Learn the simple method for baking sweet potatoes in the oven to achieve a perfectly fluffy interior and slightly caramelized, crispy skin. This recipe requires minimal ingredients.
Author:Kenji Sato
Prep Time:5 min
Cook Time:55 min
Total Time:60 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
4 medium sweet potatoes (about 8-10 ounces each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon coarse salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
Prick each sweet potato several times deeply all over using a fork. This allows steam to escape.
Rub the entire surface of each potato with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with coarse salt and black pepper.
Place the prepared sweet potatoes directly onto the foil-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 45 to 60 minutes. The exact time depends on the size of your potatoes. They are done when the skin is slightly wrinkled and crispy, and a fork easily pierces the center.
Remove from the oven. Let them cool for 5 minutes before slicing them open lengthwise down the center. Gently squeeze the ends to fluff the interior flesh.
Serve immediately with your preferred toppings.
Notes
For extra crispy skin, place the potatoes directly on the oven rack instead of the baking sheet, but place the sheet underneath to catch any drips.
If you plan to make twice-baked potatoes, cook them until just tender (about 45 minutes), scoop out the flesh, mix with your additions, and return to the skins to bake for another 10 minutes.
For meal prep, bake the potatoes ahead of time and store them whole in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.