Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience when it comes to weeknight cooking? Look no further! The Instant Pot Dutch oven is a game-changer for busy home cooks, allowing us to create delicious, comforting meals with minimal effort and maximum results. With its versatile design and pressure-cooking capabilities, this kitchen workhorse can transform tender beef into fall-apart perfection, cook hearty soups in half the time, and even produce perfectly cooked rice dishes. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouthwatering Instant Pot Dutch oven recipes that are sure to become staples in your culinary repertoire.
From classic comfort foods like Beef Bourguignon and Chicken and Dumplings, to international-inspired dishes like Chili Con Carne and Seafood Paella, these recipes showcase the incredible versatility of the Instant Pot Dutch oven. Whether you’re a busy professional or a family looking for quick and easy meals, we’ve got you covered with these tried-and-true recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Beef Bourguignon in the Instant Pot Dutch Oven
This iconic French dish is a hearty and flavorful stew that simmers tender beef, mushrooms, and vegetables in red wine and broth. With the Instant Pot Dutch Oven, you can achieve this rich flavor profile with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Bordeaux or Burgundy)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 thyme sprig
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot Dutch Oven and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add beef cubes and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, thyme sprig, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the browned beef to the pot and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes + 10 minute natural release.
Serve:
Remove bay leaf and thyme sprig. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Stew
A hearty and comforting stew perfect for a chilly evening, packed with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add cream and broth, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Dutch Oven Pulled Pork
Get ready for tender, fall-apart pork perfection with this easy and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder or butt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– 1 tablespoon barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the Dutch oven insert until it’s hot.
2. Add the pork shoulder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until the pork is browned.
3. Add the chicken broth, beer (if using), and barbecue sauce (if using) to the pot.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” button and cook at high pressure for 90 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the valve.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and serve on a bun, with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil and Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices. With its rich broth and tender texture, it’s a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dutch Oven Pot Roast with Garlic and Herbs
Elevate your comfort food game with this hearty Dutch oven pot roast, infused with the savory flavors of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef chuck roast
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic with olive oil.
3. Sear the beef roast in the Dutch oven, then set aside.
4. Add sliced onion, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes.
5. Add chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the beef roast to the pot, cover with a lid, and cook for an additional 2-3 hours, or until meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spicy Instant Pot Chili Con Carne
Spicy Instant Pot Chili Con Carne Recipe
This hearty and spicy chili con carne recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, made possible by the convenience of an Instant Pot. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a deliciously hot bowl of goodness that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans (canned or cooked)
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and salt; stir well.
3. Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, bell peppers, water, and red kidney beans; stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
5. Open the valve and press “Quick Release”.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips! Enjoy!
Braised Short Ribs in Red Wine Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of tender short ribs slow-cooked in a rich red wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove ribs from pot and set aside.
4. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to pot; cover with a lid or foil.
7. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or overnight.
8. Remove from oven; let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Dutch Oven Chicken and Dumplings
This hearty recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth, all cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Cook chicken in butter until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and milk.
6. Pour mixture over chicken in the Dutch oven.
7. Create small dumplings by beating eggs and adding to the mixture. Drop by spoonfuls onto the top of the chicken.
8. Cover Dutch oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and dumplings are golden brown.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Instant Pot Beef and Barley Stew
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful stew, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup barley
– 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 chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, beef broth, barley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “MEAT/STEW” button or “MANUAL” mode and set the cooking time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Savory Dutch Oven Corned Beef and Cabbage
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs corned beef brisket
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of beef broth
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Season the corned beef with salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
3. Add the sliced onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the sliced cabbage to the pot, stirring to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Place the corned beef on top of the cabbage mixture.
6. Pour in the beef broth, making sure the corned beef is covered.
7. Cover the Dutch oven and cook for 2-3 hours or until the corned beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Instant Pot Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets a modern twist with this easy recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
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. Add the butter, flour, and a pinch of salt to the Instant Pot Dutch Oven.
2. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick-release the steam.
3. Add the milk, cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Cook on low pressure for 5 minutes, then natural-release for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked macaroni and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dutch Oven Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender beef and root vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth, all cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as needed.
4. Add the carrots, potato, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Instant Pot Dutch Oven Chicken Cacciatore
A hearty, one-pot dish that combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions, garlic, and mushrooms; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dutch Oven Lamb Shanks with Rosemary
This classic recipe yields tender lamb shanks infused with the aromatic flavor of rosemary, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in the preheated Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear lamb shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add garlic, rosemary, and onion to the pot, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in red wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer to the oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until lamb shanks are tender.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Instant Pot Dutch Oven Seafood Paella
Experience the flavors of Spain with this quick and easy paella recipe, perfectly cooked in your Instant Pot Dutch Oven.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot Dutch Oven 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 mixed seafood, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the seafood is lightly browned.
5. Add the Arborio rice and water to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 4 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
8. Open the lid and stir in some chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 14-16 minutes
Dutch Oven Vegetarian Chili
Warm up with this comforting, plant-based chili recipe that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a camping trip. This Dutch oven vegetarian chili is easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans (or substitute with other beans of your choice)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instant Pot Dutch Oven Beef Stroganoff
A hearty and flavorful twist on the classic comfort food dish, this recipe combines tender beef, sautéed mushrooms, and creamy sauce, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot Dutch Oven.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot Dutch Oven and melt 2 tbsp butter.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add beef broth, heavy cream, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef strips to the pot and stir to coat with sauce.
6. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and set time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
8. Serve over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dutch Oven Chicken and Rice Pilaf
This classic comfort food recipe is a staple for a reason – it’s easy, delicious, and satisfying. With chicken, rice, and aromatic spices cooked together in a Dutch oven, you’ll have a flavorful meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add rice, broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 35-40 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Instant Pot Dutch Oven Ratatouille
A classic Provençal vegetable stew from the south of France, adapted for the Instant Pot Dutch Oven. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 2 medium zucchinis, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot Dutch Oven and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped bell peppers and zucchinis, cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Dutch Oven Pork Chops with Apples and Onions
This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring tender pork chops cooked to perfection with caramelized apples and onions in a Dutch oven. The result is a flavorful, one-pot meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 2 large onions, sliced
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. In the Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add sliced onions to the pot and cook until caramelized (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Add sliced apples to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
6. Return pork chops to the pot, adding brown sugar and stirring to combine.
7. Cover Dutch oven with lid and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until pork reaches internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these 20 flavorful Instant Pot Dutch Oven recipes! From hearty stews and braises to comforting casseroles and soups, there’s something for every taste and dietary need. Try classic Beef Bourguignon or Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Stew, or opt for vegetarian options like Lentil and Vegetable Soup or Vegetarian Chili. Perfect for busy cooks, these recipes are quick, easy, and delicious – no matter the occasion!