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Baked sweet potatoes are easy and nutritious dish with a crispy skin and a fluffy, tender interior. This easy recipe is perfect as a versatile side or a hearty base for your favorite toppings.

baked sweet potatoes with chives and butter

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When it comes to cozy, satisfying meals, we often think of mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or a hearty stew. But let’s not overlook the humble baked sweet potato! These vibrant orange spuds are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight side dish or a wholesome main course, baked sweet potatoes never disappoint.

Why I love this recipe

baked sweet potatoes epitomize simplicity, with minimal effort, you can transform these humble roots into a satisfying treat.
these spuds play well with various flavors, from savory to sweet, the possibilities are endless.
sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. They are naturally sweet, no added sugar required!

Ingredients

sweet potatoes
avocado oil
kosher salt
butter slices, optional toppings
chives, optional toppings

Equipment

large baking tray

Need more sweet potato recipes? Try our crispy sweet potato fries, roasted sweet potatoes, or slow cooker sweet potatoes with bacon.

Step by step

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Rinse and scrub the sweet potatoes to remove any dirt, then dry them thoroughly.
Using a dinner fork, poke holes around each potato. Place them onto the prepared baking tray.
If you enjoy crispy skins, rub a little oil over each potato and sprinkle with salt. You can add additional seasonings if you like.

baked sweet potatoes before cutting open

Bake the potatoes for 40-50 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. If needed, cook for an additional 5 minutes and check again.
Once the potatoes are tender, slice them lengthwise and gently spread them apart.
Serve with slices of butter, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and garnish with chives if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for best results

Select sweet potatoes that are similar in size for even cooking.
Poking enough holes ensures steam escapes, preventing them from bursting.
Give each potato enough space on the baking tray for proper air circulation.
Use a fork to check tenderness at the thickest part of the potato.
Rub with olive oil and season well if you enjoy eating the skins.

Variations

sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, or cayenne pepper before baking for a little spice
rub with garlic powder and rosemary for an aromatic twist
drizzle with honey, maple syrup, and/or sprinkle with cinnamon for a dessert-like variation reminiscent of sweet potato casserole or candied yams
top with bacon bits, black beans, for a savory option
make a sweet potato version of our favorite buffalo chicken baked potato!

Serving suggestions

These baked sweet potatoes pair well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh, Mediterranean chickpea salad.

For a heartier meal, serve them alongside a juicy steak or a flavorful chicken dish.

Storing tips

To store leftover baked sweet potatoes, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave or oven until warmed through.

For best results, avoid reheating multiple times as it can make the texture dry.

If you try this recipe please comment and rate it below, I love hearing from you!