Instant Pot Baked Potatoes

Make perfectly fluffy baked potatoes in a fraction of the time with this easy Instant Pot method. Using russet potatoes and simple ingredients, this recipe delivers tender insides and soft, flavorful skins every time. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or as a side dish for meats, salads, and vegetarian meals, these pressure cooker baked potatoes are ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes (Idaho potatoes work well)
• 1 cup cold water

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Instant Pot

Place a trivet or steamer rack in the bottom of a 6-quart Instant Pot. Pour in 1 cup of cold water.

2. Scrub the Potatoes

Wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt from the skin.

3. Pierce the Potatoes

Using a fork, poke holes all over each potato to allow steam to escape while cooking. Arrange the potatoes evenly on the rack.

4. Pressure Cook

Secure the lid and set the valve to the Sealing position. Select Manual or Pressure Cook on high pressure and set the cooking time to 16 minutes, or adjust according to your potato size using a cooking time chart.*

5. Natural Pressure Release

When the cooking cycle ends, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally (about 15 minutes), or until the pressure indicator drops. Switch the valve to Venting to release any remaining steam before carefully opening the lid.

6. Check for Doneness

Pierce the potatoes with a fork to ensure they are tender all the way through. Use tongs to transfer them to a plate.

7. Serve

Slice each potato in half and serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, crispy bacon, or chopped chives. You can also let them cool and use them for potato salad.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Making baked potatoes in the Instant Pot is quick, consistent, and hassle-free. There’s no need to heat up the oven, and the results are perfectly fluffy potatoes every time. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or serving a crowd.

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Tips

• Choose potatoes of similar size for even cooking.
• Adjust cooking time based on potato size: smaller potatoes may need 12–14 minutes, while extra-large ones may need 18–20 minutes.
• For crispier skins, place cooked potatoes under the broiler for 2–3 minutes after pressure cooking.
• Always use the trivet to prevent soggy potatoes.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Sweet Potatoes: Follow the same method, but reduce cooking time to 12–14 minutes depending on size.
• Herb-Infused: Sprinkle potatoes with garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme before cooking for added flavor.
• Vegan-Friendly: Top with vegan butter, dairy-free cheese, or a drizzle of tahini sauce.

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FAQs

Do I need to wrap the potatoes in foil?
No, wrapping is not necessary for Instant Pot baked potatoes.

Can I cook more than 4 potatoes at once?
Yes, as long as they fit in a single layer without stacking tightly, and the water amount remains the same.

How do I store leftovers?
Cool completely, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, and reheat in the microwave or oven.

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Serving Suggestions

• With sour cream, cheddar cheese, bacon, and chives for a classic loaded baked potato.
• Topped with chili and shredded cheese for a hearty meal.
• Served alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• Cubed and tossed into potato salad or breakfast hash.