After a long and tiring day, waiting an hour to prepare dinner is the last thing most of us want. When time is short but comfort food is calling, the humble potato can be a lifesaver–especially if you know how to speed up the process. If you want to know how to cook a delicious baked potato in the microwave, you are in for a treat.
Microwave-baked potatoes are quick, simple, and surprisingly tasty. A microwave, one potato, and pantry staples can help you create a tasty, satisfying side dish or meal within 10 minutes. No fuss, no oven required, just good, real food.
Why Choose Microwave Methods?
These potatoes, especially those with a crispy outer skin and a slow-cooked flavor, are undoubtedly delicious. However, they can take between 45 minutes and over an hour to prepare. The microwave-based alternative is quicker and can produce the same results, particularly when it’s topped or used as part of a meal.
The microwave method works well for those who need to cook quickly on a weeknight, but also for anyone who has limited access in the kitchen. Cleaning up is a breeze.
Microwave Baked Potatoes Made Easy: The Foolproof Method
Here’s the best way to make a perfect baked potato in microwave, with a fluffy inside and skin that will not turn rubbery.
You’ll Need:
- The size of the potato you use in your microwave will determine how many potatoes to cook.
- Olive oil, butter, or both
- Salt
- Fork
- Microwave-safe plate
- Paper towel, or a moist cloth
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- How To Wash And Dry A Potato
Scrub your potato clean with cool, running water. Because potatoes grow in dirt, they are prone to dirt and other debris. Then, use a towel to thoroughly dry it.
- Pierce The Skin
Use your fork and poke holes 4 to 6 times around the surface. This allows the steam to escape when cooking and stops the potato from bursting.
- Cover
Alternatively, some people wrap the potato in moistened paper towels to help keep moisture. This will prevent skin from shrivelling, especially on smaller potatoes.
- Microwave High
Place potatoes on a microwave plate. Microwave high for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, flip over the potato, and microwave for an extra 2-4 minutes, depending on size.
The average medium potato requires 7-9 total minutes.
- Test If It’s Done
Using a fork or a knife, pierce through the middle of the potato. If it slides in smoothly and the inside is soft, then it’s cooked. If not fully cooked, continue to microwave at 1-minute intervals.
- Rest
Give the potato a rest after cooking for 1-2 minutes. This helps to distribute the heat evenly.
- Flute And Slice
Cut lengthwise along the top of the cookie and use your fingertips or fork to gently fluff it. Your favorite toppings are now ready.
Toppers That Make It A Meal
The best thing about a cooked potato in the microwave dish is how easy it is to turn into a satisfying meal. It doesn’t matter whether you make it simple with a few toppings or a big pile.
Here are just a few ideas.
- Classic: butter, sour cream (or cream cheese), salt, pepper, and shredded cheddar
- Healthy: Greek yoghurt, chives (or chives), steamed Brussels sprouts, or a sprinkle of flaxseed
- Hearty: Chili, shredded chicken, or pulled pork
- Vegetarian: Black beans with salsa, avocados, and lime.
- Breakfast twist: Cheese, scrambled eggs, and a little spicy sauce
Microwaved potatoes are the perfect canvas to add your favorite ingredients.
Tips For Best Results
- Russet or Idaho Potatoes will give you the fluffiest texture. These potatoes are great for baking due to their high starch levels.
- Don’t wrap food in foil if you are going to microwave it. As opposed to ovens, microwaves don’t require foil. And it can cause sparks.
- Avoid overcrowding microwaves. If you have more than 1 potato to cook, increase the time of cooking time by 2 or 3 minutes per potato. Also, make sure that they are evenly spaced.
- Add cheese and toppings after the microwaving process to avoid soggy or cooked ingredients.
An Easy Shortcut without Sacrificing the Quality
In addition to saving time, making a microwave-baked potato makes comfort food accessible. This is an easy and quick way to prepare dinner for you or your family without sacrificing quality or nutrition.
There are many different tastes and textures of potatoes. They are also naturally gluten-free. Add healthy toppings and you have a meal both delicious and nutritious.
Next time you are craving something warm, filling, and quick but do not want to wait any longer, just turn on your microwave. You will be surprised by how easy and delicious it is for you to make a baked potato every time.