• Prep Potato:
  

  Scrub your potato under running water, prick it with a fork, then place it on a microwave-safe plate.

• Cook and Cut:
  

  Microwave for about 5 minutes, flip it over, and microwave it for about 5 more minutes. Let the potato cool for just a few minutes, until it’s safe to handle. Cut the potato lengthwise so that it opens and forms a natural bowl.

• Finish With Toppings:
  

  Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then mash the inside with a fork. Top with butter and Cheddar, then return to the microwave to melt the cheese. Finish it with sour cream and the toppings of your choice.

• How Long to Microwave Baked Potatoes:
  

  We find that this 10-minute method works well to create a perfectly tender baked potato – 5 minutes on one side, 5 minutes on the other. However, not all microwaves cook at exactly the same power. If you’ve found in the past that your microwave is more or less powerful than other microwaves, you may want to adjust the recipe by a few minutes.

• Best Potatoes for Baked Potatoes:
  

  This microwave baked potato recipe calls for a russet potato, and we think that’s the best way to go. Russets have thick skin that crisps up nicely in the microwave or in the oven. Plus, they have super starchy insides that’ll ensure a perfectly fluffy filling. Technically, though, you can use any starchy potato you have on hand.

• Baked Potato Toppings:

Classic baked potato toppings include sour cream, Cheddar, crumbled bacon, and fresh chives. You can get as creative as you want, though! Try chili and shredded cheese for a fun take on a classic comfort food, cooked pulled pork and barbecue sauce to satisfy a barbecue craving, or pico de gallo and black beans for a Mexican-inspired option.

• What to Serve With Baked Potatoes:
  

  You can eat these microwave baked potatoes as a meal by themselves. Just dress it up with toppings and you’re good to go (throw in a Caesar salad or roasted veggies to add a little color to your plate). However, many people like to serve baked potatoes as a side dish, paired with hearty meat-based entrees.