Microwave-baked potatoes are a great option when you’re looking for something warming, comforting, and filling, but do not want to spend a lot of time cooking. Microwaves are faster and can produce a crispy skin. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a satisfying, soft potato that can be served as a meal or for lunch.
You may be surprised to learn how easy it is to prepare baked potato in microwave. Cook this humble favourite the quick way to find out what to expect.
Why Choose The Microwave?
We can’t all wait 45 minutes for a baked potato. Microwaves are an easy alternative to the oven, especially if you’re pressed for time and don’t wish to heat your kitchen. No matter if you’re an overworked student, a busy parent, or simply looking for a quick meal, the microwave method produces great results with little effort.
It’s also energy efficient. Cook your meal in your microwave instead of an oven. This will prevent your house from overheating and conserve energy.
How To Choose The Right Potato
Choose a medium-sized russet potato for the best results when cooking in the microwave. When cooked, the potato’s interior becomes fluffy and light, ideal for baking. Red and Yukon Gold potatoes are also suitable, but they will have a firmer consistency.
After rinsing, dry the potato with a towel. To prevent the potato from popping, poke holes in the skin with a small fork.
The Cooking Process
To bake a potato in the microwave, place it on a plate designed for this purpose. There is no need to wrap it in foil. Simply leave the potato bare or cover it with a wet paper towel.
Microwave on high for about 4 or 5 minutes. Then flip the potato and microwave it for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. The size, shape, and wattage of your microwave may affect how long it takes to cook. For a quick way to determine if your potato is cooked, gently squeeze both sides of the potato (with a hot towel or oven glove—be careful! The potato will still be warm). It should yield with ease without being too firm in its center.
If it still feels hard, microwave for additional 30-second intervals.
Optional Enhancements
Although the microwave method makes things easy, adding a few finishing touches can still make it more delicious. After microwaving the potatoes, some prefer to place them in a toaster or broiler oven for a few moments to crisp up their skin.
Once the potato is cooked, you can fluff the inside with a spatula. From there, you have endless possibilities. Add a pat of butter and a pinch of salt for a traditional flavor. You may add cheese, sour cream, and chives for a heartier meal.
You Decide! A Meal Or Side?
Microwave-baked potatoes can be more than just an easy snack. If you add the right toppings, they can easily become a full meal. Try topping them with steamed Brussels sprouts and cheddar cheese for an all-vegetarian main dish. Or add leftover pulled pork, grilled chicken, or even grilled turkey for a delicious protein-packed meal.
The microwave-baked potato is a good side dish if you need something quick and easy to serve with dinner. It can be served along with a soup or salad.
Great For Meal Prepping
A second advantage? You can also cook potatoes in bulk and refrigerate them to use at a later date. Reheat them in the microwave (for about two minutes), and you will have an instant meal. They are inexpensive, filling, and suitable for most diets, even vegetarians and gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
The microwave allows you to have a perfectly cooked potato in no time. This baked potato, which is soft inside, hot on the outside, and infinitely customizable, proves that fast food can still be wholesome. If you are in a hurry and hungry, the next time your stomach grumbles, just look at your kitchen. One ingredient and five minutes will give you the classic treat you love.
