When it comes to cooking, we’re always looking for ways to make mealtime easier and faster. One of our favorite kitchen tools for achieving this is the pressure cooker. With its ability to cook food up to 70% faster than traditional methods, it’s no wonder why this appliance has gained popularity in recent years.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 quick and delicious pressure cooker recipes that are perfect for busy nights when you’re short on time but still want to serve a healthy and satisfying meal. From hearty stews to comforting soups, and from savory meats to flavorful vegetables, our collection has something for everyone.
Pressure Cooker Beef Stew
Savor the rich flavors of tender beef, vegetables, and aromatic broth with this effortless pressure cooker stew recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes to the pressure cooker.
2. Brown the beef stew meat in a pan over medium-high heat; add it to the cooker.
3. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Lock the lid and set the valve to “sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 30 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Pressure Cooker Chicken and Rice
This recipe is a staple for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and filling meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the pressure cooker and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add rice and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
6. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
7. Pressure cook at high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
8. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes total
Pressure Cooker Lentil Soup
Quickly cook up a comforting pot of lentils and vegetables with this easy pressure cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, broth, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and diced tomatoes to the pressure cooker.
2. Close lid and set valve to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Stir in thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pressure Cooker Pulled Pork
Get ready for a mouthwatering pulled pork experience with this easy-to-make recipe that yields tender, juicy results. Perfect for sandwiches, salads, or just as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Add the chicken broth, brown sugar, and BBQ sauce to the pressure cooker.
3. Place the pork shoulder in the cooker and close the lid.
4. Cook at high pressure for 90 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and serve.
Cooking Time: 2 hours, including natural release time
Pressure Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Get perfectly mashed potatoes in a fraction of the time with this easy recipe! With just a few ingredients and a pressure cooker, you’ll have creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes ready to accompany your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the cubed potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the pressure cooker.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pressure Cooker Chili
This recipe serves up a delicious and comforting bowl of chili in under an hour, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal. With its rich flavors and tender texture, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add chili powder, cumin, diced tomatoes, beans, and beef broth to the pressure cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Cook at high pressure for 20 minutes. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Under an hour!
Pressure Cooker Mac and Cheese
Get ready for a comforting, cheesy twist on the classic macaroni dish!
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 pressure cooker. Whisk until smooth.
2. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
3. Quick-release the pressure.
4. Add the milk, cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Add the cooked macaroni and stir to combine.
Cooking Time:
– High pressure: 5 minutes
– Natural release: 5 minutes
Pressure Cooker Vegetable Curry
Pressure Cooker Vegetable Curry Recipe: A flavorful and nutritious meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can of coconut milk
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, green beans, and peas)
– 1 teaspoon of curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your pressure cooker and heat the oil until shimmering.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the mixed vegetables, coconut milk, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally (NR) for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes from start to finish
Pressure Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese
Pressure Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
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A classic Italian dish with a twist – cooking spaghetti and bolognese sauce simultaneously in a pressure cooker! This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
————
– 500g spaghetti
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
————–
1. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure for 2 minutes.
2. Add ground beef, crushing it with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, breaking up any remaining chunks.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, red wine, dried basil, and oregano. Stir well to combine.
4. Add spaghetti to the cooker, ensuring it’s covered by the sauce.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally (NR) for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Pressure Cooker Corn on the Cob
Get perfectly cooked corn on the cob with minimal effort using your pressure cooker! This recipe is a game-changer for busy days when you want to enjoy tender, flavorful corn without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Add the corn to the pressure cooker in a single layer.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the butter, salt, and pepper. Spread the mixture evenly over the corn ears.
3. Close the pressure cooker lid and make sure it’s locked. Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid and carefully remove the corn from the pot.
Cooking Time:
– High pressure: 5 minutes
– Natural release: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your deliciously cooked Pressure Cooker Corn on the Cob!
Pressure Cooker Hard-Boiled Eggs
Pressure Cooker Hard-Boiled Eggs: Quick and Easy Method
Perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs every time with minimal effort! This recipe uses a pressure cooker to cook the eggs, resulting in a tender and creamy texture.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 large eggs
– Water (fill the pressure cooker about 1/2 full)
Instructions:
1. Add the eggs to the pressure cooker.
2. Fill the pressure cooker with water, leaving about an inch at the top.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
4. Pressure cook on high for 5-7 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time:
– 5-7 minutes of cooking time
– 10-15 minutes total, including natural pressure release and quick-release
Note: For larger or smaller quantities, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Pressure Cooker Risotto
Quickly achieve creamy risotto perfection with this pressure cooker recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this method saves time without sacrificing flavor.
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 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the pressure cooker over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and sauté onion until translucent.
2. Add garlic, Arborio rice, and thyme. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
4. Pour in warmed chicken broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring between each addition, until rice is cooked and creamy.
5. Release pressure naturally or quick-release if desired.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total (including release of pressure)
Pressure Cooker Beef Brisket
Moist and flavorful beef brisket cooked to perfection in under an hour, with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef brisket
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the brisket with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat the pressure cooker over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the brisket for 2 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Add sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
5. Pour in beef broth and add brown sugar.
6. Place the brisket back into the pressure cooker.
7. Close the lid and set valve to “sealing”.
8. Cook at high pressure for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Pressure Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
A comforting and quick solution for a cold day, this pressure cooker chicken noodle soup recipe is a classic with a twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of uncooked egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, chicken broth, onion, garlic, and thyme to the pressure cooker.
2. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid and add the egg noodles. Stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pressure Cooker Black Beans
This recipe yields tender and flavorful black beans with minimal effort. Perfect as a side dish or used in various recipes, such as tacos, salads, and soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. Add soaked black beans, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pressure cooker.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Cook at high pressure for 20-25 minutes, followed by a natural release of 10-15 minutes.
4. Quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the cooker and check if the beans are tender. If not, close the lid and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pressure Cooker Pot Roast
Transform a classic comfort food into a stress-free weeknight meal with this pressure cooker pot roast recipe. Moist and flavorful, it’s ready in under an hour!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef pot roast
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Season the pot roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Heat oil in a pressure cooker over medium-high heat. Sear the pot roast until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove from the pot.
3. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in beef broth, red wine (if using), and return the pot roast to the pot. Close the lid and set valve to “sealing”.
5. Cook at high pressure for 25-30 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pressure Cooker Thai Green Curry
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a flavorful and spicy Thai green curry using a pressure cooker. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, Thai basil)
– 1/4 cup Thai green curry paste
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your pressure cooker and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
3. Add coconut milk, broth, and mixed vegetables; stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus 5-minute natural release)
Pressure Cooker Quinoa Salad
Elevate your salad game with this easy-to-make quinoa salad recipe that’s perfect for a healthy and delicious meal. With the convenience of pressure cooking, you’ll have a flavorful and nutritious dish in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add quinoa and water to the pressure cooker. Cook at high pressure for 6-8 minutes.
2. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
3. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, cilantro, scallions, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pressure Cooker Sweet Potato Mash
A creamy and comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a game-changer for sweet potato lovers!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Add the sweet potato cubes to the pressure cooker with 1 cup of water.
2. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
3. Quick-release and open the lid.
4. Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot.
5. Add the softened butter, heavy cream or half-and-half, brown sugar, and salt. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pressure Cooker Garlic Butter Shrimp
Quickly cook succulent shrimp in a flavorful garlic butter sauce with this easy pressure cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pressurize the cooker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Add shrimp, butter, garlic, chicken broth, and lemon juice to the pressure cooker.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
4. Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– High pressure cooking time: 5 minutes
– Natural pressure release: 5 minutes
Summary
Need quick and delicious meal ideas for busy nights? Look no further! This article features 20 mouthwatering pressure cooker recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From comforting classics like beef stew, chicken and rice, and mac and cheese, to international-inspired dishes like Thai green curry and vegetable curry, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these recipes can be ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for hectic weeknights or lazy Sundays. Get cooking with these tasty pressure cooker recipes!
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