Learn our simple, no-fuss method for baking sweet potatoes in the oven. You will achieve a perfectly cooked sweet potato with a creamy interior and caramelized skin. This is an easy, healthy side dish for any meal.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:5 min
Cook Time:60 min
Total Time:65 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 medium sweet potatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. You do not need to wrap the potatoes in foil for this method.
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water. Scrub the skin well to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
Prick each sweet potato several times deeply all over with a fork. This allows steam to escape during baking.
Rub the entire surface of each potato with olive oil.
Sprinkle the potatoes evenly with sea salt and black pepper.
Place the seasoned potatoes directly onto the middle oven rack. Place a baking sheet on the rack below to catch any drips.
Bake for 45 to 60 minutes. The exact time depends on the size of your potatoes. You know they are done when the skin is slightly crispy and you can easily pierce the center with a fork.
Remove the potatoes from the oven. Let them cool for about 10 minutes before slicing them open lengthwise.
Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Notes
For an extra sweet treat, try topping your baked sweet potato with a pat of cinnamon butter after baking.
If you are short on time, you can bake sweet potatoes in the microwave for a quick option, though the texture will be less caramelized.
These potatoes pair wonderfully with holiday main course recipes like roast chicken or ham.