Microwaving potatoes is a quick and easy way to cook them. However, the exact cooking time can vary depending on several factors like the type of potato, size, quantity, microwave wattage and personal preference for doneness. Finding the right cooking time usually requires some trial and error. This article provides tips on how to microwave potatoes along with estimates for cooking times based on different factors.
Average Cooking Times
As a general guideline, here are the approximate microwave cooking times for potatoes:
Small Potatoes (3-4 oz each)
– 2 small russet potatoes: 7-9 minutes
– 2 small red potatoes: 6-8 minutes
– 2 small sweet potatoes: 5-7 minutes
Medium Potatoes (6-8 oz each)
– 2 medium russet potatoes: 10-14 minutes
– 2 medium red potatoes: 8-12 minutes
– 2 medium sweet potatoes: 7-10 minutes
Large Potatoes (8-10 oz each)
– 2 large russet potatoes: 12-16 minutes
– 2 large red potatoes: 10-14 minutes
– 2 large sweet potatoes: 9-12 minutes
These times are based on a typical 1100 watt microwave. Use slightly less time for a higher wattage microwave or slightly more time for a lower wattage.
Factors That Affect Cooking Time
There are several factors that can affect microwave cooking times for potatoes:
Type of Potato
– Russet potatoes take the longest to cook since they are larger and denser.
– Smaller, waxy red potatoes and sweet potatoes cook faster.
Size of Potato
– The bigger the potato, the more time needed. Cut larger potatoes in halves or quarters to reduce cooking time.
Quantity
– The more potatoes you microwave, the longer the cooking time. 2 potatoes will take less time than 6 potatoes.
Microwave Wattage
– Higher wattage microwaves (1100+ watts) cook faster than lower wattage models (600-800 watts).
Doneness Preference
– Cook a bit longer for very soft potatoes or less for firmer, al dente potatoes.
Microwaving Method
Follow these steps for evenly cooked microwaved potatoes:
1. Choose similar sized potatoes and wash thoroughly.
2. Prick potatoes several times with a fork or knife to allow steam to escape. This prevents bursting.
3. Arrange potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high until done. For more even cooking, arrange potatoes in a ring pattern with the cut sides facing inward.
4. Flip and rotate potatoes halfway through for even cooking. Tip: Place potatoes on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel to make turning easier.
5. Check potatoes at minimum cooking time by piercing with a knife to see if tender. If not, continue microwaving in 1-2 minute increments until done.
6. Allow microwaved potatoes to rest 3-5 minutes before serving. The insides will finish cooking during the standing time.
Serving Suggestions
Microwaved potatoes are versatile and can be topped or mashed in many ways:
Baked Potato Toppings
– Butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, chives
– Chili, broccoli, grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms
– Salsa, bean dip, guacamole
Mashed Potatoes
– Milk, butter, salt, pepper, garlic
– Sour cream, cream cheese, ranch seasoning
– Parmesan, cheddar, gruyere, bleu cheese
Salad Additions
– Dice and add to potato salad, garden salad, grain bowls
– Pair with tuna, chicken, egg salads
Freezer Friendly
Microwaving potatoes works well for fresh potatoes, but also re-heating leftover baked potatoes from the fridge or freezer. To freeze baked potatoes for later:
1. Fully cook potatoes and let cool completely.
2. Wrap each potato tightly in foil. Place in freezer bag or airtight container.
3. Freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen potatoes:
1. Remove foil and place potato on microwave-safe plate.
2. Microwave on high for 4-6 minutes, until warmed through.
3. Top or mash potato as desired.
Freezing lets you make ahead and stock up on baked potatoes for quick meals.
Time Saving Tips
Here are some time saving tips when microwaving potatoes:
– Prepare extra potatoes when cooking a batch to use later in the week. Refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze.
– Make baked potatoes in advance on the weekend to pack for quick work lunches. Reheat individual potatoes throughout the week.
– Cook potatoes in the microwave while preparing other ingredients like meats, vegetables, toppings. It cooks hands-free.
– Chop a batch of washed, microwaved potatoes to use in salads, soups, breakfast hash all week.
Microwave vs Oven Comparison
How does microwaving potatoes compare to conventional oven baking? Here is a side by side comparison:
| Method | Microwave | Oven |
|---|---|---|
| Cook time | 10-15 minutes | 45-60 minutes |
| Result | Cooks from inside out. Uneven cooking possible. | Cooks from outside in. More even cooking. |
| Skin | Slightly soft, may be moist | Crispy and dry |
| Flavor | Potatoes absorb less flavor | Richer potato flavor |
| Texture | Fluffy, moist interior | Fluffy and dry interior |
The microwave produces a baked potato much quicker, but the oven creates that ideal crispy skinned potato flavor. Choose the method that best fits your time constraints and taste preferences.
Conclusion
Microwaving is a fast, simple way to cook potatoes without needing to turn on the oven. Allow 7-16 minutes to microwave 2 potatoes depending on size and type. Adjust cook times as needed based on your microwave wattage, potato size and doneness preference. Take advantage of the quick cook time by preparing extra potatoes in advance to use in meals all week long. While the skins may not get as crispy as oven baking, the insides will be fluffy and tender. Refer to this guide to get perfectly microwaved potatoes to enjoy in a variety of delicious ways.