To bake a sweet potato at 400°F, the typical baking time depends on the size and whether it is whole or cut:
- For a medium whole sweet potato (about 3-4 inches wide), bake for approximately 35 to 50 minutes until tender and easily pierced with a fork
- Larger sweet potatoes (5 inches or more) may take around 50 to 60 minutes at 400°F
- If the sweet potato is cut in half lengthwise, bake cut side down for about 40 minutes until juices bubble and the flesh is soft
- To check doneness, the potato should be soft enough that a fork slides in easily, the skin may become wrinkly, and the internal temperature should reach about 205-210°F
- For best results, prick the sweet potato with a fork before baking to allow steam to escape and prevent bursting
In summary, baking a medium whole sweet potato at 400°F usually takes about 40-50 minutes, while larger ones may require up to an hour. Cut sweet potatoes bake a bit faster, around 40 minutes. Always test for softness to ensure they are fully cooked.