Are you tired of slaving away in the kitchen every night, only to be met with a mediocre meal that fails to impress? If so, it’s time to give your busy weeknights a serious boost. Enter: Instant Pot recipes! This versatile pressure cooker is a game-changer for anyone looking to cook up delicious, stress-free meals without sacrificing an hour of their evening.
From comforting classics like creamy mac and cheese to international flavors like Thai coconut curry soup, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering Instant Pot recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen. Whether you’re a busy parent or a young professional on-the-go, these quick and easy meals will help you whip up a satisfying supper in no time.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Instant Pot cooking and explore the endless possibilities it offers. So sit back, relax, and get ready to spice up your weeknights with the following 20 recipes:
Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
In just a few minutes, you can have a rich and creamy macaroni and cheese dish cooking away in your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the macaroni, water, and butter to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 4-5 minutes.
4. Quick-release the steam by switching the valve to “venting”.
5. Open the lid and stir in the flour until it forms a smooth paste.
6. Add the milk, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes + 10 minutes natural release
Instant Pot Beef Stew with Red Wine
This rich and flavorful Instant Pot beef stew is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. With the addition of red wine, it’s a twist on the classic recipe that will surely impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 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 and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the red wine, beef broth, carrot, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
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 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
Elevate your dinner game with this authentic Indian-inspired dish, made easily and quickly in the Instant Pot. This recipe yields a flavorful and aromatic chicken tikka masala that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the Instant Pot, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add chicken and mix well.
2. Close the lid and set valve to “sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
3. Release pressure naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
4. Open lid and stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer on low pressure for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes (includes natural release)
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Pork Chops
This recipe yields tender, flavorful pork chops with a sticky honey garlic glaze, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. A perfect weeknight dinner solution that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive 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 pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and soy sauce.
4. Pour the glaze over the pork chops in the Instant Pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 8-10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Transform your chicken dinner with this easy and flavorful Instant Pot recipe! Rich and creamy sauce, tender chicken, and a hint of garlic come together to create a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 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 minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
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, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be ready in no time. With the help of your trusty Instant Pot, you’ll have a tender and juicy beef stir-fry smothered in a savory sauce and served with crisp broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye work well)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the oil until shimmering.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add garlic and stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add broccoli, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and browned beef back to the pot.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto
This recipe yields a rich and creamy risotto with earthy flavors of mushrooms, all made possible by the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking capabilities. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and comforting side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning.
4. Add Arborio rice, garlic, and thyme; stir to combine.
5. Pour in warmed broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring between each addition.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
8. Open the lid and stir in Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken
Satisfy your cravings with this tender and flavorful pulled BBQ chicken recipe, made easy and quick in the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 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 chicken breasts and cook for 5 minutes, or until browned.
3. Add the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot 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, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to coat with the BBQ sauce mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Thai Coconut Curry Soup
This recipe is a flavorful and comforting twist on traditional Thai curry soup, made possible by the ease of cooking with an Instant Pot. With its rich coconut milk and aromatic spices, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon curry paste
– 1 teaspoon Thai red chili flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add coconut milk, broth, water, curry paste, and chili flakes (if using); stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Elevate your seafood game with this simple and flavorful Instant Pot recipe. Garlic butter shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that’s ready in just 5 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves 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 garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes, until pink and just cooked through.
4. Add white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 2 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 2 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast
This classic Southern-style pot roast recipe gets a modern twist with the help of an Instant Pot. The result is tender, flavorful meat and rich, velvety gravy.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef pot roast
– 1/2 cup ranch seasoning
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and brown the pot roast on all sides.
2. Add ranch seasoning, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, beef broth, and pepperoncini peppers to the pot.
3. Place the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to “Manual” mode for 90 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Instant Pot Lentil Soup with Spinach
This comforting lentil soup is a staple for any busy day, packed with protein-rich lentils, nutritious spinach, and aromatic spices. Cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot, this recipe is ready in under 30 minutes.
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
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until 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 valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Get ready to savor the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy chicken alfredo pasta recipe, all made possible in your Instant Pot! This comforting dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tbsp of butter.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode for 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Quick-release steam and open lid. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including prep and cooking time)
Instant Pot Mongolian Beef
A classic Chinese-American dish gets a pressure cooker twist! This recipe yields tender beef and savory sauce with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add garlic, mushrooms, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), brown sugar, ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until mushrooms release their liquid.
3. Add beef strips; cook for an additional 1 minute.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Meat/Stew” mode at high pressure for 10 minutes + 5-minute natural release.
5. Open the lid, stir in any accumulated sauce, and serve with garnishes (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberry topping, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for strawberry topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Instant Pot to “Saute” mode. Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter for crust. Press into the bottom of a 7-inch springform pan.
2. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until smooth.
3. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Cover with foil.
4. Cook on “High Pressure” for 25 minutes, then quick-release.
5. Let cool completely. Top with sliced strawberries and sprinkle with sugar.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including prep time)
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
Savor a classic Italian dish with this simple recipe that combines tender spaghetti, juicy meatballs, and rich tomato sauce in just under an hour using your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup spaghetti
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook the onion and garlic until softened, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, spaghetti, and water (filling line). Close lid, ensuring valve is set to “Sealing”.
4. Press “Manual” mode and set to 10 minutes at high pressure. Let it release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Open lid, stir in cooked meatballs, and serve with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the brightness of lemon, pungency of garlic, and richness of butter. This pressure-cooked Instant Pot dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup 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 cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a single layer on the bottom of the Instant Pot.
4. Pour the lemon juice over the salmon.
5. 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.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve the salmon hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Corn on the Cob
Enjoy perfectly cooked corn on the cob with minimal effort using your Instant Pot. This simple recipe yields tender, flavorful results every time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1 tablespoon butter or oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Add the corn, butter or oil, and salt 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. Remove the corn from the pot and serve hot with your favorite toppings or seasonings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy meal with this simple recipe for Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas! With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup sliced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken, bell peppers, onions, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
4. Cook on “High Pressure” for 5 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
5. Open the lid and stir in any remaining sauce.
6. Serve hot with tortillas and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including natural release)
Instant Pot Chocolate Lava Cake
Moist, gooey, and utterly chocolatey, this Instant Pot dessert is a game-changer for those with a sweet tooth. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a warm and indulgent treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Add the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt to the Instant Pot. Stir until combined.
2. Crack in the eggs, add the milk, and stir until smooth.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or on the stove. Allow them to cool slightly before stirring into the batter.
4. Pour the batter into 6 small ramekins or cups.
5. Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 8 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
6. Remove the cakes from the pot and let them cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 flavorful Instant Pot recipes! From classic comfort foods like Creamy Mac and Cheese and Spaghetti and Meatballs, to international twists like Chicken Tikka Masala and Thai Coconut Curry Soup, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy hearty stews, tender meats, and rich sauces, all made easy with the Instant Pot. Plus, don’t miss sweet treats like Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping and Chocolate Lava Cake. These recipes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to get a delicious meal on the table in no time.
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