how long to cook 2 baked potatoes in microwave

To cook two baked potatoes in the microwave, follow these steps for optimal results:

1. Preparation:

   • Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water.
   • Poke each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape and prevent explosion.
   • Pat the potatoes dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
   • Optionally, wrap each potato in a paper towel or place them on a microwave-safe dish.

2. Cooking:

   • Cook the potatoes on high in the microwave. The cooking time varies based on size:

     • Small potatoes: 3-4 minutes each (6-8 minutes total for two).
     • Medium potatoes: 4-5 minutes each (8-10 minutes total for two).
     • Large potatoes: 5-6 minutes each (10-12 minutes total for two).

   • If not wrapped, consider flipping the potatoes halfway through the cooking time for even cooking.

3. Checking Doneness:

   • After the initial cooking time, check if the potatoes are done by inserting a fork. If it slides in easily, they are cooked. If not, continue cooking in 30-second increments.
   • Let the potatoes stand for 1-2 minutes after cooking to allow the heat to distribute evenly.

4. Serving:

   • Carefully remove the potatoes from the microwave, unwrap if necessary, and serve with your preferred toppings.

This method ensures tender, well-cooked potatoes without undercooking or drying them out.