How To Cook Potatoes In The Microwave Cubed (Guide) 2024

how to cook potatoes in the microwave cubed

Imagine the savory aroma of perfectly cooked, tender potato cubes wafting through your kitchen in a fraction of the time it takes to cook them conventionally. The microwave, often hailed as the modern kitchen magician, can transform raw potato cubes into delectable bites that are ready to elevate your meals.

Whether you’re short on time or simply seeking a hassle-free method, microwaving cubed potatoes is a culinary trick that deserves a spot in your kitchen repertoire.

In this quick guide, we’ll uncover the secret to achieving potato perfection in minutes, bringing convenience and flavor together in a microwaveable symphony. Let’s dive in and discover how to master the art of microwaving cubed potatoes to unlock a world of fast and fabulous feasting.

Why Microwave Potatoes are a Game Changer

Cooking potatoes in the microwave saves you time and hassle compared to oven baking or boiling on the stovetop. No need to wait around for a pot of water to boil or heat up the oven which can take 30+ minutes. The microwave speeds things up, reducing cook time to just 5-10 minutes depending on the size and quantity of your spuds.

Microwaving is also a healthier cooking method since you don’t need to submerge the potatoes in oil or loads of butter. With just a touch of olive oil or cooking spray, you can make microwave potatoes with a lot fewer calories and fat.

So if you need a quick potato side on a busy weeknight, or want to throw together a potato salad for a picnic or potluck, the microwave is your friend. When done right, microwave potatoes can be fluffy, tender, and full of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Microwave Potato Perfection

Follow these simple steps for microwave potatoes that rival the oven-baked version.

Choose the Right Potatoes

Go for small, uniform-sized potatoes that will cook evenly. Good choices are baby potatoes, fingerling potatoes, or small Yukon golds or russets. Avoid huge baking potatoes as they take longer to cook and often end up uneven.

Prep the Potatoes

Give the potatoes a good scrub under cold running water to clean off any dirt. Use a vegetable brush if needed. Then pat the potatoes dry with paper towels. Poking holes with a fork prior to cooking is optional and can help release steam.

Arrange in a Single Layer

Place the potatoes in a single layer on a microwave-safe dish. Overcrowding will lead to uneven cooking so make sure they have space.

Add a Touch of Oil or Butter

Drizzle the potatoes with 1-2 tbsp olive oil, butter, or cooking spray. This helps prevent them from drying out. Season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like.

Microwave 5-10 Minutes

Microwave the potatoes on high heat for 5 minutes for small potatoes, 7 minutes for medium potatoes, and 10 minutes for large potatoes. Partially cover with a paper towel or vented lid.

Allow Steam

When done, remove from microwave and let stand covered for 2-5 minutes. This steam finishing time helps ensure tender, fluffy insides.

Fluff and Serve

Give the potatoes a gentle toss or fluff with a fork. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle over fresh parsley or chives if desired. Enjoy your quick and delicious microwave potatoes!

More Tips for Microwave Potato Perfection

Use a microwave-safe dish with high sides to prevent splatter. Glass and ceramic work best.
Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar which helps potatoes stay fluffy.
Cut larger potatoes into uniform 1-2 inch pieces so they cook evenly.
Toss potatoes halfway through cooking for more even exposure to microwave heat.
Adjust cook times as needed based on the wattage of your microwave.
Add extras like garlic, paprika, cheddar cheese, or bacon bits.

So go ahead, nuke those potatoes to perfection! With the right techniques, the microwave can make quick work of preparing tender potatoes packed with flavor. Let me know how your microwave potato cooking adventures go. And don’t be afraid to experiment with extra flavors and seasoning to liven things up.

FAQs

Can I cook breakfast potatoes in the microwave?

Yes, you can definitely cook breakfast potatoes in the microwave. Just follow the same steps mentioned above for cooking cubed potatoes in the microwave. You can add other ingredients like diced onions, bell peppers, or even cooked bacon to make your breakfast potatoes more flavorful.

Are there any other potato recipes I can make in the microwave?

Absolutely! Besides cooking cubed or breakfast potatoes, you can also make mashed potatoes, crispy potato chips, or even sweet potato fries in the microwave. There are plenty of microwave-friendly potato recipes available online and on platforms like Pinterest that you can explore.

Can I use different types of potatoes for cooking in the microwave?

Yes, you can use different types of potatoes for cooking in the microwave. Russet potatoes, white potatoes, sweet potatoes, or even new potatoes can all be cooked in the microwave using the same method mentioned earlier. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of potatoes you are using.

Do I need to peel the potatoes before cooking them in the microwave?

It is recommended to peel the potatoes before cooking them in the microwave, especially if you are making cubed or breakfast potatoes. However, if you prefer to keep the skin on, make sure to wash the potatoes thoroughly before dicing them. The cooking time may vary slightly if you choose to leave the skin on.

Can I cook leftover potatoes in the microwave?

Can I cook potatoes in the microwave without oil?

While using oil adds flavor and helps achieve a crispy texture, you can cook potatoes in the microwave without oil if you prefer. Simply wash, peel, and dice the potatoes, season them with salt, pepper, and any desired spices, and microwave them following the same steps mentioned earlier. The potatoes may not turn out as crispy without the oil, but they will still cook and be enjoyable.

Are there any other potato recipes I can make in the microwave?

Can I use different types of potatoes for cooking in the microwave?

Do I need to peel the potatoes before cooking them in the microwave?

Is it necessary to toss the potatoes during the microwaving process?

Yes, it is recommended to toss the potatoes halfway through the microwaving process. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents any spots from becoming too crispy or burnt. Use oven mitts or a kitchen towel to carefully remove the dish from the microwave, give the potatoes a quick stir or shake, and then place them back in the microwave to finish cooking.

Can I cook potatoes in a skillet after microwaving them?

Yes, you can certainly cook the microwave-cooked potatoes in a skillet to achieve a crispy exterior. After microwaving the potatoes, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil or butter. Transfer the microwaved potatoes to the skillet and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and crispy. You can also add additional spices or herbs during the skillet cooking process to enhance the flavor.

How do I make the potatoes crispy on the outside?

To make the microwaved potatoes crispy on the outside, make sure to toss them with oil and seasonings before microwaving. Additionally, you can transfer the microwaved potatoes to a hot skillet with some oil and continue cooking them over medium-high heat until they turn golden and crispy on the outside. This extra step in the skillet helps achieve a desirable texture.

What are some other seasonings I can use for cooking potatoes in the microwave?

Besides salt, pepper, and paprika, you can experiment with various seasonings and spices to add flavor to your microwaved potatoes. Some popular choices include garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Customize the seasonings based on your personal taste preferences.

Key Takeaways

Choose small, uniform potatoes
Prep potatoes by scrubbing them clean and patting dry
Arrange in a single layer on a microwave-safe dish
Drizzle with oil or butter and season
Microwave for 5-10 minutes depending on size
Allow to steam for a few minutes after cooking
Fluff with a fork and garnish as desired

Thanks for taking the time to learn about cooking potatoes in the microwave! With these tips, you’ll be a microwave potato pro in no time. Enjoy this speedy, delicious side dish on busy weeknights or for easy holiday hosting. Please let me know if you have any other microwave potato questions!

Ian W. Elkins

I’m Ian Welkins, a seasoned professional in the kitchen industry. My passion now drives me to provide invaluable insights into the world of top-notch kitchen products. With years of hands-on experience, I’m your go-to source for culinary excellence.