20 Delicious Instant Pot Slow Cooker Recipes for Busy Weeknights

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Are you tired of sacrificing taste for convenience when it comes to weeknight meals? Look no further! With these 20 delicious Instant Pot slow cooker recipes, you can enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re in the mood for comforting classics like beef stew or mac and cheese, or international flavors like teriyaki chicken or vegetable curry, we’ve got you covered.

From hearty stews to flavorful curries, these Instant Pot slow cooker recipes are perfect for busy families or singles who want a quick and easy meal. And the best part? They’re all incredibly simple to make! Just toss your ingredients into the Instant Pot, set it to “slow cook”, and let the magic happen.

In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering Instant Pot slow cooker recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household.

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Beef Stew

This Instant Pot Slow Cooker Beef Stew recipe is a twist on the classic comfort food dish, perfect for busy days when you need a warm and satisfying meal. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the beef until browned, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Stir well.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode for 30 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

This recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering, slow-cooked sensation, perfect for tacos, salads, or wraps. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll be enjoying tender, juicy chicken in no time!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 taco-sized corn tortillas

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and brown the chicken for 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
4. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks. Serve with tortillas, your favorite toppings, and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

This recipe yields a mouthwatering pulled pork dish using your Instant Pot and slow cooker, requiring just a few minutes of prep time. Perfect for busy days or gatherings with friends and family.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and brown the pork shoulder for 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned.
2. Add the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 90 minutes.
4. Release pressure naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Transfer the pork shoulder to a slow cooker and add barbecue sauce (if using). Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and serve.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2.5 hours (90 minutes + 10 minutes natural release + 8 hours in slow cooker)

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This recipe combines the comfort of creamy pasta with the convenience of a slow cooker. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the chicken until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and pasta to the pot.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
5. Stir in basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes (including natural release)

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Elevate your slow cooker game with this mouthwatering honey garlic chicken recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. The Instant Pot’s slow cooker function makes it easy to cook a delicious meal without much effort.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon 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.
2. Add chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the honey mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
5. Cook on “Slow Cook” mode for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Chili

This Instant Pot Slow Cooker Chili recipe is a twist on the classic dish, using the convenience of an electric pressure cooker to cook the ingredients to perfection. With its rich flavors and tender texture, this chili is perfect for a busy day when you need a comforting meal in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth.
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, then quick-release any remaining steam.

Cooking Time: 40 minutes total (30 minutes cooking + 10 minutes natural release)

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

Transform your favorite comfort food into a hands-off, stress-free meal with this easy Instant Pot recipe. Perfect for busy families or anyone craving a rich, cheesy delight.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In the Instant Pot, combine cooked macaroni, milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, butter, and paprika.
3. Close lid and set valve to “sealing”. Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
4. Open valve and quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Stir well before serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Transform a classic pot roast into an effortless, hands-off meal with the Instant Pot’s slow cooker function.

Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add sliced onion to the pot and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Place the beef roast in the pot, making sure it’s covered by the liquid.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Slow Cook” button and select 60 minutes at high pressure.

Cooking Time:
– High Pressure: 1 hour
– Natural Release: 10 minutes

Serve: Slice the roast and serve with the rich, flavorful sauce. Enjoy!

Instant Pot Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs

Get ready to experience the convenience of slow-cooked ribs without sacrificing flavor or tenderness. This Instant Pot Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks who want to enjoy delicious, comforting food without much fuss.

Ingredients:

– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 onion, sliced

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and brown the ribs in small batches until caramelized.
2. Add the remaining ingredients to the Instant Pot, making sure the ribs are covered in the liquid mixture.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Remove the ribs from the pot, brush with additional BBQ sauce (optional), and serve.

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Lentil Soup

Warm up with this comforting Instant Pot slow cooker lentil soup recipe, packed with fiber-rich lentils, aromatic spices, and tender vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add lentils, water, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, diced tomatoes, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using) to the Instant Pot.
2. Close lid; set valve to “sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
3. Allow pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Get ready to experience the rich flavors of teriyaki chicken with minimal effort! This Instant Pot Slow Cooker recipe is perfect for a busy day, as it cooks while you’re away.

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
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
3. Add teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and water. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” mode and 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 minutes

Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve over rice or noodles.

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

A classic combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli, cooked to perfection with minimal effort using your Instant Pot.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef (such as chuck or round), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and brown the beef in batches until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, broccoli, beef broth, water, and soy sauce to the Instant Pot.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
4. 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 steam.

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo

Transform your classic comfort food into a hands-off, stress-free Instant Pot Slow Cooker dish that’s sure to please the whole family. This recipe combines tender chicken, rich alfredo sauce, and fettuccine pasta for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and melt butter. Add chicken, cook until browned.
2. Add pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well.
3. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
4. Open lid and stir in Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Vegetable Curry

This Instant Pot Slow Cooker Vegetable Curry recipe is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting curry that’s packed with vegetables and simmered to perfection.

Ingredients:

– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 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 the olive oil.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, curry powder, and cumin.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Slow Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes at high pressure + 10-minute natural release

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese

Transform your Instant Pot into a slow cooker and enjoy a rich and flavorful spaghetti bolognese that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the spaghetti to the pot, followed by 1 cup of water.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.

Cooking Time: 16 minutes

Serve: With grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage

Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe: A Twist on a Classic St. Patrick’s Day Dish!

This recipe is a modern take on the traditional Irish dish, using an Instant Pot slow cooker to cook tender corned beef and flavorful cabbage in a fraction of the time.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound corned beef brisket
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon mustard powder
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” function on the Instant Pot and cook the corned beef brisket until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped cabbage, brown sugar, mustard powder, black pepper, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar to the pot.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and cook on high for 90 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Slice the corned beef against the grain and serve with the cooked cabbage.

Cooking Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

This comforting recipe is perfect for a cozy day or a quick weeknight dinner. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a delicious, steamy bowl of goodness in no time!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 8 oz egg noodles
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the chicken until browned.
2. Add onion, garlic, thyme, paprika, and broth. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Remove chicken from pot and shred. Add noodles and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 17 minutes (including pressure release)

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Mushroom Risotto

The Instant Pot Slow Cooker Mushroom Risotto is a game-changer for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a rich and creamy risotto ready in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture.
5. Pour in the warmed chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring after each addition.
6. Cook on “Slow Cook” mode for 6-8 hours or until the risotto is creamy and cooked through.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

Add a hearty twist to your weeknight meals with this simple and flavorful Instant Pot recipe that combines juicy sausage and sweet peppers. With minimal prep time, you’ll have a satisfying dinner ready in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb Italian-style sausage (sweet or hot), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook sausage until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add sliced peppers, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or basil if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including pressure release)

Instant Pot Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Start your day off right with this comforting Instant Pot Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal recipe. The combination of tender steel-cut oats, sweet apples, and warm cinnamon spices will keep you cozy and satisfied until lunchtime.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup steel-cut oats
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup diced apple (any variety)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Add the oats, water, apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt to the Instant Pot Slow Cooker.
2. Stir to combine, then set the valve to “sealing” and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
3. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the valve.
4. Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings such as nuts, dried fruit, or a drizzle of honey.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes (includes 10-minute natural pressure release)

Summary

Looking for delicious and easy-to-make recipes for busy weeknights? This article features 20 mouth-watering Instant Pot Slow Cooker Recipes that are perfect for a quick dinner solution. From comforting classics like Beef Stew and Mac and Cheese to international-inspired dishes like Teriyaki Chicken and Vegetable Curry, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for tender pulled pork or creamy garlic parmesan pasta, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With minimal effort required, you can enjoy a hot and satisfying meal with your family and friends. Check out this collection of slow cooker recipes and start cooking tonight!

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