How long does it take to bake a sweet potato?

A medium sweet potato takes 45 to 60 minutes at 400°F. Larger potatoes require more time, smaller ones cook faster.

Should sweet potatoes be wrapped in foil when baking?

Foil traps moisture and results in a softer skin. For crisp skin, bake unwrapped.

Yes. A Microwave Sweet Potato cooks in 6 to 8 minutes. For best results, crisp the skin in the oven afterward.

400°F delivers the Perfect Baked Sweet Potato texture with caramelized sweetness and fluffy interior.

Baked Sweet Potato Recipe for the Best Flavor

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Simple, tender, and naturally sweet, these baked sweet potatoes make the perfect side dish—crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside.

Scale

4 sweet potatoes

Optional Toppings:

Brown sugar

Sour cream

Butter

Chives

Salt and pepper

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1. Preheat oven to 425°F.

2. Scrub sweet potatoes with a vegetable brush under cool running water and pat dry with a kitchen towel.

3. Use a fork to pierce the skin several times.

4. Place potatoes on a parchment- or foil-lined rimmed baking sheet.

5. Bake for 40 to 60 minutes, depending on size. Test doneness by inserting a knife into the thickest part; it should slide in easily.

6. Split sweet potatoes down the center, fluff the insides with a fork, and serve with your favorite toppings.

For extra-crispy skins, rub the potatoes lightly with oil and sprinkle with salt before baking.

Serve with both sweet and savory toppings—try cinnamon butter or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.