3 min read
You probably associate a baked potato with the oven (it’s baked, right?), but a different kitchen appliance does an even better job. Since I started microwaving my potatoes, I’ve never looked back on the long, slow oven method. I’m a contributing analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen & Cooking Lab, and I stand by the fact that the microwave is the best way to cook a whole potato.
Good Housekeeping / Lizzy Briskin
Why a microwave works
A microwave emits electromagnetic waves that make water molecules in the food vibrate and generate heat. An oven heats the air, which transfers heat to the food through conduction, drying it out as it cooks from the outside in.
In short: A microwave generates heat inside the food. An oven surrounds the food with hot air that slowly travels inward.
Now consider the potato: It’s dense, large, and often unevenly shaped. Cooking a whole potato using convection heat in the oven can take over an hour (not to mention preheating). The microwave works much faster and preserves moisture inside the tuber for a fluffier texture.
Ovens shine when you’re after caramelization and crispiness. The hot, dry heat creates a Maillard reaction, which is the process that browns and caramelizes your food. However, this isn’t the goal of a baked potato, which is all about a soft, fluffy center. So stick to the oven for smashed potatoes and fries, but choose the microwave for creamy-centered potatoes.
How to make a baked potato in the microwave
The process for cooking a potato in the microwave is almost identical to the classic oven method (minus the waiting around). First, poke the potato all over with a fork. This gives steam a way to escape and helps prevent the potato from bursting.
Then simply place the potato in the microwave and cook on the highest power level. A medium-sized sweet potato takes five to six minutes, while a denser russet potato takes about eight minutes. I recommend cooking the potato in two- to three-minute intervals. Once a fork poked into the center of the potato meets no resistance, dinner is ready. You can microwave multiple potatoes at a time, but you’ll likely need to add a few minutes to the cook time.
Note: It will be very hot! Let the potato sit for a couple of minutes before slicing down the center and adding your favorite seasonings and toppings.
The bottom line
Next time you’re craving a loaded baked potato, step away from the oven. Instead, pop your spud into the microwave and enjoy a steaming hot potato in under 10 minutes. The inside will be moist and fluffy, and you’ll save an hour on nights when you need dinner on the table ASAP or simply don’t want to spend time cooking.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Lizzy Briskin is a contributing analyst and writer in the GH Kitchen Lab. She tests a range of kitchen equipment, from can openers to air fryers, develops recipes, and writes about her strong culinary opinions, including that sweet potatoes will always trump regular potatoes in her heart.
