Craving a warm, fluffy sweet potato but don’t want to wait an hour for it to bake?
You’re not alone!
Many others get that sweet-savoury tooth while maintaining their lazy posture, and we got you all covered!
Say hello to your new favorite kitchen shortcut: the microwave sweet potato. It’s soft, fluffy, full of flavor, and best of all; it’s ready in minutes.
In this blog, we’ll explain exactly how to cook sweet potatoes in the microwave. A fast, easy, and delicious dish. Not just that, we’ll also talk about toppings, tricks, and even a few leftover ideas you’ll want to try.
Once you learn how to cook sweet potatoes in the microwave, there’s no going back.
So let’s learn it…
Why Microwave Sweet Potatoes?
Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. They’re an absolute fantastic addition to just about any meal. In fact, it is a complete meal on its own. And while many people know how to bake a sweet potato, not everyone realizes just how simple it is to make a microwaved sweet potato.
Pair these sweet potato recipes with our favorite [Easy Dinner Recipes] for a balanced, flavorful meal!
Why do we love this method? Because;
- It’s ready in under 10 minutes
- No oven preheating required
- Hands-off cooking
- No oil or complicated prep required
- It tastes amazing. It’s warm, fluffy, and full of flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need one sweet potato to get started. Yep, that’s it!
But toppings?
That’s where things get fun.
Basic Ingredient:
- 1 medium sweet potato (about 7 oz)
Optional Toppings:
- Butter (salted or unsalted)
- Cinnamon
- Honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese
- Ground cumin or smoked paprika
View more: How to Cook Sweet Potatoes Fast in Microwave (Nutritious & Easy)
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Sweet Potatoes Fast in Microwave
Let’s break it down into easy steps!
This is how to quickly cook a sweet potato without sacrificing texture or taste.
Step 1: Wash and Dry the Sweet Potato
Scrub the potato properly under cold water to remove dirt. Pat it dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Poke Holes
Use a fork or a paring knife to make several holes all around the potato. This helps steam to escape while it cooks. This prevents any messy explosions.
Step 3: Microwave It
Place the potato on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it loosely with a paper towel or another plate to avoid splatter.
Microwave it on high power for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Flip and Cook More
Turn the sweet potato over and microwave for another 2 to 3 minutes. Cooking times vary depending on the size of the potato and your microwave’s wattage. If the potato is still firm in the middle, microwave it with 1-minute intervals. Check after every 1 minute until it feels tender, checking with a fork.
For more guilt-free nibbles, explore these [Low-Carb Snacks]—though we won’t judge if you devour the whole tray of sweet potato wedges!
Step 5: Let It Rest
Let the potato sit for 1-2 minutes. This allows it to finish cooking and makes it easier for you to handle.
How to Tell It’s Done
You’ll know your sweet potato in microwave is ready when you can easily pierce it with a fork and the skin starts to pull away slightly. The inside should be soft and fluffy.
Sweet or Savory? Topping Ideas You’ll Love
Now comes the best part; dressing it up!
Make it fancy!
Here’s how to turn your fast sweet potato recipe into a flavor-packed treat.
Explore: Puff Pastry Recipes: 5 Easy and Quick Pastry Ideas
Sweet Options:
- Butter + cinnamon + honey
- Maple syrup + a pinch of salt
- Cinnamon sugar + a dab of coconut oil
- A drizzle of peanut or almond butter
Savory Options:
- Olive oil + garlic powder + smoked paprika
- Salt + pepper + grated parmesan cheese
- Sour cream + black beans + avocado
- Taco-seasoned ground beef + shredded cheddar
These variations are perfect when you want to turn your microwaved sweet potato into a full meal. The kids will love them as a meal.
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Pro Tips for the Best Microwaved Sweet Potato
- Microwave one at a time: Especially if they’re large. Cooking multiple potatoes at once can lead to uneven results.
- Check frequently: Cook it for less time at first. If it’s not soft yet, you can microwave it for a little longer until it’s done. Overcooked sweet potatoes can become dry.
- Oil the skin (optional): A light brush of olive oil makes the skin more tender and flavorful.
- Peel or don’t: The skin is edible and packed with fiber, but if you prefer peeling it off, you can do it easily once it is cooked.
How to Boil Sweet Potatoes in Microwave
Here’s another quick potato tip to make things even easier!
Can you actually boil sweet potatoes in the microwave? Technically yes!
Here’s a quick method:
- Peel and cube the sweet potato.
- Place cubes in a microwave-safe bowl with 2-3 tablespoons of water.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or wrap.
- Microwave on high for 4-6 minutes, checking halfway through.
- Drain and season as desired.
This is great if you’re making mashed sweet potatoes or adding them to a casserole.
Visit: Easy Ramen Noodle Recipes: Quick, Healthy & Homemade Ideas
What to Serve With Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are super versatile. They can be paired well with almost anything. Try serving them with:
- Baked chicken breast
- Reverse-seared steak
- Fried or scrambled eggs
- Baked pork chops
- Grilled tofu or tempeh
Or enjoy it solo with your favorite toppings. It’s that good!
Leftovers? No Problem
How to Store:
Place leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
How to Reheat:
Microwave it on 50% power in 30-second intervals until it is warmed properly. Cover it to retain moisture.
Can You Freeze Them?
Yes! Once cooled, wrap them in foil or place in a freezer-safe container. You can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Leftover Sweet Potato Ideas
Here’s how to turn the extra sweet potatoes into something new:
- Mash them: Add butter and cinnamon or make a savory mash with garlic and herbs.
- Dice and toss them into chili
- Add them into sweet potato pancakes or muffins
- Stuff them into tacos with black beans and cheese
- Blend them into smoothies for extra creaminess and nutrients
Is Microwaving Sweet Potatoes Healthy?
Absolutely, Yes!
Microwaving retains most of the sweet potato’s nutrients. Since there’s no added oil, it’s a low-calorie, high-fiber, vitamin-rich side or snack.
This method is perfect for anyone counting their calories in whatever they eat, but still craving something hearty and satisfying. It’s also great for meal prep!
Ultimately…
Learning how to cook sweet potatoes in the microwave is a total game-changer.
It’s fast. It’s easy. And it doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture.
If you’re craving something sweet, savory, or a mix of both; you can have a delicious dish in minutes. And the best part? No oven required.
So the next time you’re hungry and short on time, get your mind on this recipe. Microwave a sweet potato quickly and top it however you want it.
Once you try it, you will get back to it again and again.
Ready to Try It?
Now that you know how to cook sweet potatoes fast, give it a go tonight! A treat for you from us.
You might just discover your new favorite weeknight side; or even a full meal.
Happy microwaving!
