Are you looking for a quick and easy, delicious side dish that you can have on the table in less than 15 minutes? Look no further than Instant Pot Steamed Potatoes! These little gems are the perfect shortcut to a mouthwatering side. Cooked to perfection, all they need is melted butter, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of salt to finish and serve. So, whether you’re serving them with a juicy steak or roasted salmon, these Instant Pot potatoes are sure to please.
Table of Contents
- Why Choose Instant Pot for Steamed Potatoes
- What are New Potatoes?
- Health Benefits of Red Potatoes
- Instant Pot Red Potatoes Ingredients
- Hot to Cook Potatoes in an Instant Pot
- Red Potatoes Instant Pot Variations and Substitutions
- Tips for Steamed Potatoes in an Instant Pot
- What to Serve with Instant Pot Red Potatoes
- How to Store Instant Pot Steamed Potatoes
- Steamed Potatoes Instant Pot FAQs
- Steamed Potatoes (Instant Pot Recipe)
Why Choose Instant Pot for Steamed Potatoes
The Instant Pot has become a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. Its ability to cook food quickly, while still locking in flavor and nutrients, is unmatched. When it comes to cooking red (also called “new”) potatoes, the Instant Pot is a game-changer.
With the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking capabilities, you can have perfectly steamed red potatoes in a fraction of the time it takes to cook them on the stovetop. This means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your friends and family!
Not only does the Instant Pot save you time, but it also ensures that your red potatoes are cooked evenly. The pressure cooking method allows for even distribution of heat, resulting in potatoes that are cooked to perfection.
What are New Potatoes?
Red potatoes are in fact a variety of new potatoes. And, new potatoes are a potato that is harvested early in its growth cycle, usually around 2 to 3 weeks after the potato plants have flowered. Because they are harvested young, they have thin, delicate skin. Depending on the variety, new potatoes come in various colors – red, yellow, white, or even purple. Moreover, they are typically smaller in size, ranging from around 1 to 3 inches in diameter. I love them because they are easy to cook, buttery, and slightly sweet with a creamy texture.
Health Benefits of Red Potatoes
Red potatoes not only taste delicious, but they also offer a plethora of health benefits. These small, round potatoes are packed with nutrients that can support a healthy diet:
- High fiber content. Fiber is essential for digestive health and can help prevent constipation. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels and can aid in weight management.
- Good source of vitamin C. Essential for a healthy immune system, Vitamin C helps protect the body against damage from free radicals. It also plays a role in collagen production, which is important for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails.
- Other important nutrients including potassium, vitamin B6, and antioxidants. These nutrients work together to support overall health and well-being.
Instant Pot Red Potatoes Ingredients
All you need is two ingredients – red potatoes and water, that’s it! After steaming, to flavor them per my recipe you’ll need melted butter, chopped fresh parsley, kosher salt, and (if desired) fresh ground pepper. Quantities are provided in the recipe card below. (For other seasoning ideas, see the “Variations” section below.)
Hot to Cook Potatoes in an Instant Pot
- Select fresh red potatoes that are around the same size (1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter), firm, and free from any soft spots or blemishes. If not prewashed, wash the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Slice the potatoes in half crosswise.
- Place the steamer basket (or trivet) in the Instant Pot and add 1 1/2 cups of water to the pot (up to but not touching the bottom of the basket).
- Add the potatoes.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the vent is set to the sealing position. Select the “Pressure Cook” function, set the pressure to “High”, and set the timer to 7 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, quick release the pressure by pressing down on the valve (venting button). Be cautious of the hot steam.
- Once the Instant Pot is fully vented, carefully open the lid and use a fork to test the doneness of the potatoes. They should be tender and easily pierced. If they’re not quite done, close the lid and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
- Once the potatoes are cooked to your liking, carefully remove them from the Instant Pot and place in a large bowl.
- Pour melted butter over the potatoes. Sprinkle with parsley, salt, and pepper (if using); gently toss to combine. Serve immediately.
Quick Tip
I recommend purchasing the Steamer Basket accessory for your Instant Pot. It’s perfect not only for steaming new potatoes, but also other vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower, and green beans.
Red Potatoes Instant Pot Variations and Substitutions
While these potatoes are delicious simply following this easy recipe, here are a few suggested substitutions and variations to make this dish your own:
Substitutions
- Use small (1 1/2 to 2 inch) Yukon Gold potatoes, or fingerling potatoes, instead of red potatoes.
- Use chicken broth or vegetable broth in place of the water when steaming.
- Season with chopped fresh chives or green onions in place of the parsley.
Variations
- Garlic Herb Red Potatoes. Season the cooked potatoes with olive oil, chopped fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, rosemary and/or thyme), Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If you don’t have fresh herbs, use Italian seasoning.
- Mashed Red Potatoes. Mash the cooked potatoes with a potato masher or fork until smooth. Add butter, milk or cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, add sour cream and/or mix in chopped fresh herbs.
Tips for Steamed Potatoes in an Instant Pot
To ensure that your Instant Pot potatoes turn out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the right size potatoes. Select red potatoes that are similar in size to ensure even cooking. I recommend using potatoes that are 1 1/2 to 2 inches in length.
- Adjust cooking time. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and quantity of potatoes. If you don’t cut your potatoes in half (as directed in my recipe), or you use potatoes larger than 1 1/2 to 2 inches, you will need to increase the cook time from 7 to 10 minutes.
- Use Quick pressure release. Immediately releasing the pressure helps prevent the potatoes from becoming overcooked.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Red Potatoes
The beauty of these potatoes is that they are the perfect side dish with almost any entrée! Here are some suggestions of main dishes I like to serve them with:
How to Store Instant Pot Steamed Potatoes
If you have leftover potatoes, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will last up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave.
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Steamed Potatoes (Instant Pot Recipe)
Quick and easy to prepare in less than 15 minutes, Instant Pot Red Potatoes are the perfect shortcut to a mouthwatering side dish. Cooked to perfection, all they need is melted butter, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of salt to finish and serve. So, whether you’re serving them with a juicy steak or roasted salmon, these Instant Pot potatoes are sure to please.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 7 mins
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 pounds small ( 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter) red skin potatoes (can also use yellow/Yukon Gold)
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 4 tablespoons butter (salted or unsalted), melted
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh ground black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Slice the potatoes in half crosswise.
- Place the steamer basket (or trivet) in the Instant Pot and add 1 1/2 cups of water to the pot (up to but not touching the bottom of the basket).
- Add the potatoes. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the vent is set to the sealing position. Select the “Pressure Cook” function, set the pressure to “High”, and set the timer to 7 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, quick release the pressure by pressing down on the valve (venting button). Be cautious of the hot steam.
- Once the Instant Pot is fully vented, carefully open the lid and use a fork to test the doneness of the potatoes. They should be tender and easily pierced. If not quite done, close the lid and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
- Once the potatoes are done, carefully remove them from the Instant Pot and place in a large serving bowl.
- Pour the melted butter over the potatoes. Sprinkle with parsley, salt, and pepper (if using); gently toss to combine. Serve immediately.
- Category: Quick and easy, side dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of potatoes (1/2 pound)
- Calories: 262
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 198.5 mg
- Fat: 11.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 7.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 36.4 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 4.5 g
- Cholesterol: 30.5 mg
Steamed Potatoes Instant Pot FAQs
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes such as Yukon gold or russet potatoes in the Instant Pot. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the size and type of potatoes.
Absolutely! If you prefer peeled potatoes, simply peel them before cooking. The cooking time will remain the same.
It depends on the type and size of potato you are cooking – and if they are whole or cut. For this recipe, the cooking time is 7 minutes followed by quick-release venting. With larger potatoes, or if not cut in half, you’ll need to increase the cook time.
