Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen on busy weeknights, sacrificing quality time with family and friends? Look no further! The Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking, allowing you to whip up delicious meals in a fraction of the time. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to become staples in your household. From classic comfort foods like chicken tikka masala and beef stew, to creamy pasta dishes and tender pulled pork, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot user or just starting out, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking!
Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with the convenience of an Instant Pot. With minimal prep time and a short cooking period, you’ll have a delicious and aromatic dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs 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 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 cup tomato puree
– 1 can (14.5 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. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add yogurt mixture, garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), tomato puree, diced tomatoes, and broth. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10-12 minutes.
6. Release pressure naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Stew
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this Instant Pot Beef Stew is a great option for a quick and satisfying meal. With tender beef, vegetables, and rich broth, it’s perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and brown the beef in batches, if necessary.
2. Add chopped onion, carrots, potatoes, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
4. Cook at high pressure for 30 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
5. Open the lid and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Get ready to enjoy a rich and satisfying pasta dish with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and cream in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cloves of 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 melt 2 tbsp butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the pasta, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and dried basil. Stir well to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Say goodbye to long cooking times with this Instant Pot Pulled Pork recipe that yields tender and flavorful results. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious pulled pork ready for sandwiches, salads, or your favorite sides.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button and heat the Instant Pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the pork shoulder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, browning all sides.
3. Add the chicken broth and cover the lid. Pressure cook on “Meat/Stew” mode at high pressure for 90 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in barbecue sauce (if using). Serve hot!
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including pressure release time)
Instant Pot Butter Chicken
This Instant Pot recipe brings together the flavors of India with a rich and creamy butter chicken dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 cup tomato puree
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the tomato puree, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Instant Pot Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese
Elevate your mac and cheese game with this creamy, cheesy, and indulgent Instant Pot recipe that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 ground beef patty, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cooked ground beef patty and stir to combine.
4. Add macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, and flour. Stir well.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
8. Open the lid and stir until cheese is melted and macaroni is cooked.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Pot Pot Roast
Experience the classic comfort of pot roast without the long cooking time. This easy recipe uses the Instant Pot to produce a fall-apart tender roast with rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pound beef pot roast (such as chuck or round)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Sear the pot roast on all sides until browned, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Place the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “SEALING”.
6. Cook at high pressure for 90-120 minutes or until the roast reaches your desired level of tenderness.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Quickly cook juicy chicken breasts with a sticky honey garlic sauce using your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon 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 chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
3. Add the honey, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and serve the chicken hot, spooning some of the honey garlic sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including pressure release time)
Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto
This recipe transforms Arborio rice into a rich and creamy risotto with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, all achieved within minutes in an Instant Pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” and heat oil in the Instant Pot. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, and thyme. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning.
3. Add rice, stirring to coat with oil and mix with mushroom mixture.
4. Pour in broth and wine (if using). Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
5. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes, then let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes.
6. Open lid and stir risotto to a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 11 minutes (plus natural pressure release)
Instant Pot BBQ Ribs
Get ready to enjoy the most tender and flavorful BBQ ribs you’ve ever had! This Instant Pot recipe is a game-changer for busy cooks who want to achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef or pork ribs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tablespoons of brown sugar.
2. Add the ribs and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Classic Comfort Food: Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Enjoy a warm and satisfying meal with this simple and delicious recipe that combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Quick-release the pressure, then open the lid.
6. In a small bowl, mix the flour and butter until crumbly; stir into the pot.
7. Close the lid again and cook on low pressure for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Let the pressure release naturally before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
Quick and Easy Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
This recipe combines classic spaghetti and meatballs with the convenience of an Instant Pot. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup spaghetti
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (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 garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add the breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Form the mixture into meatballs and add them to the Instant Pot.
7. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and spaghetti. Stir gently to combine.
8. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
9. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon
This pressure-cooked beef stew is a simplified version of the famous French dish, featuring tender chunks of beef, mushrooms, and vegetables in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; cook for 1 minute.
6. Add beef broth, wine, tomato paste, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
7. Return the beef to the pot and close the lid. Set valve to “Sealing”.
8. Cook on “High Pressure” for 30 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of lentil soup made easy with the Instant Pot. This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of fiber and protein in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, water, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
This classic comfort food recipe gets a modern twist with the help of an Instant Pot. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a rich and creamy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine noodles
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tbsp of butter.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot, then add fettuccine noodles.
6. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook for 8 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chili
This classic chili recipe is a staple for any occasion. With the help of your Instant Pot, you can cook up a delicious and comforting pot of chili in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and salt. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes, including natural pressure release.
Instant Pot Vegetable Curry
Enjoy a flavorful and nutritious Indian-inspired curry with minimal effort using your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep.
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 mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and green beans)
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 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 tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, and vegetable broth; 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 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken
Quickly cook juicy and flavorful teriyaki chicken with the help of your Instant Pot! This recipe yields tender, savory chicken breasts with a sweet and sticky teriyaki glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 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 chicken breasts, teriyaki sauce, water, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
4. When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and check that the chicken is cooked through. If not, close the lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes at high pressure + 5 minutes natural release
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious meals to spice up your busy weeknights? Look no further! This article shares 18 mouth-watering Instant Pot recipes that are sure to please. From classic comfort foods like Chicken Tikka Masala and Beef Stew, to creamy pasta dishes like Garlic Parmesan Pasta, and international flavors like Butter Chicken and Teriyaki Chicken, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty stew or a quick weeknight dinner, these recipes are easy to make and packed with flavor.