Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen on busy weeknights? Do you wish you had a secret to making delicious, home-cooked meals with minimal effort and maximum flavor? Look no further! The Instant Pot has revolutionized cooking for many people, and we’re here to share 20 effortless recipes that will make your life easier. From classic comfort foods like chicken and rice or mac and cheese, to hearty stews and soups, these recipes are perfect for busy families or individuals who want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without sacrificing taste or quality.
In the following pages, we’ll be sharing our favorite Instant Pot recipes that are quick, easy, and delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot user or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking!
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
This simple recipe yields a flavorful and tender chicken dish cooked with fluffy rice, all in one pot! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy day when you need a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 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, onion, and garlic; cook until the chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the rice, chicken broth, thyme, 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 8-10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Stew
A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick, easy, and delicious! This Instant Pot beef stew is perfect for a cozy night in or a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and brown the beef in small batches until browned, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, potatoes, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”. Cook on High Pressure for 30 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid and check that the vegetables are tender. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy and indulgent macaroni and cheese recipe, cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add flour and whisk until smooth; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly; bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add macaroni, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
6. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 5 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Instant Pot Spaghetti
Get a delicious, one-pot spaghetti dish on the table in no time with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the spaghetti, breaking it up slightly as you add it.
6. Close the lid, ensuring the steam release handle is set to “Sealing”.
7. Press “Manual” mode and cook on high pressure for 4-5 minutes.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time: 14-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chili
Hearty Instant Pot Chili Recipe
This classic chili recipe is a staple for any meal, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner. With the help of your Instant Pot, this dish comes together quickly and effortlessly.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked kidney beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Once browned, add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
- Add garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
- Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Chili!
Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Transform a pork shoulder into tender, juicy pulled pork with the help of your Instant Pot! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the pork shoulder and chicken broth. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
4. Press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode and set the cooking time to 90 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and serve.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (includes natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this easy and convenient recipe that yields a fluffy, creamy result. With the help of your trusty Instant Pot, you’ll have perfectly cooked mashed potatoes in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the cubed potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
4. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
5. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or fork until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Instant Pot Hard-Boiled Eggs
Elevate your snack game with this simple and efficient recipe for Instant Pot hard-boiled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 large eggs
– Water (enough to cover the eggs)
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the eggs in the Instant Pot.
2. Add enough water to cover the eggs by about an inch.
3. If desired, add a pinch of salt for flavor enhancement.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
5. Cook on high pressure for 5-6 minutes.
6. Allow the pressure to release naturally (NPR) for 10-12 minutes.
7. Open the lid and immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop cooking.
Cooking Time:
– High pressure: 5-6 minutes
– NPR: 10-12 minutes
Instant Pot Vegetable Soup
This recipe yields a deliciously flavorful and nutritious vegetable soup with minimal effort. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch, this soup is packed with tender vegetables and a hint of savory flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, etc.)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and mixed vegetables; cook for 5 minutes.
5. Add vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and set cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Risotto
Transform traditional risotto into a quick and easy weeknight meal with this pressure cooker recipe. In just under an hour, you’ll have a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” and heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
6. Pour in the warmed chicken broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring after each addition and allowing the liquid to be mostly absorbed before adding the next.
7. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, press “Cancel” and stir in the butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 23-25 minutes
Instant Pot BBQ Ribs
Transform your ribs into tender, fall-off-the-bone goodness with this Instant Pot BBQ Ribs recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef or pork ribs
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat it until it reads “HOT”.
2. Remove any membrane from the back of the ribs (optional but recommended).
3. Season both sides of the ribs with salt, pepper, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
4. Place the ribs in the Instant Pot, leaving some space between each rack.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and BBQ sauce.
6. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
7. Cook on “MEAT/STEW” mode at high pressure for 20 minutes.
8. Allow the pressure to release naturally (about 10-15 minutes).
9. Remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and serve with additional BBQ sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes at high pressure + 10-15 minute natural release
Instant Pot Yogurt
Make your own yogurt at home with just a few simple ingredients and your trusty Instant Pot! This recipe yields a creamy, tangy, and deliciously homemade yogurt that’s perfect for snacking or as a base for smoothies and parfaits.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart (960 ml) whole milk
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt with live cultures (store-bought or previous batch from this recipe)
– Optional: honey, maple syrup, or sugar to taste
Instructions:
1. Pour the milk into the Instant Pot and stir in the plain yogurt.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally (NR) for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid and stir in your desired sweetener (if using).
6. Pour the yogurt into individual containers or a large glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill and thicken.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + NR 10 minutes = Total: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
This recipe for Instant Pot Lentil Soup is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s ready in no time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 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 onion, garlic, carrot, and celery and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, water, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 20 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with this easy and delicious Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup egg noodles
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 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, onion, and garlic. Cook until the chicken is browned and the onion is translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the chicken broth, egg noodles, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and stir in any accumulated noodles. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 13 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Pot Roast
Say goodbye to hours of slow cooking and hello to a fall-apart tender pot roast, all thanks to your trusty Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pound beef pot roast (chuck or round)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Place the pot roast in the pot, making sure it’s covered by the liquid. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
4. Press the “MEAT/STEW” button or “MANUAL” mode and set the cooking time to 90 minutes at high pressure. Let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Remove the pot roast from the Instant Pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Cheesecake
Summary: Enjoy a creamy and rich cheesecake with minimal effort using your Instant Pot! This recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without heating up your oven.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 12 oz (340g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Instant Pot to “Saute” mode.
2. In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter (about 1 tablespoon) and stir until combined.
3. Press crust mixture into the bottom of the Instant Pot’s springform pan.
4. In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
5. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
6. Mix sour cream and heavy cream in a separate bowl. Pour this mixture over cheesecake batter.
7. Close the Instant Pot lid, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 12 minutes.
8. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 22-24 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp
This recipe yields tender, flavorful shrimp coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, all cooked to perfection in under 10 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp, chicken broth, paprika, 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 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 2 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and stir in any garlic butter sauce that has accumulated on the bottom of the pot.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 7 minutes
Instant Pot Corn on the Cob
Summer just got a whole lot sweeter with this simple and delicious recipe for Instant Pot corn on the cob. With minimal effort, you’ll have perfectly cooked corn that’s tender and flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot.
2. Place the corn on the cob in a single layer on the trivet or steamer basket that came with your Instant Pot.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
4. Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes, followed by a quick release.
5. Remove the corn from the pot and brush with melted butter.
6. Sprinkle with salt and any desired seasonings.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
This recipe brings together the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce with the ease of cooking chicken in an Instant Pot. With this simple and quick recipe, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ginger powder
– 1/4 cup water
– Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and add water.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Note: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your Instant Pot model.
Instant Pot Apple Sauce
Transform fresh apples into a creamy and delicious sauce with minimal effort using your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith or other sweet-tart varieties work well)
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chopped apples, water, brown sugar, and cinnamon (if using) to the pot.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
4. When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5-10 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the mixture to a blender) to puree the apples until smooth.
6. Serve warm or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes at high pressure, with 5-10 minute natural release
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious meal ideas to spice up your busy weeknights? Look no further! This article features 20 effortless Instant Pot recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort foods like chicken and rice, beef stew, and mac and cheese, to international-inspired dishes like teriyaki chicken and lentil soup, there’s something for everyone. And with the Instant Pot’s ease of use and speed, you can have a healthy meal on the table in no time. Get ready to simplify your meal prep and enjoy more family time!