Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Instant Pot Baby Potatoes Recipe – Easy Pressure Cooker Guide

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for quick and easy side dish recipes. And honestly, these Instant Pot baby potatoes are a total game-changer. I first made these when I was short on time but still wanted something comforting and delicious with dinner, and they’ve been a regular in my kitchen ever since. They’re fluffy on the inside, perfectly tender, and ready in minutes! Let’s get cooking, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot baby potatoes recipe is seriously a lifesaver. It’s unbelievably easy – seriously, minimal effort required! Plus, the Instant Pot does all the work, leaving you free to focus on the main course. They’re also incredibly versatile; you can season them simply or get creative with spices and herbs. And who doesn’t love a quick cleanup?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful little potatoes:

• 500 grams Baby Potatoes (about 1.1 pounds)
• 1 cup Water (240ml)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about these ingredients for a sec, because even simple recipes have little tricks!

Baby Potatoes: Varieties & Selection

Baby potatoes are perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly and evenly. Red potatoes, Yukon Gold, or even purple potatoes all work beautifully! Look for firm potatoes with smooth skin – avoid any with soft spots or sprouts.

Water: Importance of Quantity

Using just 1 cup (240ml) of water is key. We want to steam the potatoes, not boil them. Too much water will result in soggy potatoes, and nobody wants that! The Instant Pot creates a sealed environment, so a small amount of liquid is all you need.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business! Here’s how to make these Instant Pot baby potatoes:

1. First things first, give those baby potatoes a good wash and scrub. We want to remove any dirt clinging to the skin. No need to peel them – the skin gets wonderfully tender and adds extra nutrients!
2. Pour 1 cup (240ml) of water into the Instant Pot insert and place the trivet inside. This keeps the potatoes from sitting directly in the water.
3. Now, arrange the washed potatoes in a steamer basket. Then, carefully place the steamer basket on top of the trivet.
4. Secure the Instant Pot lid, making sure the vent is set to sealing. This is important for building pressure!
5. Pressure cook on high for just 5 minutes. Yes, you read that right – only 5 minutes!
6. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes. After that, you can manually release any remaining pressure. Be careful when releasing the pressure – hot steam will escape!
7. Finally, use tongs to carefully remove the steamer basket. Let the potatoes cool slightly before peeling (if desired) or storing.

Expert Tips

Want to take your Instant Pot baby potatoes to the next level? Here are a few of my favorite tips:

Achieving Perfectly Tender Potatoes

Don’t overcook them! 5 minutes is usually perfect, but cooking time can vary slightly depending on the size of your potatoes.

Preventing Waterlogged Potatoes

The steamer basket is your best friend here. It ensures the potatoes steam instead of absorb too much water.

Variations

This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Spice Level: Adding Chili Flakes or Garam Masala

My husband loves a little heat, so I often add ½ teaspoon of chili flakes or a teaspoon of garam masala to the water before cooking. It adds a lovely warmth!

Herbed Potatoes: Incorporating Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs are always a good idea. Toss the cooked potatoes with chopped parsley, dill, or rosemary for a burst of flavor.

Vegan Adaptation

This recipe is naturally vegan! Just ensure any seasonings you add are also vegan-friendly.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

This recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Festival Adaptations: Adding a Festive Touch

During Diwali, my mom would add a pinch of turmeric to the water for a beautiful golden color and a subtle earthy flavor. It’s a lovely touch for festive occasions!

Serving Suggestions

These Instant Pot baby potatoes are incredibly versatile. They’re fantastic with:

• Grilled chicken or fish
• Roasted vegetables
• A hearty Indian curry
• Simply enjoyed with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of chaat masala!

Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem!

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze cooked potatoes, but the texture may change slightly. Spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What potato varieties work best in the Instant Pot?

Red potatoes, Yukon Gold, and purple potatoes are all excellent choices.

Can I cook larger potatoes in the same amount of time?

Not really. Larger potatoes will need a longer cooking time – around 8-10 minutes. You might also want to cut them into smaller pieces.

How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?

They should be easily pierced with a fork. If they’re still firm, pressure cook for another minute or two.

Can I add other vegetables to the Instant Pot with the potatoes?

Absolutely! Carrots, green beans, or broccoli would all be delicious additions. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What if I don’t have a steamer basket?

You can use a metal colander that fits inside your Instant Pot. Just make sure it’s elevated above the water.