Introduction
The Instant Pot, a versatile kitchen appliance that has taken households by storm, has become a staple in modern cooking. With its ability to pressure cook, sauté, steam, slow cook, and more, it has transformed the way people approach meal preparation. What was once a time-consuming task has now become streamlined and efficient, thanks to the convenience and speed offered by the Instant Pot.
Its popularity has soared due to its ability to simplify cooking while retaining flavor and nutrients in dishes. Whether you're a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple responsibilities, or simply someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, the Instant Pot has something to offer.
In this article, we'll explore the myriad of recipes that can be created using the Instant Pot. From hearty stews and soups to delicate desserts and everything in between, the possibilities are endless. Join us on a culinary journey as we uncover the diverse range of dishes that can be prepared with this revolutionary kitchen gadget.
Understanding Your Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is more than just a pressure cooker; it's a multifunctional powerhouse designed to simplify cooking and elevate your culinary creations. Before diving into the world of Instant Pot recipes, it's essential to familiarize yourself with its features and functions.
At its core, the Instant Pot typically comes with functions such as pressure cooking, sautéing, slow cooking, steaming, and even yogurt making. Each function is designed to cater to different cooking needs, offering versatility and convenience in one appliance.
For first-time users, here are some tips to help you make the most out of your Instant Pot experience:
Read the Manual: Take the time to thoroughly read the instruction manual that comes with your Instant Pot. It provides valuable information on how to operate the appliance safely and effectively.
Start Simple: Begin with basic recipes to get comfortable using your Instant Pot. Simple dishes like soups, stews, and rice are great starting points to familiarize yourself with its functions.
Use the Right Amount of Liquid: Since the Instant Pot relies on pressure to cook food, it's important to ensure there's enough liquid in the pot. Follow recipes closely and always use the recommended amount of liquid to prevent burning or undercooking.
Utilize the Saute Function: The sauté function allows you to brown meat, onions, and other ingredients directly in the Instant Pot before pressure cooking. This step enhances flavors and adds depth to your dishes.
Follow Safety Guidelines: To ensure a smooth cooking experience, always adhere to safety guidelines. Ensure the sealing ring is properly in place, never overfill the pot, and release pressure carefully following the manufacturer's instructions.
By understanding your Instant Pot's features, following these tips, and prioritizing safety, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of cooking with this innovative appliance.
Breakfast Delights
Kickstart your day with these delectable breakfast recipes prepared effortlessly in your Instant Pot.
Recipe 1: Instant Pot Steel-Cut Oats
Start your morning on a healthy note with a bowl of creamy and nutritious steel-cut oats made in your Instant Pot. This recipe offers a simple base with endless possibilities for flavor variations.
Ingredients:
1 cup steel-cut oats
3 cups water or milk
Pinch of salt
Optional toppings: fresh berries, sliced bananas, nuts, honey, cinnamon, etc.
Instructions:
Rinse the steel-cut oats under cold water and drain.
Add the oats, water or milk, and a pinch of salt to the Instant Pot.
Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
Stir the oats and serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Recipe 2: Instant Pot Egg Bites
Inspired by the popular Starbucks egg bites, these Instant Pot egg bites are a protein-packed breakfast option perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
4 large eggs
1/2 cup cottage cheese
1/4 cup grated cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
1/4 cup diced cooked ham or vegetables of your choice
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or silicone egg mold
Instructions:
In a blender, combine the eggs, cottage cheese, grated cheese, diced ham or vegetables, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
Grease the silicone egg mold or individual ramekins with cooking spray.
Pour the egg mixture into the molds, filling them about 3/4 full.
Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside. Arrange the egg molds on the trivet.
Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
Carefully remove the egg bites from the Instant Pot and serve warm or store them in the refrigerator for later.
These Instant Pot breakfast recipes are sure to become staples in your morning routine, providing you with nutritious and delicious options to start your day off right.
Hearty Soups and Stews
Warm up your evenings with these comforting and flavorful soups and stews prepared effortlessly in your Instant Pot.
Recipe 3: Instant Pot Chili
Nothing beats a bowl of hearty chili on a chilly day, and this Instant Pot version delivers all the classic flavors in a fraction of the time.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, diced avocado, etc.
Instructions:
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the ground beef or turkey, onion, and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are softened.
Add the diced bell pepper, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
Stir the chili and adjust seasoning
if necessary. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Recipe 4: Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
When you're craving a comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup but short on time, this Instant Pot recipe comes to the rescue, delivering soul-warming flavors in minutes.
Ingredients:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
8 cups chicken broth
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz egg noodles
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Add the chicken breasts or thighs, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the egg noodles. Cook until the noodles are tender, stirring occasionally.
Discard the bay leaves and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
These Instant Pot soups and stews are perfect for cozy nights in, offering comforting flavors and satisfying meals with minimal effort.
Main Courses
Elevate your dinner table with these delicious and satisfying main course recipes prepared effortlessly in your Instant Pot.
Recipe 5: Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Indulge in tender, succulent pulled pork that's bursting with flavor, perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or served alongside your favorite sides.
Ingredients:
3 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, trimmed of excess fat
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Your favorite barbecue sauce
Instructions:
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Rub the spice mixture evenly over the pork shoulder or pork butt.
Place the sliced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the Instant Pot. Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the onions and garlic.
Place the seasoned pork on top of the onions and garlic.
Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 15 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and shred it using two forks. Discard any excess fat.
Serve the pulled pork with your favorite barbecue sauce.
Recipe 6: Instant Pot Veggie Curry
Enjoy a rich and flavorful plant-based curry loaded with vegetables, spices, and creamy coconut milk.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons grated ginger
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 cups vegetable broth
3 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, cauliflower, peas, etc.)
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or naan, for serving
Instructions:
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the coconut oil.
Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the curry powder, ground turmeric, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
Add the mixed vegetables to the Instant Pot and season with salt and pepper.
Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
Serve the veggie curry over cooked rice or with naan.
Recipe 7: Instant Pot Lasagna
Satisfy your cravings for classic comfort food with this easy Instant Pot lasagna, layered with pasta, sauce, cheese, and savory goodness.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the Instant Pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the Instant Pot, pressing them down into the sauce.
Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
Open the lid and stir the lasagna mixture. Dollop the ricotta cheese over the top and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Close the lid and let the lasagna sit for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
Serve the Instant Pot lasagna garnished with chopped fresh basil.
These Instant Pot main course recipes are sure to impress with their bold flavors, tender textures, and effortless preparation. Whether you're craving meaty pulled pork, a vibrant veggie curry, or a classic lasagna, your Instant Pot has you covered for delicious meals any night of the week.
International Flavors
Embark on a culinary journey around the world with these vibrant and aromatic international dishes, all made conveniently in your Instant Pot.
Recipe 8: Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Transport your taste buds to India with this simplified version of the beloved classic dish, butter chicken. Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, it's sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked rice or naan, for serving
Instructions:
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat some oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute.
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, butter, heavy cream, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
Add the chicken pieces to the Instant Pot, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.
Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
Open the lid and stir the butter chicken. If desired, use an immersion blender to partially blend the sauce for a smoother consistency.
Serve the butter chicken hot over cooked rice or with naan, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro.
Recipe 9: Instant Pot Pho
Savor the flavors of Vietnam with this quick and easy recipe for pho, a comforting and aromatic noodle soup beloved around the world.
Ingredients:
2 cinnamon sticks
4 star anise
6 cloves
1 onion, halved
3-inch piece of ginger, sliced
4 cups beef broth
4 cups water
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
8 oz rice noodles
1 lb beef (such as flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced
Optional toppings: bean sprouts, Thai basil, lime wedges, sliced jalapeños, hoisin sauce, sriracha, etc.
Instructions:
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and toast the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Add the halved onion and sliced ginger to the Instant Pot, followed by the beef broth, water, fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar.
Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
Open the lid and strain the broth, discarding the aromatics.
Return the strained broth to the Instant Pot and set it to sauté mode. Bring the broth to a simmer.
Add the rice noodles and thinly sliced beef to the Instant Pot. Cook until the noodles are tender and the beef is cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
Serve the pho hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
These Instant Pot international recipes allow you to explore the flavors of different cultures from the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you're craving the creamy richness of butter chicken or the aromatic warmth of pho, your Instant Pot makes it easy to enjoy a world of culinary delights.
Desserts
Indulge your sweet tooth with these decadent dessert recipes, all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot.
Recipe 10: Instant Pot Cheesecake
Satisfy your craving for creamy cheesecake with this luscious dessert that's made perfectly in your Instant Pot. Impress your guests or treat yourself to a slice of this dreamy delight.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
Grease a 7-inch springform pan and set aside.
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, flour, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until well combined.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
Cover the springform pan tightly with aluminum foil.
Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside.
Carefully lower the springform pan onto the trivet.
Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
Carefully remove the cheesecake from the Instant Pot and let it cool to room temperature.
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Recipe 11: Instant Pot Chocolate Lava Cakes
Indulge in individual molten chocolate lava cakes that are rich, gooey, and downright irresistible. These decadent treats are perfect for special occasions or whenever you're craving something sweet.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
2 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter and dust with cocoa powder. Set aside.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chopped semisweet chocolate together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let the mixture cool slightly.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until pale and frothy.
Gradually whisk the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until well combined.
Stir in the flour and salt until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins.
Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside.
Carefully place the ramekins on the trivet inside the Instant Pot.
Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 7 minutes.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
Carefully remove the ramekins from the Instant Pot and let them cool for a few minutes.
Dust the chocolate lava cakes with powdered sugar and serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
These Instant Pot dessert recipes offer a delightful way to end any meal on a sweet note. Whether you're craving the creamy indulgence of cheesecake or the ooey-gooey goodness of chocolate lava cakes, your Instant Pot can help you whip up these irresistible treats with ease.
Meal Prepping with Your Instant Pot
Make your weeknights a breeze with meal prepping using your trusty Instant Pot. Here are some tips and ideas to help you streamline your cooking process and have delicious meals ready in no time.
Tips for using the Instant Pot to meal prep for the week:
Plan Your Meals: Take some time at the beginning of the week to plan out your meals. This will help you determine what ingredients you need to prepare and how you can efficiently use your Instant Pot.
Prep Ingredients in Advance: Chop vegetables, marinate meats, and soak beans ahead of time to save time during the week. Store prepared ingredients in containers or zip-top bags in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.
Batch Cooking: Use your Instant Pot to cook large batches of staples like grains, beans, and proteins that can be used in multiple meals throughout the week. This will save you time and effort when it comes to assembling meals.
Use the Delay Start Feature: Take advantage of the delay start feature on your Instant Pot to have meals ready when you need them. Simply prep your ingredients in the morning or the night before, set the delay start timer, and let the Instant Pot do the rest.
Invest in Accessories: Consider investing in accessories like extra silicone sealing rings, stackable stainless steel inserts, and silicone egg molds to maximize the versatility of your Instant Pot and make meal prepping even easier.
Ideas for making large batches of staples:
Grains: Cook large batches of rice, quinoa, or farro in your Instant Pot and portion them out for use in salads, stir-fries, or grain bowls throughout the week.
Beans: Save money and reduce sodium by cooking dried beans in your Instant Pot instead of buying canned. Cook a big batch of black beans, chickpeas, or lentils and use them in soups, stews, tacos, or salads.
Proteins: Use your Instant Pot to cook proteins like chicken breasts, pulled pork, or shredded beef in bulk. Use the cooked protein in various dishes such as sandwiches, wraps, salads, or pasta dishes.
Soups and Stews: Make a big pot of soup or stew in your Instant Pot and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Soups and stews often taste even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.
By utilizing your Instant Pot for meal prep, you can save time, money, and effort while still enjoying delicious and nutritious meals throughout the week. With a little planning and creativity, the possibilities are endless!
Great Instant Pot Recipes
The Instant Pot has undoubtedly revolutionized the way we cook, offering unparalleled versatility and convenience in the kitchen. From quick weeknight dinners to elaborate weekend meals, this multifunctional appliance has become a staple for home cooks everywhere.
Throughout this article, we've explored just a glimpse of the endless possibilities the Instant Pot offers. From hearty soups and stews to mouthwatering main courses and indulgent desserts, the Instant Pot can do it all – and with minimal effort on your part.
But don't stop here. The beauty of the Instant Pot lies in its adaptability and room for experimentation. Feel free to tweak recipes to suit your taste preferences, dietary restrictions, or ingredient availability. Whether it's adding a dash of your favorite spice, swapping out ingredients, or trying a completely new recipe, don't be afraid to get creative and make the recipes your own.
Embrace the Instant Pot as more than just a kitchen appliance – it's a tool that empowers you to cook easier, healthier, and more flavorful meals for yourself and your loved ones. By harnessing the power of the Instant Pot, you can enjoy delicious homemade meals without sacrificing precious time or compromising on taste.
So go ahead, dust off your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, the Instant Pot is sure to become your new favorite cooking companion. Here's to many more delicious meals and culinary discoveries with your Instant Pot!
