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Perfect No-Foil Baked Sweet Potato

Close-up of a fluffy baked sweet potato split open, revealing bright orange, mashed interior.

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Learn the simple method to bake whole sweet potatoes in the oven for a fluffy interior and slightly crisp skin without using aluminum foil.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
  2. Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water and scrub the skins clean. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
  3. Prick each sweet potato deeply several times all over using a fork. This allows steam to escape.
  4. Rub the outside of each potato lightly with olive oil.
  5. Sprinkle the coarse salt and pepper evenly over the oiled skins.
  6. Place the prepared sweet potatoes directly onto the center oven rack. Do not use a baking sheet or foil underneath.
  7. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes.
  8. The potatoes are done when you can easily pierce the center with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 205 degrees Fahrenheit.
  9. Remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before slicing open lengthwise. Fluff the inside flesh with a fork.

Notes

  • For extra crispy skin, place the potatoes on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet before placing it in the oven.
  • If you prefer a sweeter result, you can skip the salt and pepper and lightly brush the potatoes with maple syrup halfway through baking.
  • These are excellent for meal prepping; store cooked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

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