Instant Pot cooking has taken the culinary world by storm. This handy kitchen gadget makes meal prep quick and easy, letting you whip up tasty dishes in no time.
From soups and stews to meats and desserts, there’s almost no limit to what you can create.
The Instant Pot can help you save time and energy in the kitchen while still making delicious, home-cooked meals. You’ll find recipes for classic comfort foods, international cuisines, and even surprising treats like cheesecake.
Whether you’re new to Instant Pot cooking or looking to expand your recipe collection, these 50 dishes offer something for everyone.
1. Chili Lime Chicken
Chili lime chicken is a tasty and simple dish you can make in your Instant Pot. Start by mixing lime juice, chili powder, and spices in the pot.
Add chicken breasts or thighs and rub the mixture all over.
Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 6-10 minutes, depending on the chicken’s thickness. Let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking, then release the steam.
The result is juicy chicken with a zesty flavor. It’s great for tacos, salads, or as a main dish with rice and veggies. You can adjust the spices to make it milder or spicier to suit your taste.
2. Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff is a perfect recipe for your Instant Pot. You can make this classic dish quickly and easily.
The Instant Pot cooks tender beef in a creamy sauce with mushrooms. Most recipes use stew meat or beef strips.
You’ll need sour cream, beef broth, and seasonings for the sauce. Many versions include onions and garlic for extra flavor.
Egg noodles are the traditional choice to serve with beef stroganoff. You can cook them separately or in the Instant Pot with the beef.
This comfort food comes together in about 40 minutes. It’s a great option for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal.
3. Creamy Tomato Soup
Creamy tomato soup is a comforting classic you can easily make in your Instant Pot. Start by sautéing onions, celery, and carrots in butter until tender.
Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Pour in chicken stock, canned tomatoes, basil, and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper. Lock the lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
After cooking, blend the soup until smooth. For extra creaminess, stir in some heavy cream or milk. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves or a dollop of sour cream.
This quick and easy soup pairs perfectly with grilled cheese sandwiches for a satisfying meal.
4. Spicy Pulled Pork
Instant Pot spicy pulled pork is a tasty and simple dish. You can make tender, flavorful pork in under two hours.
Start by coating pork pieces with a spicy dry rub. Mix chili powder, paprika, cumin, and cayenne for heat.
Add broth, vinegar, and brown sugar to the pot. This creates a tangy sauce as the pork cooks.
Pressure cook the seasoned pork for about an hour. Let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes after cooking.
Shred the pork with two forks. Mix it with the spicy cooking liquid for extra flavor. Serve on buns or over rice for a satisfying meal.
5. Lemon Garlic Salmon
Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon is a quick and tasty meal you can make in just 15 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests.
To make this dish, you’ll need salmon fillets, lemon slices, garlic cloves, and some basic seasonings. Place the ingredients in your Instant Pot with a cup of water.
The pressure cooking method keeps the salmon moist and infuses it with zesty lemon and garlic flavors. You can even cook the salmon from frozen if you’re short on time.
Serve your Lemon Garlic Salmon with vegetables or rice for a complete, healthy meal. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
6. BBQ Meatballs
BBQ meatballs are a tasty and simple dish you can make in your Instant Pot. You’ll need frozen meatballs, BBQ sauce, and a few other ingredients.
Start by adding water to the Instant Pot. Place the meatballs inside, then pour BBQ sauce over them. Some recipes suggest adding ketchup, sweet chili sauce, or grape jelly for extra flavor.
Set your Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for 5 minutes. When done, use quick release to let out the steam.
These meatballs make a great appetizer or main dish. They’re perfect for parties or a quick weeknight meal. Serve them on their own or with toothpicks for easy snacking.
7. Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
Teriyaki chicken thighs are a tasty and easy meal to make in your Instant Pot. You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together.
Start by browning the chicken thighs in the pot using the Sauté function. This step adds extra flavor to your meal.
Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, and ginger for the teriyaki sauce. Pour it over the browned chicken in the pot.
Cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally when done.
For thicker sauce, remove the chicken and use the Sauté function again. Simmer the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
Serve your teriyaki chicken thighs over rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
8. Vegetable Curry
You can easily make a tasty vegetable curry in your Instant Pot. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger with curry spices.
Add your choice of veggies like potatoes, carrots, and zucchini. Pour in some vegetable broth and coconut milk.
Cook on high pressure for 3-6 minutes, depending on your veggie mix. Use quick release when done.
For a creamier curry, blend a portion of the cooked vegetables. This thickens the sauce nicely.
Serve your vegetable curry over rice for a quick, flavorful meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
9. Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom risotto is a creamy, flavorful dish you can easily make in your Instant Pot. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and mushrooms in butter until tender.
Add rice and cook for a few minutes before pouring in broth and seasonings. Close the lid and set to high pressure for 5-6 minutes.
After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for about 8 minutes. Open the lid and stir in some Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
This method creates perfectly cooked rice with a velvety texture. The mushrooms add an earthy flavor that pairs well with the creamy rice.
10. Honey Garlic Ribs
Honey garlic ribs in the Instant Pot are a tasty and easy meal. You can make them with baby back or spare ribs. The pressure cooker makes the meat tender quickly.
To start, coat the ribs with a dry rub. Mix garlic, honey, and other seasonings for a flavorful glaze. Place the ribs in the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure.
After pressure cooking, brush the ribs with glaze. For crispy edges, use the air fryer lid or broil them in the oven. The result is sweet, sticky ribs that fall off the bone.
These ribs work great as a main dish or appetizer. They’re perfect for game day snacks or family dinners. You can make a big batch by packing more ribs into the pot.
11. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a tasty and easy meal to make in your Instant Pot. You’ll need bell peppers, ground beef, rice, cheese, and tomato sauce.
Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds. Mix the beef, cooked rice, cheese, and seasonings. Fill the peppers with this mixture.
Place a trivet in your Instant Pot and add water. Arrange the stuffed peppers on the trivet. Cook on high pressure for about 8 minutes.
After cooking, you can add more cheese on top and use the air fryer lid to melt it. This creates a delicious, cheesy crust.
12. Butter Chicken
Butter chicken is a popular Indian dish that’s easy to make in your Instant Pot. You’ll love how the pressure cooker creates tender chicken pieces in a creamy, flavorful sauce.
To make it, start by browning chicken thighs in the pot. Then add tomato paste, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Pressure cook for a short time to infuse the flavors.
After cooking, stir in cream and spices like garam masala. The result is a rich, comforting meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant. Serve your butter chicken over rice with warm naan bread on the side.
13. Sweet Potato Curry
Sweet potato curry is a tasty and easy meal you can make in your Instant Pot. It’s a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner. You’ll love the rich flavors and creamy texture.
To start, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in your Instant Pot. Add curry powder and other spices for extra flavor. Then, toss in cubed sweet potatoes and your choice of vegetables.
Pour in coconut milk and some water or broth. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook for a few minutes. When it’s done, you’ll have a delicious curry ready to eat.
Serve your sweet potato curry over rice or with naan bread. It’s a filling and nutritious meal that’s perfect for vegans and meat-eaters alike.
14. Thai Green Curry
Thai green curry is a tasty dish you can make in your Instant Pot. It’s creamy, spicy, and full of flavor.
To start, sauté chicken in the pot until browned. Add green curry paste, garlic, ginger, and lime zest for extra taste.
Pour in coconut milk and add vegetables like bell peppers and bamboo shoots. You can also include Thai basil for a traditional touch.
Pressure cook the curry for a short time. The result is a quick and easy meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
Serve your Thai green curry with Instant Pot jasmine rice for a complete dinner.
15. Spanish Rice
You can make tasty Spanish rice in your Instant Pot quickly and easily. Start by sautéing onions in the pot until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Next, rinse your rice and add it to the pot. Stir in spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Pour in broth and tomato sauce, then give everything a good mix.
Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before doing a quick release.
Fluff the rice with a fork and serve. This flavorful side dish pairs well with many Mexican-inspired meals.
16. Balsamic Pork Tenderloin
You can make a tasty balsamic pork tenderloin in your Instant Pot. Start by seasoning the pork and browning it on all sides using the sauté function.
Mix balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water to create a flavorful sauce. Pour it over the pork in the pot.
Cook on high pressure for 12-15 minutes, depending on the size of your tenderloin. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the valve.
Remove the pork and let it rest. Thicken the sauce by adding a cornstarch slurry and using the sauté function again. Slice the pork and serve with the glaze poured over top.
17. Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala is a perfect dish to make in your Instant Pot. Start by marinating chicken in yogurt and spices.
Use the sauté function to cook onions, garlic, and ginger. Add spices like turmeric, garam masala, coriander, and cumin for flavor.
Mix in fire-roasted tomatoes and tomato sauce. Add the marinated chicken and cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
After a quick release, stir in some cream. For extra flavor, you can brown the chicken under the broiler before serving.
Serve your Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala with rice or naan bread for a tasty meal.
18. Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Shrimp scampi pasta is a tasty meal you can make in your Instant Pot. This dish combines pasta, shrimp, and a flavorful garlic butter sauce.
The best part? Everything cooks together in one pot. You don’t need extra pans or a colander.
Start by sautéing garlic and shallots in olive oil and butter in your Instant Pot. Add the pasta, broth, and other ingredients. Cook under pressure.
When it’s done, stir in the shrimp. They’ll cook quickly in the hot pasta. Mix in some Parmesan cheese to finish the sauce.
This easy recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that tastes fancy.
19. Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan in the Instant Pot is a tasty twist on the classic Italian dish. You can make it with ease and speed using your pressure cooker.
Start by slicing the eggplant and salting it to remove excess moisture. Pat the slices dry with paper towels.
Layer the bottom of your Instant Pot with marinara sauce and water. Then add layers of eggplant, cheese, and sauce until you’ve used all the eggplant.
Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, then do a quick release. For a crispy top, use the air fryer lid at 375°F for 8 minutes.
This method creates a delicious Eggplant Parmesan with tender eggplant and gooey cheese. You’ll love how quickly you can make this comforting meal.
20. Lemon Herb Quinoa
Lemon herb quinoa is a tasty and healthy dish you can easily make in your Instant Pot. This recipe adds a zesty twist to plain quinoa with fresh lemon and herbs.
To make it, rinse the quinoa first. Add it to your Instant Pot with water, salt, and a bit of oil.
For extra flavor, you can sauté some shallots and garlic before adding the quinoa.
Set your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 2-4 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally when done.
Fluff the quinoa with a fork and stir in lemon juice and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
This versatile side dish goes well with many meals. You can serve it hot or cold. Try mixing in some veggies or nuts for added texture and nutrition.
21. Pasta Primavera
Pasta Primavera is a tasty and colorful dish you can easily make in your Instant Pot. This recipe combines pasta with a variety of fresh vegetables for a quick and healthy meal.
To start, sauté onions, broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers in olive oil using the Instant Pot’s Sauté function. This brings out their flavors before cooking.
Next, add vegetable broth and pasta to the pot. Cook on high pressure for about 5 minutes.
When done, do a quick release of pressure.
Stir in any quick-cooking veggies like tomatoes or peas. The residual heat will warm them without overcooking.
Season with Italian herbs and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
22. Beef and Broccoli
You can make tasty beef and broccoli in your Instant Pot. Start by mixing sauce ingredients in the pot. Add beef slices and coat them well.
Close the lid and set to high pressure for 10-12 minutes. While it cooks, steam the broccoli separately.
When done, do a quick pressure release. Add a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
Mix in the cooked broccoli.
Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend flavors. Your homemade beef and broccoli will be ready faster than takeout.
23. Sesame Ginger Chicken
You can make tasty sesame ginger chicken in your Instant Pot. Start by mixing soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic in a bowl. Add chicken pieces and coat them well.
Pour water into the Instant Pot and place a trivet inside. Put the chicken mixture in a heatproof bowl on the trivet. Cover the bowl with foil.
Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 3-4 minutes.
When done, do a quick pressure release. The chicken will be tender and flavorful.
Serve your sesame ginger chicken over rice. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra crunch and flavor.
24. Coconut Fish Curry
This tasty Instant Pot dish brings tropical flavors to your table. You’ll love how quickly it comes together.
Start by sautéing curry leaves, onions, garlic, and ginger in your Instant Pot. Add spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander for depth.
Pour in coconut milk and tomatoes to create a creamy sauce. Gently place fish pieces into the mixture.
Cook at low pressure for just 5 minutes. The fish will be tender and infused with aromatic flavors.
Before serving, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the curry.
Enjoy it on its own or with a side of steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
25. Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
This Instant Pot recipe combines comfort food with a healthy twist. You’ll use cauliflower and pasta to create a creamy, cheesy dish.
Cut a head of cauliflower into small pieces. Add them to your Instant Pot with elbow macaroni, water, butter, and salt.
Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. After releasing the pressure, stir in milk, cream, and cheese until the sauce thickens.
For extra flavor, add oregano while sautéing.
Top with more cheese and use the air fryer lid to broil for 7 minutes.
This quick meal is ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a great way to sneak veggies into a kid-friendly dinner.
26. Spaghetti Carbonara
Spaghetti Carbonara is a perfect dish for your Instant Pot. You can make this classic Italian pasta in just minutes.
Start by cooking bacon until crisp using the Sauté function. Remove the bacon and set it aside. Add shallots to the pot and cook briefly.
Break the spaghetti in half and add it to the pot. Pour in broth or water to cover the pasta. Close the lid and pressure cook for 8 minutes.
While the pasta cooks, mix eggs, grated Parmesan, and salt in a bowl. When the pasta is done, quickly release the pressure.
Stir the egg mixture into the hot pasta. Add the bacon back in. The residual heat will cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce.
27. Chicken Noodle Soup
Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is a quick and easy comfort food. You can make this classic dish in less time than traditional methods.
Start by sautéing vegetables in the pot. Add chicken, broth, and seasonings. Pressure cook for a short time to infuse flavors.
After releasing pressure, remove the chicken and shred it. Return the meat to the pot and add noodles. Cook until the pasta is tender.
This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re feeling under the weather. You can customize it with different vegetables or noodles to suit your taste.
28. Garlicky Greens
You can make tasty garlicky greens in your Instant Pot quickly and easily. Start by adding green beans to the pot with some butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Pour in a bit of vegetable broth for extra flavor. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. When done, do a quick release of the pressure.
For a twist, try adding soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and honey to create a flavorful Asian-inspired sauce.
Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes to thicken it and soften the garlic.
Your garlicky greens will come out tender and full of flavor. Serve them as a side dish or add them to other recipes for a veggie boost.
29. Pumpkin Chili
Pumpkin chili in your Instant Pot brings fall flavors to this comforting dish. Start by sautéing onions, peppers, and garlic in the pot. Add ground beef and cook until mostly done.
Mix in spices like chili powder, cumin, and pumpkin pie spice. Pour in broth, canned pumpkin, and beans. For extra flavor, try adding a splash of apple cider.
Set your Instant Pot to high pressure for about 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally. Stir and taste, adjusting seasonings as needed.
Serve your pumpkin chili hot with your favorite toppings. Try sour cream, cheese, or chopped nuts for added texture.
30. Birria Tacos
Birria tacos are a tasty Mexican dish you can make in your Instant Pot. The main ingredient is beef, which becomes tender and flavorful after pressure cooking.
To start, toast dried chiles in the pot for about 5 minutes. Then, sear seasoned beef chunks for 2-3 minutes per side.
Next, add onions, tomatoes, and spices to create a rich sauce. Pour in beef broth and cook under pressure for 40-50 minutes, depending on the amount of meat.
Once done, shred the beef and serve it in tortillas with the cooking liquid on the side for dipping. These tacos are sure to be a hit at your next meal.
31. Chicken Burrito Bowl
This Instant Pot recipe lets you make a tasty chicken burrito bowl in about 20 minutes. Start by seasoning cubed chicken with salt and pepper.
Add chicken, beans, corn, and salsa to the pot. Sprinkle rice on top and pour in broth. Don’t stir.
Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. When done, do a quick pressure release. Stir in some shredded cheese until melted.
Serve your burrito bowl with your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, or cilantro. This easy one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
32. Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a perfect dish to make in your Instant Pot. This hearty Italian vegetable soup comes together quickly and easily.
You’ll need broth, diced tomatoes, beans, pasta, and a variety of vegetables. Common choices include zucchini, carrots, and celery.
Add your ingredients to the Instant Pot and select the Soup setting. Cook on high pressure for about 35 minutes.
For extra flavor, try adding a Parmesan rind or bay leaf while cooking. You can also customize the recipe with different vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste.
When the soup is done, you’ll have a delicious and comforting meal ready to enjoy. Serve it hot with some crusty bread for a satisfying dinner.
33. Garlic Butter Shrimp
You can make tasty garlic butter shrimp in your Instant Pot quickly and easily. This dish combines simple ingredients like shrimp, butter, garlic, and soy sauce for maximum flavor.
The Instant Pot cooks the shrimp perfectly, giving them a crunchy-bouncy texture. The butter and garlic create a rich, savory sauce that coats each shrimp.
To make this dish, sauté garlic in melted butter using the Instant Pot’s sauté function. Add the shrimp and cook for just a few minutes until done. The result is juicy shrimp bursting with garlicky, buttery goodness.
You can serve garlic butter shrimp over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s a quick and impressive meal for busy weeknights or dinner parties.
34. Cheesy Broccoli Soup
You can make a tasty cheesy broccoli soup in your Instant Pot. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter. Then add broccoli, carrots, and chicken broth.
Cook on high pressure for just 1-3 minutes. After a quick release, stir in some cream and cheese. For extra thickness, mix in a bit of cornstarch.
This soup comes out creamy and full of flavor. It’s perfect for chilly days when you want something comforting. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Try adding different cheeses or veggies to make it your own. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
35. Potato Leek Soup
Potato leek soup is a comforting dish that’s easy to make in your Instant Pot. You’ll love how quickly this creamy soup comes together.
Start by sautéing leeks in butter until soft. Add garlic, thyme, and bay leaves for extra flavor.
Next, add diced potatoes and chicken stock. Pressure cook for about 7 minutes. When done, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes.
Blend the soup until smooth. For a richer taste, stir in some cream. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Serve your potato leek soup hot. Top with crispy bacon bits or chives for added texture and flavor.
36. Herb Crusted Pork Loin
This Instant Pot recipe brings you a delicious herb crusted pork loin. Start by mixing herbs, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Brush the pork with a mixture of Dijon mustard, olive oil, and soy sauce. Then coat it with the herb mixture.
Place the pork on the air fry tray inside the Instant Pot basket. Set the temperature to 375°F and cook for about 25 minutes.
Make sure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. If needed, cook it a bit longer. Let the pork rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
37. Quinoa Salad Bowl
Make a tasty quinoa salad bowl in your Instant Pot. Start by rinsing 1¼ cups of quinoa and adding it to the pot with equal parts water or broth.
Cook on high pressure for 1 minute, then let it release naturally for 10 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork when done.
While still warm, mix in your favorite veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Add some chickpeas for extra protein.
Dress your salad with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt to taste. This quick and easy meal is perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
38. Gnocchi Marinara
Making gnocchi marinara in your Instant Pot is quick and easy. Start by pouring water into the pot and adding store-bought gnocchi. Set the pressure to high for 0 minutes.
Use quick release when done. Drain the gnocchi and return it to the pot. Add your favorite marinara sauce and mix well.
For extra flavor, try sautéing some garlic and onions in the pot before cooking the gnocchi. You can also add Italian herbs or grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the taste.
This dish is perfect for a fast weeknight dinner. Serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.
39. Tuscan White Bean Soup
This Instant Pot recipe brings you a comforting Tuscan White Bean Soup in no time. You’ll love how quickly it comes together.
Start by sautéing vegetables in olive oil using the Instant Pot’s sauté function. Add tomatoes, beans, broth, and seasonings.
Seal the lid and cook at high pressure for 8 minutes. After a quick release, remove the bay leaf and any parmesan rind if used.
For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot. Stir in some fresh kale at the end for added nutrition and color.
This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
40. Garlic Parmesan Chicken
You can make delicious garlic parmesan chicken in your Instant Pot. This dish combines tender chicken with a flavorful garlic and cheese sauce.
Start by seasoning chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
Use the sauté function to brown the chicken for extra flavor.
Add chicken broth to the pot and scrape up any browned bits.
Cook the chicken on high pressure for about 5-10 minutes, depending on thickness.
After cooking, remove the chicken and make a creamy sauce with garlic, parmesan cheese, and seasonings.
Toss the chicken in this sauce before serving.
For a complete meal, try cooking pasta at the same time using the pot-in-pot method.
Remember to adjust seasonings if cooking pasta together.
41. Corn Chowder
Corn chowder is a tasty and comforting soup you can easily make in your Instant Pot. Start by cooking bacon until crispy, then sauté onions and garlic in the same pot.
Add potatoes, corn, broth, and seasonings like thyme and cayenne pepper.
Pressure cook for about 5 minutes, then do a quick release.
To thicken the soup, mix cornstarch with cream or half-and-half and stir it in.
Use the sauté function to simmer until the chowder reaches your desired thickness.
Finish by adding cheese and crumbled bacon.
Stir until the cheese melts. Your creamy, flavorful corn chowder is now ready to serve.
42. Creamy Wild Rice Soup
This Instant Pot recipe creates a comforting and flavorful soup. You’ll start by sautéing onions, celery, and carrots in butter.
Add wild rice, broth, and seasonings like thyme and rosemary.
Pressure cook for about 35 minutes until the rice is tender.
For a creamy texture, mix in some heavy cream or a flour-cream mixture.
You can also add shredded chicken for extra protein.
The result is a hearty soup with chewy wild rice and a velvety broth.
It’s perfect for chilly days and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or herbs.
43. Pulled Jackfruit
Pulled jackfruit is a tasty vegan alternative to pulled pork. You can easily make it in your Instant Pot.
Start by draining and rinsing canned jackfruit. Chop off the core parts.
Add the jackfruit to your Instant Pot with 1 cup of water.
Cook on high pressure for 5-7 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally or do a quick release if you’re short on time.
Use a spoon to shred the cooked jackfruit.
Add BBQ sauce and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring often.
Serve your pulled jackfruit on buns or with sides like beans. It’s a quick and delicious plant-based meal.
44. Moroccan Chickpea Stew
This flavorful stew brings Moroccan spices to your Instant Pot. You’ll love the blend of chickpeas, vegetables, and aromatic seasonings.
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in your Instant Pot. Add spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon for authentic flavor.
Toss in chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
Cook under pressure for just 5 minutes. The result is a hearty, warming stew.
For extra nutrition, stir in some chopped spinach at the end. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors.
Serve over couscous or with crusty bread for a filling meal.
45. Chicken Marsala
You can make tasty Chicken Marsala in your Instant Pot. This dish combines tender chicken with mushrooms in a rich Marsala wine sauce. It’s quick and easy to prepare.
Start by browning the chicken pieces using the Sauté function.
Then add mushrooms, Marsala wine, and chicken stock. Pressure cook for a short time to infuse the flavors.
The result is juicy chicken and savory mushrooms in a creamy sauce.
Serve your Instant Pot Chicken Marsala over pasta or rice for a filling meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
46. Tandoori Vegetables
Tandoori vegetables are a tasty twist on the classic chicken dish. You can make them easily in your Instant Pot.
Start by cutting your favorite veggies into chunks. Cauliflower, bell peppers, and onions work well.
Mix yogurt with tandoori spices like garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder.
Coat the vegetables in this marinade. Let them sit for 30 minutes if you have time.
Add a cup of water to your Instant Pot. Place the marinated vegetables in a steamer basket inside.
Cook on high pressure for 3-4 minutes. Do a quick release when done.
For a crispy finish, broil the vegetables in the oven for a few minutes.
Serve with rice or naan bread for a tasty meat-free meal.
47. Pork Carnitas
Pork carnitas are a flavorful Mexican dish you can easily make in your Instant Pot. Start by cutting pork shoulder into chunks and trimming excess fat.
Mix a rub with spices like cumin, oregano, and salt. Coat the pork pieces thoroughly. Place the seasoned meat in your Instant Pot.
Add fresh orange and lime juice to the pot. This citrus blend helps tenderize the meat and adds zesty flavor.
Pressure cook the pork until it’s tender and easy to shred.
For crispy edges, broil the shredded meat in the oven for a few minutes.
Serve your carnitas in tacos, burritos, or with rice and beans. The juicy, flavorful pork is perfect for many Mexican-inspired meals.
48. Beef Bourguignon
Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that’s perfect for your Instant Pot. Start by sautéing bacon until crispy, then remove it and set aside.
Next, brown seasoned beef cubes in batches. Add onions, garlic, and carrots to the pot.
Pour in red wine and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits.
Stir in tomato sauce, herbs, and the cooked bacon.
Close the lid and pressure cook on high for 4-5 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.
Finally, thicken the sauce with a flour and water mixture. Your rich, flavorful Beef Bourguignon is ready to serve.
49. Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is a perfect dish for your Instant Pot. You can make this hearty meal quickly and easily.
Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in the pot. Add garlic and spices for extra flavor.
Next, put in lentils, broth, and tomatoes.
Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10-15 minutes.
After the cooking time, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes. Open the valve to release any remaining pressure.
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
You’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready to serve.
50. Wild Mushroom Risotto
Wild mushroom risotto is a delicious dish you can easily make in your Instant Pot. This creamy rice dish features earthy mushrooms and savory Parmesan cheese.
To make it, start by sautéing mushrooms, garlic, and leeks in the Instant Pot. Add arborio rice and toast it briefly.
Pour in some white wine and chicken broth.
Set the Instant Pot to cook for 6-8 minutes at high pressure. When done, stir in more Parmesan and fresh herbs like thyme.
The result is a rich, flavorful risotto without all the stirring of traditional methods.
It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner at home.
Understanding the Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines several cooking functions in one device. It can save you time and effort in the kitchen.
How It Works
The Instant Pot uses pressure cooking to prepare meals quickly. It traps steam inside a sealed pot, building up pressure. This raises the boiling point of water and cooks food faster.
You can select different cooking modes on the control panel. These include pressure cook, slow cook, rice, yogurt, and more. Each mode has preset time and temperature settings.
To use it, you put ingredients in the inner pot. Then you close and lock the lid. Next, you choose a cooking mode and set the time.
The pot heats up and builds pressure.
When cooking is done, you can release the pressure two ways. Quick release lets out steam right away. Natural release lets pressure drop slowly on its own.
Key Features to Consider
Instant Pots come in different sizes. Choose one that fits your needs. A 6-quart pot works well for most families.
Look for models with useful preset buttons. These can include rice, soup, meat, and beans. They make cooking common dishes easier.
Some Instant Pots have extra functions. These might include air frying, sous vide, or dehydrating. Think about which ones you’ll use most.
Check the power level. Higher wattage means faster heating and cooking times. Most models range from 700 to 1200 watts.
The inner pot material matters too. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. Some pots have non-stick coatings for easier food release.
Tips for Cooking with an Instant Pot
Using an Instant Pot can save time and effort in the kitchen. These tips will help you get the best results and avoid common problems.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t forget to add liquid. Your Instant Pot needs at least 1 cup of liquid to build pressure.
Avoid overfilling the pot. Only fill it 2/3 full for most foods, or 1/2 full for items that expand like beans or rice.
Remember to check the sealing ring. Make sure it’s clean and seated properly to prevent steam leaks.
Don’t use quick release for foamy foods like oatmeal or pasta. This can clog the valve. Use natural release instead.
Always check that the valve is set to “sealing” before starting. If it’s on “venting,” your pot won’t build pressure.
Maximizing Flavor and Texture
Brown meats before pressure cooking. This adds depth to your dishes.
Use less liquid than traditional recipes. Foods don’t lose moisture in the Instant Pot.
Add dairy and quick-cooking veggies after pressure cooking. This prevents curdling and overcooking.
Try the pot-in-pot method for cooking multiple items at once. Place a trivet in the pot and use smaller containers on top.
Adjust seasonings after cooking. Flavors intensify under pressure, so taste and add more if needed.
For crispy foods, finish them under the broiler or in a hot skillet after pressure cooking.