How Long to Cook Potatoes in Instant Pot: Temperature Mode Cooking Time
Hey folks! Let me tell you, once you start cooking potatoes in an Instant Pot, there’s no going back. Whether I’m prepping mashed potatoes for Sunday dinner, making creamy potato salad, or just meal-prepping for the week—this little pressure cooker is a total game changer. Potatoes go from raw to fork-tender in minutes, and with the right timing, you’ll never deal with mushy or undercooked spuds again. Let me walk you through how I handle them in my kitchen.
Instant Pot Potato Cook Time Chart
| Type of Potato | Size/Cut | Pressure Cook Time | Release Method | Notes |
| Whole baby potatoes | 1–2 inches | 6–8 minutes | Quick Release | Great for potato salad |
| Whole medium potatoes | 2.5–3 inches | 10–12 minutes | Natural 10 min | Yukon Golds, red or white varieties |
| Whole large russets | 3+ inches | 15–18 minutes | Natural 10 min | Ideal for baked-style texture |
| Cubed potatoes | 1-inch cubes | 3–5 minutes | Quick Release | Perfect for mash or soups |
| Sliced potatoes | Thin slices | 1–2 minutes | Quick Release | Great for scalloped or gratin |
| Mashed potato prep | Cubed | 8–10 minutes | Quick or Natural | Soft enough to mash smoothly |
My Recommended Pressure Settings
| Potato Dish | Pressure Setting | Cook Time | Chef’s Note |
| Mashed potatoes | High | 8–10 min | I use cubed Russets or Yukon Golds |
| Potato salad | High | 6–8 min | Baby potatoes, skin-on |
| Roasted-style finish | High + sauté | 10 min + crisp | Cook, then sauté or air fry to finish |
| Prep for hash | High | 5 min | Par-cook cubed potatoes for later use |
FAQ – 15 Questions About Cooking Potatoes in an Instant Pot
How long do I cook whole potatoes in an Instant Pot?
On my experience, small whole potatoes take 6–8 minutes, medium ones go for 10–12. I always let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes—it helps finish the cooking gently.
Can I cook potatoes with the skin on?
Absolutely. I do this all the time, especially for red or Yukon Gold potatoes. The skin softens and adds flavor and texture—great for rustic mashes or salads.
How long do cubed potatoes take in the Instant Pot?
I always set them for 3 to 5 minutes on high pressure. Quick release, then straight into mashing or a soup pot. Super reliable.
Should I use a trivet or put potatoes directly in the water?
For whole potatoes, I place them on the trivet with a cup of water. For cubed or mashed-style, I just drop them right into the water so they steam evenly.
Can I overcook potatoes in the Instant Pot?
Oh, yes—and they’ll turn to glue real fast. I always start on the lower end of the timing range and test with a fork. You can always add a minute if needed.
What kind of potatoes work best for the Instant Pot?
For mashed, I swear by Yukon Golds. For salads, baby reds are unbeatable. Russets work for baking or when you want that fluffy texture.
Can I cook sweet potatoes the same way?
Pretty close! I usually go for 15 minutes on high pressure for medium sweet potatoes, and let the pressure release naturally.
Do I need to peel potatoes before pressure cooking?
Not unless you want to. I often leave the skin on for nutrition and texture. If I’m doing a smooth mash, I’ll peel them after—they slip right off when hot.
How much water do I need in the Instant Pot?
Just 1 cup is plenty for most recipes. I always make sure the water doesn’t touch the potatoes on the trivet—unless I’m making mash.
How do I keep potatoes from getting mushy?
Watch your time and cut size! I always cut my potatoes evenly and keep a close eye—short pressure times make all the difference.
Can I make potato salad in the Instant Pot?
I do it all the time. 6–7 minutes for baby potatoes, quick release, then cool them quickly. Toss with a little vinegar while warm for flavor punch.
Can I cook potatoes and other veggies together?
Yes—but I always group similar textures together. Potatoes with carrots or parsnips work great. Softer veggies like zucchini? Add them later.
Can I use the Instant Pot to reheat cooked potatoes?
I have, but I prefer to steam or sauté them. The Instant Pot can be a little aggressive unless you’re careful with timing.
Do I need to poke holes in the potatoes before cooking?
Nope. I never do in the Instant Pot. The steam pressure cooks them evenly without any bursting.
Can I store cooked potatoes from the Instant Pot?
Yes! I keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. I use them in breakfast hashes, soups, or quick mashed potatoes during the week.