Making a Baked Sweet Potato in the oven is so easy and comes out perfectly sweet and fluffy on the inside with this foolproof recipe.
Baked Sweet Potato
Roasting sweet potatoes in the oven brings out their natural flavor and sweetness. Using this cooking method, there’s no need to wrap them in foil. This can also be made with yams instead, they roast up perfect! If you’re trying to make them a little faster, I also love making them in the air fryer, with this Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potato Recipe – same results with less time. And if you want to make sweet potato cubes in the oven, try this Roasted Sweet Potato recipe.
Why This Works
I never used to like sweet potatoes, but now I can’t get enough of them!! Baked sweet potatoes are the perfect, healthy side dish in the fall and months. Here’s a few reasons to make them:
- Good for you! Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium. Baking preserves their nutrients, making them a deliciously healthy addition to your diet. They’re also naturally gluten-free.
- Easy: Just wash, poke with a fork, and bake—minimal prep for maximum flavor. Perfect for busy days or hands-off cooking.
- Versatile: They pair well with both sweet and savory toppings. Try stuffing them with black beans and avocado for a hearty dinner or drizzle with almond butter and cinnamon for a satisfying dessert.
- Naturally Sweet! Baking enhances their natural sweetness, making them deliciously caramelized on the outside and creamy inside, no added sugar needed.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake a batch and store them in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week. They reheat beautifully and can be used in salads, soups, or as a side dish.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sweet Potatoes (Yams also work)
- Salt and Black Pepper
How To Bake Sweet Potatoes
Here’s the step-by-step recipe. See recipe card below for more details.
- Preheat oven to 425F. Scrub potatoes and wash to remove dirt, dry well.
- On a baking sheet (lined with foil or parchment paper for easy clean-up if you wish) poke holes all over the sweet with a fork.
- Bake in the center of the oven until the sweet potatoes or tender, or until a fork inserted in the thickest part has no resistance, about 50 minutes.
- Let it cool, then split the tops open with a knife. Season with salt and pepper and add your favorite toppings.
Ways to Enjoy Baked Sweet Potatoes
- Classic: As a side dish, I like to simply eat it with some butter or olive oil on top (a little goes a long way!) or try it with coconut oil to keep it vegan and dairy free.
- Spices: For a little extra flavor, sprinkle on some cinnamon, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder or even pumpkin spice.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh chopped chives, parsley or scallions for garnish and flavor.
- Cream: Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for topping.
- Main Dish: They are also great stuffed as a main dish, topped with chili, or try this Vegetarian Loaded Baked Sweet Potato made with black beans, or this Sloppy Joe Baked Sweet Potato.
- BBQ: Top it with pulled chicken or pork and BBQ sauce.
- Chili: Top it with beef chili for a hearty meal.
Leftovers
Store leftover baked sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Are sweet potatoes healthy?
Sweet potatoes are a whole food that pack a powerful nutritional punch. In one medium potato, you get over 400 percent of your daily vitamin A requirement. They are also high in fiber and potassium and are a great source of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that gives orange fruits and vegetables their vibrant color.
Tips for buying sweet potatoes
When buying sweet potatoes, avoid sweet potatoes with soft skin or wrinkles, cracks, or soft spots. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 to 5 weeks.
More Sweet Potato Recipes
How To Bake Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425F. On a baking sheet, (lined with foil for easy clean-up if you wish) prick sweet potatoes all over with a fork.
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Bake until tender, or until a fork inserted in the thickest part has no resistance, 45 to 50 minutes.
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Let cool, then split the tops open with a knife. Season with salt and pepper and add your favorite toppings.
Last Step:
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Nutrition
Photo credit: Jess Larson