Foolproof Instant Pot Baked Potatoes

There’s something undeniably comforting about a perfectly baked potato. Fluffy on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside, baked potatoes are a versatile side dish that can complement any meal. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve this perfection in a fraction of the time it takes in the oven. This recipe for Foolproof Instant Pot Baked Potatoes will transform your potato game, delivering delicious results every time. Let’s dive into how you can achieve this culinary delight.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because the Instant Pot creates a high-pressure environment that cooks the potatoes evenly and quickly. The steam generated from the water not only ensures that the potatoes are tender all the way through but also helps to maintain their moisture. The result? Creamy, fluffy potatoes that are ready in less than an hour. Plus, the addition of sea salt and a light spray of olive oil elevates the flavor profile, making these potatoes irresistibly tasty.

What’s in the Bowl

To make Foolproof Instant Pot Baked Potatoes, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• 4-5 medium-sized russet potatoes: Choose potatoes that are similar in size for even cooking.
• 1 cup water: This is essential for creating steam in the Instant Pot.
• Sea salt: Enhances the flavor of the potatoes.
• Olive oil spray: Adds a touch of richness and helps with that crispy skin.

What’s in the Gear List

You’ll need a few essential tools to make this recipe a breeze:

• Instant Pot: The star of the show, allowing for quick and efficient cooking.
• Trivet: Keeps the potatoes elevated above the water.
• Sharp knife: For poking holes in the potatoes to allow steam to escape.
• Measuring cup: For measuring out the water accurately.
• Spray bottle: Ideal for evenly applying olive oil.

Make Foolproof Instant Pot Baked Potatoes: A Simple Method

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect baked potatoes in your Instant Pot.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean towel. Using a sharp knife, poke several holes in each potato to allow steam to escape during cooking. This step is crucial to prevent the potatoes from bursting.

Step 2: Add Water and Trivet

Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot. Place the trivet inside the pot, ensuring it sits above the water. The trivet will help steam the potatoes without them sitting directly in the water.

Step 3: Arrange the Potatoes

Place the prepared potatoes on the trivet in a single layer. If your Instant Pot is large enough, you can stack them, but ensure they’re not overcrowded to allow even cooking.

Step 4: Season the Potatoes

Lightly spray the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle them generously with sea salt. This will give them a flavorful skin that you’ll love.

Step 5: Seal and Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to the sealing position. Select the manual or pressure cook function and set the timer for 12-15 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes. For medium-sized potatoes, 12 minutes is usually sufficient.

Step 6: Natural Release

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, you can carefully switch the valve to the venting position to release any remaining steam.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the steam has fully released, carefully open the lid. Using tongs, remove the potatoes from the Instant Pot. Serve them hot, topped with your favorite toppings such as butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, or bacon bits. Enjoy your Foolproof Instant Pot Baked Potatoes!

If You’re Out Of…

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, here are some alternatives you can use:

• If you don’t have olive oil spray, use a brush to apply melted butter or any other vegetable oil.
• If you’re out of russet potatoes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can work, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• If sea salt isn’t available, regular table salt will do just fine.
• If you don’t have a trivet, you can use a heat-resistant steamer basket to hold the potatoes above the water.

Little Things that Matter

Small details can make a big difference in your cooking experience:

• Choosing potatoes that are uniform in size helps ensure they cook evenly.
• Poking holes in the potatoes is essential to prevent them from bursting due to steam buildup.
• Allowing for a natural pressure release helps keep the potatoes tender and fluffy.
• Experiment with different seasonings or toppings to customize your baked potatoes to your taste.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To store any leftover baked potatoes:

• Allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing them.
• Wrap them in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Common Qs About Foolproof Instant Pot Baked Potatoes

Can I cook more than 5 potatoes at once?

Yes, you can cook more potatoes in the Instant Pot, as long as they fit in a single layer and don’t exceed the maximum fill line. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.

What if my potatoes are not fully cooked?

If your potatoes aren’t fully cooked after the initial cooking time, simply seal the Instant Pot again and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for baking, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

How do I make the skins crispy?

To achieve crispy skins, you can brush the potatoes with olive oil and place them under the broiler for a few minutes after they come out of the Instant Pot. This will give them that desired crunch!

Keep Cooking

For more delicious recipes, check out these links:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – A treasure trove of sweet and savory recipes.
• Pinch of Yum – Perfect for those looking for both quick meals and gourmet dishes.
• Minimalist Baker – Great for simple, delicious recipes that require 10 ingredients or less.
• Food Network – A wide range of recipes from celebrity chefs and home cooks alike.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe for Foolproof Instant Pot Baked Potatoes, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! They’ll thank you when they get to enjoy these fluffy, flavorful potatoes. Snap a picture of your baked potatoes and tag us on social media. Happy cooking!