Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience on busy weeknights? Look no further! The Instant Pot is a game-changer when it comes to cooking up delicious meals in no time. With its pressure cooker functionality, sautéing capabilities, and slow cooker mode, this versatile appliance can help you whip up everything from hearty stews to creamy risottos.
In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering Instant Pot recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and pulled pork, to international-inspired dishes like chicken tikka masala and teriyaki chicken, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking!
Instant Pot Beef Stew
This classic comfort food recipe is a perfect solution for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a nourishing meal in no time. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a rich and flavorful beef stew in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tbsp of butter.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef stew meat, potatoes, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
This classic Italian dish gets a modern twist with the Instant Pot. Tender chicken and pasta are smothered in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, making it a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fettuccine noodles
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add fettuccine noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
6. Quick-release pressure, then open the lid.
7. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Add cooked chicken back into pot and stir until coated with Alfredo sauce.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Transform Arborio rice into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece with the help of your Instant Pot! This recipe combines sautéed mushrooms with white wine and chicken broth for added depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on Instant Pot and heat oil. Add onion; cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, and white wine (if using); cook until liquid is almost gone.
3. Add rice, broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Close lid, set valve to “Sealing”, and press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook”. Set cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese until melted. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
This recipe is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, with the simplicity of cooking it all in one pot – your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp 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 pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the honey, soy sauce, garlic, and thyme. Stir well to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
5. 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. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (10 minutes cooking + 5 minutes natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
This recipe for Instant Pot Lentil Soup is a perfect blend of comfort food and convenience. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 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 pot until hot.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lentils, water, diced tomatoes, 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 20 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy and indulgent macaroni and cheese recipe, cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. This rich and creamy dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
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
Instructions:
1. Add the macaroni, milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
2. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
4. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
5. Open the valve and quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Remove the pot from the Instant Pot and stir in any cheese that may have accumulated on top.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Get ready to enjoy a delicious and tender pulled pork dish with minimal effort using your Instant Pot! This recipe is perfect for busy days or when you want to come home to a warm, comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 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 sliced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the pork shoulder, barbecue sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 90 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
7. Shred the pork with two forks and serve.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Vegetable Curry
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional curry, made with a variety of colorful vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Chili
Get ready to warm up with a hearty bowl of chili made possible by your trusty Instant Pot! This simple recipe yields a deliciously flavorful pot of goodness that’s perfect for any time of the year.
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 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon 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 onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well.
4. Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing”, and press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button. Set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mealtime with this simple recipe for creamy Instant Pot mashed potatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, these fluffy spuds are ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the cubed potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 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: 15-17 minutes
Instant Pot Spaghetti Bolognese
Get a rich and flavorful Italian-inspired dish with minimal effort using your Instant Pot. This recipe yields a classic spaghetti bolognese that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode for 10 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and stir in spaghetti. Close the lid again and cook on “Saute” mode until spaghetti is al dente, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
This classic Indian-inspired dish is a flavorful and comforting meal that’s easy to make with the help of your Instant Pot. With tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and aromatic spices, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and mix well. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
3. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
4. Brown the chicken in batches, about 5-6 pieces at a time, until browned on all sides.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on “Manual” mode for 10 minutes at high pressure.
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
A classic comfort food dish, this Instant Pot recipe combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce for a meal that’s ready in no time. This easy and flavorful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), beef broth, and ginger to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 13 minutes
Instant Pot Corn Chowder
Creamy Instant Pot Corn Chowder Recipe
This comforting and flavorful chowder is perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner. With the Instant Pot, you can have a delicious and creamy corn chowder in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen corn kernels
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 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 translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the frozen corn kernels, diced potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the milk and heavy cream. 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.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired. Enjoy!
Instant Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp
Looking for a tasty and easy-to-make seafood dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner? This garlic butter shrimp recipe is a great option, as it cooks quickly and evenly in the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 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 the butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes until they start to turn pink.
4. Pour in the white wine (if using) and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 2-3 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 7-10 minutes
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken
Elevate your mealtime with this easy and flavorful Instant Pot recipe, featuring tender chicken smothered in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat until hot.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and sesame oil.
4. Pour sauce over chicken, then add mixed veggies.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode for 8 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time: 13 minutes
Instant Pot Minestrone Soup
Get ready for a comforting and nutritious bowl of goodness with this Instant Pot Minestrone Soup recipe. This classic Italian soup is a perfect blend of vegetables, beans, and pasta, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, celery)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 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 onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pasta, vegetable broth, and basil. Stir well.
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 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Cheesecake
Transform your Instant Pot into a cheesecake-making machine with this simple recipe! This creamy treat is perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Instant Pot to “Saute” mode.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into the bottom of a 7-inch springform pan.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan over the crust.
6. Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
7. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes (plus 10-minute natural release)
Instant Pot BBQ Ribs
Get ready for a game-changing ribs recipe that yields tender, flavorful, and oh-so-easy-to-make results. This Instant Pot BBQ ribs recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 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. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (this will help them tenderize).
3. Place the ribs in a single layer on the instant pot’s trivet or steamer basket.
4. Pour the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the ribs.
5. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode for 30 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon
Quickly cook salmon fillets with a bright and citrusy lemon garlic sauce using your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the lemon juice, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Place the salmon fillets in a single layer at the bottom of the Instant Pot. Pour the lemon garlic sauce over the fish.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook for 8 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 13 minutes (8 minutes cooking + 5 minutes natural pressure release)
Summary
Need a quick and delicious meal for a busy weeknight? Look no further! This article presents 20 mouth-watering Instant Pot recipes that are easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner. From classic comfort food like Mac and Cheese and Spaghetti Bolognese, to international flavors like Chicken Tikka Masala and Teriyaki Chicken, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for meat, veggies, or a little bit of both, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and save time in the kitchen.
