Steamed potatoes are one of the simplest, most practical staples you can keep on hand. Whether you’re planning mashed potatoes for supper or prepping ingredients for meals later in the week, learning how to steam potatoes in the Instant Pot makes the process nearly effortless. With just potatoes and water, you’ll have tender potatoes ready to serve or store in no time.

This method is great for batch cooking. A full 5-pound bag can be prepared at once, giving you a versatile base for multiple meals.
If you don’t want a lot of potatoes on hand, this method works just as well for that, too. I have used this method to steam just a few potatoes as well as many as I could fit into my instant pot. No matter how many potatoes you are cooking, the method stays the same.
Steamed Potatoes
Steamed potatoes are one of the simplest, most practical staples you can keep on hand. Whether you’re planning mashed potatoes for supper or prepping ingredients for meals later in the week, learning how to steam potatoes in the Instant Pot makes the process nearly effortless.
Ingredients
- Potatoes (however many you need)
- 2–3 cups of water (enough to create 1–2 inches of water in the pot)
Instructions
Rinse the potatoes off under running water.
Place the potatoes in the Instant Pot.
Add 1–2 inches of water (about 2–3 cups).
Secure the lid and ensure the pressure valve is set to pressurize.
Cook on high pressure for 18 minutes.
Allow the pressure to release naturally for about 20 minutes.
Carefully open the lid and remove the potatoes. Serve or cool and store for later use.
Notes
Cook extra potatoes to use in other meals throughout the week such as potato salad, casseroles, mashed potatoes, and more.
Save the potato water to use as vegetable broth for gravy or soups to add extra flavor.
Why Steam Potatoes in the Instant Pot?
Steaming potatoes in the Instant Pot is faster than oven baking and more hands-off than boiling on the stovetop. Pressure cooking ensures even tenderness without waterlogging the potatoes. The natural pressure release allows them to finish cooking gently, resulting in perfectly soft interiors.
It’s also an excellent way to meal prep. Once cooked, potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator and quickly transformed into a variety of dishes.
Ingredients for Steamed Potatoes
potatoes, however many you need
2–3 cups of water
How to Steam Potatoes in the Instant Pot
Begin by thoroughly washing the potatoes. There’s no need to peel them unless your recipe requires it.
Place the washed potatoes directly into the Instant Pot. Add 1–2 inches of water to the bottom of the pot, which will equal approximately 2–3 cups depending
Cover the Instant Pot with the lid and make sure the pressure valve is set to pressurize. Set the pot to cook for 18 minutes on high pressure.
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally. This will take about 20 minutes. After the pressure has fully released, carefully open the lid and remove the potatoes.
They are now ready to serve with butter and salt or cool for later use.
How to Use Steamed Potatoes Throughout the Week
One of the best homemaking habits is cooking extra with intention. Steamed potatoes store well in the refrigerator and can be repurposed into many different meals.
Use them to make creamy mashed potatoes, hearty potato salad, comforting casseroles, skillet breakfasts, or add them to soups and stews. Having pre-cooked potatoes on hand significantly cuts down dinner meal prep on busy days.
Save the Potato Water for Extra Flavor
Do not discard the cooking liquid. The potato water contains starch and subtle flavor that can be used as a simple vegetable broth.
Save it to make gravy, add depth to soups, or incorporate into savory sauces. It’s a frugal and flavorful way to stretch your ingredients further.
Save for later!


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