How Long to Cook a Jacket Potato in the Microwave | Quick & Easy Guide
Introduction: Jacket Potatoes Made Fast
Craving a fluffy, comforting jacket potato but short on time? Cooking a jacket potato in the microwave is the quickest way to enjoy this classic British comfort food. In under 10 minutes, you can have a soft, steaming spud ready for your favourite fillings — no oven required. Perfect for busy days, quick lunches, or solo dinners.
Why Microwave a Jacket Potato?
- ⚡ Ready in minutes – Perfect for when you’re in a rush
- 🥔 Soft and fluffy inside – Just like oven-baked
- 🔥 Optional crispy skin – Finish in the oven or air fryer if desired
- 💡 Energy-efficient – Uses less power than traditional baking
How Long to Microwave a Jacket Potato?
| Potato Size | Cooking Time (Microwave 800W–1000W) |
|---|---|
| Small (150–200g) | 4–5 minutes |
| Medium (250–300g) | 6–7 minutes |
| Large (350–450g) | 8–10 minutes |
⏱️ Tip: Always start with less time and check — you can always add more.
How to Microwave a Jacket Potato – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prep the Potato
- Wash and scrub the potato clean
- Dry thoroughly with kitchen paper
- Prick all over with a fork to prevent it from bursting
- Place on a microwave-safe plate
Step 2: Microwave
- Microwave on full power for the recommended time
- Turn the potato halfway through for even cooking
- Check doneness by inserting a knife or skewer — it should glide in easily
Step 3: Optional – Crisp the Skin
- If you prefer crispy skin, brush with a little oil and bake in a hot oven or air fryer at 200°C for 10–15 minutes after microwaving
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Butter, salt, pepper, and grated cheese
- Healthy: Cottage cheese and chives or tuna and sweetcorn
- Hearty: Baked beans and cheddar, or chilli con carne
- Fresh: Coleslaw, avocado, or crispy salad toppings
Microwaving Tips for Success
- Don’t wrap in foil — the microwave can’t penetrate it
- For extra moisture, cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or bowl
- Microwave two potatoes side-by-side, increasing total cook time by 2–3 minutes
- Rotate potatoes if your microwave doesn’t have a turntable
Storage and Reheating
- Store cooked potatoes in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat in microwave for 2–3 minutes or slice and pan-fry for a crispy twist
- Not ideal for freezing whole due to texture changes, but great for mashed or scooped fillings
Conclusion
Microwaving a jacket potato is a fast, fuss-free way to enjoy this British classic. In just 5 to 10 minutes, you can have a soft, steamy potato ready for all your favourite toppings. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prepping, it’s a satisfying option when time is short but comfort is calling.