When it comes to cooking, many of us are looking for ways to save time and money without sacrificing flavor. That’s where the Instant Pot comes in – a pressure cooker that can help you cook delicious meals quickly and easily. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious and budget-friendly Instant Pot recipes that are perfect for any meal of the day. From hearty soups and stews to flavorful pasta dishes and international-inspired meals, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick and easy lunch or a family trying to get a healthy dinner on the table without breaking the bank, these Instant Pot recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen. So let’s dive in and explore some of the most delicious and affordable Instant Pot recipes out there.
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious Instant Pot Lentil Soup recipe. With a blend of sautéed onions, garlic, and aromatic spices, this soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lentils, water, cumin, smoked 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 set 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 stir in any accumulated liquid. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (including pressure release)
Cheesy Instant Pot Rice and Beans
A comforting, one-pot meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe combines creamy cheese with flavorful rice and beans for a satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 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 uncooked rice, black beans, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 6 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Open the lid and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Cooking Time: 16-18 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
Elevate your meal prep game with this straightforward and delicious recipe that yields a flavorful chicken and rice dish in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend lunches.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chicken, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add rice and chicken broth to the pot; stir well.
5. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
6. Cook on High Pressure for 10-12 minutes or Low Pressure for 15-18 minutes.
7. Allow the pressure to release naturally (NPR) for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (High Pressure), 15-18 minutes (Low Pressure)
Vegetable Instant Pot Stew
This recipe yields a flavorful and nutritious stew that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy weekend meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious and comforting dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, corn, and green beans)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 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 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, frozen vegetables, vegetable broth, and thyme. 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 before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Spaghetti with Marinara
Get ready for a delicious and stress-free pasta dish that’s perfect for any night of the week! This recipe uses the Instant Pot to cook spaghetti and marinara sauce simultaneously, resulting in a perfectly cooked meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly toasted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the marinara sauce and 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 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the Instant Pot do its magic! When the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes before opening the lid.
6. Stir in some salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cheap and Easy Instant Pot Chili
This recipe makes a big batch of chili that’s perfect for a family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a rich and flavorful meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the canned tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
Quickly cook tender beef and crisp broccoli in the Instant Pot with this easy and flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the broccoli, beef broth, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. 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.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Potato Soup
This comforting potato soup recipe is a quick and easy solution for a weeknight dinner or lunch. With the Instant Pot, you can have a warm and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add potatoes, chicken broth, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. 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.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid and stir the soup until it’s smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Black Bean Tacos
A flavorful and nutritious Mexican-inspired dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, salsa
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili 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 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with black bean mixture, your choice of toppings, and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-17 minutes (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Get ready to satisfy your comfort food cravings with this simple and delicious Instant Pot macaroni and cheese recipe. This classic dish gets a quick and easy twist, cooking up in just 10 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the macaroni, milk, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir until well combined.
3. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”.
4. 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. Open the lid and stir the macaroni and cheese until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with this classic comfort food recipe that’s ready in no time! This Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is a simple and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup egg noodles
– 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 chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until the chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth, egg noodles, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. 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 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Say goodbye to hours of slow cooking with this quick and delicious Instant Pot recipe. With just a few ingredients and some basic steps, you’ll have tender and juicy pulled pork ready to devour.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the pork shoulder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir until the meat is coated.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and make sure the pork is covered.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 90 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the pot and shred the pork with two forks. If using barbecue sauce, stir it in until the pork is coated.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Vegetable Curry
Quickly cook a flavorful and healthy vegetable curry using your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, green beans, bell peppers)
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, coconut milk, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
This recipe is a twist on the classic sausage and peppers dish, cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. The result is tender sausages, sweet bell peppers, and soft onions, all infused with a rich tomato flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian-style sausages (sweet or hot, your preference)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the sausages until browned, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano to the pot.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Remove the sausages from the pot and serve with the cooked peppers and sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
This recipe yields a rich and creamy pasta dish infused with the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and herbs, all cooked to perfection in under 30 minutes using your trusty Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Pressure cook on high for 8 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid and stir in parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Recipe Summary:
This mouthwatering recipe combines the richness of slow-cooked BBQ chicken with the convenience of Instant Pot cooking. Enjoy fall-apart tender and juicy chicken smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 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 the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned, flipping halfway through.
3. Add the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
5. 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 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a classic Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick and cozy meal. This Instant Pot recipe makes it easy to prepare a hearty and flavorful pot of goodness with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
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 soaked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. 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 20 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
This Instant Pot recipe yields juicy chicken breasts smothered in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With just 7 ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
3. Add the honey, garlic, soy sauce, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
5. Open the valve and quick-release any remaining pressure. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 13 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Stew
This Instant Pot beef stew recipe is a classic comfort food dish that’s quick and easy to make, packed with tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and flavorful broth. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef stew meat
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot. Add oil, then brown the beef until cooked through (5-7 minutes). Remove from pot.
- Add potatoes, onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
- Return the browned beef to the pot, ensuring it’s covered with liquid. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
- Preset: Manual mode, High Pressure, 30 minutes. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
- Stir and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Instant Pot Teriyaki Rice Bowls
Get ready to cook up a delicious and flavorful meal with this simple Instant Pot recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, these teriyaki rice bowls are packed with savory flavors and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and diced veggies for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “SEAL”. Cook at high pressure for 5-7 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Serve chicken over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and diced veggies (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these 20 delicious and budget-friendly Instant Pot recipes! From hearty soups like Lentil Soup and Vegetable Stew, to comforting pasta dishes like Mac and Cheese and Spaghetti with Marinara, there’s something for everyone. Also featured are international flavors like Chicken Tikka Masala and Teriyaki Rice Bowls, as well as classic comfort foods like Chili, Pulled Pork, and Beef and Broccoli. These recipes are all quick, easy, and affordable – perfect for busy home cooks on a budget!
