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Foolproof Oven Baked Sweet Potatoes: Crispy Skin and Fluffy Inside

Two perfectly baked sweet potatoes, split open to show the fluffy orange interior seasoned with dark herbs.
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Learn the simple method for baking sweet potatoes in the oven to achieve a perfectly caramelized skin and a wonderfully fluffy interior. This recipe is easy and makes a great healthy side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium sweet potatoes (about 8-10 ounces each)
  • 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). You want a hot oven for that crispy skin.
  2. Scrub the sweet potatoes well under running water to remove any dirt. Dry them completely with a paper towel; moisture prevents crisping.
  3. Prick each sweet potato several times all over with a fork. This allows steam to escape during baking.
  4. Rub the outside of each potato lightly with olive oil. This helps the skin crisp up and caramelize.
  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 foil or a baking sheet, as this traps steam and makes the skin soft.
  7. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes. The time depends on the size of your potatoes. Start checking at 45 minutes.
  8. The potatoes are done when the skin is slightly wrinkled and firm, and you can easily pierce the center with a fork or knife with no resistance.
  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 up the inside.
  10. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For extra crispy skin, you can rub the potatoes with a thin layer of melted butter instead of olive oil before seasoning.
  • If you want to make these ahead, bake them until just tender, let them cool, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 400°F oven for 10 minutes to crisp the skin again.
  • Try these with cinnamon butter, sour cream and chives, or black beans and salsa for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchnkudos.com/baked-sweet-potatoes-perfect-crispy-skin/