Everything You Need To Know About How Long To Cook Potato In Microwave
A microwave is a great option if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook potatoes. But, how long to cook potato in microwave exactly? And at what temperature?
The answer, however, is not always simple, as it depends on the size and type of potato. This cooking guide will provide you with the answer, as well as temperature and time. Whether you are a novice or an experienced cook, this guide is for you. Read on to learn more.
This cooking guide will provide you with temperature and time recommendations for making delicious microwaved potatoes. So whether you’re short on time or just want an easy side dish, read on for tips on how long to cook potato in microwave!
How Long To Cook Potato In Microwave
How Long To Microwave A Potato
The short answer is that it depends. It depends on the size of your potato, as well as the type. For example, a small red potato will cook faster than a large Russet potato. And a waxy potato will cook faster than a starchy one.
That said, in general, you can expect to cook potatoes in the microwave for 4-5 minutes per half a pound. So, if you’re cooking two pounds of potatoes, you’ll need to cook them for 8-10 minutes. If you’re cooking four pounds of potatoes, you’ll need to cook them for 16-20 minutes.
As for temperature, microwaved potatoes should be cooked at HIGH power. Most microwaves have a setting of HIGH, usually around 700 watts or 100%, which you’ll want to use.
How Long To Microwave 2 Potatoes
As we mentioned above, the cooking time for microwaved potatoes will vary depending on the size and type of potato.
You can generally expect to cook two potatoes in the microwave for 8-10 minutes. If they are small potatoes, start with 8 minutes and add more time as needed. If they are large potatoes, start with 10 minutes and add more time as needed.
How Long To Microwave 4 Potatoes
If you’re cooking four potatoes, you’ll need to cook them for 16-20 minutes. If they are small potatoes, start with 16 minutes and add more time as needed. If they are large potatoes, start with 20 minutes and add more time as needed.
As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to cook potatoes in the microwave for 4-5 minutes per half a pound. So, if you’re cooking two pounds of potatoes, you’ll need to cook them for 8-10 minutes. If you’re cooking four pounds of potatoes, you’ll need to cook them for 16-20 minutes.
Summary:
When cooking potatoes in the microwave, there are a few things to keep in mind.
✅ As we mentioned above, the size and type of potato will affect cook time. So, if you’re unsure how long to cook your potatoes, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and start with less time. You can always add more time if needed.
✅ Unless you’re using a pre-packaged product like microwavable mashed potatoes, you’ll need to poke holes in your potatoes before cooking them. This allows steam to escape and prevents your potatoes from exploding.
✅ If you’re cooking more than one potato at a time, make sure to space them evenly on the plate or in the container you’re using. This helps ensure even cooking.
Now that you know the basics of how to cook potatoes in the microwave let’s get into some more details.
Other Things Related To How Long To Cook Potato In Microwave
The Science Of Microwaving Potatoes
The potatoes are cooked by microwaves generated by the magnetron. These waves are absorbed by water molecules in the potato, causing them to vibrate and heat up. This process is called dielectric heating.
The water molecules in the potato absorb energy from the microwaves and start to vibrate.
This vibration creates heat, which cooks the potato. The starch granules in the potato also absorb microwaves and swell up, which makes them cook faster.
When you cook a potato in the microwave, the outside of the potato will cook first because it has more water than the inside.
This is why it’s important to poke holes in your potatoes before cooking them. If you don’t poke holes, the steam will build up inside the potato and cause it to explode.
The time it takes to cook a potato in the microwave depends on the potato’s type, the potato’s size, and the microwave’s power.
For example, a small red potato will cook faster than a large Russet potato. And a waxy potato will cook faster than a starchy one.
In general, you can expect to cook potatoes in the microwave for 4-5 minutes per half a pound. So, if you’re cooking two pounds of potatoes, you’ll need to cook them for 8-10 minutes. If you’re cooking four pounds of potatoes, you’ll need to cook them for 16-20 minutes.
Factors Affecting The Cooking Time Of Potatoes In The Microwave
A few factors can affect the cooking time of potatoes in the microwave.
1) The size of the potato will affect the cooking time. Smaller potatoes will cook faster than larger ones.
2) The type of potato will also affect the cooking time. Waxy potatoes like red potatoes will take longer than starchy potatoes like Russet potatoes.
3) How many potatoes you’re cooking at once will also play a role. If you’re cooking multiple potatoes, they will take longer than if you’re only cooking one.
4) The wattage of your microwave will also affect the cooking time. Higher-wattage microwaves will cook food faster than lower-wattage microwaves.
So, if you’re using a lower-wattage microwave or cooking larger or waxy potatoes, you may need to add a few minutes to the cooking time.
Remember these factors when you’re microwaving potatoes, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How To Cook A Potato In The Microwave – A Step-by-step Guide
Now that you know the basics of microwaving potatoes, let’s get into a step-by-step guide.
1. Start by washing your potatoes. Potatoes grown in the ground can have dirt and other debris on them, so it’s essential to give them a good wash before cooking.
2. Once your potatoes are clean, poke holes in them with a fork. This allows steam to escape and prevents your potatoes from exploding.
3. Place your potatoes on a microwave-safe plate or in a microwave-safe container. If you’re cooking more than one potato, make sure to space them out evenly, so they cook evenly.
4. Cook your potatoes for 4-5 minutes per half a pound. So, if you’re cooking two pounds of potatoes, you’ll need to cook them for 8-10 minutes. If you’re cooking four pounds of potatoes, you’ll need to cook them for 16-20 minutes.
5. Once your potatoes are cooked, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the heat to redistribute evenly throughout the potato and prevents burns.
Extra Tips:
Now that you know how to cook potatoes in the microwave, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Cut your potatoes into smaller pieces if possible. Smaller pieces will cook faster than larger ones.
2. If you’re short on time, you can cook your potatoes in the microwave with the skin on. Just be sure to scrub them well first.
3. Use a fork to test if your potatoes are done. If the fork goes in easily, your potato is cooked. If not, cook for a few minutes longer.
4. Be careful when removing your potatoes from the microwave. They will be hot! Use a pot holder or kitchen towel to prevent burns.
5. You can add butter, cheese, or other toppings to your potatoes after cooking. Get creative and enjoy!
The Best Time And Temperature To Cook A Potato In The Microwave For Different Results
If you want different results when cooking potatoes in the microwave, you’ll need to adjust the time and temperature.
For example, if you want your potatoes to be soft and fluffy on the inside with crispy skin, you’ll need to cook them for a longer time at a lower temperature.
If you want your potatoes to be soft all the way through, you’ll need to cook them for a shorter time at a higher temperature.
The table below shows the best time and temperature to cook a potato in the microwave for different results.
| Result | Time (minutes) | Temperature (degrees Fahrenheit) |
|---|---|---|
| Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside | 12-15 | 450 |
| Soft all the way through | 6-8 | 500 |
| Crispy all the way through | 4-6 | 600 |
As you can see, the cooking time and temperature will vary depending on the result you’re looking for.
Keep this in mind when you’re microwaving potatoes, and adjust the time and temperature accordingly.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to microwaving potatoes, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
✔️ Poke holes in the potato before cooking it to prevent it from exploding.
✔️ Add enough water to cover the potato and let it cook for 3-5 minutes before serving.
✔️ Use a starchy potato like a Russet potato for the best results.
✔️ Adjust the time and temperature depending on the result you’re looking for.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly cooked potatoes every time!
How To Choose The Right Potato For Microwaving
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the right potato for microwaving.
First, you’ll want to choose a potato that is small or medium in size. Large potatoes will take too long to cook through and may end up being undercooked on the inside.
Second, you’ll want to choose a potato that is high in starch content. Potatoes like Russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for microwaving.
Waxy potatoes like red potatoes or new potatoes will take longer to cook and may not get as soft as you’d like them to be.
Lastly, you’ll want to ensure your potato is clean and has no blemishes or bruises. These can affect the cooking time and the quality of your potato.
Now that you know how long to cook potato in microwave, get creative with your toppings and enjoy!
How To Cut Potatoes For Microwaving
When you’re ready to cook the potatoes, it’s important to cut them into pieces, so they cook evenly.
The best way to do this is to slice the potatoes in half lengthwise, then slice them into thin wedges.
💡 If you’re cutting multiple potatoes, it’s helpful to use a mandoline slicer or food processor to work the task quickly.
Once the potatoes are sliced, place them in a single layer on a microwavable safe plate or dish.
This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from sticking together.
The Importance of Resting Your Potatoes
Once your potatoes are cooked, it’s important to let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the heat to distribute evenly throughout the potato and prevents you from burning yourself when you bite into it.
It also gives the starch granules in the potato time to absorb more water and swell up. This makes the potato creamier and more flavorful.
So, once your potatoes are cooked, take them out of the microwave and let them sit for 3-5 minutes before serving.
How To Tell If A Potato Is Cooked In The Microwave
There are several ways to tell if a potato is cooked in the microwave.
First, you can use a fork to poke into the center of the potato.
✔️ If the fork slides in easily, the potato is cooked.
❌ If the potato is resistant to the fork or doesn’t slide in easily, it must be cooked for longer.
Second, You can also tell if a potato is cooked by its appearance.
✔️ Potatoes cooked all the way through will be soft and slightly wrinkled.
❌ Undercooked potatoes will be firm and wonky looking.
Lastly, you can use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the potato.
✔️ The potato is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 210 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Benefits Of Microwaving Potatoes Over Other Cooking Methods
There are many benefits of microwaving potatoes over other cooking methods. Some of these benefits include:
1. Quick cook time: Potatoes can be cooked in the microwave in a fraction of the time it would take to cook them using other methods.
2. No need to peel: There is no need to peel potatoes before cooking them in the microwave, which saves time and effort.
3. Easy to store: Cooked potatoes can be easily stored in the fridge or freezer for later use.
4. Versatile: Microwaved potatoes can be used in various recipes or eaten as a side dish.
5. Healthy: Microwaving potatoes is a healthy cooking method that doesn’t require oil or butter.
By considering these benefits, it’s easy to see why microwaving potatoes is a great option for those looking for a quick and easy way to cook them. So, don’t hesitate to give it a try!
Some Common Mistakes People Make When Cooking Potatoes In The Microwave
Here are some common mistakes people make when cooking potatoes in the microwave:
1. Not poking holes in the potato: This is a major mistake! If you don’t poke holes in the potato, it will explode in the microwave.
2. Not using enough water: Potatoes need to be cooked in water to prevent them from drying out and becoming rubbery.
3. Overcooking the potatoes: Potatoes can go from being perfectly cooked to overcooked very quickly. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the microwave as soon as they’re done.
4. Forgetting to let the potatoes rest: Once they are cooked, it’s essential to let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the potatoes to absorb some of the water and become creamier.
5. Not using the right type of potato: Some potatoes are better suited for microwaving than others. For best results, use a starchy potato like a Russet potato.
To avoid these mistakes, be sure to poke holes in the potatoes before cooking them, add enough water to cover them, let them rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking, and don’t overcook them.
Tips For Making Perfect Microwaved Potatoes
1. Start with pre-washed and diced potatoes. This will help to cut down on the cooking time.
2. Add a little water to the bottom of the dish you are cooking the potatoes in. This will help to steam them and make them extra fluffy.
3. Cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap, but make sure to leave a small vent open so that steam can escape.
4. Use a fork to pierce each potato several times before cooking. This will help them cook evenly throughout.
5. After cooking, let the potatoes sit for a minute or two before removing the lid or plastic wrap. This will allow them to finish cooking and prevent them from drying out.
Now that you know how long to cook potato in microwave and have some tips for perfect results, give it a try! We hope you enjoy your delicious, fluffy, and healthy microwaved potatoes!
Tips For Preventing Overcooked Or Undercooked Potatoes
There are a few tips that you can follow to prevent overcooked or undercooked potatoes. Some of these tips include:
✅ Use the right size potato: Make sure to use potatoes that are about the same size, so they cook evenly.
✅ Cut the potatoes into even pieces: Cut them into even-sized pieces, so they cook evenly.
✅ Don’t overcrowd the pot: Make sure not to overcrowd the pot when cooking multiple potatoes at once. This will ensure that they all cook evenly.
✅ Check the potatoes often: Be sure to check on them often so they don’t overcook or burn.
✅ Use a food thermometer: Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the potatoes. This will ensure that they are cooked through.
By following these tips, you can prevent overcooked or undercooked potatoes. So, keep them in mind the next time you cook!
With these tips, you’ll be able to cook potatoes perfectly every time! So, don’t hesitate to give them a try!
How To Store Cooked Potatoes
Cooked potatoes can be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
To store cooked potatoes in the fridge, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
To store cooked potatoes in the freezer, let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Label and date the container, then place it in the freezer.
When you’re ready to eat the potatoes, thaw them overnight in the fridge or cook them directly from frozen (they may need a few extra minutes of cooking time).
How To Reheat Cooked Potatoes
There are a few ways to reheat cooked potatoes.
You can reheat them in the microwave, in the oven, or on the stove.
If you’re reheating multiple potatoes, you’ll want to reheat them in the oven or on the stove, so they all get evenly hot.
The microwave is the quickest and easiest method if you’re only reheating one or two potatoes.
🔸 To reheat potatoes in the microwave, place them on a microwavable safe plate and heat them for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
🔸 To reheat potatoes in the oven, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the potatoes on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
🔸 To reheat potatoes on the stove, heat a pan over medium heat and add the potatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
When reheating potatoes, be sure to check them often, so they don’t overcook.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be a potato cooking pro in no time!
Recipes That Use Microwaved Potatoes As An Ingredient
Now that you know how to cook potatoes in the microwave, why not try out some recipes that use them as an ingredient?
Here are a few recipes that use microwaved potatoes as an ingredient:
1. Potato Soup: This creamy potato soup is made with boiled potatoes, milk, and butter.
2. Mashed Potatoes: These mashed potatoes are made with boiled or microwaved potatoes, milk, and butter.
3. Roasted Potatoes: These delicious potatoes are roasted in the oven with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
4. Baked Potato: This baked potato is made with a microwaved potato and topped with cheese, bacon, and sour cream.
5. Grilled Potato: This grilled potato is made with a microwaved potato and topped with grilled onions and BBQ sauce. These potatoes are grilled on the BBQ and make a great side dish for any summer meal.
6. Potato Salad: This popular side dish mixes cooked potatoes with mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, and other seasonings.
7. Baked Potatoes: Baked potatoes are versatile dishes that can be topped with cheese, sour cream, bacon, or anything else you like.
8. Grilled Potatoes: These potatoes are grilled on the BBQ and make a great side dish for any summer meal.
By following these recipes, you’ll be able to create delicious dishes that feature microwaved potatoes as an ingredient. So, don’t hesitate to give them a try!
FAQs
What are the best potatoes for microwaving?
Russet potatoes have a high starch content which makes them perfect for microwaving. They cook evenly and become nice and fluffy when they’re done.
If you can’t find russet potatoes, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes or red potatoes. Just be aware that these potatoes will take a bit longer to cook than russets.
Can you microwave a potato in water?
Microwaving a potato in water will cause it to steam instead of roast. This means that the outside of the potato will be cooked, but the inside will be mushy.
If you want to microwave a potato in water, it’s best to parboil it first. This means boiling the potato in water for 3-5 minutes before putting it in the microwave.
Doing this will help the potato cook evenly and prevent it from being mushy on the inside.
Should you poke holes in a potato before microwaving it?
Poking holes in a potato before microwaving it will help steam escape as it cooks. This prevents the potato from exploding in the microwave.
If you don’t have a fork or a knife to poke holes with, you can also use a toothpick. Just be sure to poke several holes in the potato so steam can escape evenly.
Can you microwave a potato without wrapping it?
Microwaving a potato without wrapping it will cause the outside of the potato to dry out and become rubbery.
It’s best to wrap the potato in foil or a damp paper towel before microwaving it. This will help the potato stay moist and cook evenly.
How long do you microwave a baked potato?
If you’re microwaving multiple potatoes, they will take longer to cook. Just be sure to check them frequently so that they don’t overcook.
What’s the best way to reheat a baked potato?
Microwaving a baked potato will cause it to become dry and rubbery. Reheating it in the oven will help it retain its moisture and flavor.
To reheat a baked potato in the oven, wrap it in foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes or until heated.
How long does a potato last in the fridge?
Potatoes are best stored in a cool, dark place like the pantry or a root cellar. If you’re storing them in the fridge, wrap them in foil or a plastic bag to prevent them from drying.
Can you freeze a potato?
If you decide to freeze a potato, it’s best to use it in a soup or stew where it will be cooked again. This will help minimize the textural changes that occur when potatoes are frozen.
Can you microwave raw potatoes?
Microwaving raw potatoes will cause them to become hard and rubbery on the outside while remaining mushy on the inside.
If you want to microwave a raw potato, it’s best to parboil it first. This means boiling the potato in water for 3-5 minutes before putting it in the microwave. Doing this will help the potato cook evenly and prevent it from being mushy on the inside.
Why do potatoes get hard in a microwave?
When potatoes are microwaved, the outside of the potato cooks faster than the inside. This causes the outside of the potato to become hard and rubbery while the inside remains mushy.
To prevent this from happening, it’s best to parboil potatoes before microwaving them. This means boiling them in water for 3-5 minutes before putting them in the microwave. Doing this will help the potato cook evenly and prevent it from becoming hard on the outside.
What is a good alternative to microwaving potatoes?
Roasting potatoes in the oven will result in a crispy, flavorful potato. It will also prevent the potato from becoming hard and rubbery on the outside while remaining mushy on the inside.
To roast a potato in the oven:
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces and toss with olive oil and salt.
3. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and tender.
Are microwaved potatoes good?
Microwaving potatoes will cause them to become hard and rubbery on the outside while remaining mushy on the inside. This is because the microwaves cook the potato unevenly.
Oven-roasted potatoes are better because they’re cooked evenly and produce a crispy, flavorful potato.
Summary
The potato is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in many ways. This blog post looked at how to cook a potato in the microwave.
The answer to the question of how long to cook potato in microwave depends on the potato’s size and thickness. For small, thin potatoes, cooking for 2-3 minutes will be sufficient. For larger or thicker potatoes, 5-7 minutes should do the trick.
Always test a potato for doneness before removing it from the microwave; if it needs more time, continue cooking in increments of 30 seconds. By following these guidelines, you can ensure perfectly cooked potatoes every time!
We also looked at common mistakes people make when cooking potatoes in the microwave. These include not flipping the potato halfway through cooking, not pricking the potato with a fork before cooking, and overcooking or undercooking the potato.
Now that you know how long to cook potato in microwave, why not try one of our delicious recipes that use microwaved potatoes as an ingredient? Our Potato Soup and Cheesy Potato Casserole are both perfect for a winter meal, and our Potato Salad is a great side dish for any occasion.
So, there you have it – everything you need to know about how long to cook potato in microwave! We hope you found this guide helpful and that you’ll be able to create perfectly cooked potatoes every time.
Happy cooking!
