Instant Pot Baked Potatoes: Effortless Comfort in Every Bite
Baked potatoes have always been a staple in my family’s kitchen, filling the house with warmth and comfort. My mom would wrap them in foil and bake them to perfection, a tradition I’ve carried on—only now, my Instant Pot makes the process quicker and easier.
After a long day, nothing beats a fluffy baked potato topped with melting butter, gooey cheese, or savory chili.
With my Instant Pot, I can enjoy that same nostalgic comfort, no oven required.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Easy – A time-saving alternative to oven-baked potatoes.
- Perfectly Fluffy Every Time – The Instant Pot locks in steam, yielding tender insides.
- Endless Topping Options – Load them up with butter, cheese, sour cream, or chili!
- Minimal Cleanup – One pot, no mess.
- Versatile – A satisfying main course or a comforting side dish.
The Story Behind the Recipe
During a busy workweek, I craved the soft, buttery baked potatoes my mom used to make but didn’t have time for the oven. Microwaved potatoes never quite hit the mark, so I turned to my Instant Pot—and to my surprise, it delivered perfectly fluffy potatoes in half the time. Now, this recipe is my go-to for effortless, homemade comfort.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 4 medium russet potatoes – The best variety for a fluffy texture. You can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but they’ll be creamier and denser.
- 1 cup cold water – Creates steam pressure to cook the potatoes evenly.
- Olive oil (optional, for crispier skin) – If crispier skin is desired, rub potatoes with olive oil before cooking.
- Salt & black pepper – Enhances the natural earthy flavor.
- Toppings (optional) – Butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, bacon, chives—get creative!
Prep & Cook Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 12-20 minutes |
| Natural Release | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 27-35 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Wash, scrub, and pat dry the potatoes. Poke holes with a fork to release steam.
- Add Water & Trivet: Pour 1 cup of cold water into the Instant Pot. Place a metal trivet inside to keep potatoes above the water.
- Arrange Potatoes: Place potatoes on the trivet. Stacking is fine and will not affect cooking time.
- Pressure Cook: Set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for the appropriate time based on potato size:
- 12 minutes for small potatoes (2–2.25 inches wide)
- 16 minutes for medium potatoes (2.5 inches wide)
- 20 minutes for large potatoes (3 inches wide)
- Natural Release: Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining steam.
- Serve & Enjoy: Carefully remove potatoes, slice open, and add your favorite toppings!
Expert Tips for the Best Instant Pot Baked Potatoes
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 163 |
| Carbohydrates | 37g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 0.2g |
| Fiber | 4g |
Note: Nutrition varies based on toppings.
FAQs About Instant Pot Baked Potatoes
Can I cook different sizes of potatoes together?
For best results, use similar-sized potatoes to ensure even cooking. If you mix sizes, the smaller ones may overcook while the larger ones remain underdone.
How do I store leftover baked potatoes?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Just skip the butter and load your potatoes with vegan toppings like guacamole, dairy-free cheese, or cashew cream.
What if my potatoes aren’t fully cooked?
Return them to the Instant Pot and cook on High Pressure for another 5–10 minutes.
Relish in the Warmth of Baked Potatoes
I hope these Instant Pot baked potatoes bring comfort and joy to your meals! Whether as a side or a fully loaded meal, they’re fluffy, versatile, and perfect for any topping. Let me know your favorites—happy cooking!
