Microwaving Steamed Potatoes: How Long Does It Take?

Cooking potatoes in the microwave is a quick and easy way to get delicious, fluffy spuds in a fraction of the time it would take to bake them in the oven. The cooking time will depend on the wattage of your microwave and the number of potatoes you're cooking, but generally, you'll have perfectly tender potatoes in around 10 minutes. So, if you're short on time or patience, read on to find out how to cook the perfect microwaved potatoes.

How to prepare potatoes for microwaving

Preparing potatoes for microwaving is simple and quick. First, select your potato of choice. Russet potatoes are a popular choice for baking in the microwave as they have thick skin that crisps up nicely, and their insides are super starchy, resulting in a fluffy filling. However, you can use any starchy potato, including sweet potatoes.

Next, you'll need to give the potato a good scrub under cool running water, using a vegetable brush or your hands to remove any dirt, especially if you plan on eating the skin. Dry the potato with paper towels. Then, use a fork to prick the potato all over, creating steam vents, which will give the potato a fluffy texture and prevent it from exploding in the microwave.

Now your potato is ready for the microwave! Place the potato on a microwave-safe plate or container and cook on high power. The cooking time will depend on the size of the potato and the power of your microwave. As a guide, a large russet potato will take around 10 minutes in total, microwaving for 5 minutes on each side. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time depending on your microwave's power.

To check if the potato is done, remove it from the microwave using tongs and insert a small sharp knife or fork into the centre. If there is no resistance, your potato is ready! If it's not quite done, continue microwaving in 1-minute increments until it's cooked through.

Once your potato is cooked, let it cool for a couple of minutes before handling. Then, split it down the middle and add your desired toppings, such as butter, salt, pepper, sour cream, or cheese.

Microwaving potatoes is a quick and convenient way to enjoy a delicious, fluffy baked potato without having to wait for the oven to preheat.

How long to microwave a potato for

Microwaving a potato is a quick and easy way to cook this starchy staple. The cooking time will depend on the wattage of your microwave, the size of the potato, and the number of potatoes being cooked.

For example, a 1000-watt microwave will take around 5-6 minutes to cook a potato that has been cut in half lengthwise. If you are using a lower wattage microwave, you may need to add an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

When cooking multiple potatoes, it is best to use potatoes that are roughly the same size so they cook at the same rate. However, this technique is not very fussy, and if a smaller potato gets cooked a little longer, it will not be a problem.

For a single potato, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cook at full power for 5 minutes. Flip the potato over and then cook for an additional 3 minutes. If the potato is not fork-tender, continue to cook in 1-minute increments until it is done to your liking.

For two or more potatoes, the process is similar. Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and cook at full power for 5 minutes. Flip the potatoes and then cook for an additional 5 minutes. Check to see if the potatoes are fork-tender, and if not, continue to cook in 1-minute increments.

It is important to note that before cooking, the potatoes should be washed thoroughly and pricked with a fork to create steam vents. This will help to prevent a potential explosion in your microwave.

Microwaving potatoes is a convenient and fast way to cook them, and they can be used in a variety of dishes such as soups, stews, and meal prep for the week.

How to avoid a potato explosion

Cooking potatoes in the microwave is a great way to save time and preserve nutrients. However, it's important to take precautions to avoid a potential potato explosion. Here are some detailed instructions on how to prevent this from happening:

Choose the Right Potato

Select medium-starch potatoes, such as Yukon or new potatoes, which are known for their high moisture content. These varieties are less prone to becoming stiff and are more reliable when it comes to microwave cooking.

Prepare the Potato

Wash the potato thoroughly, especially if you plan on eating the skin. Use a vegetable brush or your fingers to scrub it under cool running water. This step ensures that you remove any dirt or residue. Once cleaned, pat the potato dry with a paper towel.

Prick the Potato

This is a crucial step to prevent explosions. Use a fork to prick the potato all over, creating steam vents. This simple action allows steam to escape, reducing the risk of a buildup that could lead to an explosion. Make sure to prick the potato deeply and on all sides, not just a couple of times.

Microwave Safely

Place the potato in a microwave-safe container, such as a glass or ceramic bowl. Avoid using plastic wrap or plastic storage bags, as they might melt. Cover the container with a microwave-safe lid, leaving the knob lifted to allow steam to escape. Alternatively, use a microwave steamer designed for cooking potatoes.

Monitor Cooking Time

The cooking time will depend on the size of your potato and the power of your microwave. Start by microwaving on high power for 4-7 minutes, depending on the size of the potato. Then, use tongs to turn the potato over and continue microwaving for another few minutes. Check the potato for doneness by inserting a sharp knife or fork into the center. If it slides in easily with little to no resistance, your potato is ready. If not, continue microwaving in 30-second to 1-minute intervals until done.

Handle with Care

Always use tongs or oven mitts when handling the potato, as it will be hot. Let the potato sit for a couple of minutes after removing it from the microwave to allow it to cool slightly and for the steam to escape. Then, carefully split the potato down the middle and enjoy!

By following these steps, you can safely cook potatoes in the microwave without worrying about explosions. Remember, the pricking step is essential to release steam and prevent pressure buildup, so don't skip it!

How to get crispy skin

To get crispy skin on your microwaved potatoes, there are a few methods you can try:

Method 1:

• Wash the potatoes and poke holes in them with a fork. This is an important step to create steam vents and prevent explosions.
• Dredge the moist potatoes in kosher salt, ensuring the entire surface is covered in a dense layer. Don't worry about the salt making your potatoes too salty; you can brush off most of it after cooking. The salt will draw out moisture and be heated to a higher temperature than the potato, helping to create a crispy skin.
• Place the potatoes in the microwave and cook on high for about 10 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on your microwave and the size and number of potatoes, so adjust as needed.
• Once the skin begins to separate from the potato and you feel the meat start to fracture when gently squeezed, remove the potatoes from the microwave and let them rest for 3-4 minutes. This allows the heat to dissipate evenly and ensures a fluffy interior.
• Brush off any excess salt, and your potatoes are ready to serve!

Method 2:

• Wash the potatoes and pat them dry.
• Pierce the potatoes 3-4 times with a fork.
• Place the potatoes on a heatproof plate and microwave for about 7 minutes, turning them halfway through. If your potatoes are not fork-tender, continue microwaving in 1-minute increments.
• Before serving, massage the potatoes with a little bit of oil to help achieve a crispy skin.
• Split the potatoes down the middle, season with salt and pepper, and top with butter.

General Microwave Potato Tips:

• Cooking times will vary depending on the size of your potatoes and the power of your microwave.
• For faster cooking, cut the potatoes into smaller pieces, especially if you are cooking larger potatoes.
• To check if your potatoes are done, insert a small sharp knife or fork into the centre. If there is no resistance, they are ready.
• Microwaving potatoes can significantly reduce cooking time compared to boiling or baking, and it also helps to preserve nutrients and colour.

How to store and reheat microwaved potatoes

Storing Microwaved Potatoes

To store microwaved potatoes, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. Refrigerate them and make sure to eat them within 3 to 4 days.

Reheating Microwaved Potatoes

In the Oven

The best way to reheat a microwaved potato is in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F and let the potato reach room temperature. Place the potato on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potato is heated through.

In the Microwave

If you're short on time, you can also reheat a microwaved potato in the microwave. Cut the potato in half, place it in a microwave-safe dish, and cover each half with a damp paper towel. Heat for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the potato is heated through. However, this method may result in dried-out potatoes.

On the Stovetop

Another quick and easy method is to reheat the potato on the stovetop. Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cut the potato in half and place the cut sides down in the pan. Cover with a lid and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. Once heated, remove the lid and flip the potato to crisp up all sides.

In an Air Fryer

Reheating a microwaved potato in an air fryer will ensure it gets crispy. Set the air fryer to 350-400°F and heat the potato for 3 to 4 minutes, or until hot. However, depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cut the potato into smaller pieces and cook it in batches.

On the Grill

If you're firing up the grill, you can also reheat your microwaved potatoes. Wrap them in foil and place them on the grill, ideally at around 400°F. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, rotating them halfway through.

Frequently asked questions