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The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Fluffy Oven Baked Sweet Potatoes (No Foil Needed)

A perfectly cooked, fluffy baked sweet potato split open and topped with coarse sea salt and black pepper.
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Learn the foolproof method for baking sweet potatoes in the oven to achieve a perfectly fluffy and tender interior with slightly caramelized skin. This simple side dish works for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium sweet potatoes, uniform in size
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is key for achieving a fluffy interior.
  2. Scrub the sweet potatoes well under running water to remove any dirt. Dry them completely with a paper towel.
  3. Using a fork, pierce each sweet potato deeply 6 to 8 times all over. This allows steam to escape and prevents the potato from exploding.
  4. Rub the outside of each sweet potato with olive oil. Distribute the salt and pepper evenly over the skins.
  5. Place the prepared sweet potatoes directly onto the middle oven rack. Do not use foil or a baking sheet; direct heat helps crisp the skin.
  6. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes. The exact time depends on the size of your potatoes.
  7. Check for doneness by squeezing the potato gently; it should yield easily. A knife inserted into the center should meet no resistance.
  8. Remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving. Slice open lengthwise and fluff the inside with a fork.

Notes

  • For a sweeter result, you can bake the potatoes at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 to 50 minutes.
  • If you plan to use the potatoes for meal prep, store the cooked potatoes whole or scooped out in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • To make a simple cinnamon butter topping, mix 2 tablespoons of softened butter with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of sugar.
  • If you prefer a savory topping, try a dollop of sour cream, chives, and a sprinkle of sea salt.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://frostedfancies.com/baked-sweet-potato-fluffy-oven-recipe/