Contents
Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make perfectly baked potatoes, the Instant Pot is your solution. This recipe from Damn Delicious provides a straightforward method to achieve tender and flavorful baked potatoes in no time. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or dressing them up as a main course, these Instant Pot baked potatoes will be a hit at the dinner table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 cup water
– 5 medium russet potatoes (approximately 5.3 ounces each, about the size of a computer mouse)
– 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Prep Time
Preparation for this recipe takes just a few minutes, allowing you to have the potatoes ready for cooking quickly.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Cook Time: 14 minutes
– Total Time (including natural pressure release): about 40-50 minutes
– Yield: 5 baked potatoes
Making Instant Pot baked potatoes is not only simple, but it’s also a time-efficient way to enjoy this classic dish. Just follow the steps provided, and you’ll have delicious, buttery potatoes ready to be customized with your favorite toppings.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot
Add 1 cup of water to a 6-quart Instant Pot®. Ensure that the pot is properly sealed and that the water is evenly distributed.
Step 2: Set Up the Trivet
Place the metal trivet into the pot. This will elevate the potatoes above the water during cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes
Pierce each potato 5-7 times with a fork. This helps steam escape during cooking and prevents the potatoes from bursting.
Step 4: Arrange the Potatoes
Carefully place the pierced potatoes on top of the trivet in the Instant Pot. Make sure they are evenly spaced for uniform cooking.
Step 5: Set Cooking Parameters
Select the manual setting on your Instant Pot, adjust the pressure to high, and set the cooking time for 14 minutes.
Step 6: Natural Pressure Release
When the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally. Follow the manufacturer’s directions, which typically takes about 20-30 minutes.
Step 7: Final Preparation
Once the pressure has fully released and the pot is cool enough to handle, carefully remove the potatoes. Cut each potato in half lengthwise.
Step 8: Serve the Potatoes
Top each potato half with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
Potatoes Size
Ensure that the russet potatoes are medium-sized, approximately 5.3 ounces each, for optimal cooking results.
Butter and Seasoning
Feel free to adjust the amount of butter and seasoning based on personal preference. Additional toppings can also be added, such as sour cream, cheese, or chives.
Leftovers
Leftover baked potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving again.
Cook techniques
Using an Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, steamer, sauté pan, and more. For this recipe, utilize the pressure cooking function to achieve perfectly baked potatoes in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods.
Piercing the Potatoes
Piercing the potatoes with a fork allows steam to escape during the cooking process, preventing them from bursting. Aim for 5-7 punctures per potato for optimal results.
Natural Pressure Release
After the cooking time completes, allow the pressure in the Instant Pot to release naturally. This process typically takes 20-30 minutes and helps the potatoes finish cooking gently, resulting in a fluffy texture.
Cutting and Serving
Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise to expose the soft interior. Topping with butter and seasoning enhances the flavor, making them a delicious side dish or base for other toppings.
FAQ
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, while russet potatoes are recommended for their fluffy texture, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes. Cooking times may vary slightly.
What if I want to cook more or fewer potatoes?
You can adjust the number of potatoes, but ensure that the water amount remains the same. Cooking time may not change significantly for a small increase or decrease in quantity.
Can I add seasonings before cooking?
Adding seasonings before cooking is not recommended, as they may not penetrate the potato well. It’s best to season after the cooking process for maximum flavor.
Is it necessary to use a trivet?
While the trivet is recommended to keep the potatoes above the water, you can place them directly in the water if you don’t have a trivet. This may result in a slightly different texture.
How do I store leftover baked potatoes?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Conclusion
Instant Pot Baked Potatoes are a quick and easy side dish that delivers perfectly tender and fluffy potatoes in a fraction of the time it takes to bake them in the oven. With just a few simple ingredients, they can be whipped up in no time, making them a fantastic addition to any meal.
Classic Loaded Baked Potato
Top your baked potatoes with sour cream, shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, and green onions for a traditional loaded baked potato experience.
Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
After cooking, scoop out the insides of the baked potatoes and mix with cream, garlic, and cheese before mashing for a decadent side dish.
Potato Skins
Once baked, remove the insides of the potatoes and brush the skins with butter. Bake them until crispy and fill with cheese, bacon, and green onions before serving.
Sweet Potato Variations
Try using sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a healthier option. Top with cinnamon, honey, and walnuts for a sweet twist.
Herb and Olive Oil Roasted Potatoes
After baking, toss the halved potatoes in olive oil, rosemary, and thyme before roasting in the oven to add a flavorful herby crunch.
Baked Potato Soup
Use the baked potatoes as a base for a creamy soup by blending with chicken broth, cream, and your choice of toppings like cheese and bacon.
Stuffed Potatoes
Fill the baked potatoes with a mix of sautéed vegetables, cheese, and proteins like chicken or beans for a hearty meal option.
