When it comes to cooking on a tight schedule, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. But with the power of the Instant Pot, you can quickly and effortlessly whip up a delicious meal that will satisfy your family’s cravings. And the best part? These recipes require minimal prep time and are perfect for busy weeknights.
From classic comfort foods like chicken and rice to hearty stews and soups, our collection of 20 effortless Instant Pot recipes has got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a nutritious meal that’s packed with flavor, we’ve got the perfect solution for your time-crunched kitchen.
In this article, we’ll explore some of our favorite Instant Pot recipes that are sure to become staples in your household. From classic comfort foods to international flavors, these recipes are all about simplicity and ease – no fancy cooking techniques or special ingredients required. So grab your Instant Pot and get ready to cook up a storm!
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
Make a delicious and comforting meal with minimal effort using your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 chicken, cook until browned (about 5 minutes), then remove from the pot.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with any remaining oil and thyme.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and add back the cooked chicken.
5. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set 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 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes (including natural release)
Easy Instant Pot Beef Stew
This hearty beef stew recipe is a perfect comfort food solution for a busy day. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious and tender meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 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 chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the beef, garlic, potatoes, beef broth, water, 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 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this easy and quick macaroni and cheese recipe, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 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. Add the milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 4 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 14 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Quick Instant Pot Chili
This recipe serves up a hearty and flavorful chili in no time, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. With just a few minutes of prep and a short cook time, you’ll be enjoying this comforting dish in no more than 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 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 into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
5. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Spaghetti
Cooking spaghetti in the Instant Pot has never been easier! This recipe yields a delicious and tender pasta dish with minimal effort and cleanup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
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 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the spaghetti, chicken broth, and 1 cup of water. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set 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 before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 13 minutes
Simple Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Get tender, flavorful pulled pork with minimal effort using your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the pork shoulder and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the chicken broth and barbecue sauce (if using). Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button 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 steam.
Cooking Time: 70 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Serve the pulled pork on a bun with your favorite toppings or use it in tacos, sandwiches, or salads.
Instant Pot Vegetable Soup
This simple and flavorful Instant Pot vegetable soup recipe is a perfect comfort food solution on a chilly day. With a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices, this soup is sure to warm your belly and soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable 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 onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Easy Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Quickly whip up creamy mashed potatoes with minimal effort using your Instant Pot! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you need a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
3. Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and mash the potatoes with a fork or potato masher until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
This Instant Pot recipe yields tender and juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich honey garlic sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep time and cooking effort, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 chicken breasts and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Add honey, garlic, soy sauce, and thyme. 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 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quick Instant Pot Lentil Curry
This recipe makes a flavorful and nutritious lentil curry that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch, this dish is packed with protein-rich lentils, aromatic spices, and tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, bell pepper, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, and water to the pot. Stir well.
5. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
6. 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 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple of comfort food, and this Instant Pot recipe makes it easy to prepare with minimal effort. Tender beef and crisp broccoli come together in a savory sauce that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until hot.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add broccoli, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Meat/Stew” button or cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Instant Pot Risotto
In just a few minutes, you can create a creamy and comforting risotto using your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Pour in the warmed chicken broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring after each addition.
6. Cook on “High Pressure” for 4-5 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Turkey Meatballs
Elevate your mealtime with this simple recipe that yields tender and flavorful turkey meatballs in a fraction of the time it takes to cook them on the stovetop or in the oven.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinara sauce and pasta or sub rolls for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Instant Pot to “Saute” mode. Add the olive oil and cook the onion until translucent.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
4. Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Serve: Serve the meatballs hot with your favorite marinara sauce and pasta or sub rolls.
Easy Instant Pot Jambalaya
Get ready to experience a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional jambalaya with this easy-to-make Instant Pot recipe! This dish combines the perfect balance of sausage, chicken, and rice in a rich tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the sausage, onion, and garlic; cook until the sausage is browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chicken, rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, paprika, 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 cook for 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Soup
This classic comfort food gets a speedy upgrade with the Instant Pot! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be sipping on a rich and creamy tomato soup in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, broth, and basil. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi
In just a few minutes, you can enjoy this classic Italian-inspired dish with succulent shrimp, garlic, and lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp, white wine (if using), lemon juice, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 2 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Open the lid and stir in any accumulated juices. Serve hot with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (including natural release)
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
A classic comfort food, chicken noodle soup is a staple for any occasion. This recipe is easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 oz egg noodles
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, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken breast or thighs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and add the egg noodles.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
7. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Instant Pot Pot Roast
A classic comfort food dish made effortless with your Instant Pot. This recipe yields a tender and flavorful pot roast with minimal prep work and cleanup.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pound beef pot roast (chuck or round)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of 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 heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Sear the pot roast for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Place the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “SEALING”.
6. Cook at high pressure for 90 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time: 100 minutes (90 minutes cooking + 10 minutes natural release)
Instant Pot Garlic Butter Salmon
A flavorful and moist salmon dish cooked to perfection with the ease of an Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
2. Add the salmon fillets, salt, and pepper. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side or until browned.
3. If using wine and broth, add them to the pot and stir.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes (including pressure release)
Easy Instant Pot Black Beans
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple recipe! This instant pot black beans recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a comforting and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups water
– Optional: jalapeño peppers, cilantro, or lime wedges for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the rinsed black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and water. Stir well.
5. 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.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Open the lid and check that the beans are tender. If not, close the lid and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Make dinner a breeze with these 20 effortless Instant Pot recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like chicken and rice, mac and cheese, and spaghetti to international-inspired dishes like lentil curry and jambalaya, there’s something for everyone in this collection. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, these recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.