Learn how to bake a sweet potato! It’s easy, tasty and good for you.
A baked sweet potato is one of life’s simplest pleasures. Fluffy and sweet on its own, it only gets better when you add your favorite toppings.
And the best part? A sweet potato packs a healthy punch!
It’s relatively high in fiber and a great source of vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), vitamin C and potassium. It also contains several other vitamins and minerals.
What’s the difference between a sweet potato and a yam?
You’re not going to believe this. The tuber known as a “yam” to Americans actually is a sweet potato!
There are two types of sweet potatoes common in America – one with orange flesh and copper skin, and one with a creamy, white flesh and golden skin. The U.S. Department of Agriculture decided to call the orange ones “yams,” to differentiate them from the lighter-colored sweet potato.
True yams come from Africa and Asia and have nearly black, bark-like skin. Inside, the flesh is purple, white or reddish.
How to bake a sweet potato in the oven
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.
- Scrub the sweet potato with a brush under cold water until you’ve removed any dirt.
- Pat the spud dry with a paper towel.
- Rub the sweet potato with butter or oil, if you wish.
- Prick the sweet potato all over with a fork. The holes will allow steam to escape during baking.
- Place your sweet potato on a foil-lined baking sheet. (Oozing will occur during baking, so the foil will help with cleanup.)
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, until you can easily stick a fork in the sweet potato.
How to bake a sweet potato in the microwave
Want to quickly make a baked sweet potato? Use your microwave and enjoy the delicious results!
- Scrub the sweet potato with a brush under cold water until you’ve removed any dirt.
- Pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Prick the sweet potato all over with a fork. The holes will allow steam to escape during baking.
- Place your sweet potato on a microwaveable plate, cover it with wax paper, and heat on high for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
Sweet Potato Toppings
- Butter & cinnamon
- Brown sugar
- A fried egg
- Guacamole
- Salsa
Other Sweet Potato Recipes