Microwaving baked potatoes offers a quick and easy way to enjoy this classic comfort food without the long wait. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or a hearty meal, the humble potato can be transformed with just a few minutes in the microwave and some delicious toppings. So next time you’re in a pinch for time, remember that a perfect baked potato is just a few minutes away. Enjoy!
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What do I need to make a Microwave Baked Potato?
- Microwaving is a faster alternative to baking potatoes in the oven. While traditional oven baking can take up to an hour, a microwave can cook a potato in just about 10 minutes. This method is perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or when you’re just craving a baked potato without the wait.
- Paper Towels – is a nice hack to use for making baked potatoes in the microwave
- 2 to 3 Medium sized russet potatoes
- Fork
- Salt and Pepper to Taste
How to Make a Baked Potato in the Microwave
- Damp a paper towel with some water.
- Poke some holes in the potato with a fork and pierce it a few times. Spray with cooking oil spray. Then season with salt and pepper.
- Wrap wet paper towel around potato.
- Place it in the microwave for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: To check if the potato is done, insert a fork or knife into the center. If it slides in easily, your potato is cooked. If not, microwave it in 1-minute increments until fully cooked.
- Let it Rest: Once the potato is cooked, let it rest for a minute or two. This allows the steam to finish cooking the interior and makes handling the potato easier.
Selecting the Right Potato
The type of potato you choose can affect the texture and taste of your microwaved baked potato. Russet potatoes are the best choice for baking. Their high starch content and fluffy interior make them ideal for absorbing butter, cheese, and other toppings. However, you can also use other types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, depending on your preference.
Preparing Your Potato
Clean the Potato: Start by scrubbing the potato under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Make sure to dry it thoroughly with a paper towel.
Pierce the Potato: Using a fork, pierce the potato skin several times. This step is crucial as it allows steam to escape during microwaving, preventing the potato from bursting.
Seasoning (Optional): While it’s not necessary, you can rub the potato with a little olive oil and sprinkle it with salt for added flavor and a slightly crispy skin..
Variations to try for Microwave Baked Potato
The beauty of baked potatoes lies in their versatility. You can keep it simple or get creative with your toppings. Here are some delicious ideas to inspire you:
- Classic Butter and Sour Cream: A dollop of butter and a spoonful of sour cream is a timeless combination. Add a sprinkle of chives or green onions for extra flavor.
- Cheese and Bacon: Melted cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits make for a decadent treat. Top with a bit of sour cream for a rich finish.
- Broccoli and Cheese: Steam some broccoli and layer it over your potato. Add a generous helping of cheese sauce for a comforting, nutritious meal.
- Chili and Cheese: Pour hot chili over your potato and top with shredded cheese. This combination is hearty and perfect for colder days. This is my favorite recipe for Simple Perfect Chili.
- Vegetarian Potato: Load your potato with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and spinach. Add a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Taco Potato: Top your potato with seasoned ground beef, salsa, shredded lettuce, and a dollop of guacamole for a Mexican-inspired twist.
Tips for the Perfect Microwaved Baked Potato
If you’re cooking multiple potatoes, try to select ones that are similar in size. This ensures they cook evenly.
Always pierce the potatoes with a fork to allow steam to escape. This prevents the potato from exploding in the microwave.
Allow the potato to rest for a minute after microwaving. This helps the interior finish cooking and makes the potato easier to handle.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. The versatility of baked potatoes makes them a blank canvas for your culinary imagination.
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Microwaved Potato with Paper Towel
Prep Time: 1 min
Cook Time: 3-5 min
Total Time: 6 min
Yield: 1 1x
Category: Easy
Method: Microwave
Cuisine: American
Description
Microwaving baked potatoes offers a quick and easy way to enjoy this classic comfort food without the long wait.
- Paper Towels
- 2 medium russet sized potatoes
- 1 fork
- salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking Spray
Instructions
- Damp a paper towel with some water.
- Poke some holes in the potato with a fork and pierce it a few times. Spray with cooking oil spray. Then season with salt and pepper.
- Wrap wet paper towel around potato.
- Place it in the microwave for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: To check if the potato is done, insert a fork or knife into the center. If it slides in easily, your potato is cooked. If not, microwave it in 1-minute increments until fully cooked.
- Let it Rest: Once the potato is cooked, let it rest for a minute or two. This allows the steam to finish cooking the interior and makes handling the potato easier.
Notes
Make a taco baked potato and top with ground beef, tomatoes, avocados, and cheese.
