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Perfectly Baked Sweet Potatoes

Fluffy, caramelized sweet potatoes with crispy skin that make the perfect base for family dinners with minimal preparation and hands-off cooking.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium sweet potatoes (6-8 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • Optional toppings: butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, or marshmallows

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Scrub the sweet potatoes under cold running water, removing any dirt or blemishes. Pat them completely dry with paper towels. Using a fork, pierce each sweet potato 8-10 times all over.
  2. Rub each sweet potato with olive oil, coating the entire surface. Sprinkle coarse salt evenly over each potato, gently pressing it into the skin.
  3. Place the prepared sweet potatoes directly on the middle oven rack, leaving space between each one for proper air circulation. Position a baking sheet on the lower rack to catch any drips.
  4. Bake for 45-60 minutes, depending on size. Medium potatoes typically need 45-50 minutes, while larger ones require up to an hour. They're done when they feel soft when gently squeezed and you can easily pierce them with a knife.
  5. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep slit lengthwise down the center of each potato. Gently push the ends toward the center to create an opening that fluffs the flesh naturally.

Notes

Pierce the skin 8-10 times to prevent bursting. Don't wrap in foil as it creates steamed rather than baked results. Let cool for 5 minutes before cutting open. Can substitute avocado oil for olive oil. Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat in microwave for 1-2 minutes or in 350°F oven for 10 minutes.