Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night? Do you wish you had more time to enjoy your favorite meals without sacrificing precious minutes of your day? Enter the Instant Pot, a game-changing kitchen appliance that can help you cook delicious meals quickly and efficiently. With its ability to pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, and steam all in one pot, it’s no wonder why busy cooks are raving about this must-have tool.
In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering Instant Pot recipes that will become staples in your kitchen. From creamy pasta dishes to hearty stews and soups, these recipes are sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, the Instant Pot makes it easy to create restaurant-quality meals with minimal fuss and bother. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the bold flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with cream sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Stew
This classic comfort food recipe is a perfect blend of tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 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 chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat, carrots, potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), 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 steam.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
A classic comfort food dish with a bright twist, this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is sure to become a family favorite. With the perfect balance of tangy lemon and rich butter, it’s an easy and impressive meal option.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and softened butter until well combined.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each breast.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is packed with nutritious lentils, an assortment of colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Enjoy your nourishing and flavorful Vegetable Lentil Soup!
Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs
Sweet and spicy, these Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs are a flavor bomb! Marinated in a mixture of honey, sriracha, garlic, and soy sauce, these chicken thighs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup sriracha
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, garlic, and soy sauce.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken and massage to coat evenly.
4. Seal bag or cover dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice
This comforting side dish combines tender broccoli florets with flavorful rice and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese (reserving the remaining half) and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked rice with the cheesy broccoli mixture. Stir until well combined.
6. Top with the reserved 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pulled Pork Tacos
Get ready for a flavorful fusion of tender pork and crispy tacos!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a lid.
5. Cover and bake for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and transfer to a bowl.
7. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
8. Assemble tacos by spooning pulled pork onto a tortilla, adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (plus 10 minutes for tortillas)
Enjoy your delicious Pulled Pork Tacos!
Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Thai cuisine with the sweetness of coconut and the succulence of shrimp, creating a dish that’s both exotic and familiar. With this simple recipe, you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering curry in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 cup water or fish stock
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In a separate pan, combine coconut milk, curry paste, and water or fish stock. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add cooked shrimp to the coconut mixture and stir to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quinoa and Black Bean Chili
A hearty, plant-based chili that’s perfect for a cold winter night. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the rich taste of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or other hot peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and cook according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until tender.
3. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Once quinoa is cooked, add it to the pot and stir well.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Dumplings
A comforting and soothing dish perfect for any occasion, this classic recipe combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a rich and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour, for dumplings
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in butter until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add garlic, flour, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Gradually stir in broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. To make dumplings, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter and mix until a dough forms.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the pot and cook, covered, for an additional 10-15 minutes or until dumplings are cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe
Savor a hearty and comforting meal with this simple recipe for spaghetti with meat sauce. Ground beef, tomato sauce, and spices combine to create a rich and flavorful pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 16 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let sauce thicken for 10-15 minutes.
5. Serve meat sauce over cooked spaghetti and top with Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Potato and Corn Chowder
A comforting and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced potatoes, frozen corn kernels, chicken broth, and milk to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Teriyaki chicken, served over fluffy white rice and topped with crunchy vegetables and toasted sesame seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup Teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the Teriyaki sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the chicken over cooked white rice, topped with mixed vegetables and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Risotto
Mexican Street Corn Risotto Recipe
Summary:
This creamy risotto recipe combines the flavors of Mexican street corn with the comfort of a warm, cheesy dish. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
3. Add the Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture; stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2-cup increments, stirring after each addition.
5. After 20-25 minutes or when the rice is cooked and creamy, remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve warm, topped with crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
Get ready to fall in love with these tender, juicy sliders smothered in a rich BBQ sauce. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred chicken with two forks and mix with chicken broth.
6. Split hamburger buns in half and toast.
7. Assemble sliders by spooning chicken onto the buns. Top with coleslaw, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours (plus marinating time)
Garlic Butter Mushroom Rice
This aromatic rice dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite protein or as a standalone side. With the flavors of garlic, butter, and sautéed mushrooms, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked rice, salt, and pepper to combine with the mushroom mixture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these sweet and sour meatballs that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the sweet and sour sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Once the meatballs are done, remove from oven and add to the saucepan with the sweet and sour sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus
A bright and flavorful combination of lemon, herbs, and asparagus pairs perfectly with pan-seared salmon for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
7. Serve salmon with roasted asparagus.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Sausage and Peppers
Savor the bold flavors of Louisiana with this simple and savory recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This dish combines spicy Cajun sausage with sweet bell peppers and onions, all in one skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. Cajun-style sausage (such as Andouille or boudin), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the bell peppers and onions to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to coat with the pepper mixture.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal, infused with the flavors of fall.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: brown sugar, chopped nuts, or raisins for topping
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has a creamy consistency.
4. Serve hot, topped with brown sugar, chopped nuts, or raisins if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these delicious 3-quart Instant Pot recipes! As a busy cook, you’ll love how quickly and easily these dishes come together. From comforting classics like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta and Chicken and Dumplings, to international flavors like Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp and Cajun Sausage and Peppers, there’s something for everyone. And with a range of veggie-packed options like Vegetable Lentil Soup and Quinoa and Black Bean Chili, you’ll never have to sacrifice flavor for nutrition again. Try one (or 20!) today and discover the power of Instant Pot cooking!