How to Cook Potatoes in Instant Pot? Easy, Quick & Perfect Every Time

Are you ready to make perfectly cooked potatoes in your Instant Pot without any hassle? Whether you want fluffy mashed potatoes, tender boiled potatoes, or even quick baked potatoes, the Instant Pot can do it all—and faster than you think.

In this guide, you’ll discover simple steps and timing tips that guarantee delicious results every time. Say goodbye to guesswork and soggy spuds; by the end of this article, you’ll have all the secrets to cooking potatoes that will impress your family and save you time in the kitchen.

Let’s dive in and turn your Instant Pot into your new favorite potato-cooking tool!

Types Of Potatoes

Potatoes come in many types, but some are better for the Instant Pot. Russet potatoes are great for baking and mashing because they cook evenly and become soft inside. Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamy texture and hold their shape well, making them perfect for boiling or stews. Red potatoes are smaller and waxy, ideal for salads and soups as they stay firm after cooking.

Choosing the right size matters. Small potatoes or baby potatoes cook faster. Medium potatoes are good for even cooking without cutting. Large potatoes may need to be cut into pieces for the Instant Pot to cook them well. Try to pick potatoes of similar size for even cooking time.

Preparing Potatoes

Start by washing the potatoes well under cold water. This removes dirt and debris. Peeling is optional; leave skins on for more texture and nutrients.

Cut potatoes into even cubes to ensure they cook at the same speed. Smaller cubes cook faster than large pieces.

For whole potatoes, use a fork to poke holes in each potato. This helps steam escape and cooks potatoes evenly inside the Instant Pot.

Cooking Methods

Boiling potatoes in the Instant Pot is quick and easy. Add potatoes cut into even pieces and cover with water. Use the steam rack to keep potatoes out of the water. Close the lid and seal the valve. Cook on high pressure for about 5-8 minutes depending on size. After cooking, release pressure carefully and check if potatoes are soft with a fork. If not, cook a few more minutes.

Steaming potatoes keeps them from getting soggy. Place whole or cut potatoes on the steaming rack. Add one cup of water below the rack. Seal the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10-15 minutes depending on size. Use quick release to stop cooking. Steamed potatoes stay firm and perfect for salads or sides.

Baked potatoes in the Instant Pot come out soft inside with a tender skin. Pierce potatoes with a fork several times. Put a cup of water in the pot and place potatoes on the rack. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 12-20 minutes based on size. Use natural pressure release for 10 minutes then quick release the rest. This method saves time compared to oven baking.

Cooking Times

Cooking times vary based on potato size. Small potatoes need about 8-10 minutes. Medium potatoes take 10-12 minutes. Large potatoes require 15-20 minutes.

Cubed potatoes cook faster. They usually take 5-7 minutes on high pressure. Cut them evenly for best results.

Adjust timing if cooking more potatoes. For a full pot, add 2-3 minutes more. Less quantity means less time. Always check potatoes with a fork to see if they are tender.

Instant Pot Settings

Select the pressure level on your Instant Pot to “High Pressure” for best results. This setting cooks potatoes quickly and evenly. Using the steam rack keeps potatoes above the water, preventing them from getting soggy.

Place the potatoes on the steam rack inside the pot. Add about one cup of water below the rack. This helps create steam without soaking the potatoes.

Make sure the valve is set to sealing before starting. This traps steam inside and builds pressure to cook the potatoes. If the valve is not sealed, the cooking will not work properly.

Checking Doneness

Use a fork test to check if potatoes are done. Insert a fork into the potato. It should slide in easily without resistance. If the potato feels firm or hard, it needs more cooking time.

For potatoes that are not soft enough, close the lid again. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for 2-3 more minutes. This short extra time helps potatoes become perfectly tender.

Check again with the fork after the extra cooking. Repeat the process if needed. Avoid overcooking to prevent potatoes from becoming mushy.

Avoiding Overcooking

Signs of overcooked potatoes include a very soft texture and a mushy feel. They may fall apart easily when touched or stirred. The skin can become loose or peel off too much. Potatoes may also absorb too much water, making them soggy and less tasty. Avoiding these signs keeps your potatoes perfect for eating or mashing.

Tips to prevent mushy results:

• Use the correct cooking time based on potato size.
• Cut potatoes into even pieces for uniform cooking.
• Place potatoes on a rack or use a steamer basket.
• Set the Instant Pot valve to sealing for proper pressure.
• Check potatoes early to avoid overcooking.
• Release pressure quickly to stop cooking after time ends.

These simple steps help keep potatoes firm and tasty every time.

Serving Suggestions

Simple seasonings can make cooked potatoes taste great. Try salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a bit of butter. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a nice touch too. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors.

Cooked potatoes can be used in many recipes. Mash them for a quick side dish. Chop and add to salads for extra texture. Use them in soups or stews to make the meal filling. Roasted potatoes tossed with olive oil and spices make a tasty snack.

Potato Skins In Instant Pot

Start by washing potatoes well. Use medium-size potatoes for best results. Pat them dry before cooking. Pierce skins with a fork to let steam escape. This helps prevent bursting.

Place a trivet or steaming rack inside the Instant Pot. Add 1 cup of water to the pot. Arrange potatoes on the rack so they don’t touch the water. Close the lid and seal the valve.

Set the Instant Pot to high pressure. Cook for about 10 minutes for medium potatoes. Use quick release to release steam fast. Carefully remove potatoes to cool.

Once cool, slice potatoes in half. Scoop out the inside, leaving a thin shell for crispy skins. Brush skins with oil and season with salt or spices. Return to Instant Pot or oven to crisp the skins.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long To Cook Potatoes In An Instant Pot?

Cook whole potatoes in an Instant Pot for 10-15 minutes on high pressure. Cubed potatoes take 5-7 minutes. Use the steam rack, seal the lid, and release pressure naturally or quickly. Check tenderness with a fork before serving. Adjust time based on potato size.

How Long Does It Take For Potatoes To Boil In A Pressure Cooker?

Potatoes take 8-12 minutes to boil in a pressure cooker, depending on their size. Smaller pieces cook faster. Check tenderness with a fork.

Can You Overcook Potatoes In An Instant Pot?

Yes, you can overcook potatoes in an Instant Pot. Overcooking makes them mushy and waterlogged. Follow recommended cooking times for best texture.

Do You Need To Pierce Potatoes Before Instant Pot?

No, you do not need to pierce potatoes before cooking in the Instant Pot. Just place them whole or cut.

Conclusion

Cooking potatoes in an Instant Pot saves time and effort. Choose the right cooking time based on potato size. Use the sealing valve and high pressure setting for best results. Check potatoes with a fork to ensure tenderness. Adjust cooking time if needed for perfect texture.

This method works well for boiling, baking, or preparing potato skins. Enjoy soft, flavorful potatoes quickly and easily. Experiment with spices or toppings to suit your taste. Cooking potatoes this way simplifies meal prep and enhances your dishes.