Dinner, Delivered!
Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen to prepare a delicious meal? Look no further! The Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we cook, allowing us to whip up mouth-watering dishes in a fraction of the time. In this article, we’ll share 20 quick and easy Instant Pot recipes that are sure to become your new go-to’s for a weeknight dinner rush. From hearty stews and savory pasta dishes to succulent chicken and seafood creations, these Instant Pot recipes are perfect for busy families or solo cooks alike.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro with the Instant Pot or just starting out, we’ve got you covered. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, these recipes will have you wondering how you ever managed without your trusty Instant Pot. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!
Instant Pot Beef Stew
Savor a comforting bowl of tender beef and vegetables cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 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 beef, potatoes, onion, garlic, broth, water, tomato paste, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
Get ready for a comforting, one-pot meal with this classic Italian-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add fettuccine pasta, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
6. Allow pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Open the lid; stir in chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Quickly cook pasta to perfection with this creamy, flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add penne pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Close the lid and make sure valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set cooking time to 3 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
Cooking Time: 13 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
This recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken breasts smothered in a sticky honey garlic sauce, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. With minimal prep time and easy cleanup, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 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 chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until browned on both sides.
3. Add the garlic, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Serve the chicken hot, spooning some of the sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork
This recipe yields a mouthwatering pulled pork with a rich BBQ flavor, perfectly tender and fall-apart texture. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve this tender and juicy result in just under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the pork shoulder and cook for 5 minutes, browning all sides.
3. Add the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add 1 cup of water and close the lid. Make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
5. Press the “MEAT/STEW” button or “MANUAL” mode and set the cooking time to 60 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and shred with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the pot and stir in the barbecue sauce.
Cooking Time: 65 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Experience the rich flavors of Tuscany with this easy and delicious recipe, featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
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 minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, dried basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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 before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Quickly cook succulent shrimp with a burst of citrusy flavor in this simple and flavorful Instant Pot recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes until pink and slightly firm.
4. Pour in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 3 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready to devour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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 and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the broccoli, chicken broth, soy sauce, and browned beef back into the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto
A comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired dish, this recipe yields a creamy risotto with tender mushrooms and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with mushrooms.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously, until all broth is used (about 20-25 minutes).
6. If using wine, add it during the last minute of cooking.
7. Turn off the Instant Pot; let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken
Discover a sweet and savory twist on classic chicken with this easy Instant Pot recipe. Tender and juicy, these teriyaki chicken breasts are perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 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 chicken breasts and cook for 2 minutes on each side, or until browned.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger.
4. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 13 minutes
Serve: Slice the chicken breasts and serve with steamed vegetables or your favorite sides.
Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of fresh flavors, with the sweetness of tomatoes and the brightness of basil. It’s quick to make and can be customized to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 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 softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, broth, heavy cream or half-and-half, and dried basil. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
Get ready for a flavorful and easy meal with this simple recipe! This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, and can be customized to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 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 sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the peppers, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and oregano. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set 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 before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Chili
Get ready to warm up with this comforting and easy-to-make chili recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 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 into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic with a twist! This recipe combines the richness of macaroni and cheese with the convenience of an Instant Pot, resulting in a creamy and indulgent meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the macaroni, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the milk, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. 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 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (high pressure) + 10 minutes natural release
Instant Pot Garlic Butter Salmon
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this easy and flavorful recipe that yields tender, buttery salmon with a rich garlic sauce. This Instant Pot recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add salmon fillets, white wine (if using), chicken broth, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 13 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
This recipe is a twist on the classic Indian dish, with the convenience of cooking it all in one pot. The Instant Pot does all the work for you, resulting in tender chicken and flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until hot.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode and cook at high pressure for 8 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
7. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with cilantro leaves. Serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Instant Pot Pot Roast
Transform a tough pot roast into a tender, flavorful dish with this simple Instant Pot recipe. With minimal prep and hands-on time, you’ll be enjoying a delicious, comforting meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pound beef pot roast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 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. Sear the pot roast until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return the pot roast to the Instant Pot, season with salt and pepper.
6. Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing”, and cook on “Meat/Stew” mode for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Savor the classic Italian-American dish with a twist – quick, easy, and made in your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- In the Instant Pot insert, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
- Form into meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a plate or tray, leaving some space between each meatball.
- Add olive oil to the Instant Pot insert and swirl to coat. Brown the meatballs for 5 minutes at high pressure with the valve closed.
- Quick-release the pressure. Add marinara sauce and spaghetti to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then quick-release the pressure. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Instant Pot Lemon Pepper Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this bright and citrusy recipe! Tender chicken breasts are infused with the warmth of black pepper and the zesty zest of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken breasts, black pepper, lemon juice, chicken broth, and thyme. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Vegetable Curry
Quickly prepare a flavorful and nutritious vegetable curry using your Instant Pot! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and green beans)
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the red bell pepper and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, and vegetable broth.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
7. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes + 10-minute natural release
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 20 quick and delicious Instant Pot recipes! From hearty beef stews to creamy pasta dishes, there’s something for everyone. Try making tender pulled pork, flavorful chicken Alfredo, or savory sautéed shrimp. You’ll also find comforting classics like mac and cheese, chili, and spaghetti and meatballs. Plus, international flavors like teriyaki chicken, chicken tikka masala, and vegetable curry add variety to your meals. Each recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor, so dig in and start cooking!
