How Long to Cook Sweet Potatoes (Whole, Medium) in the instant pot

Specification: Medium whole sweet potatoes (5–6 oz each), pierced with fork, on trivet, 1 cup water

Target Temp

High Pressure (239°F / 115°C)

Pressure Level

Total Time

15–20 mins

Total Cook Window

Flip Mark

No Flip

Continuous Cook

Internal Safe Temp

205°F (96°C)

USDA Safe Pull

Release: 10-minute natural release (20 min pressure + 10 min release)

3-Step Execution Protocol

Preheat & Prep

Add sweet potatoes (whole, medium) (Medium whole sweet potatoes (5–6 oz each), pierced with fork, on trivet, 1 cup water) to the Instant Pot inner pot. Seal the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Select High Pressure (239°F / 115°C) for 15–20 mins.

Pressure Cook

Cook at High Pressure (239°F / 115°C) for 15–20 mins. Use 10-minute natural release.

Check & Rest

Knife slides through center with zero resistance; skin wrinkles and separates from flesh; interior is creamy and caramelized. After 10-minute natural release, carefully open the lid away from you. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Verification Basis & Testing Rig

Instant Pot Duo 6-Qt (IP-DUO60); tested with Garnet, Jewel, and Japanese sweet potatoes at varying sizes.

Pro Tip: Pierce each potato 4–5 times with a fork before cooking to prevent splitting. Choose similarly-sized potatoes for even cooking.

Related instant pot Cook Times

White Rice (Long Grain)

High Pressure (239°F / 115°C)3 mins

Chicken Breast (Fresh, Boneless)

High Pressure (239°F / 115°C)8–10 mins

Chicken Breast (Frozen, Boneless)

High Pressure (239°F / 115°C)12–15 mins

Hard Boiled Eggs (5-5-5 Method)

High Pressure (239°F / 115°C)5 mins

Pot Roast (Chuck Roast)

High Pressure (239°F / 115°C)60–75 mins

Pulled Pork (Pork Shoulder / Butt)

High Pressure (239°F / 115°C)60–90 mins