Pressure cooker sweet potatoes take just 12 to 20 minutes depending on size, making them the fastest option for a quick side dish. If you want to know exactly how long to cook sweet potatoes in pressure cooker, the answer comes down to two things: the size of the potato and the pressure setting you use.
This guide breaks it all down so you get tender, creamy sweet potatoes every single time.
How Long To Cook Sweet Potatoes In Pressure Cooker
The cooking time depends mostly on how you cut the sweet potatoes. Whole potatoes take longer. Chunks cook faster. Here is a simple breakdown.
- Whole medium sweet potatoes (8 to 10 oz each): 15 to 20 minutes on high pressure
- Whole large sweet potatoes (12 oz or more): 20 to 25 minutes on high pressure
- Halved sweet potatoes: 12 to 15 minutes on high pressure
- Cubed sweet potatoes (1 to 2 inch pieces): 8 to 10 minutes on high pressure
- Small sweet potatoes (under 6 oz): 12 to 14 minutes on high pressure
Always add a natural release of 10 minutes after the timer goes off. This finishes the cooking gently and keeps the texture just right.
Why Pressure Cooking Beats Other Methods
A pressure cooker cooks sweet potatoes in a fraction of the time. Oven baking can take 45 to 60 minutes. Boiling takes 30 to 40 minutes. A pressure cooker gets the job done in 12 to 20 minutes.
The sealed environment traps steam and heat. This cooks the potato evenly from the inside out. You also keep more nutrients because the potato never sits in water.
The skin stays intact and the inside turns soft and creamy. No dry edges. No mushy centers.
Step By Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
- Wash the sweet potatoes under cool running water. Scrub off any dirt with a vegetable brush.
- Prick each potato 3 to 4 times with a fork. This lets steam escape and prevents splitting.
- Pour 1 cup of water into the pressure cooker inner pot.
- Place a trivet or steamer basket inside the pot. The potatoes should sit above the water, not in it.
- Arrange the sweet potatoes on the trivet. Do not stack them too high. Leave a little space between each one.
- Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
- Select high pressure and set the timer based on the size chart above.
- When the timer beeps, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Then turn the valve to venting to release any remaining steam.
- Open the lid carefully. Test doneness by inserting a knife or fork. It should slide in with no resistance.
- Remove the potatoes with tongs. Let them cool for a few minutes before peeling or slicing.
Tips For Best Results
- Choose sweet potatoes that are similar in size so they cook at the same rate.
- Do not overcrowd the pot. If you cook a large batch, do it in two rounds.
- Use fresh water every time. Broth or stock can stain the potatoes.
- If you want softer skin, rub a little oil on the potatoes before cooking.
- For mashed sweet potatoes, cut them into chunks first. They will cook in 8 to 10 minutes.
- If your pressure cooker has a low pressure setting, add 3 to 5 minutes to the cook time.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
One big mistake is skipping the trivet. When potatoes sit directly in water, they get waterlogged. The texture turns mushy and the flavor washes away.
Another mistake is doing a quick release right away. The sudden drop in pressure can cause the potato skins to burst. Always do a natural release for at least 10 minutes.
Also, do not forget to prick the potatoes. Without those small holes, steam builds up inside and the potato can split open.
Finally, resist the urge to overcook. If you leave them in too long, they turn into a soft mess. Start with the shorter time and add more minutes if needed.
How To Tell When They Are Done
A fork or thin knife should slide into the center with almost no resistance. The skin may look slightly wrinkled, which is normal.
If the potato feels firm in the middle, close the lid and cook for 2 to 3 more minutes on high pressure. Then do another quick natural release for 5 minutes.
For cubed sweet potatoes, a gentle press with a spoon should mash them easily.
Using Different Types Of Pressure Cookers
Electric pressure cookers like Instant Pot models work the same way. Set to high pressure and follow the times above.
Stovetop pressure cookers heat up faster but can run hotter. Start checking at the lower end of the time range. You may need to lower the heat once pressure is reached.
No matter what brand you own, the size of the potato matters more than the cooker itself.
Serving Ideas
Once your sweet potatoes are cooked, you can serve them in many ways.
- Split open and top with butter, salt, and pepper.
- Mash with a little maple syrup and cinnamon.
- Cube and add to salads or grain bowls.
- Puree for soups, pies, or baby food.
- Slice and pan fry for a quick hash.
You can also store cooked sweet potatoes in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat them in the microwave or a hot skillet.
Final Thoughts
So, how long to cook sweet potatoes in pressure cooker? For whole medium potatoes, plan on 15 to 20 minutes on high pressure with a 10 minute natural release. For chunks, cut that time to 8 to 10 minutes.
Use the size chart, follow the steps, and you will get perfect sweet potatoes every time. No oven needed. No long wait. Just quick, easy, and reliable results from your pressure cooker.