Instant Pots have changed the way many people cook. These handy kitchen tools can make meals faster and easier. They combine the functions of slow cookers, pressure cookers, and more in one device.
You can make a wide variety of dishes in an Instant Pot. From soups and stews to roasts and rice, the options are almost endless. This article will share 50 tasty recipes to try in your Instant Pot. You’ll find ideas for quick weeknight dinners and impressive meals for guests.
Beef stew is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for your Instant Pot. You can create a tender, flavorful stew in less time than traditional methods.
Start by browning the beef chunks in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. This adds depth to the flavor. Remove the meat and sauté onions and garlic.
Add beef stock, potatoes, carrots, celery, and mushrooms to the pot. Don’t forget tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce for extra richness.
Pressure cook on high for about 40 minutes. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that tastes like it simmered all day.
Your Instant Pot beef stew will be ready to enjoy in a fraction of the time it takes to make on the stovetop.
Your Instant Pot can make delicious vegetarian chili quickly and easily. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in the pot. Add your favorite beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
Spice it up with chili powder, cumin, and oregano. For extra flavor, try adding sweet potatoes or corn. Set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 12 minutes.
Let the pressure release naturally for the best results. Your chili will be ready in about 30 minutes total. Serve with toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
This hearty meal is perfect for cold days or when you need a quick dinner option.
Pulled pork is a breeze in your Instant Pot. Cut a pork shoulder into chunks and season with a mix of spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Use the sauté function to brown the meat. This step adds extra flavor. Then add liquid like chicken stock or apple cider vinegar to the pot.
Cook on high pressure for 40-60 minutes, depending on the size of your meat chunks. Let the pressure release naturally for 10-20 minutes after cooking.
Shred the pork with two forks. Mix in your favorite BBQ sauce or serve it on the side. Your pulled pork is ready to pile high on buns or enjoy on its own.
Ratatouille is a perfect dish to make in your Instant Pot. This classic French vegetable stew comes together quickly and easily.
To start, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil using the Instant Pot’s Sauté function. Add zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, stirring for a few minutes.
Mix in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and herbs like basil and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Secure the lid and cook on High Pressure for 2-6 minutes, depending on how soft you like your vegetables. Let the pressure release naturally for about 6 minutes before doing a quick release.
Instant Pot clam chowder is a quick and tasty meal you can make in under an hour. This creamy soup is packed with clams, potatoes, and bacon for a comforting dish.
You can use canned clams to save time. Add Yukon Gold potatoes for a nice texture. Evaporated milk helps create a rich base without curdling.
For extra flavor, try adding corn or other seafood like shrimp. A pinch of cayenne pepper can give it a spicy kick. Top your chowder with crispy bacon bits and serve with biscuits for a filling meal.
This recipe works well year-round. It’s warming on cold days but also enjoyable in summer. The Instant Pot makes the process simple and fast.
Chicken noodle soup is a comforting classic that’s easy to make in your Instant Pot. You can create a delicious homemade version in just a fraction of the time it takes on the stovetop.
Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in the pot. Then add chicken breasts, water, and chicken stock. Pressure cook everything together to infuse the broth with flavor.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it. Add egg noodles to the pot and cook until tender. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
The result is a warm, hearty soup packed with tender chicken, soft noodles, and vegetables in a flavorful broth. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a comforting meal.
Beef chili is a perfect dish for your Instant Pot. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. You’ll love how the pressure cooker intensifies the taste in a short time.
Start by browning the beef using the sauté function. Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. Toss in your favorite beans – kidney, pinto, or black beans work great.
Don’t forget the spices! Cumin, chili powder, and salt are essential. Pour in some beef stock and crushed tomatoes. Close the lid and set the timer for about 20 minutes.
When it’s done, you’ll have a hearty, warming chili. Serve it with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Your family will ask for this meal again and again.
Start by browning ground beef in your Instant Pot using the sauté function. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
Pour in some red wine to deglaze the pot, then add crushed tomatoes and beef stock. Layer uncooked spaghetti on top of the sauce.
Pressure cook for about 20 minutes. When it’s done, you’ll have a rich, meaty sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta.
Stir in a splash of cream at the end for extra richness. Serve your Instant Pot Spaghetti Bolognese topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
Risotto becomes a breeze with your Instant Pot. You can create this creamy Italian dish in just 25 minutes. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in the pot. Then add Arborio rice and coat it with oil.
Pour in some white wine and let it absorb. Next, add chicken broth and close the lid. Cook under pressure for about 5 minutes. When done, stir in butter and Parmesan cheese.
For extra flavor, try adding peas or mushrooms. If the risotto is too runny, use the sauté function to cook off excess liquid. You’ll get perfect, restaurant-quality risotto every time.
Butter chicken is a popular Indian dish that’s easy to make in your Instant Pot. This creamy, flavorful meal combines tender chicken with a rich tomato-based sauce.
To start, marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices. Then, use the Instant Pot’s sauté function to cook onions and garlic. Add the marinated chicken and other ingredients like tomato sauce and spices.
Pressure cook for about 10 minutes. After releasing the pressure, stir in cream and butter for a silky smooth sauce. You can adjust the spices to suit your taste.
Serve your homemade butter chicken with rice or naan bread. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Apple crisp is a tasty dessert you can make in your Instant Pot. It’s quick and easy to prepare. You’ll need apples, cinnamon, and a few simple ingredients.
Start by slicing the apples and adding them to your Instant Pot. Mix in cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Pour in some apple juice, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
Make a topping with oats, brown sugar, and butter. Spread it over the apples. Close the lid and set the pressure cook time.
When it’s done, you’ll have a warm, sweet treat. The apples will be soft and the topping crispy. Serve it with ice cream for extra yumminess.
This dessert is perfect for fall, but you can enjoy it any time of year. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Rice pudding is a comforting dessert you can easily make in your Instant Pot. This creamy treat combines rice, milk, sugar, and flavorings like cinnamon and vanilla.
To make it, mix rice, milk, sugar, and spices in the pot. Cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes. Let it sit for 10 minutes before releasing the pressure.
The result is a rich, creamy pudding that’s ready in under 30 minutes. You can enjoy it warm or chilled. Add toppings like fruit or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
This quick Instant Pot method saves time compared to stovetop cooking. It’s a simple way to create a tasty dessert your family will love.
You can make a delicious lemon cheesecake in your Instant Pot. Start by creating a graham cracker crust and pressing it into a cheesecake pan.
For the filling, blend cream cheese, sugar, and lemon juice. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently. Pour the batter into the crust.
Place the pan on a trivet in your Instant Pot with some water. Cook at high pressure for about 22 minutes, then let it release naturally.
After cooking, let the cheesecake cool on the counter. Then refrigerate for 4-6 hours before serving. You can top it with whipped cream and lemon slices for extra flavor.
Instant Pot ramen is a quick and tasty meal you can make at home. Start by adding chicken or vegetable broth to your Instant Pot.
Mix in soy sauce, mirin, and miso paste for flavor. Add your choice of protein, like chicken or tofu, along with vegetables such as mushrooms and carrots.
Cook on high pressure for a few minutes. Once done, do a quick release and add your ramen noodles. Let them cook in the hot broth until tender.
Top your ramen with green onions, soft-boiled eggs, and sesame seeds. You can customize the toppings to your liking.
This easy Instant Pot method gives you a comforting bowl of ramen in no time.
Tamale Pie in the Instant Pot brings the flavors of traditional tamales without the fuss. You start by making a savory filling with ground beef, spices, and sauce.
Next, you prepare a masa dough to cover the top and bottom of the pie. Place the filling between layers of masa in a springform pan.
Add water to the Instant Pot and place the pan on a trivet inside. Cook on high pressure for about 30 minutes.
After cooking, let the pot release pressure naturally for 10 minutes before opening. The result is a hearty, flavorful dish that tastes like authentic tamales but takes much less time to make.
You can make tasty Thai green curry in your Instant Pot. This dish combines chicken, coconut milk, and green curry paste. It’s quick and easy to prepare.
Start by sautéing spices and curry paste in the pot. Then add coconut milk, stock, and chicken. Cook on high pressure for just 4 minutes.
The result is a creamy, aromatic curry with bold flavors. You can add veggies like bell peppers or bamboo shoots for extra texture. Serve your curry over jasmine rice for a complete meal.
This Instant Pot version saves time but still delivers authentic Thai taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful and satisfying.
You can make delicious cornbread in your Instant Pot. Mix cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Add melted butter and stir. Grease a baking dish that fits in your Instant Pot and pour in the batter.
Add water to the Instant Pot and place the baking dish on the trivet. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release.
The cornbread is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F. Let it cool before serving. You’ll enjoy moist, fluffy cornbread made quickly in your Instant Pot.
Biryani is a flavorful rice dish you can easily make in your Instant Pot. This one-pot meal combines aromatic rice with tender chicken and spices.
To start, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in the pot. Add whole spices like cloves, bay leaves, and cardamom for extra flavor.
Next, brown chicken pieces and mix in rice. Pour in water and cook under pressure for a short time. The result is a delicious, layered dish with perfectly cooked rice and meat.
For added richness, try mixing in some ghee and topping with fried cashews and raisins before serving. Biryani in the Instant Pot is a quick way to enjoy this classic dish at home.
Chili Mac is a tasty one-pot meal you can easily make in your Instant Pot. This dish combines ground beef, macaroni, beans, and spices for a hearty and flavorful dinner.
To start, brown the ground beef with onions and garlic using the sauté function. Add chili powder, cumin, and salt for classic chili flavors.
Next, mix in diced tomatoes, beans, broth, and elbow macaroni. The pasta cooks right in the pot, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
After a quick pressure cook, you’ll have a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Top with cheese for extra yumminess.
Minestrone soup is a perfect dish to make in your Instant Pot. You can create this hearty Italian soup quickly and easily.
Start by sautéing onions, celery, and carrots in olive oil using the Instant Pot’s sauté function. Add garlic, herbs, and spices for extra flavor.
Next, toss in diced tomatoes, broth, and your choice of beans. You can also include pasta and vegetables like zucchini or green beans.
Set your Instant Pot to high pressure for about 5 minutes. After a quick release, stir in some fresh spinach or kale. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serve your minestrone soup hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. You’ll have a delicious, comforting meal in no time.
Barbacoa beef is a tasty Mexican-inspired dish you can easily make in your Instant Pot. This recipe uses beef chuck roast cooked in a flavorful sauce with chipotle peppers and spices.
The pressure cooker ensures the meat turns out tender and juicy in much less time than traditional methods. You’ll end up with shredded beef that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or rice bowls.
To make it, you’ll season the beef and cook it with broth, lime juice, and spices. The Instant Pot does most of the work for you. When it’s done, you can shred the meat and serve it with your favorite toppings.
This versatile dish is great for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. You can customize the spice level to suit your taste.
Pot roast is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make in your Instant Pot. You’ll love how tender and flavorful the meat becomes in a fraction of the time.
Start by seasoning your beef roast with salt and pepper. Use the sauté function to brown the meat on all sides. This step adds extra flavor to your dish.
Next, add onions, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. These vegetables will soak up the savory juices as they cook. Pour in some beef broth and your favorite seasonings.
Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure. Cook for about an hour, depending on the size of your roast. When it’s done, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to serve.
Pasta Primavera is a tasty and colorful dish you can easily make in your Instant Pot. This recipe combines pasta with a mix of fresh vegetables for a quick and nutritious meal.
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil using the Instant Pot’s sauté function. Add your choice of veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots.
Next, add pasta, broth, and seasonings to the pot. Cook on high pressure for about 5 minutes, then do a quick release.
Stir in some quick-cooking vegetables like zucchini after pressure cooking. The residual heat will cook them perfectly.
Finish your Pasta Primavera with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Red beans and rice is a classic Cajun dish you can easily make in your Instant Pot. This comforting meal uses dried beans, so there’s no need to soak them beforehand.
You’ll combine red beans with andouille sausage, vegetables, and spices in the pot. The pressure cooking process infuses the beans with flavor as they soften.
In about an hour, you’ll have tender beans in a rich, savory sauce. Serve the beans over fluffy white rice for a filling meal.
This Instant Pot version saves time compared to traditional stovetop methods. It’s a simple way to enjoy authentic New Orleans flavors at home.
You can make a delicious clam boil in your Instant Pot. Start by sautéing garlic and onions in butter. Add white wine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
Next, add clams, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Close the lid and cook at high pressure for 3 minutes. Do a quick pressure release when done.
For a full seafood boil, you can add corn, potatoes, and sausage. Put these ingredients in before the clams. They’ll need a longer cooking time.
Remember to discard any clams that don’t open after cooking. Serve your clam boil with the broth for dipping. It’s a tasty and easy meal you can enjoy any time.
Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan is a quick and tasty meal you can make in about 20 minutes. Start by seasoning chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
Pour some marinara sauce in the Instant Pot’s inner pot. Place the seasoned chicken on top and add more sauce. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
After a quick pressure release, open the lid and sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheese on the chicken. Let it melt for a minute or two.
Serve your Chicken Parmesan over pasta or with a side salad for a complete meal. This easy recipe gives you restaurant-quality results right at home.
Instant Pot vegetable soup is a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. You can have a healthy, flavorful soup ready in about 30 minutes.
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots in your Instant Pot. Add other veggies like green beans, tomatoes, and potatoes.
Pour in vegetable broth and seasonings. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for just 3-4 minutes.
After a quick release, your soup is ready to enjoy. It’s packed with nutrients and satisfying textures. This versatile recipe lets you use whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a tasty dish you can easily make in your Instant Pot. You’ll stuff cabbage leaves with a mix of ground meat, rice, and spices.
The Instant Pot cooks these rolls quickly and keeps them tender. You can use a blend of beef, pork, and veal for the filling. Add onions and herbs for extra flavor.
Cook the rolls in a tomato sauce for a rich taste. The pressure cooker helps the flavors blend well. This dish is perfect for a cool night when you want a comforting meal.
Instant Pot lasagna is a quick and easy way to make this classic Italian dish. You can create delicious layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese in under an hour.
No need to pre-cook the noodles – they’ll soften perfectly in the pressure cooker. Simply layer your ingredients in the pot, including uncooked lasagna noodles.
The Instant Pot traps moisture, resulting in a lasagna that’s tender and flavorful. You’ll get that same comforting taste as oven-baked lasagna in much less time.
Try adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms between layers for extra nutrition. Serve your Instant Pot lasagna with a side salad for a complete meal.
Instant Pot carnitas are a game-changer for quick and tasty Mexican meals. You can make tender, flavorful pork in a fraction of the time it takes with traditional methods.
Cut a pork shoulder into chunks and season with spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Add citrus juices and broth to the pot for extra flavor.
Cook the pork on high pressure for about 30 minutes. After releasing the pressure, shred the meat and broil it briefly to crisp up the edges.
Serve your carnitas in tacos, burritos, or on top of nachos. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
Balsamic chicken is a tasty and easy Instant Pot meal. You’ll need chicken breasts, balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, and herbs like rosemary, basil, and thyme.
Start by seasoning the chicken and placing it in the Instant Pot. Add the balsamic vinegar, broth, and herbs. Some recipes include tomatoes for extra flavor.
Set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 8-10 minutes. After cooking, let it naturally release steam for about 10 minutes.
The result is tender chicken with a rich, tangy sauce. Serve it over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles for a complete meal.
Roast chicken in your Instant Pot is quick and easy. Start by rubbing the chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs. Put a trivet in the pot and add some chicken broth.
Place the seasoned chicken on the trivet. Close the lid and set to high pressure for about 6 minutes per pound. When done, let the pressure release naturally for 15-20 minutes.
For crispy skin, you can finish the chicken under the broiler for a few minutes. Let it rest before carving. You’ll have juicy, flavorful roast chicken in less time than traditional methods.
Understanding the Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines multiple cooking functions in one device. It can save you time and effort in the kitchen.
Key Features of the Instant Pot
The Instant Pot has a stainless steel inner pot that’s easy to clean. It comes with a tight-fitting lid that locks in pressure and flavors.
Most models have buttons for different cooking modes like pressure cook, slow cook, and sauté. You can also find buttons for specific foods like rice or yogurt.
The appliance has safety features built in. These include a steam release valve and a locking lid. These help prevent accidents while cooking under pressure.
Many Instant Pots come with extras like a steamer basket, rice paddle, and measuring cup. These tools make it easier to cook a variety of dishes.
Common Settings and Functions
Pressure cooking is the Instant Pot’s main feature. It cooks food fast by trapping steam inside the pot. This raises the cooking temperature above boiling point.
You can use the sauté function to brown meats or cook onions before pressure cooking. This adds flavor to your dishes.
The rice setting adjusts time and temperature to cook perfect rice. The yogurt setting helps you make homemade yogurt easily.
You can also use your Instant Pot as a food warmer. This keeps dishes hot until you’re ready to serve.
Essential Tips for Using Your Instant Pot
Using your Instant Pot safely and keeping it clean are key to getting the most out of this handy appliance. Follow these tips to ensure safe, efficient cooking and easy maintenance.
Safety Tips
Always check the sealing ring before use. Make sure it’s clean and properly seated in the lid. Don’t force the lid closed – it should turn easily. Keep your hands and face away from the steam release valve when venting pressure.
Never fill the pot more than 2/3 full. For foods that expand, like rice or beans, only fill 1/2 full. Use caution when cooking foods that can foam or froth, like applesauce.
Let the Instant Pot cool down before opening after cooking. Use pot holders when handling the inner pot. It gets very hot!
Maintenance and Cleaning
Clean your Instant Pot after each use. Wash the inner pot, lid, and sealing ring with warm, soapy water. Dry all parts thoroughly before reassembling.
Remove the anti-block shield from the lid and clean it separately. Wipe down the base unit with a damp cloth. Never submerge the base in water.
Check the condensation cup and empty it if needed. Clean the steam release valve and float valve regularly to prevent clogs.
Replace the sealing ring every 12-18 months or sooner if you notice any damage. Store your Instant Pot with the lid upside down to prevent odors.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
