Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience when it comes to cooking? Look no further! The Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we cook, allowing us to prepare delicious meals with minimal effort and maximum results. With its pressure-cooking abilities, sautéing feature, and slow cooker capabilities, this versatile appliance is a must-have for any busy cook.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for those who want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without sacrificing time or flavor. From creamy pasta dishes to hearty stews and soups, these Instant Pot recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, we’ve got you covered with these easy-to-make and ridiculously delicious meals.
Stay tuned as we dive into the world of Instant Pot cooking and share our favorite 3-quart recipes that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and a hint of creaminess. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic and butter. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Stew
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple and flavorful Instant Pot beef stew recipe. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb 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 cup water
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and brown the beef in batches until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add potatoes, onion, garlic, beef broth, water, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir well.
3. Close lid, set valve to “Sealing”, and cook on “Manual” for 30 minutes at high pressure.
4. Allow pressure to release naturally (about 10-15 minutes).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this zesty and aromatic lemon garlic butter chicken recipe. A perfect blend of citrusy freshness and rich flavors, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, and thyme.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Lentil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup made with red lentils, a medley of vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add lentils, mixed vegetables, broth, 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.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Honey Sesame Chicken
A sweet and savory Asian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat with the honey mixture.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, and cornstarch.
4. Add the soy sauce mixture to the chicken and toss to coat.
5. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
6. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice
This recipe combines the simplicity of rice with the richness of cheese and the nutrients of broccoli, making it a perfect side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium broccoli crown, chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, grated cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine everything together, ensuring the cheese is evenly distributed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pulled Pork Tacos
This recipe combines the tender, juicy texture of pulled pork with the vibrant flavors and spices of Mexico. The result is a mouthwatering twist on traditional tacos that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and your favorite toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker with beer (if using) and apple cider vinegar.
5. Cook for 6-8 hours or until tender, shredding with two forks when done.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating on the stovetop or microwave.
7. Assemble tacos with pulled pork, radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp
Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp Recipe
This Thai-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich and creamy coconut curry sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup water or chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk, water or broth, fish sauce (if using); bring to simmer.
5. Add shrimp; cook until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Quinoa Bowl
This flavorful bowl combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the bold spices of Mexico, topped with fresh vegetables and creamy avocado. Perfect for a quick and nutritious meal or as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add corn kernels and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork. Serve with skillet mixture, topped with cilantro, avocado, and your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to savor the tender and flavorful essence of slow-cooked baby back ribs, smothered in a rich BBQ sauce. This recipe is sure to become a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the baby back ribs in a large baking dish or rimmed sheet pan. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
5. Remove the foil and brush the ribs with BBQ sauce.
6. Return to oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Chicken and Dumplings
Satisfy your cravings with this classic comfort food recipe that combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in butter until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, flour, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, mix 1 cup all-purpose flour with 2 cups warm water to form a dough. Drop by spoonfuls onto the surface of the boiling broth.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through and chicken is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe yields a rich meat sauce with tender ground beef, simmered to perfection in a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 ounces spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve spaghetti with meat sauce and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Potato and Corn Chowder
This hearty and comforting chowder is a perfect blend of potatoes, corn, and savory flavors. It’s an easy and delicious meal option for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add potatoes, corn, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in milk or cream and continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon with Rice
This classic Japanese-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of teriyaki sauce with the flaky goodness of salmon, served over a bed of fluffy white rice. With its simplicity and bold flavor profile, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style white rice
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillets.
3. Brush each fillet with teriyaki sauce, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve over cooked rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
French Onion Soup
French Onion Soup Recipe
A classic French recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or as an appetizer for special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 3 slices of baguette, toasted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
- If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to deglaze.
- Gradually pour in beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.
- Spoon soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted baguette and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes to prepare, plus baking time.
Enjoy your French Onion Soup!
Black Bean Chili
A flavorful and nutritious chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering. This recipe combines the richness of black beans with the warmth of spices, creating a deliciously comforting dish.
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 chili powder
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
2. Add cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook 1 minute.
3. Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Mushroom Risotto
Savor the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms and garlic butter infused into a creamy risotto, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using) and stir until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth and stir until mostly absorbed. Repeat process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, until rice is cooked (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in mushrooms during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple of comfort food, with tender pork, tangy sweet and sour sauce, and crunchy vegetables. It’s an easy and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or loin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to coat pork pieces.
2. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, and coated pork; stir-fry for 5 minutes.
5. Pour sweet and sour sauce into the skillet; bring to a simmer and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This classic party favorite combines the rich flavors of spinach, artichokes, and cream cheese for a deliciously addictive snack. Perfect for game day gatherings or impromptu get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or pita bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Steel-Cut Oats
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of Apple Cinnamon Steel-Cut Oats. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of steel-cut oats with the sweetness of apples and a hint of cinnamon, making it a perfect breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup steel-cut oats
– 2 cups water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 apple, diced (about 1/2 cup)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a boil.
2. Add the steel-cut oats, cinnamon, and salt. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
3. Stir in the diced apple and brown sugar (if using).
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
5. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as nuts, seeds, or honey.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious recipes to busy your cook time? Look no further! This article shares 20 mouth-watering Instant Pot recipes that are perfect for cooks on-the-go. From classic comfort foods like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta and Chicken and Dumplings, to international flavors like Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp and Teriyaki Salmon with Rice, there’s something for everyone. These easy-to-make dishes are sure to become new favorites in your household. Whether you’re a busy parent or just short on time, these Instant Pot recipes will help you cook up a storm without sacrificing flavor.