Potlucks are a staple at many social gatherings, and for good reason – who doesn’t love trying a variety of dishes with friends? But sometimes, it can be daunting to come up with recipes that will please even the pickiest eaters. That’s where Instant Pot comes in! This versatile pressure cooker has revolutionized the way we cook, making it easy to create delicious meals with minimal effort.
In this article, we’ll share 20 crowd-pleasing Instant Pot potluck recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. From comforting classics like mac and cheese and beef stew, to international-inspired dishes like teriyaki meatballs and Mexican street corn salad, there’s something for everyone on this list. So whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, grab your Instant Pot and get ready to wow the crowd with these flavorful recipes!
Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
A comforting, creamy macaroni and cheese recipe made easy with the Instant Pot. This classic comfort food is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the macaroni, milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Pressure cook for 4 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and stir the macaroni and cheese until creamy and smooth.
Cooking Time: 14 minutes
Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork
Get ready to fall in love with this mouthwatering Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork recipe! With its tender texture and tangy flavor, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the pork shoulder and cook for 5 minutes, or until browned on all sides.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the pork shoulder and close the lid.
5. Press the “Meat/Stew” button and set the cooking time to 90 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
7. Shred the pork with two forks and serve.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Beef Stew
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy-to-make Instant Pot beef stew recipe. Rich flavors and tender meat come together in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop or in the oven.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef cubes (chuck or round)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, beef cubes, potatoes, peas and carrots, broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (including natural release)
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Get ready for a comforting and indulgent meal with this easy-to-make Instant Pot recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the chicken until browned.
2. Add the fettuccine pasta, chicken broth, garlic powder, basil, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Close the lid, making sure it’s sealed correctly.
4. Set the valve to “Sealing” and cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
This recipe combines the richness of honey with the pungency of garlic, creating a mouthwatering Instant Pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a deliciously tender and flavorful chicken dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes total.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the honey mixture over the chicken, then close the lid of the Instant Pot.
6. Set the valve to “Sealing” and cook at high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Instant Pot Chili Con Carne
This classic chili con carne recipe is a staple of American comfort food, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking capabilities, you can have a delicious and tender chili ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, red bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 15 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Tuscan Garlic Tortellini
Savor the rich flavors of Tuscany with this creamy and indulgent Instant Pot recipe, featuring garlic-infused tortellini and a velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (12 oz) cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
6. When the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Open the lid and stir in cooked tortellini. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Teriyaki Meatballs
Get ready to experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with this simple recipe for Instant Pot Teriyaki Meatballs. This dish is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Instant Pot to “Saute” mode. Add 2 tablespoons of oil and cook the meatballs until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the remaining ingredients (except teriyaki sauce) to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a quick release.
4. Remove the meatballs from the pot and toss with teriyaki sauce.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Pot Cheesy Potato Casserole
This creamy, cheesy casserole is a twist on the classic dish, cooked to perfection in just one pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the potato slices and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the milk and stir to combine.
5. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top and stir again.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
A hearty and flavorful dish that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines juicy sausage with tender peppers, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook sausage until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add peppers, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
4. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with paprika and parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Quickly cook succulent shrimp with a burst of citrusy flavor in this Instant Pot recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp, lemon juice, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 2 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 7-8 minutes
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple of comfort food, made even quicker with the help of an Instant Pot. With tender beef and crisp broccoli, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye work well)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and ginger. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the broccoli and 1 cup of water to the pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Savor a rich and creamy risotto with the simplicity of an Instant Pot. This recipe combines Arborio rice, mushrooms, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, divided
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent (3 minutes).
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start browning (5 minutes).
4. Add rice; stir to coat with oil and mix with mushroom mixture.
5. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and stir to combine. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button for 5 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
8. Stir in Parmesan cheese and butter until melted.
9. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
Get ready for a comforting and flavorful meal with this simple recipe that combines the classic Italian dish with the convenience of an Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 28 oz crushed tomatoes
– 1 lb spaghetti
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
6. Place the spaghetti in the Instant Pot on top of the meatballs.
7. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Instant Pot Honey Sriracha Chicken Wings
These sweet and spicy chicken wings are a game-changer for your next gathering. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve tender and juicy results with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chicken wings and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken wings and stir to coat.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: sour cream, diced chives, crumbled bacon
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken broth and milk. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes.
4. Quick-release pressure. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Serve hot, with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Sweet and Sour Pork
This recipe yields a mouth-watering sweet and sour pork dish with tender meat, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil. Add pork, onion, and garlic; cook until browned.
2. Add bell peppers, pineapple, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Quick-release steam, then open the lid. Mix cornstarch with a little water and stir into the sauce. Simmer 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes (including quick-release)
Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta
This recipe is a simple yet flavorful take on classic pasta dishes. With the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking capabilities, you can have a delicious and creamy garlic parmesan pasta ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. dried parsley
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp. butter
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, parsley, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Mexican Street Corn Salad
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this creamy, flavorful salad that combines the best of Mexico’s street corn with a hint of spice and crunch. This Instant Pot recipe is perfect for parties, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked corn kernels
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tablespoons of butter or oil.
2. Add corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, queso fresco, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a 5-minute Natural Release.
4. Press “Quick Release” and carefully open the lid.
5. Stir in chopped jalapeño and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and spicy Instant Pot buffalo chicken dip, perfect for your next gathering or game day celebration!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” function on the Instant Pot and melt the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the chicken, ranch dressing, buffalo wing sauce, and salt. Mix well.
3. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
4. Release any remaining pressure and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (includes natural release)
Summary
Get ready to impress your friends and family with these delicious and crowd-pleasing Instant Pot recipes! From classic comfort food like mac and cheese and beef stew, to international flavors like teriyaki meatballs and Mexican street corn salad, there’s something for everyone. Try creamy Tuscan garlic tortellini or honey sriracha chicken wings for a flavorful twist. And don’t forget the sweet treats – loaded baked potato soup and sweet and sour pork are sure to be hits. With these 20 recipes, you’ll never run out of ideas for your next potluck or gathering.
