Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience on busy weeknights? Look no further! With the Instant Pot and a slow cooker, you can create mouthwatering meals that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. In this article, we’ll share 18 scrumptious recipes that will become staples in your household.
From hearty stews and soups to flavorful curries and casseroles, these instant pot slow cooker recipes cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something a little more adventurous, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the perfect blend of ease and flavor.
Beef and Barley Instant Pot Slow Cooker Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of tender beef, creamy barley, and rich flavors, all made easy with the Instant Pot and slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, peas, corn)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups 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 brown the beef in a small amount of oil. Remove the browned beef from the pot.
2. Add the mixed vegetables, barley, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the Instant Pot. Stir well.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook for 20 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Transfer the contents of the Instant Pot to a slow cooker. Add the browned beef and stir well.
6. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (Instant Pot) + 4-6 hours (slow cooker)
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Slow Cooker Soup
A hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day. This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, wild rice, and creamy goodness in one delicious pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, wild rice, chicken broth, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to a large slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pulled Pork BBQ Instant Pot Slow Cooker Sandwich
Pulled Pork BBQ Instant Pot Slow Cooker Sandwich
Get ready to sink your teeth into tender and juicy pulled pork, perfectly seasoned with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the pork shoulder, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in any remaining sauce.
6. Split the hamburger buns and fill with pulled pork, coleslaw (if using), and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including pressure release time)
Vegetarian Lentil and Vegetable Slow Cooker Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry made with red lentils, a variety of vegetables, and aromatic spices, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine lentils, onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in vegetable broth and stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Instant Pot Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Transform your slow cooker into a pressure cooker with this Instant Pot Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon recipe, inspired by the classic French dish. This rich and flavorful stew is perfect for a cold winter’s night or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and brown the beef in batches, if necessary.
2. Add onion, garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Pressure cook at high pressure for 30 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Spicy Black Bean and Corn Slow Cooker Chili
Spicy Black Bean and Corn Slow Cooker Chili: A flavorful and hearty chili perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the richness of black beans with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a spicy package.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs in the Instant Pot Slow Cooker
Transform ordinary chicken thighs into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch, these honey garlic chicken thighs are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the Instant Pot Slow Cooker, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the mixture, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Slow Cooker Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets a modern twist with the ease of an Instant Pot! This recipe combines the best of both worlds, delivering a creamy macaroni and cheese dish in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the Instant Pot, combine the cooked macaroni, milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
5. Open the lid carefully, stir the macaroni, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Instant Pot Slow Cooker Bowl
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Thai peanut sauce with tender chicken and crunchy vegetables, all in one convenient slow cooker bowl. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with flavor!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white or brown rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the Instant Pot.
2. Close lid and set valve to “sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then quick-release.
3. Add sliced onion, garlic, bell pepper, and mixed vegetables to the slow cooker. Pour in cooked chicken mixture.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. Serve over cooked rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (Instant Pot) + 4-5 hours (slow cooker)
Instant Pot Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers
This Instant Pot Slow Cooker recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a slow cooker, perfect for a cozy night in. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage links
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the sausage links until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add sliced peppers and onion; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, chicken broth, tomato paste, and oregano. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode for 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Maple Glazed Carrots in the Instant Pot Slow Cooker
Transform ordinary carrots into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy Instant Pot Slow Cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped carrots, maple syrup, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot Slow Cooker.
2. Mix well to combine.
3. Set the Instant Pot Slow Cooker to “Low” for 4 hours or “High” for 2 hours.
4. After cooking time is up, open the lid and stir the carrots to ensure even glazing.
Cooking Time:
– Low setting: 4 hours
– High setting: 2 hours
Slow Cooker Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup
Warm up with this comforting slow cooker recipe that combines the convenience of an Instant Pot with the flavors of a traditional tortilla soup. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Shredded cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the chicken until browned.
2. Add all ingredients except tortilla strips and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
3. Release pressure naturally, then open the lid.
4. Stir in tortilla strips and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (Instant Pot) + 15-30 minutes (slow cooker)
Instant Pot Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the convenience of slow cooking with the speed of an Instant Pot to create a delicious beef and broccoli stir-fry. With minimal prep work, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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 grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the broccoli florets and soy sauce; stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot and add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sweet and Sour Meatballs in the Instant Pot Slow Cooker
Sweet and Sour Meatballs in the Instant Pot Slow Cooker
Transforming classic meatballs into a tangy and sweet delight, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with tender, flavorful bites that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Instant Pot slow cooker to “Low” mode.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Roll into meatballs (about 20-25) and place in the Instant Pot slow cooker.
4. Pour sweet and sour sauce over the meatballs, followed by brown sugar.
5. Cook on “Low” mode for 2 hours or “High” mode for 1 hour.
6. Serve hot with toothpicks and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Slow Cooker Instant Pot Vegetable Minestrone
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of vegetable minestrone soup, packed with nutritious vegetables and flavors. This recipe combines the convenience of a slow cooker with the speed of an Instant Pot for a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried small white beans (such as navy or cannellini)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, green beans, and bell peppers)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the white beans, diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, and basil to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and bring the soup to a simmer.
4. Add salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker) + 30 minutes (Instant Pot)
Instant Pot Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this easy and flavorful recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This Instant Pot slow cooker method ensures tender, creamy potatoes without constant monitoring.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese (1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Add cubed potatoes, garlic, butter, and salt to the Instant Pot slow cooker.
2. Cook on HIGH pressure for 10 minutes.
3. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
4. Mash the potatoes with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream, parsley, and pepper.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, top with grated cheddar cheese.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + 5-minute natural release
Slow Cooker Instant Pot Teriyaki Salmon
This recipe combines the convenience of a slow cooker with the speed and efficiency of an Instant Pot to create a delicious and healthy meal. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce infuses into the salmon, making it tender and flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the teriyaki sauce mixture until simmering.
2. Add the salmon fillets to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Transfer the salmon to a slow cooker and pour in the remaining sauce from the Instant Pot.
4. Cook on low for 1 hour or high for 30 minutes.
Cooking Time:
– Instant Pot: 6-8 minutes
– Slow Cooker: 1 hour (low) or 30 minutes (high)
Instant Pot Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a comforting bowl of slow-cooked oatmeal infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon. This Instant Pot recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and nutritious breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/4 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot slow cooker.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
4. Open the lid carefully and stir the oatmeal.
5. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as nuts, seeds, or fruit.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (includes natural release)
Summary
Get ready to simplify your weeknights with these 18 delicious Instant Pot slow cooker recipes! From hearty stews and soups to flavorful curries and casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Try making Beef and Barley Stew, Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, or Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwiches. Vegetarians can enjoy Lentil and Vegetable Curry, while meat-lovers will love the Instant Pot Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon. And don’t forget to try the sweet Maple Glazed Carrots and comforting Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes. These recipes are sure to become new favorites!
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