20 Quick Microwave Pressure Cooking Recipes for Busy Nights

Carmen Eldridge

April 1, 2025

Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen cooking up a storm? Look no further! With the rise of microwave pressure cookers, mealtime just got a whole lot quicker. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 quick and delicious microwave pressure cooking recipes that are perfect for busy nights.

From savory curries to comforting soups, these recipes are designed to get you in and out of the kitchen with minimal fuss. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and require no special cooking skills or equipment.

So, whether you’re a busy professional, a parent trying to get dinner on the table after work, or simply someone who loves to cook but doesn’t have hours to spare, these microwave pressure cooker recipes are sure to become your new go-to’s. In this article, we’ll be sharing some of our favorite recipes, from classic comfort foods to international dishes and everything in between.

Let’s get started!

Microwave Pressure Cooker Chicken Curry

Microwave Pressure Cooker Chicken Curry
This recipe is a game-changer for busy days when you need a delicious meal fast. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, this microwave pressure cooker chicken curry is a perfect solution.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In the microwave-safe pressure cooker, combine chicken, onion, garlic, curry powder, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
3. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Instant Microwave Pressure Cooked Beef Stew

Instant Microwave Pressure Cooked Beef Stew
Transform tough cuts of beef into a tender and flavorful stew with the help of Instant Microwave Pressure Cooker. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s ready in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef cubes (chuck or round)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 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. In the Instant Microwave Pressure Cooker, combine beef cubes, onion, garlic, beef broth, water, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Close the lid and ensure the valve is set to “sealing”.
3. Press the “manual” or “pressure cook” mode and set the cooking time to 15 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the cooker do its magic! When the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 25 minutes (including natural pressure release)

Microwave Pressure Cooker Lentil Soup

Microwave Pressure Cooker Lentil Soup
Quickly cook a comforting and nutritious lentil soup using your microwave pressure cooker. This recipe is perfect for a busy day when you need a warm, satisfying meal in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 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, water, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and diced tomatoes to the microwave pressure cooker.
2. Close the lid and ensure the valve is set to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high for 10-12 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes

Quick Microwave Pressure Cooked Rice Pudding

Quick Microwave Pressure Cooked Rice Pudding
A creamy and comforting dessert that’s ready in just a few minutes! This recipe uses the power of microwave pressure cooking to create a rich and velvety pudding.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably leftover)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Add the vanilla extract and stir to combine.
4. Microwave on high for 30 seconds.
5. Let stand for 1 minute to allow the pudding to set.
6. Serve warm or chilled.

Cooking Time: 31 seconds + 1 minute standing time = 2 minutes total

Microwave Pressure Cooker Honey Garlic Salmon

Microwave Pressure Cooker Honey Garlic Salmon
Moist and flavorful salmon fillets are cooked to perfection in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, all within minutes in your microwave pressure cooker. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, and water.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the microwave pressure cooker. Pour the honey garlic mixture over the salmon.
4. Cook on high for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Easy Microwave Pressure Cooked Mac and Cheese

Easy Microwave Pressure Cooked Mac and Cheese
Looking for a comforting, cheesy macaroni dish that can be prepared in no time? This recipe combines the convenience of microwave cooking with the ease of pressure cooking to bring you a creamy, indulgent mac and cheese.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine macaroni, milk, and butter. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes or until the pasta is cooked.
2. Add the cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the bowl. Stir until the cheese is melted and smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a pressure cooker. Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick-release the steam.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (microwave) + 5 minutes (pressure cooker)

Microwave Pressure Cooker Vegetable Biryani

Microwave Pressure Cooker Vegetable Biryani
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that’s ready in just a few minutes! This recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, cauliflower, carrots)
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. Drain and mix with 1 cup of water, oil, onion, garlic, carrot, mixed vegetables, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt.
3. Add the mixture to the microwave pressure cooker and cook on high for 4-5 minutes.
4. Natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining steam.
5. Fluff the biryani with a fork and garnish with cilantro (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 9-10 minutes

Speedy Microwave Pressure Cooked Chili Con Carne

Speedy Microwave Pressure Cooked Chili Con Carne
A hearty, comforting chili con carne that’s ready in no time! This recipe uses the power of microwave pressure cooking to bring you a flavorful and filling meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe pressure cooker, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic until cooked through.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, beef broth, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cover the pressure cooker and cook on high for 5 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 2 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions (optional).

Cooking Time: 7-8 minutes

Microwave Pressure Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Microwave Pressure Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Get ready for a creamy and fluffy mashed potato dish with minimal effort! This recipe uses the microwave pressure cooker to cook potatoes quickly and evenly.

Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chives, or grated cheese for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Add the cubed potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the microwave pressure cooker.
2. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Quick-release the pressure and check the potatoes for tenderness. If not tender, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.

Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes

Fluffy Microwave Pressure Cooked Scrambled Eggs

Fluffy Microwave Pressure Cooked Scrambled Eggs
In just a few minutes, you can have perfectly cooked scrambled eggs with a fluffy texture and no mess! This recipe uses a microwave pressure cooker to cook the eggs quickly and evenly.

Ingredients:

– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon milk or water
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Crack the eggs into a microwave-safe bowl and whisk them together with a fork until well combined.
2. Add the milk or water and whisk until smooth.
3. Place the bowl in the microwave pressure cooker and add about 1-2 tablespoons of water to the cooker.
4. Cook on high for 30-45 seconds, or until the eggs are just set.
5. Remove the bowl from the cooker and use a spatula to gently fold the eggs over to cook any remaining liquid.
6. Return the bowl to the cooker and cook for an additional 15-20 seconds, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.

Cooking Time: 45-60 seconds

Microwave Pressure Cooker Thai Green Curry

Microwave Pressure Cooker Thai Green Curry
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Thai green curry with the convenience of a microwave pressure cooker, resulting in a flavorful and nutritious meal in just a few minutes.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 tablespoons Thai green curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add chicken, mixed vegetables, curry paste, coconut milk, fish sauce, garlic, and oil to the microwave pressure cooker.
2. Cook on high for 3-4 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
3. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve over rice or noodles.

Cooking Time: 8-9 minutes

Fast Microwave Pressure Cooked Pulled Pork

Fast Microwave Pressure Cooked Pulled Pork
Elevate your pork game with this speedy and tender recipe that yields juicy, flavorful pulled pork.

Ingredients:
• 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder or butt
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe dish, combine pork shoulder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add chicken broth to the dish, making sure the pork is covered.
3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
4. Microwave on high for 12-15 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
5. Remove from microwave and let rest for 5 minutes.
6. Use two forks to pull apart the pork into shreds.
7. If desired, stir in barbecue sauce.
8. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Microwave Pressure Cooker Mushroom Risotto

Microwave Pressure Cooker Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Using your microwave pressure cooker, you can have a delicious and flavorful dish ready in just 10 minutes.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In the microwave pressure cooker, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms, garlic, and Arborio rice. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
5. Pour in the broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring between each addition.
6. Stir in the butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook on high pressure for 5-6 minutes, followed by a quick release.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Simple Microwave Pressure Cooked Tomato Soup

Simple Microwave Pressure Cooked Tomato Soup
Make a warm and comforting tomato soup in just minutes with your microwave pressure cooker! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the diced tomatoes, water, butter, and dried basil to a microwave-safe pressure cooker.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high for 5 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 2 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 7 minutes

Microwave Pressure Cooker Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Microwave Pressure Cooker Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Quickly cook succulent shrimp with a burst of citrus and savory flavors using your microwave pressure cooker.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add shrimp, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil to the microwave pressure cooker.
2. Close the lid and set the cooking time to 3-4 minutes at high pressure.
3. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening the lid.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with parsley or thyme, if desired.

Cooking Time:

– High pressure: 3-4 minutes
– Natural release: 5 minutes

Quick Microwave Pressure Cooked Quinoa Salad

Quick Microwave Pressure Cooked Quinoa Salad
This recipe is a game-changer for busy days when you need a healthy and flavorful meal in a hurry. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious quinoa salad cooked to perfection in under 10 minutes.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, etc.)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine quinoa and water or broth.
2. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute until the liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender.
3. In a separate bowl, heat the olive oil in the microwave for 30 seconds to warm it up.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the warmed oil and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Combine cooked quinoa, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
6. Toss everything together until well combined.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: Under 10 minutes

Microwave Pressure Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese

Microwave Pressure Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese
Quick and Easy Microwave Pressure Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese: A twist on the classic Italian dish that combines tender spaghetti with rich beef bolognese, cooked to perfection using a microwave pressure cooker.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat until cooked through.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato sauce, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on high for 4 minutes in the microwave pressure cooker.
4. Add spaghetti and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until al dente.
5. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese (optional).

Cooking Time: 6-7 minutes

Easy Microwave Pressure Cooked Corn on the Cob

Easy Microwave Pressure Cooked Corn on the Cob
Easy Microwave Pressure Cooked Corn on the Cob

A quick and delicious way to cook corn on the cob, perfect for a weeknight dinner or summer BBQ.

Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe dish, place the corn ears in a single layer.
2. Dot the top of each ear with butter.
3. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
5. Microwave on high for 8-10 minutes, rotating the dish every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
6. Remove from microwave and let stand for 1 minute before serving.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Microwave Pressure Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Microwave Pressure Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day off right with this quick and easy recipe for Microwave Pressure Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal. This comforting bowl of goodness is perfect for busy mornings when you need a nutritious breakfast in a flash.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup diced apple (about 1/2 apple)
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray

Instructions:

1. In the microwave-safe bowl, combine oats, water, salt, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Microwave on high for 3 minutes, stirring every minute until mixture is creamy and cooked to your liking.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and diced apple.
4. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and cook on high for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until apple is tender.
5. Remove from microwave, stir in butter or non-stick cooking spray, and serve hot.

Cooking Time: Approximately 6 minutes

Speedy Microwave Pressure Cooked Black Bean Soup

Speedy Microwave Pressure Cooked Black Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a quick and satisfying meal that’s packed with protein and fiber. With the help of a microwave pressure cooker, you can have it ready in just 10 minutes!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup dried black beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the black beans, water, onion, bell pepper, garlic, and cumin to a microwave-safe pressure cooker.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Microwave on high for 5 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Summary

Looking for quick and delicious meal solutions for busy nights? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering microwave pressure cooker recipes that can be prepared in no time. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs to international flavors like Thai green curry, lentil soup, and chicken curry, there’s something for everyone. These easy-to-make dishes are perfect for busy families, students, or anyone looking for a convenient meal solution. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal in just minutes!

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