Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for speed on busy weeknights? Look no further! The Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking, allowing us to whip up delicious meals in a fraction of the time it takes with traditional methods. In this article, we’ll share our favorite 20 Flavorful Instant Pot Recipes that are perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
From comforting classics like Instant Pot Beef Stew and Instant Pot Mac and Cheese, to international-inspired dishes like Instant Pot Butter Chicken and Instant Pot Thai Green Curry, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot user or just looking to spice up your cooking routine, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Instant Pot Beef Stew
Cozy up with a warm and comforting beef stew cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen carrots
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 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 pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, beef stew meat, carrots, peas, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “MEAT/STEW” button or “MANUAL” mode and cook at high pressure for 30 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
Quick and easy one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, chicken, rice, chicken broth, peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well 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 6 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 16-18 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy garlic parmesan recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This Instant Pot recipe is a twist on the classic, featuring a rich and velvety sauce made with garlic, cream, and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 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 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the pasta to the pot, making sure it’s fully submerged in the sauce.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 13 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet and savory, this Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich honey garlic sauce, perfect for serving with rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame 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 3-4 minutes, or until browned on both sides.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
4. Pour the honey garlic mixture over the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
6. Open the lid and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural release)
Instant Pot Chili
Get ready for a warm and cozy meal with this easy-to-make Instant Pot chili recipe! This classic comfort food is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
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 to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets a quick and easy twist with this Instant Pot recipe. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a rich, creamy macaroni and cheese dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the macaroni, milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 4 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid and stir the macaroni until it’s creamy and well coated with the cheese sauce.
Cooking Time: 14 minutes
Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Get ready for a deliciously tender and flavorful pulled pork that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a main dish. This Instant Pot recipe is quick, easy, and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the brown sugar, smoked paprika, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the pork shoulder and pour in the apple cider vinegar and water.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press “MEAT/STEW” and cook on 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 pressure release)
Instant Pot Vegetable Soup
This recipe yields a flavorful and nutritious vegetable soup with tender vegetables and aromatic broth. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, bell peppers, potatoes, and tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs and spices
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 minutes.
3. Add garlic, carrots, celery, and mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
5. 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.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Experience the rich flavors of India with this creamy and aromatic Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add onions and cook until they are translucent.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, garam masala powder, cumin powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 8-10 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
This classic Italian dish gets a modern twist with the help of an Instant Pot. This recipe yields a hearty, flavorful meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a pan, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper to the browned meat. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs (about 12-15).
4. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and add oil. Brown the meatballs, then remove them from the pot.
5. Add spaghetti, marinara sauce, beef broth, and browned meatballs to the Instant Pot. Close lid, set valve to “Sealing”, and cook on “Manual” mode for 8 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Pot Roast
Elevate a family favorite with this simplified recipe for Instant Pot pot roast. Tender, fall-apart beef and rich flavors are just a few minutes away!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef pot roast (chuck or round)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup 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 pot roast on all sides (about 2 minutes per side). Remove the roast from the pot.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return the browned pot roast to the Instant Pot.
5. Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing”, and press “Meat/Stew” or “Manual”. Cook at high pressure for 90 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally (NPR) for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes (including NPR)
Instant Pot Lentil Curry
This recipe makes a delicious and nutritious lentil curry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep. With the help of your Instant Pot, this dish cooks up quickly and is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, water, salt, and pepper.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 20 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi
Savor the flavors of Italy with this easy-to-make Instant Pot shrimp scampi recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This dish is a classic take on traditional scampi, with succulent shrimp cooked in garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed 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 shrimp, white wine (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 2 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and stir in chopped parsley (if using).
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 7 minutes
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
Elevate your weeknight meals with this straightforward recipe that combines the tenderizing power of Instant Pot cooking with the classic flavors of beef, broccoli, and soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli florets and cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the beef to the pot, then add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Close the lid, set valve to “Sealing”, and pressure cook on high for 8-10 minutes.
7. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Quickly and effortlessly make creamy mashed potatoes using your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a comforting side dish without the hassle of constant stirring and monitoring.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot.
2. Place the cubed potatoes in a single layer on top of the water.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
4. Press the “manual” or “pressure cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. When the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Quick and Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Instant Pot
This recipe makes a deliciously comforting chicken noodle soup with tender chicken, soft noodles, and a rich broth. Perfect for a cozy meal or as a pick-me-up when you’re feeling under the weather.
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. 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 garlic, chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure that all the ingredients are covered.
5. 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.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Open the lid and add the egg noodles. Stir well to combine.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Risotto
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple and satisfying Instant Pot risotto recipe. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a rich and creamy Italian-inspired dish in no time.
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 tablespoon butter
– 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 the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in the white wine (if using) and stir to combine.
6. Add the warmed chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring after each addition.
7. After the final broth addition, press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook for 6-8 minutes.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
9. Stir in the butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Instant Pot BBQ Ribs
Experience the tender, juicy perfection of slow-cooked BBQ ribs without the lengthy cooking time with this Instant Pot recipe. With a flavorful combination of sweet and tangy spices, these fall-off-the-bone ribs are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Instant Pot to “Saute” mode.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the ribs.
4. Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot.
5. Place the ribs in a single layer on top of the water.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
7. Cook at high pressure for 25 minutes.
8. Quick-release the pressure, then remove the ribs.
9. Brush with BBQ sauce and serve.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including prep time)
Instant Pot Thai Green Curry
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and aromatic Thai Green Curry made easily in an Instant Pot. This recipe is a perfect blend of spicy, sour, sweet, and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup Thai green curry paste
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste; cook until fragrant.
2. Add chicken and mixed vegetables; cook until chicken is browned.
3. Pour in coconut milk and fish sauce (if using). 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 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Cheesecake
Make a rich and creamy cheesecake using your Instant Pot! This recipe yields a velvety-smooth dessert with a firm set and minimal cracking.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Instant Pot to “Saute” mode.
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Press into the bottom of a 7-inch springform pan.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, eggs, sour cream, vanilla extract, and sugar. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
5. Place the trivet or steam rack in the Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water.
6. Cover the cheesecake with aluminum foil and cook on “High Pressure” for 25 minutes.
7. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
8. Remove cheesecake from the Instant Pot and let it cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes + 10 minutes natural pressure release
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 delicious Instant Pot recipes! From comforting classics like beef stew and mac and cheese, to international flavors like Thai green curry and butter chicken, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these recipes can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy families or solo meals. Whether you’re in the mood for hearty stews, creamy pasta dishes, or savory meats, these Instant Pot recipes are sure to become new favorites.
