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Simple Oven Baked Sweet Potatoes with Crispy Skin

Two perfectly baked sweet potato halves on a white plate, showing the fluffy orange interior of the baked sweet potato.

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Learn the foolproof method for baking sweet potatoes in the oven to achieve a perfectly fluffy interior and a slightly crispy skin. This is an easy, healthy side dish for any meal.

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 well under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
  3. Pierce each sweet potato 5 to 6 times deeply all over using a fork. This allows steam to escape.
  4. Rub the entire surface of each potato with olive oil.
  5. Sprinkle the potatoes evenly with coarse salt and black pepper.
  6. Place the seasoned potatoes directly onto the middle oven rack. Do not use a baking sheet or foil underneath, as this helps the skin crisp.
  7. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. Start checking for doneness after 45 minutes.
  8. The potato is done when you can easily pierce the center with a fork and the skin is slightly wrinkled and firm.
  9. Remove from the oven. Let them cool for 5 minutes before slicing them open lengthwise.
  10. Serve immediately with your choice of toppings.

Notes

  • For a fluffy interior, do not wrap the potatoes in foil; direct heat on the skin promotes crispness.
  • If you want to meal prep, bake the potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • Topping ideas include butter and cinnamon sugar for a sweet treat, or sour cream, chives, and salt for a savory side.
  • If your potatoes are very large, you may need to increase the cooking time by 10 to 15 minutes.

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