When it comes to quick and easy meals, potatoes are always a great option. And when you’re short on time, but still want to impress your family or friends with a delicious meal, the microwave can be your best friend. In this article, we’ll explore 20 different microwave potato recipes that are perfect for busy nights.
From classic mashed potatoes to loaded potato skins and crispy potato chips, there’s something for everyone in this list. And the best part? Each recipe is quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup. So whether you’re a college student looking for a meal solution or a working professional trying to get dinner on the table quickly, these microwave potato recipes are sure to become your new go-to.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these recipes in detail, including ingredient lists, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for making the most of your microwave. So grab some potatoes and let’s get cooking!
Garlic Butter Microwave Mashed Potatoes
A quick and delicious twist on classic mashed potatoes, this recipe adds a rich garlic butter flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the potato cubes in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Cook on high for 3-4 minutes, or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the butter and garlic until well combined.
4. Remove the potatoes from the microwave and add the milk, salt, and garlic butter mixture.
5. Use an electric mixer or potato masher to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
6. Cook for an additional 30 seconds-1 minute if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes total
Microwave Baked Potato with Sour Cream and Chives
In just a few minutes, you can create a deliciously warm baked potato infused with the tanginess of sour cream and the oniony flavor of chives.
Ingredients:
– 1 large baking potato
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Wash the potato thoroughly and pat it dry with a paper towel.
2. Poke some holes in the potato using a fork to allow steam to escape.
3. Microwave the potato on high for 3-4 minutes, or until it’s slightly tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove the potato from the microwave and spread the butter evenly over its surface.
5. Top the potato with sour cream and sprinkle chives over it.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Cheesy Microwave Scalloped Potatoes
In just a few minutes, you can have a delicious and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any meal. This recipe uses the convenience of the microwave to cook tender potatoes smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the potato slices.
2. Dot the top of the potatoes with butter.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the grated cheddar cheese and milk until smooth.
4. Pour the cheese mixture over the potatoes, making sure they’re all coated.
5. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and cook on high for 8-10 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
6. Remove from the microwave and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Microwave Potato Chips with Sea Salt
Looking for a satisfying snack without the hassle of frying? This recipe yields crispy potato chips with a touch of sea salt, all in just 2 minutes!
Ingredients:
• 1-2 large potatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Wash and slice the potatoes into very thin rounds.
2. Place a single layer of potato slices on a microwave-safe plate.
3. Sprinkle with sea salt to taste.
4. Dot the top with cooking spray or oil (optional).
5. Microwave for 30-45 seconds, or until chips are crispy and golden brown.
6. Carefully remove from the microwave; let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes
Spicy Microwave Potato Wedges
A quick and easy snack or side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. These spicy microwave potato wedges are ready in just a few minutes!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, cut into wedges
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the microwave to high (around 1000W).
2. Place the potato wedges in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the potatoes are slightly tender.
5. Flip the wedges and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
6. If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and microwave for another 30 seconds to melt.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Microwave Sweet Potato Mash with Cinnamon
Transform ordinary sweet potatoes into a deliciously sweet and comforting side dish with just a few minutes of microwave magic.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the sweet potato cubes in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Remove from the microwave and stir in the butter, cinnamon, and salt to taste.
4. Mash the mixture with a fork or potato masher until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Loaded Microwave Potato Skins
Loaded Microwave Potato Skins Recipe
Quickly satisfy your cravings with these indulgent microwave potato skins loaded with cheese, bacon, and scallions.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 large potato halves
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon milk or cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat microwave to high (100% power).
2. Pierce each potato half with a fork several times.
3. Place potatoes on a microwave-safe plate, leaving space between each.
4. In a small bowl, mix together cheese, bacon, and scallions.
5. Spoon the cheese mixture onto each potato half, dividing it evenly among them.
6. Drizzle milk or cream over the cheese mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and filling is melted.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Microwave Potato and Egg Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a satisfying breakfast bowl that’s ready in just a few minutes! This recipe combines the comfort of potatoes, eggs, and cheese for a filling morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the diced potato in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Crack the eggs into a separate microwave-safe bowl. Cook on high for 30-45 seconds, or until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
4. Add the butter to the potato bowl and stir until melted.
5. Top the potatoes with the scrambled eggs and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
6. Microwave on high for an additional 15-20 seconds, or until the cheese is melted.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Herbed Microwave Baby Potatoes
A quick and flavorful way to cook baby potatoes, infused with herbs and perfect as a side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baby potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Scrub the baby potatoes clean and poke some holes in each one with a fork.
2. In a microwave-safe dish, combine the potatoes, olive oil, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and microwave on high for 8-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Let the potatoes stand for 2 minutes before serving hot.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Microwave Potato Soup with Bacon Bits
This recipe is a quick and comforting solution for a chilly evening or a busy day. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious potato soup that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the diced potatoes and 1 cup of water.
2. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
3. Microwave on high for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 4 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the milk, butter, crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
5. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
6. Microwave on high for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the soup is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Microwave Hasselback Potatoes with Rosemary
Transform plain potatoes into a flavorful delight with this easy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a stress-free Sunday supper.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your microwave to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and slice them in half lengthwise.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Place each potato half on a microwave-safe plate, cut side up.
5. Brush the herb mixture evenly over each potato half.
6. Cook the potatoes for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Let them stand for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust cooking time based on your microwave’s power level and potato size.
– Serve warm, garnished with additional chopped rosemary if desired.
Microwave Potato Gratin with Gruyère
Microwave Potato Gratin with Gruyère: A creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting side dish that’s ready in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe dish, arrange the potato slices in an overlapping pattern.
2. Dot the top of the potatoes with the butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
4. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, then remove the lid or wrap to check for doneness.
5. If the potatoes are not tender, continue to cook in 30-second increments until they’re cooked through.
6. Remove from the microwave and top with Gruyère cheese.
7. Microwave for an additional 15-20 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Microwave Potato and Cheese Quesadilla
This recipe combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the ease of a microwave quesadilla, perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 medium-sized potato, peeled and cooked through
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 whole wheat tortilla (6-8 inches)
• Salt to taste
• Optional: chopped scallions or sour cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, mash the cooked potato using a fork until smooth.
2. Add butter and mix well.
3. Place one half of the tortilla on a microwave-safe plate.
4. Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the tortilla half, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the potatoes.
6. Fold the other tortilla half over the filling to form a quesadilla.
7. Microwave on high for 30-40 seconds or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is cooked through.
8. Carefully flip the quesadilla and microwave for an additional 15-20 seconds, if needed.
Cooking Time: 45-60 seconds
Microwave Potato Salad with Mustard Dressing
Get ready for a satisfying side dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor! This microwave potato salad recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the diced potatoes.
2. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
4. Add the chopped parsley to the dressing and stir well.
5. Once the potatoes are cooked, let them cool slightly before stirring in the dressing until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes (microwave) + 10 minutes (prep time)
Microwave Potato and Veggie Stir-Fry
Quick and Easy Microwave Potato and Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe
Looking for a speedy and satisfying meal? This microwave potato and veggie stir-fry is the perfect solution! In just a few minutes, you’ll have a hot, flavorful dish that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Place the diced potato in a microwave-safe bowl. Cook on high for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly tender.
2. Add the mixed veggies, vegetable oil, and garlic to the bowl. Stir to combine.
3. Microwave on high for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional flavorings (soy sauce or chili flakes).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-7 minutes
Microwave Potato Pancakes with Applesauce
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these fluffy potato pancakes made in just minutes using the microwave! Top them off with a dollop of applesauce for added flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Applesauce, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, egg, salt, and milk. Mix well.
2. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute until the mixture is smooth and cooked through.
3. Use a spoon to shape the mixture into 2-3 pancakes, depending on desired size.
4. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, or until the edges are lightly browned.
5. Serve warm with applesauce on top.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Microwave Potato and Tuna Melt
This recipe combines the comfort of a warm potato with the protein-packed goodness of tuna, all melted together in just a few minutes. Perfect for a busy lunch or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 large potato, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe dish, arrange the potato slices in a single layer.
2. Top with the flaked tuna, butter, and shredded cheese.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until the potato is tender and the cheese is melted.
5. Remove from the microwave and let it stand for 1 minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Microwave Potato Curry with Coconut Milk
Looking for a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s ready in just a few minutes? This microwave potato curry with coconut milk is the perfect solution! With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you’ll be enjoying a warm and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– Water (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine potatoes, onion, garlic, curry powder, turmeric, and cumin.
2. Cook on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute until the potatoes are tender.
3. Add salt to taste, then stir in coconut milk.
4. Microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the curry has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Microwave Potato and Sausage Casserole
This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional potato casserole, with the added convenience of using your microwave. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 pound cooked sausage (such as breakfast links or Italian sausage), crumbled
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large microwave-safe dish, arrange the potato slices in an overlapping layer.
2. Top with the crumbled sausage, shredded cheese, and dot with butter.
3. Pour in the milk, making sure the potatoes are covered.
4. Cook on high for 8-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Microwave Potato Nachos with Jalapeños
Elevate your snack game with this quick and easy recipe that combines the comfort of potato nachos with a spicy kick from jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 large baking potatoes, sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (10 oz) of nacho cheese sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2-3 jalapeños, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, or diced tomatoes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Place a microwave-safe plate with a paper towel-lined center.
2. Arrange potato slices in a single layer on the plate.
3. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes or until potatoes are slightly tender.
4. In a separate bowl, mix shredded cheese and nacho cheese sauce.
5. Remove the potatoes from the microwave and top each slice with the cheese mixture, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños.
6. Microwave for an additional 30-45 seconds or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your busy nights with these 20 quick and delicious microwave potato recipes! From classic mashed potatoes to innovative dishes like cheesy scalloped potatoes, loaded potato skins, and even potato curry with coconut milk, there’s something for everyone. These recipes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack on-the-go. Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent looking for a hassle-free meal solution, these microwave-friendly potato dishes are sure to become your new favorite go-to’s.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
