Are you new to the world of pressure cooking and looking for some delicious and easy-to-make recipes to get started? Look no further! The Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking, allowing users to whip up a variety of mouth-watering dishes in no time. As a beginner, it can be overwhelming to navigate the vast array of recipes out there. That’s why we’ve compiled our top 20 easy Instant Pot recipes for you to try. From classic comfort foods like chicken and rice and beef stew, to creamy pasta dishes and hearty soups, these recipes are perfect for anyone just starting out with their Instant Pot.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick and easy meals or a family of five seeking flavorful dinners that please everyone, these recipes have got you covered. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of pressure cooking and explore some of the most popular and tasty Instant Pot recipes out there. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking!
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
This recipe yields a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a satisfying dinner ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 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 olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the chicken, garlic, and thyme; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and chicken broth to the pot; 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 6 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Stew
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a busy weeknight dinner. This Instant Pot beef stew is quick, easy, and packed with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef 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 chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat, potatoes, peas and carrots, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode and set the cooking time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Get ready for a comforting, creamy macaroni and cheese dish that’s quick and easy to make using your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the macaroni and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the cheese mixture over the macaroni in the Instant Pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Open the lid and stir the macaroni and cheese until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce
Get ready for a classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This Instant Pot spaghetti and meat sauce is a game-changer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 16 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. 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. When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and add the spaghetti to the pot. Stir to combine with the sauce.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Vegetable Soup
In this hearty and comforting soup, a variety of vegetables are cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot, resulting in a deliciously flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, potatoes, and green beans)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 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 chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced carrots and celery, and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add the mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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 quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Transform a pork shoulder into tender and juicy pulled pork with minimal effort using your Instant Pot. This recipe yields a delicious, flavorful dish perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served with your favorite sides.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the pork shoulder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the chicken broth and close the lid. Make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
4. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 90 minutes at high pressure.
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 pressure release)
Instant Pot Hard-Boiled Eggs
Say goodbye to tedious boiling times and hello to perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs with this simple recipe!
Ingredients:
– 6-8 large eggs
– 1 cup water
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the eggs to the Instant Pot.
2. Pour in the water, making sure the eggs are fully submerged.
3. Add salt if desired (about 1/4 teaspoon).
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
5. Pressure cook on high for 5-6 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time:
– Total cooking time: 10-11 minutes
– Natural pressure release: 5 minutes
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Say goodbye to boiling and mashing potatoes the old way! This recipe uses the Instant Pot to cook and mash potatoes quickly and effortlessly, with minimal effort required from you.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chives, or grated cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped potatoes, broth, and butter to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
4. Quick-release the pressure and open the lid.
5. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
6. Add milk, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or grated cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Pot Chili
Quickly cook up a hearty and flavorful chili using your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for extra heat
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the canned tomatoes and red kidney beans. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot 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 steam.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Warm up with this comforting Instant Pot lentil soup recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with protein-rich lentils. This classic dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green 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 ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
Elevate your BBQ game with this easy and flavorful Instant Pot recipe that yields tender, juicy chicken smothered in tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until browned on both sides.
3. Add the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, garlic powder, 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 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Remove the chicken and brush with additional BBQ sauce (if desired). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Rice Pudding
This classic dessert is a staple of many cuisines around the world, and with this easy recipe, you can make it in no time using your trusty Instant Pot. This creamy rice pudding is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Add the rice, milk, sugar, and salt to the Instant Pot.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
4. Press the “rice” button or “manual mode” with high pressure for 6 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract and melted butter.
7. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Instant Pot Pot Roast
Get ready to experience the comfort of a slow-cooked pot roast in just under an hour! This recipe uses the Instant Pot’s high pressure and heat to break down tough cuts of meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pound beef chuck roast
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 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. Add sliced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the beef chuck roast, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, 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 30 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Instant Pot Minestrone Soup
This classic Italian-inspired soup is a staple of comfort food, packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta. With the Instant Pot’s help, you can have it ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni, ditalini)
– 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 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 oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, pasta, kidney beans, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus 10-minute natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken
Get ready to experience a flavorful and tender chicken dish with this simple and fast recipe using the Instant Pot. This teriyaki chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or weekends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken breasts and cook for 3 minutes on each side.
3. In a bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the Instant Pot.
5. Add chicken broth to the pot and close the lid.
6. Set the valve to “SEALING” and press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button for 8 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy garlic sauce cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and dried parsley. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Pressure cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and stir in cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Transform pork chops into a mouthwatering main course with this simple Instant Pot recipe. Honey, garlic, and soy sauce create a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Add pork chops in a single layer, leaving some space between each chop.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and chicken broth.
4. Pour the glaze over the pork chops, ensuring they’re coated evenly.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode with high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
This classic comfort food recipe is a staple for any occasion. With the Instant Pot, you can have a warm and satisfying bowl of chicken noodle soup ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked egg noodles
– 1 tsp 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 diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, chicken broth, egg noodles, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. 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 8 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Instant Pot Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and smooth Instant Pot cheesecake recipe. With minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a rich and velvety treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Instant Pot to “Saute” mode.
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into the bottom of the Instant Pot.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Beat in sugar and vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into the Instant Pot over the crust.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode for 25 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the richness of butter to create a mouthwatering dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. With just 10 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have succulent shrimp smothered in a tangy and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in lemon juice, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 easy and delicious Instant Pot recipes perfect for beginners! From classic comfort foods like Chicken and Rice, Beef Stew, and Mac and Cheese to hearty stews and soups, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. Try your hand at Spaghetti and Meat Sauce, Vegetable Soup, or Pulled Pork, and don’t forget sweet treats like Rice Pudding and Cheesecake. With a variety of flavors and cuisines represented, there’s something for everyone in this collection of beginner-friendly Instant Pot recipes.
