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Foolproof Baked Sweet Potatoes with Crispy Skin and Fluffy Interior

A close-up of a perfectly cooked baked sweet potatoes, split open to show the fluffy, bright orange interior.
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Learn the simple, foil-free oven method to achieve perfectly baked sweet potatoes every time. These potatoes have a wonderfully fluffy inside and caramelized, crispy skin, making them an easy, healthy side dish for any weeknight meal or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed clean
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).
  2. Prick each sweet potato several times deeply all over with a fork. This allows steam to escape and helps create a fluffy interior.
  3. Rub the outside of each potato lightly with olive oil.
  4. Sprinkle the potatoes evenly with coarse salt and black pepper.
  5. Place the prepared sweet potatoes directly onto the middle oven rack. Do not use foil or a baking sheet. Baking directly on the rack allows air to circulate, which helps crisp the skin.
  6. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. Start checking for doneness after 45 minutes.
  7. The potatoes are done when the skin is slightly wrinkled and crispy, and you can easily pierce the center with a fork with no resistance.
  8. Remove from the oven. Slice open the top of each potato lengthwise and gently squeeze the ends toward the center to fluff the inside.
  9. Serve immediately with your favorite simple sweet potato toppings.

Notes

  • For a savory variation, top immediately after fluffing with 1 tablespoon of softened garlic butter (mix 1 tablespoon butter with 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic).
  • If you prefer a sweeter taste, use brown sugar and cinnamon as toppings instead of savory additions.
  • This foil-free method is the best baked sweet potato method for achieving crispy skin.
  • These are excellent for quick sweet potato meal prep; store cooked potatoes in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/baked-sweet-potatoes-crispy-skin-fluffy/