Learn how to get perfectly cooked whole potatoes in the instant pot! This game changing method of cooking potatoes is perfect for an easy side dish or meal prepping!
I like to think of myself as somewhat of a potato enthusiast. And as Potatoes' #1 fan it's only right that I take the time to perfect all the best methods of cooking them!
This is the first post in that exploration and we're starting with an easy and extremely versatile method, how to cook whole potatoes in the instant pot!
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What you'll need
Pressure cooking potatoes is super simple and very low effort. Here's what you'll need:
- Potatoes
- Water
- Instant Pot
- Steamer Basket or Trivet
The Different Varieties
There seems to be endless varieties of potato and exploring them all excites me to the core. (Probably more than it should if I'm being honest.)
These cooking times can apply to the following varieties (or similar) :
- Russet
- Yellow or Gold
- Red
- Purple
- White
(Note: The cooking times in this post are not for sweet potatoes.)
Potato Size Matters
While variety of potato is more of a personal preference, size matters. Actually, size is the most important factor.
Potatoes that are too different in size will cook unevenly, leaving the small guys over cooked and the large taters crunchy.
Make sure the potatoes you select are similar in size before cooking.
Size Tip: If the potatoes you have are a variety of sizes, halving or even quartering the large potatoes so they are close to the size of the smallest potato of the bunch will work for an even cook.
Cooking Times
Add the trivet (or steamer basket) to the instant pot along with about 1 ½ cups water and your cleaned potatoes and pressure cook for the following times:
- Small (1 ¾- 2 ¼ inch diameter) : 8-10 minutes
- Medium (2 ¼- 3 ¼ inch diameter) : 10-12 minutes
- Large (3 ¼- 4 ¼ inch diameter) : 13-15 minutes
Allow pressure to naturally release for 5-10 minutes and then release any remaining pressure and enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
Instant Pot potatoes are SO versatile!
- Keep it simple and enjoy them straight out of the instant pot with your favorite toppings!
- Halve and top with some chili and vegan cheese for a complete meal!
- Store them in the fridge for later use. Like to make super fast air fryer french fries, tater tots, or even Caesar Potato Salad (my fav)!
FAQ
Cooled potatoes can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Many say you should, however, I never do and have not experienced any potato explosions using this method. If poking your potato with a fork a few times eases your mind, go for it!
You can cook as many or as little as you'd like without it effecting the cook times. The actual number of potatoes will vary based on their size, however do not fill past the max fill line on your Instant Pot.
Did you make this recipe? Please leave a comment and ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below! Take a picture and tag me on Instagram @samcookskindness !
Recipe
Instant Pot Potatoes (fast & easy)
Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Trivet or Steamer Basket
Ingredients
- 6-8 Potatoes of equal size*
- 1½ cup water
Instructions
- Thoroughly scrub potatoes clean and make sure they are all similar in size.
- Add water, trivet and potatoes to the Instant Pot. (Do not fill above the Max Fill line)
- Close the vent and pressure cook at the following times:Small (1 ¾- 2 ¼ inch diameter) : 8-10 minutesMedium (2 ¼- 3 ¼ inch diameter) : 10-12 minutesLarge (3 ¼- 4 ¼ inch diameter) : 13-15 minutes
- Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5-10 minutes then carefully release any remaining pressure. Enjoy!
Notes
(There may be affiliate links in this post. I may earn a commission for qualified purchases with no added cost to you. Thank you for your support!)
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