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Foolproof Oven Baked Sweet Potatoes: Crispy Skin and Fluffy Inside

Two perfectly cooked baked sweet potatoes, split open to show the bright orange, fluffy interior.
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Learn the simple, no-fuss method for baking sweet potatoes in the oven to achieve a perfectly caramelized skin and a soft, fluffy interior every time. This is your best sweet potato cooking method for a healthy side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium sweet potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
  2. Scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly under cool water. Dry them completely with a paper towel. This step helps achieve crispy skin.
  3. Prick each sweet potato deeply 5 to 6 times all over using a fork. This allows steam to escape during baking.
  4. Rub the exterior of each potato lightly with olive oil.
  5. Sprinkle the salt and pepper evenly over the oiled skin of each potato.
  6. Place the seasoned potatoes directly onto the middle oven rack. Do not use foil; direct heat helps the skin crisp.
  7. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes. The exact oven baked sweet potatoes time depends on the size of your potatoes.
  8. The potatoes are done when the skin is slightly wrinkled and caramelized, and you can easily pierce the center with a fork.
  9. 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 inside flesh.
  10. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For extra fluffy baked sweet potatoes, you can pierce them, bake them directly on the rack (no foil), and then wrap them loosely in foil for 10 minutes after they come out of the oven to steam slightly before serving.
  • If you are meal prepping, you can bake these ahead of time and reheat them later.
  • Try a simple sweet potato topping idea: mix 1 tablespoon of butter with a pinch of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet side dish.
  • For savory options, top with Greek yogurt, chives, and a sprinkle of sea salt.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastytipster.com/baked-sweet-potatoes-perfect-fluffy-crispy/