Instant Pot Baked Potatoes Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Instant Pot Baked Potatoes are a quick and easy way to enjoy fluffy, perfectly cooked potatoes without turning on the oven. This method is ideal when you’re short on time or need to prepare a large batch effortlessly. They’re great as a side dish, base for toppings, or meal prep essential.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

russet potatoes (medium to large size)waterkosher salt (optional)olive oil (optional for crisping after cooking)

directions

Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly, then prick each potato a few times with a fork.

Place the metal trivet inside the Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water.

Arrange the potatoes on the trivet in a single layer.

Seal the lid, set the valve to sealing position, and cook on High Pressure for 12-20 minutes (see Servings and timing for exact time by size).

Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then manually release the remaining pressure.

Use tongs to remove the potatoes. For crispier skin, rub with olive oil and place under a broiler for 5-10 minutes.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 baked potatoes.Preparation time: 5 minutesPressure cook time: 12-20 minutes (12 min for small, 16 min for medium, 20 min for large)Pressure release time: 10 minutesTotal time: 30-40 minutes

Variations

Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or bacon bits for a loaded version.

Use sweet potatoes instead, adjusting cook time based on size.

Add garlic or herb butter after cooking for extra flavor.

Slice and stuff with cooked broccoli and cheese for a vegetarian main.

storage/reheating

Store cooked potatoes in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.Reheat in the microwave, air fryer, or oven until warmed through.To freeze, wrap each potato in foil and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I stack the potatoes in the Instant Pot?

Yes, but ensure they are similar in size for even cooking.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy texture and size.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

No, just scrub them clean; the skin gets tender during pressure cooking.

How do I make the skin crispy?

Broil the cooked potatoes or sauté them in a hot skillet with a little oil.

Can I add seasonings before cooking?

It’s best to season after pressure cooking, especially if broiling.

What if my potatoes aren’t fully cooked?

Return them to the Instant Pot for an additional 2-5 minutes under pressure.

Can I cook more than 4 potatoes?

Yes, just make sure not to exceed the max fill line and adjust cooking time if needed.

Can I cook other foods at the same time?

Yes, as long as the cook time is compatible—use a steamer basket or foil packets.

Can I use the Instant Pot Mini?

Yes, just reduce the number of potatoes and maintain the water amount.

Is a trivet necessary?

Yes, it keeps the potatoes elevated and prevents them from getting soggy.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Baked Potatoes offer a fast, foolproof way to make one of the most versatile sides or meal bases around. Soft on the inside with optional crisped skins, they’re perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to meal prep sessions. Once you try this method, you might never go back to oven baking.

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