one for doneness individually. For even cooking, microwave them one at a time if they’re large.

Final Thoughts

This Microwave Sweet Potato recipe is one of the most reliable quick fixes for busy weeknights or lazy lunches. Whether you’re keeping it simple or piling it high with toppings, you’ll love how easy and satisfying this method is. Once you try it, chances are you’ll keep sweet potatoes stocked in your kitchen just for this reason.

Yield: 2