An Easy Baked Sweet Potato is the perfect dish to add to your meal prep. This recipe is simple, nutritious, and versatile, making it a favorite for both quick weeknight dinners and healthy meal planning. Learn how to make perfectly tender sweet potatoes with just a few ingredients, right from your kitchen.
Ingredients for the Easy Baked Sweet Potato Recipe:
- 4 medium-sized sweet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: butter, cinnamon, honey, sour cream, or chives
Step-by-Step Instructions for an Easy Baked Sweet Potato:
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. - Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking. - Season the Sweet Potatoes
Rub the sweet potatoes with olive oil, ensuring they’re coated evenly. Sprinkle salt and pepper over them for extra flavor. - Bake
Place the sweet potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes, until they are tender and a fork can easily slide through. - Serve
Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut a slit down the center and add your favorite toppings such as butter, cinnamon, or honey.
Topping Ideas for Baked Sweet Potatoes
The Easy Baked Sweet Potato recipe is a blank canvas for a variety of toppings:
- Savory Toppings: Add a spoonful of sour cream, chives, or shredded cheese for a savory twist. For more flavor ideas, check out our Pumpkin Banana Loaf recipe, which also plays with sweet and savory flavors.
- Sweet Toppings: Try butter, cinnamon, honey, or maple syrup to complement the natural sweetness of the potato. You might also enjoy our White Cupcakes Recipe for a sweet treat to follow your savory meal.
Why Baked Sweet Potatoes Are a Healthy Choice
Baked sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are especially high in vitamin A, which is essential for vision and immune function. Additionally, this Easy Baked Sweet Potato recipe is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense option that fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
Pair this dish with a refreshing drink like the Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria for a complete meal experience.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover Easy Baked Sweet Potato in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the sweet potatoes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave them for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
Conclusion
This Easy Baked Sweet Potato recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to incorporate a healthy side dish into your meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a meal-prep staple, baked sweet potatoes are the perfect option. Top them with your favorite flavors and pair them with other dishes, like our Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies, for a balanced and satisfying meal
