Name: Microwave Sweet Potato
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Ingredients: 1 sweet potato; salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; Ground cinnamon

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something so satisfying about a perfectly cooked Microwave Sweet Potato. I remember the first time I tried making one; I was in college, rushed for time but craving something warm and comforting. It was an early winter evening, and the chill in the air made me long for that sweet, creamy texture of a baked potato. I had just moved into my dorm, a tiny space with a microwave that was practically my best friend. As I popped that sweet potato into the microwave, the delightful aroma started to fill my room. It was a simple, no-fuss meal that turned out to be a staple in my diet. Not only was it quick and easy, but it was also satisfying and healthy. In just a few minutes, I had a piping hot Microwave Sweet Potato that was ready to be devoured. The experience was proof that simple ingredients can create amazing flavors. You really can’t go wrong with this dish!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
12 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
7 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Paleo, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
1 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife

The Magic of This Microwave Sweet Potato

Quick and Easy:

What I love most about this recipe is how quick it is. In less than twelve minutes, you can go from a raw sweet potato to a delicious side dish or meal. It’s ideal for those busy evenings when you need something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Nutritious and Wholesome:

The sweet potato is packed with vitamins A and C, making it a fantastic addition to your diet. I often choose this as a go-to comfort food because I know it’s not just delicious but also healthy!

Versatile Ingredients:

With just a few ingredients—salt, pepper, a touch of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon—you can elevate this dish to another level. Each of these components complements the natural sweetness of the potato and creates a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.

Perfect for Any Meal:

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side for dinner, or even a light snack, the Microwave Sweet Potato fits the bill. It’s an adaptable dish that works in any meal plan.

Minimal Cleanup:

Using the microwave means less cleanup. You’re not heating up the oven or dirtying multiple pots and pans—it’s just you, the sweet potato, and a plate. It’s perfect for those who want to keep things simple!

Great for Meal Prep:

If you’re someone who likes to prepare meals in advance, you can easily make several Microwave Sweet Potatoes at once. They reheated beautifully, making them a great option for a quick meal throughout the week.

What You’ll Need for Microwave Sweet Potato

The ingredients for this Microwave Sweet Potato are simple yet effective. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in enhancing the sweet potato’s natural flavors. The key players here are the sweet potato, which is the star of the show, and the seasoning that elevates its taste. Together, they create a cozy dish that warms you from the inside out.

1 sweet potato – The main ingredient, providing sweetness and creaminess.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to enhance flavor.
1 tablespoon butter – Adds richness and creaminess when melted.
1 teaspoon brown sugar – Sweetens the potato and creates a nice caramelized crust.
Ground cinnamon – For a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness.

Preparation Steps for Microwave Sweet Potato

Making your own Microwave Sweet Potato is incredibly easy and requires just a few steps. It’s a delightful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable in no time at all. Follow these simple instructions to create your perfect sweet potato.

Start by washing the sweet potato thoroughly. You want to remove any dirt from the skin since this will be the outer layer that holds all the moisture in. Pat it dry with a kitchen towel.
Next, pierce the potato 3 to 4 times with a fork. This step is crucial as it allows steam to escape while cooking, preventing the potato from exploding in the microwave.
Now, place the sweet potato on a microwave-safe plate. You might want to use a paper towel underneath to catch any dripping.
Microwave the potato on high for 5 minutes. After the initial time, carefully check if it’s fork-tender. If it’s still firm, microwave it in one-minute increments until it reaches the desired softness.
Once cooked, remove the plate from the microwave (it will be hot!). Slice the potato in half lengthwise, revealing the creamy interior.
Season the inside with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can customize the flavors to your liking.
Next, sprinkle a bit of brown sugar over the potato halves. This will create a lovely sweetness that pairs beautifully with the natural flavor.
Top each half with butter. As it melts, it makes the potato even richer and creamier.
Finally, finish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for a hint of warmth and spice. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Microwave Sweet Potato.

Things Worth Knowing

Microwave wattage matters: The cooking time may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage. If your microwave is lower than 1,000 watts, you might need to add some extra time.
Softness test: Instead of using a fork to test doneness, I recommend using an oven mitt to squeeze the potato gently. If it feels soft, it’s ready!
Moisture retention: Wrapping your sweet potato in a damp paper towel while microwaving will yield a softer and silkier skin.
Alternative cooking method: For an extra moist and creamy texture, you can cook the potato in a microwave-safe container with a lid.
Piercing is essential: Always remember to pierce your sweet potato before microwaving. This is a crucial step to prevent it from exploding!

Tips and Variations

While the Microwave Sweet Potato is delicious as is, there are plenty of tips and variations to enhance your experience. Here are some ideas to consider.

Storage: Store leftover cooked sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked sweet potatoes. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to six months.
Pairing: Serve your Microwave Sweet Potato with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Flavor variations: Try adding toppings like Greek yogurt, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of honey for different flavor profiles.
Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary sprinkled on top for an aromatic twist.

What to Serve With Microwave Sweet Potato

Choosing what to serve with your Microwave Sweet Potato can elevate the meal even further. Here are some great options:

Pair with protein: Serve it alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a hearty dinner.
Vegetable sides: Complement your sweet potato with a fresh salad or steamed broccoli for added nutrients.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or a simple lunch during busy weekdays.
Seasonal flavors: In the fall, consider serving with roasted autumn vegetables to celebrate the season.
Storage tips: If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for a quick snack or reheating later.

FAQ

Yes, you can microwave multiple sweet potatoes at once, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Add a few extra minutes for each additional potato to ensure they all cook evenly. Arrange them in the microwave with some space in between to allow steam to escape.

The best way to check if your sweet potato is done is to pierce it with a fork. If it goes in easily and the potato feels soft, it’s ready! If not, continue microwaving in short intervals until it reaches the desired tenderness.

Absolutely! The skin of sweet potatoes is not only edible but also packed with nutrients. You can choose to eat it or leave it off based on your preference. If you enjoy the texture and added fiber, feel free to leave the skin on when you eat your sweet potato.

There are endless possibilities for topping your Microwave Sweet Potato. You can go classic with butter and brown sugar or try variations like Greek yogurt, nuts, or spices. Get creative and make it your own with toppings that suit your taste!

Conclusion

The Microwave Sweet Potato is a fantastic dish that offers both convenience and flavor. With its creamy texture and sweet taste, it’s bound to be a hit in your household. I encourage you to give it a try and discover how easy it is to incorporate this nutritious option into your meals. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings, and don’t hesitate to personalize it with your favorite toppings!