Cooking potatoes in a pressure cooker is one of the quickest ways to prepare them for mashing, roasting, curries, salads, or everyday meals. Instead of waiting 20–30 minutes for them to boil on the stove, a pressure cooker softens potatoes in just a few minutes while keeping their texture intact. Whether you're using whole potatoes or peeled cubes, understanding the correct cooking time ensures perfect, evenly cooked results every time.
How Long Do Potatoes Take in a Pressure Cooker?
The cooking time depends on the size and type of potatoes. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you choose the right timing:
| Potato Type | Size / Cut | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Baby potatoes | Whole | 5–6 minutes |
| White or red potatoes | Whole (medium) | 8–10 minutes |
| Russet potatoes | Whole (large) | 10–12 minutes |
| Any potato variety | Peeled and cubed | 4–5 minutes |
| Potatoes for mashed potatoes | Peeled, chopped | 5–6 minutes |
Note: Always allow 5–7 minutes for natural pressure release for best texture.
How to Cook Potatoes in a Pressure Cooker (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare the potatoes
Wash the potatoes thoroughly. Peel if needed and cut into even-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
2. Add water
Pour 1–1.5 cups of water into the pressure cooker. Potatoes don’t need to be fully submerged—steam also helps cook them evenly.
3. Add a steamer basket (optional)
Using a basket keeps the potatoes from absorbing too much water, making them ideal for salads or roasting.
4. Lock the lid and cook
Seal the pressure cooker and cook according to the timing chart above. Start timing once the cooker reaches full pressure.
5. Release pressure
Allow a natural release for 5–7 minutes for perfectly fluffy potatoes. Quick release is fine for diced potatoes when you need them fast.
6. Check doneness
Pierce with a fork. If the fork slides in easily, the potatoes are ready.
Tips for Perfect Pressure-Cooked Potatoes
- Cut potatoes into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Use a trivet or steamer basket for firmer potatoes.
- Don’t overfill the cooker; potatoes expand slightly when cooked.
- Add salt to the water for better flavour.
- If making mashed potatoes, cook until very soft and allow natural release.
Why Use a Pressure Cooker for Potatoes?
Pressure cookers cut down cooking time dramatically while locking in nutrients and flavour. They are ideal for busy households, meal prepping, and everyday cooking. From mashed potatoes to curries and soups, a reliable pressure cooker helps you prepare meals quickly and efficiently.
Shop Quality Pressure Cookers
At The Living Styles, we offer premium pressure cookers trusted in kitchens for durability and performance. Whether you’re preparing potatoes, stews, or full meals, our collection includes top-quality options from WMF, Scanpan, Pyrolux, and Wiltshire. These brands are known for strong build quality, even heat distribution, and user-friendly designs.
