Baked potatoes are a delicious and easy side dish that can accompany various meals. While they’re traditionally baked in the oven, did you know you can cook them quickly and easily in the microwave? Microwave cooking can be a convenient option, especially when you’re short on time or don’t want to heat your entire kitchen.
This guide will walk you through the simple steps to cook baked potato in the microwave. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you can whip up a delicious baked potato in just a few minutes with these easy-to-follow instructions.
Which Potatoes are best to Baked in Microwave?
Not all potatoes are created equal when cooking baked potatoes in the microwave. The best type of potato for baking in the microwave is a starchy potato with a thin skin, such as a Russet or Idaho potato. These types of potatoes have a high starch content and a low moisture content, which makes them perfect for microwaving.
In contrast, waxy potatoes, such as red or new potatoes, are not ideal for baking in the microwave. These potatoes have a lower starch content and a higher moisture content, which can result in a gummy or mushy texture when cooked in the microwave.
To summarize, choose a starchy potato with a thin skin, like a Russet or Idaho potato, for the best results when baking potatoes in the microwave.
Steps to Cook Baked Potato in the Microwave
Choose the Right Potato
As mentioned earlier, choosing the right type of potato for microwaving is important. Russet or Idaho potatoes are the best choices as they have a high starch content and a thin skin.
Wash and Prep the Potato
Before cooking, thoroughly wash the potato under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a sharp knife to poke a few holes in the potato’s skin. This will allow steam to escape during cooking and prevent the potato from exploding.
Microwave the Potato
Place the potato on a microwave-safe plate and microwave it on high for 5-6 minutes. If you’re cooking multiple potatoes at once, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Turn the Potato Over and MicrowAave Again
After the initial cooking time, use oven mitts or a towel to turn the potato over on the plate carefully. Cook for a further 5-6 minutes in the microwave.
Check for Doneness
Check the potato with a fork or knife to ensure it is fully cooked. The potato should be tender and easily pierced all the way through. If it’s still hard in the center, microwave for another minute or two until fully cooked.
Let the Potato Rest
After cooking, let the potato rest for a few minutes before handling it. This will let the steam escape and the potato cool down slightly.
Add Toppings, and Enjoy!
Once the potato has cooled down, slice it open and add your favorite toppings, such as butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, or bacon. Enjoy your delicious and easy microwaved baked potato!
Tips for Cooking Baked Potatoes in a Microwave
Here are some tips to keep in mind when cooking a baked potato in the microwave:
- Use a microwave-safe plate or dish for cooking the potato.
- Be sure to poke several holes in the potato with a fork or knife to allow steam to escape and prevent the potato from exploding.
- Don’t wrap the potato in plastic wrap or a paper towel while microwaving to avoid a soggy texture.
- If cooking multiple potatoes at once, arrange them in a circular pattern on the plate and make sure they don’t touch each other.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the potato’s size and your microwave’s wattage.
- If in doubt, start with a shorter cooking time and add more time as needed.
- Let the potato rest for a few minutes after microwaving to allow the steam to escape and the potato to cool down slightly.
- Rub the potato with a little oil before microwaving for an extra crispy skin.
- If you prefer a softer skin, wrap the potato in aluminum foil after washing and poking holes before microwaving.
Following these tips, you can cook a delicious and perfectly baked potato in the microwave every time.
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What to Serve with Baked Potatoes Cooked in Microwave?
Baked potatoes are a great side dish paired with various main dishes. Here are some ideas for what to serve with baked potatoes cooked in the microwave:
- Grilled steak or chicken
- A variety of roasted vegetables, like broccoli, carrots, and Brussels sprouts
- Grilled or roasted salmon or other fish
- Meatloaf or roast beef
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork
- Chili or soup
- Grilled or sautéed mushrooms
- A fresh salad or coleslaw
Baked potatoes are versatile and can be topped with various ingredients, such as butter, sour cream, chives, bacon bits, shredded cheese, or salsa. Consider adding your favorite toppings to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Toppings for Baked Potatoes
Baked potatoes are a blank canvas that can be customized with various toppings. Here are some popular toppings for baked potatoes:
- Butter – adds richness and flavor
- Sour cream – adds tanginess and creaminess
- Shredded cheese – adds a melty, gooey texture
- Chives or green onions – adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color
- Bacon bits – adds smokiness and crunch
- Salsa – adds a spicy kick and freshness
- Chili – adds meaty and savory flavors
- Guacamole – adds creaminess and a fresh taste
- Steamed broccoli – adds a healthy and crunchy texture
- Sauteed mushrooms – adds earthiness and umami flavor
- Roasted garlic – adds a sweet and caramelized flavor
- Grilled steak or chicken – adds protein and heartiness
These are just a few examples of the many toppings that can enhance the flavor and texture of a baked potato. Make your combinations and see what you like!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does it take to cook baked potatoes in microwave?
Cooking time for baked potatoes in the microwave can vary depending on the size and wattage of your microwave. Generally, a medium-sized potato takes 5-6 minutes to cook on high in the microwave.
If you’re cooking multiple potatoes at once, you may need to increase the cooking time accordingly. It’s important to poke holes in the potato with a fork or knife before microwaving to allow steam to escape and prevent the potato from exploding.
To ensure the potato is fully cooked, check it with a fork or knife – it should be tender and easily pierced all the way through.
How to get crispy skin by cooking baked potato in the microwave?
To get a crispy skin when cooking a baked potato in the microwave, you can rub a little oil on the potato before microwaving. This will help the skin to crisp up and turn golden brown.
You can also place the potato directly on the microwave turntable, without a plate, to help the skin get crispy. Be sure to poke holes in the potato with a fork or knife before microwaving to allow steam to escape and prevent the potato from exploding.
How to Prep Microwave Baked Potatoes?
The steps to prep microwave baked potatoes include washing the potato, poking holes in it, rubbing oil on it (optional), and cooking it in the microwave on high for 5-6 minutes.
How to cook more than one potato in a microwave?
To cook more than one potato in a microwave, you can arrange them in a circle on a microwave-safe plate, leaving some space between them. Microwave the potatoes on high for 5-6 minutes, flip them over and microwave for 3-5 minutes or until tender and easily pierced with a fork or knife.
If you’re cooking many potatoes, you may need to increase the cooking time accordingly. It’s important to poke holes in each potato with a fork or knife before microwaving to allow steam to escape and prevent them from exploding.
How long do 2 potatoes takes to cook in the microwave?
Two medium-sized potatoes take around 7-10 minutes to cook in the microwave on high, with holes poked to prevent them from exploding, until tender and easily pierced with a fork or knife.
Can you cook a raw potato in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook a raw potato in the microwave. It’s important to poke holes in the potato with a fork or knife before microwaving to allow steam to escape and prevent the potato from exploding. Microwave the potato on high for 5-6 minutes, then check it with a fork or knife to see if it is tender and fully cooked. If not, continue microwaving in 1-2 minute intervals until it is fully cooked.
How do you microwave a potato without it exploding?
To microwave a potato without it exploding, you should poke several holes in the potato with a fork or knife before microwaving. This allows steam to escape and prevents pressure from building up inside the potato, which can cause it to explode.
Additionally, it’s important not to wrap the potato in aluminum foil, as this can also cause it to explode. Finally, make sure to cook the potato on high for the appropriate time based on its size and your microwave’s wattage, checking it periodically to ensure it is fully cooked.
How to store potatoes cooked in microwave?
To store potatoes cooked in the microwave, allow them to cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’d like to store them for longer, you can freeze them for 2-3 months. When reheating, you can either microwave them again or reheat them in the oven.
Can I freeze baked potatoes cooked in microwave?
Yes, you can freeze baked potatoes cooked in the microwave. Once the potatoes have cooled to room temperature, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. You can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. You can microwave or reheat them in the oven when reheating.
Is Baked Potato better in oven or microwave?
It is generally agreed that a baked potato is better when cooked in the oven, as it results in a crispier skin and fluffier texture. However, cooking a baked potato in the microwave is quicker and more convenient.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and your time to cook. If you have the time and prefer a crispy skin, the oven is the way. But the microwave can still produce a tasty baked potato if you’re short on time.
Are microwaved baked potatoes healthy?
Microwaved baked potatoes can be healthy, as potatoes are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. However, it’s important to avoid adding unhealthy toppings like butter, sour cream, or bacon bits, which can increase the calorie and fat content of the potato.
Instead, try topping your microwaved baked potato with healthier options like steamed vegetables, salsa, or a small amount of low-fat cheese. Additionally, microwaving potatoes can cause them to lose some of their nutrient content, so it’s a good idea to incorporate other sources of vitamins and minerals into your diet.
Do baked potatoes cook faster with or without foil?
Baked potatoes cook faster without foil because the foil can block some of the heat from reaching the potato, slowing the cooking process. Wrapping a potato in foil can also trap steam and moisture, resulting in a softer, less crispy skin. Therefore, if you want a faster cooking time and a crispier skin, it’s better to bake potatoes without foil.
Wrapping up
In conclusion, cooking a baked potato in the microwave is a quick and easy way to enjoy this classic dish. Following the proper preparation and cooking steps, you can have a delicious baked potato in just a few minutes.
Remember to poke holes in the potato to prevent it from exploding and to add toppings of your choice to make the dish even more enjoyable.
While it may not be as crispy as an oven-baked potato, a microwaved baked potato is still a tasty and convenient option for a quick meal or snack.