Microwave Baked Potato: 12-Minute Dinner Hack for Crispy, Fluffy Perfection
Microwave Baked Potato: A Lightning-Fast Dinner & Side Dish
Ready for a speedy, fluffy microwave baked potato that tastes like it was slow-roasted? This classic American comfort food hack transforms a single russet potato into a tender, flavor-packed side dish in just 12 minutes. It’s the ultimate quick dinner solution or easy side for busy weeknights.
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Ingredients for Your Microwave Baked Potato
- 1 large russet potato
How to Cook the Perfect Microwave Baked Potato
- Wash and scrub the russet potato thoroughly under running water. Pat dry. Tip: Scrubbing removes dirt for a crisper skin.
- Use a fork to poke 6–8 holes all around the potato. This releases steam and prevents bursting.
- Place the potato on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high power for 5 minutes.
- Flip the potato with tongs, then microwave for an additional 5–7 minutes until tender. Check doneness by inserting a fork: it should slide in easily.
- Carefully remove the hot potato from the microwave. Let it rest for 2 minutes for even cooking.
- Slice the top open and fluff the interior with a fork. Tip: Top with butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, or your favorite mix-ins.
Pro Tips for Crispy Skin and Fluffy Interior
- Oil & salt rub: Coat the potato in olive oil and a pinch of sea salt before microwaving for more flavor.
- Steam cover: Place a damp paper towel over the potato to trap steam for softer skin.
- Broiler finish: After microwaving, pop it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes to crisp the skin.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 368 kcal | Carbs: 39 g | Protein: 9 g | Fat: 20 g | Fiber: 3 g | Cholesterol: 54 mg | Sodium: 203 mg
Why You’ll Love This Microwave Baked Potato
- Ultra-fast prep in under 12 minutes
- No oven required—perfect for small kitchens
- Customizable toppings for endless variety
- A comforting, budget-friendly side or main
From last-minute dinners to dorm-room cooking, this microwave baked potato delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy your fluffy, tender microwave baked potato anytime you crave a quick comfort food!
Microwave Baked Potato
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and scrub the russet potato thoroughly under running water. Pat dry. Tip: Scrubbing removes dirt for a crisper skin.
- Use a fork to poke 6–8 holes all around the potato. This releases steam and prevents bursting.
- Place the potato on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high power for 5 minutes.
- Flip the potato with tongs, then microwave for an additional 5–7 minutes until tender. Check doneness by inserting a fork: it should slide in easily.
- Carefully remove the hot potato from the microwave. Let it rest for 2 minutes for even cooking.
- Slice the top open and fluff the interior with a fork. Tip: Top with butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, or your favorite mix-ins.
