Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen on busy nights? Look no further! The Instant Pot is a game-changer for anyone who loves to cook but doesn’t have all day. With its pressure cooking capabilities, this electric cooker can whip up a variety of dishes in a fraction of the time it would take with traditional methods.
In this article, we’re sharing 20 delicious and affordable Instant Pot recipes that are perfect for busy nights. From hearty soups and stews to quick and easy main courses, these recipes will satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot user or just getting started, you’ll find inspiration in this collection of tasty and time-saving dishes.
Stay tuned for our first 10 recipes, featuring comforting favorites like lentil soup, cheesy rice and beans, and chicken and rice casserole. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
This recipe makes a big pot of comforting lentil soup that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a deliciously flavorful soup in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 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 “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lentils, water, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close lid and set valve to “SEALING”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and set cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Instant Pot Rice and Beans
A comforting and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe combines fluffy rice, creamy beans, and melted cheese in one pot!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
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, cumin, rice, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 6 minutes.
5. Quick-release the pressure and open the lid.
6. Stir in the black beans and shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 7-8 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a twist on the classic chicken and rice dish, made easy with the help of your Instant Pot. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy sauce, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tbsp of butter.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk, 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 6 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Spicy Instant Pot Black Bean Chili
This recipe is a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional black bean chili, perfect for a quick and delicious meal. With the help of your Instant Pot, you can cook this dish in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and close the lid.
4. Set the Instant Pot to “Manual” mode and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Vegetable Stew
This recipe yields a flavorful and nutritious vegetable stew with minimal prep time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy day when you need a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme. 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 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Quickly cook macaroni and cheese to perfection with minimal effort using your Instant Pot!
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 the butter.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add the macaroni, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
7. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 4 minutes at high pressure.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Enjoy your creamy macaroni and cheese, perfectly cooked in just a few minutes!
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
Elevate your mealtime with this classic Instant Pot recipe that combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt 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. Remove from pot.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add broccoli florets, soy sauce, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot, ensuring it’s covered with the vegetable mixture.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and set cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 13 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Easy Instant Pot Potato Soup
A comforting and creamy potato soup that’s ready in no time! This recipe is a perfect solution for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 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 the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, milk or heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
6. 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.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Mexican Street Corn Pasta
Get ready to spice up your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful Instant Pot recipe! This Mexican Street Corn Pasta combines the richness of corn, creaminess of cheese, and spiciness of jalapeños in a quick and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the pasta, water, corn kernels, cream, cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño.
3. Stir well to combine, then lock the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
4. 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 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Stir in some salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
This classic comfort food gets a boost with the Instant Pot, cooking up a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup uncooked egg noodles
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
4. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. When the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and add the egg noodles. Stir to combine and let sit for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup!
Instant Pot Sweet Potato Curry
This sweet and spicy curry is a perfect blend of Indian flavors with the comfort of roasted sweet potatoes, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. Serve over rice or with naan for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook the onion until softened.
2. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add sweet potatoes, coconut milk, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot over rice or with naan.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
Savor the flavors of a classic sausage and peppers dish with this quick and easy recipe in your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook sausage until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, bell peppers, garlic, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode at high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
5. Serve sausage and peppers hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a classic Italian-inspired dish that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. This Instant Pot recipe yields a deliciously comforting and healthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as kidney beans, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and dried basil.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode and set cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Experience the bold flavors of Japan with this easy and delicious recipe for Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Bowls. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
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
– 1 cup cooked white rice (optional)
– Sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and diced pineapple for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken to the pot and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Add teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and ginger powder to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Add water to the pot and close the lid. Make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve chicken over cooked white rice (if using) and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and diced pineapple (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Get ready for a comforting and flavorful meal with this easy recipe that combines the classic Italian flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and pasta. This Instant Pot recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, 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 cooking time to 5 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 parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork
Transform tender and juicy pork shoulder into mouthwatering pulled pork with the help of your Instant Pot. This easy recipe yields a deliciously tangy and smoky flavor profile that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served alongside your favorite sides.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the pork shoulder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 90 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
5. Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and shred with two forks. Stir in the BBQ sauce until fully coated.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Quickly cook up a rich and flavorful soup with the help of your Instant Pot! This creamy tomato basil soup is perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter. Add onion and cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add garlic, tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, and basil. Stir well.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Coconut Rice Pudding
This recipe yields a deliciously creamy and comforting coconut rice pudding that’s perfect for warm weather or any time you need a sweet treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have this delightful dessert ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the rice, coconut milk, sugar, and salt to the Instant Pot.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
4. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
6. Stir in vanilla extract.
7. If desired, sprinkle shredded coconut on top before serving.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and flavorful Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 8 oz egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and melt butter. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms; cook until tender.
2. Add beef strips; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in broth, tomato paste, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
4. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” for 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Stir in sour cream and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve over cooked egg noodles, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Veggie Fried Rice
Elevate your meal with this quick and easy recipe for Instant Pot Veggie Fried Rice!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the oil.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 1 minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Summary
Get quick and easy meals on the table with these 20 delicious instant pot recipes! Perfect for busy nights, these budget-friendly dishes are sure to please. From hearty soups like lentil soup and vegetable stew, to comforting casseroles like chicken and rice casserole, there’s something for everyone. Try making creamy mac and cheese, beef and broccoli, or sweet potato curry in a flash. Plus, many of these recipes are vegetarian, gluten-free, or can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Whip up a tasty meal in no time with these instant pot recipes!
