Hey guys! Are you looking for a super simple and delicious side dish that's ready in a flash? Look no further! These Instant Pot Roasted Baby Potatoes are going to be your new best friend. They're tender on the inside, perfectly crisp on the outside, and packed with flavor. Plus, the Instant Pot makes the whole process a breeze. Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Seriously, the Instant Pot does most of the work. You just toss everything in and let it do its thing.
• Delicious Flavor: We're talking perfectly seasoned, buttery potatoes that everyone will love.
• Versatile: These potatoes go with just about anything – chicken, steak, fish, you name it!
• Minimal Cleanup: One pot to wash? Yes, please!

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we get started, let's gather all the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make these amazing Instant Pot Roasted Baby Potatoes:

• Baby Potatoes: About 1.5 to 2 pounds, washed and halved (or quartered if they're large).
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons – this helps get them nice and crispy.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced – because everything is better with garlic!
• Dried Herbs: 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a mix of your favorite herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano.
• Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon – adds a bit of smokiness and color.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste – don't be shy!
• Butter: 2 tablespoons – for that extra touch of richness (optional, but highly recommended).
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish – adds a pop of freshness.

Ingredient Breakdown

Let's delve a bit deeper into why each ingredient is essential for achieving the best results. The baby potatoes are the star of the show, and their small size ensures they cook quickly and evenly in the Instant Pot. Opting for baby potatoes also means you don't have to peel them, saving you valuable time and effort. Make sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris before halving or quartering them. Using olive oil is crucial for achieving that desirable crispy exterior. The oil helps to conduct heat evenly, allowing the potatoes to brown and develop a delicious crust while preventing them from sticking to the bottom of the pot. For those who prefer a richer flavor, consider using melted coconut oil or even avocado oil as alternatives.

The addition of garlic is a game-changer, infusing the potatoes with a savory aroma and taste that complements their natural earthiness. Freshly minced garlic is always best, but if you're short on time, you can substitute it with garlic powder. However, keep in mind that the flavor won't be as intense. Dried herbs, such as Italian seasoning, thyme, rosemary, and oregano, provide a complex blend of flavors that elevate the potatoes to a whole new level. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your personal favorite. Paprika not only adds a touch of smokiness but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish by giving the potatoes a vibrant reddish hue. Smoked paprika is an excellent option for those who crave a more pronounced smoky flavor.

Of course, no dish is complete without salt and pepper, which are essential for seasoning the potatoes to perfection. Don't be afraid to season generously, as the potatoes will absorb much of the flavor during the cooking process. And last but not least, a pat of butter adds a touch of richness and indulgence that takes these potatoes from ordinary to extraordinary. While it's entirely optional, we highly recommend adding it for an extra layer of flavor and decadence. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish and complements the earthy flavors of the potatoes. It's the perfect finishing touch that elevates the presentation and makes these potatoes even more irresistible.

Equipment You'll Need

• Instant Pot: 6-quart or larger.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping the potatoes and garlic.
• Mixing Bowl: To toss the potatoes with the seasonings.
• Measuring Spoons: To measure out the spices.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make the best Instant Pot Roasted Baby Potatoes ever:

1. Prep the Potatoes: Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly. Halve or quarter them depending on their size. Place them in a mixing bowl.
2. Season the Potatoes: Add the olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the potatoes. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Add to Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot. Place a trivet at the bottom. This will prevent the potatoes from sitting directly in the water and steaming instead of roasting.
4. Cook: Place the seasoned potatoes on top of the trivet in a single layer if possible. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual (or pressure cook) mode for 5 minutes at high pressure. Make sure the valve is set to sealing.
5. Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is up, do a quick pressure release. Be careful of the steam!
6. Roast (Optional): For extra crispy potatoes, transfer them to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning. You can also sauté them in a skillet with a bit of butter until they're golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve: Transfer the potatoes to a serving dish. Add the butter (if using) and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Detailed Cooking Process

Before embarking on the journey of creating these delightful Instant Pot Roasted Baby Potatoes, ensure that your baby potatoes are thoroughly washed and properly prepared. Halving or quartering them ensures even cooking and allows the flavors of the seasonings to penetrate every nook and cranny. In a mixing bowl, combine the potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated, ensuring that each piece is infused with the aromatic spices.

Next, pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot and place a trivet at the bottom. This crucial step prevents the potatoes from sitting directly in the water, which would result in them steaming rather than roasting. Arrange the seasoned potatoes on top of the trivet in a single layer, if possible, to promote even cooking and browning. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual (or pressure cook) mode for 5 minutes at high pressure. Ensure that the valve is set to sealing to prevent steam from escaping during the cooking process.

Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick pressure release, being cautious of the hot steam that will escape from the valve. At this stage, the potatoes are perfectly cooked and tender, but for those who crave that extra crispy exterior, there's an optional step that takes these potatoes to the next level. Transfer the potatoes to a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can sauté them in a skillet with a bit of butter until they're golden brown and crispy.

Finally, transfer the potatoes to a serving dish, add the butter (if using) for an extra touch of richness, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve these Instant Pot Roasted Baby Potatoes hot as a side dish to your favorite main course, and prepare to be amazed by their incredible flavor and texture.

Tips for the Best Instant Pot Roasted Baby Potatoes

• Don't Overcrowd: Make sure the potatoes are in a single layer on the trivet for even cooking.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Want more garlic? Go for it! Like a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Get Creative with Herbs: Try different herb combinations like rosemary and thyme, or dill and parsley.
• Broil for Extra Crispiness: Don't skip the broiling step if you want super crispy potatoes.
• Add Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on the potatoes after broiling for a cheesy twist.

Variations

• Spicy Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix.
• Lemon Herb Potatoes: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with your favorite herbs.
• Bacon Potatoes: Cook some bacon until crispy, crumble it, and add it to the potatoes after cooking.
• Sweet Potatoes: Substitute baby potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter, caramelized flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Instant Pot Roasted Baby Potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Main Courses: Serve them alongside grilled chicken, steak, fish, or pork chops.
• Vegetarian Dishes: Pair them with roasted vegetables, tofu, or a hearty salad.
• Breakfast: Add them to your breakfast plate with eggs and bacon.
• Snack: Enjoy them as a quick and satisfying snack on their own.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet with a bit of oil or butter. For a quicker option, microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but they may not be as crispy.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 200
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 3g

Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a super easy and delicious recipe for Instant Pot Roasted Baby Potatoes! I hope you guys give this a try and love it as much as I do. It's perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you need a simple and satisfying side dish. Don't forget to share your creations with me on social media. Happy cooking!