Name: Creamy Instant Pot Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Ingredients: 1 lb baby potatoes (cut into halves); 1.5 tablespoons olive oil; 6 cloves garlic (unpeeled); 0.5 tablespoon chopped thyme; 0.5 tablespoon chopped oregano; 0.5 tablespoon chopped Italian parsley; 0.25 cup chicken broth; 0.5 tablespoon lemon juice; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 3 dashes ground black pepper; 3 dashes cayenne pepper (optional); 1 tablespoon bottled grated Parmesan cheese; 0.5 cup heavy whipping cream

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If you’re on the lookout for an easy, flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal, look no further than these Creamy Instant Pot Potatoes. This dish is not only a breeze to prepare but also boasts a delightful creamy texture, thanks to the combination of heavy cream and savory herbs. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet night at home, these potatoes will surely impress your family and friends.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Creamy Instant Pot Potatoes are a versatile addition to any table. Their rich flavor and creamy consistency make them perfect for pairing with a variety of main dishes, from roasted chicken to grilled steak. Plus, cooking them in an Instant Pot ensures that they’re ready in a fraction of the time it takes to prepare them traditionally. The inclusion of fresh herbs and garlic adds a sophisticated touch that elevates this simple dish into something extraordinary.

Ingredients at a Glance

1 lb (500g) baby potatoes, cut into halves
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
6 cloves garlic, unpeeled
1/2 tablespoon chopped thyme
1/2 tablespoon chopped oregano
1/2 tablespoon chopped Italian parsley
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 dashes ground black pepper
3 dashes cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon bottled grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Instant Pot: The star of the show, this will make cooking quick and effortless.
Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping your baby potatoes and herbs.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key for perfect flavors.
Large Mixing Spoon: To combine your ingredients effortlessly.

How to Prepare Creamy Instant Pot Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing your baby potatoes thoroughly. Cut them in half to ensure even cooking. This step is essential for achieving that soft, creamy texture.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up for a minute. Toss in the unpeeled garlic cloves and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they’re fragrant and slightly golden. This will impart a deep garlic flavor into your dish.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Herbs

Next, add the halved baby potatoes into the pot along with the chopped thyme, oregano, and parsley. Stir everything together, letting the herbs mingle with the potatoes and garlic for about a minute.

Step 4: Incorporate the Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and add the lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. This combination of flavors will create a deliciously creamy sauce once cooked.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is sealed. Set it to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 8 minutes. Once the time is up, allow for a quick release of the steam.

Step 6: Add the Cream and Cheese

Carefully remove the lid and stir in the heavy whipping cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is well combined, creating a luscious, creamy texture that coats the potatoes perfectly.

Dietary Customizations

Vegan Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk and omit the Parmesan cheese.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so enjoy it worry-free.
Herb Variations: Feel free to swap out herbs based on your preference; rosemary or dill can add a unique flavor.
Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your taste. Omit for a milder flavor.

Method to the Madness

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The Instant Pot allows you to sauté, pressure cook, and infuse all the flavors in one pot. This not only saves you time but also minimizes cleanup. The garlic and herbs create an aromatic foundation, while the cream and cheese bring it all together into a rich, savory delight. You’ll find that these Creamy Instant Pot Potatoes become a staple in your recipe repertoire in no time!

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Once you’ve enjoyed your creamy potatoes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore their creamy consistency.

Your Top Questions

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Absolutely! While baby potatoes work wonderfully, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is it necessary to peel the garlic?

Nope! Leaving the garlic unpeeled allows it to infuse its flavor without becoming overly pungent. Once cooked, the cloves will be soft and easy to squeeze out of their skins.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the potatoes and the sauce in advance. Just reheat them before serving for a quick meal option.

What can I serve with these potatoes?

These Creamy Instant Pot Potatoes pair beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. They are versatile enough to complement a multitude of dishes!

Quick Weeknight Wins

The Last Word

Creamy Instant Pot Potatoes are a delightful dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Their creamy texture and rich flavor profile make them the perfect accompaniment for any meal. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a comforting side dish that impresses. So why not give this recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you!