Instant Pot

Must-Try Instant Pot Recipes

The Instant Pot, a multifunctional kitchen appliance, has revolutionized home cooking by offering a quicker, more efficient way to prepare meals. Its ability to function as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, and more makes it a versatile tool for busy individuals and families alike.

Save this on Pinterest for later 1 - The Instant Pot, a multifunctional kitchen appliance, has revolutionized home cooking by offering a quicker, more efficient way to prepare meals. Its ability to function as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, and more makes it a versatile tool for busy individuals and families alike.
25 Nutritious Instant Pot Recipes - The Instant Pot, a multifunctional kitchen appliance, has revolutionized home cooking by offering a quicker, more efficient way to prepare meals. Its ability to function as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, and more makes it a versatile tool for busy individuals and families alike.

From hearty stews that traditionally require hours of simmering to delicate desserts that impress without the fuss, these recipes demonstrate how the Instant Pot can simplify meal preparation while maintaining the quality and flavor of dishes.

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Join us as we explore a variety of dishes that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs, making the most of the Instant Pot’s capabilities to transform everyday cooking into a delightful, stress-free experience.

Understand Your Instant Pot Settings: To make the most out of your Instant Pot, take the time to familiarize yourself with its settings. Each model may have different functions, so read the manual carefully.

The pressure cook, sauté, and slow cook functions are essential, but don’t overlook others like yogurt, rice, or steam. Knowing how and when to use these settings can make a big difference in your cooking.

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Preheat for Better Results: Preheating your Instant Pot before adding ingredients can help ensure even cooking. Just like preheating an oven, turning on the sauté function for a few minutes can bring the pot up to temperature, reducing the time it takes to reach pressure and improving the overall texture and flavor of your dish.

Layer Ingredients Strategically: When cooking a dish with multiple ingredients, think about how they cook and layer them accordingly. Denser ingredients like meat and root vegetables should go at the bottom, closer to the heat source, while lighter items like leafy greens can be placed on top.

This ensures everything cooks evenly and nothing gets over or undercooked.

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Instant Pot Recipes

1. Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats

Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats

This item demonstrates how to prepare perfectly cooked steel cut oats using an Instant Pot, emphasizing a simple water-based cooking method to avoid common issues with dairy or nut milks.

It explains the ideal oats-to-water ratio and cooking time, including a natural pressure release to achieve a creamy, non-mushy texture.

The item also offers a variety of topping ideas to customize the oats, featuring both savory options like roasted vegetables and eggs, and sweet options with fruits and maple syrup.

These suggestions help transform the oats into versatile breakfast bowls tailored to different flavor preferences.

Credit: Green Healthy Cooking

2. Frittata Sausage, Mushrooms & Feta

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This dish combines savory sausage, earthy mushrooms, sweet bell peppers, fresh spinach, and tangy feta cheese into a fluffy, low-carb frittata cooked effortlessly in an Instant Pot.

The cooking process ensures even heat distribution, resulting in a perfectly set, creamy texture that works well for any meal of the day.

The recipe involves sautéing the sausage and vegetables directly in the Instant Pot before mixing them with whisked eggs and milk, then cooking the mixture in a greased pan placed on a trivet inside the pot.

Cooling the frittata briefly before slicing helps it hold its shape, making it easy to serve warm and enjoy immediately or store for later.

Credit: The Foodie Eats

3. Frittata Breakfast Casserole 

instant pot frittata breakfast casserole recipe 3

This Instant Pot frittata breakfast casserole combines eggs, sautéed vegetables, and cheese into a fluffy, crustless dish cooked quickly in a pressure cooker. It offers a hands-off cooking experience, allowing the user to prepare a nutritious and flavorful meal without needing to monitor the stovetop or oven.

The recipe serves multiple portions, making it suitable for sharing or meal prepping. Optional toppings like sour cream, fresh chives, or salsa can be added to customize the flavor and presentation.

Credit: Peas & Crayons

4. Instant Pot Sous Vide Egg Bites 

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These Instant Pot sous vide egg bites replicate the creamy, protein-packed texture of Starbucks’ popular snack, made conveniently at home using an electric pressure cooker. The recipe balances eggs with a modest amount of cheese and cottage cheese to create light, fluffy bites that cook perfectly in about 30 minutes.

The egg bites can be customized with a variety of flavorful add-ins like roasted red peppers, green chiles, bacon, or sun-dried tomatoes, blended to ensure even distribution throughout.

Using a silicone mold inside a 6-quart Instant Pot, the bites steam under high pressure and then naturally release, resulting in a warm, savory treat that’s low in calories and quick to prepare.

Credit: Platings & Pairings

5. Instant Pot Baked Potatoes

How to Make Baked Potatoes in Instant Pot

This method uses an Instant Pot to cook baked potatoes quickly while keeping the interior fluffy and tender. It adapts cooking times based on potato size and uses a trivet to keep potatoes above the water for even steaming.

The process eliminates the need to heat an oven, making it ideal for busy or warm days. Once cooked, the potatoes can be served with classic toppings or transformed into other dishes like loaded potatoes, potato wedges, or breakfast hash.

Credit: A Mindfull Mom

6. Instant Pot Black Beans

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This item demonstrates how to prepare perfectly cooked black beans using an Instant Pot without the need for soaking. It highlights a simple process that combines dry beans with flavorful ingredients like onions, garlic, cumin, bay leaves, and vegan Worcestershire sauce to achieve a rich, restaurant-style taste.

The method takes about 45 minutes total, including pressure build-up and release time, making it a quick alternative to traditional stovetop cooking. It offers a straightforward way to enjoy homemade black beans that are versatile for dishes such as tacos, soups, or even vegan desserts.

Credit: Fried Dandelions

7. Instant Pot Hummus

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This recipe demonstrates how to make smooth, creamy hummus using dried garbanzo beans cooked in an Instant Pot without any soaking required. The process involves pressure cooking the beans until tender, then blending them with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil for a fresh, homemade dip.

The method yields a light hummus that rivals store-bought versions but is more economical and customizable. It also provides tips for storing leftovers and using cooked beans for other recipes, making it a versatile addition to meal prep.

CreditEveryday Maven

8. Instant Pot Applesauce

instant pot applesauce rfrd

This recipe demonstrates how to make homemade applesauce quickly using an Instant Pot. It involves cooking peeled and cored apples with a few simple ingredients under pressure, then mashing the mixture to the desired consistency.

The process eliminates the need for constant stirring or monitoring during cooking, allowing the flavors to meld effortlessly. The result is a warm, fresh applesauce that can be enjoyed immediately or stored for later use.

Credit: Real Food Real Deals

9. Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes 

1 image 420 - The Instant Pot, a multifunctional kitchen appliance, has revolutionized home cooking by offering a quicker, more efficient way to prepare meals. Its ability to function as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, and more makes it a versatile tool for busy individuals and families alike.

Sweet potatoes cook quickly and evenly in the Instant Pot, producing a tender texture similar to traditional baked potatoes. Simply place scrubbed sweet potatoes on a steaming rack above water, seal the pot, and pressure cook for about 25 minutes for perfectly cooked results without heating up the kitchen.

This method saves time and energy compared to oven baking, making it convenient for batch cooking and meal prep. The cooked sweet potatoes peel easily and can be used for purees, casseroles, or served simply with butter and cinnamon sugar.

10. Instant Pot Lemon Vegetable Risotto

Instant Pot Lemon Veggie Risotto

This recipe creates a creamy, dairy-free risotto packed with fresh spring vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, peas, and spinach. The bright lemon flavor and tender texture come together quickly using an Instant Pot, making it a convenient and flavorful meatless meal option.

The risotto combines toasted Arborio rice with vegetable broth, herbs, and roasted veggies for a rich, satisfying dish without cheese. It can be served as a main course or side, and pairs well with a protein topping for a complete dinner.

Credit: Lexi’s Clean Kitchen

11. Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Instant Pot French Lentil Soup

This Instant Pot lentil soup combines hearty lentils with classic vegetables and a blend of herbs and spices for a comforting, nutritious meal. It cooks quickly in the pressure cooker, requiring minimal hands-on time while delivering rich, layered flavors and a satisfying texture.

The soup is budget-friendly and freezer-safe, making it a practical option for meal prep or cozy dinners. Topped with fresh parsley and Parmesan, it pairs well with crusty bread for a warming, wholesome experience.

Credit: Well Plated

12. Instant Pot Mexican Quinoa Bowl

image 421 - The Instant Pot, a multifunctional kitchen appliance, has revolutionized home cooking by offering a quicker, more efficient way to prepare meals. Its ability to function as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, and more makes it a versatile tool for busy individuals and families alike.

A Vegan Mexican Quinoa Bowl combines quinoa, black beans, sweet corn, and fire-roasted tomatoes into a flavorful, protein-rich meal. It can be prepared quickly using either an Instant Pot or stovetop, making it convenient for weeknight dinners.

The dish is seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and optional chipotle for a mild heat, then topped with fresh ingredients like avocado, cilantro, and lime juice.

This one-pot recipe offers a balanced, nutritious option that is both filling and easy to customize.

13. Split Pea soup

pressure cooker split pea soup content2

This item demonstrates how to make a hearty split pea soup using an electric pressure cooker, combining frozen smoked ham hocks with dried split peas and fresh vegetables.

The method highlights a quick cooking process that locks in flavor and nutrients while achieving the perfect soup consistency without evaporation loss.

The recipe guides through cooking the ham hocks first, then adding peas and vegetables to finish under pressure, resulting in tender peas and rich broth. It also explains how to shred the meat and adjust the thickness of the soup for a satisfying, homemade meal in about 40 minutes.

Credit: Real House Moms

14. Instant Pot Cauliflower Potato Soup

instant pot cauliflower soup

This item highlights a creamy cauliflower potato soup made in an Instant Pot, combining the smooth texture of cauliflower with the comforting flavors of traditional potato soup.

It offers a lower-carb alternative that is rich in umami, featuring ingredients like crispy bacon, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of fish sauce for depth.

The recipe guides users through sautéing, pressure cooking, and blending steps to create a thick, satisfying soup with minimal effort. It emphasizes budget-friendly ingredients and simple preparation, making it accessible for home cooks seeking a hearty, flavorful meal.

Credit: Pressure Cook Recipes

15. Instant Pot Veg Gumbo

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This Instant Pot gumbo recipe offers a flavorful, plant-based take on the classic Louisiana stew. It combines a variety of fresh vegetables, spices, and red lentils to create a rich, smoky dish without any meat or animal products.

The recipe uses a roux made from non-dairy butter and gluten-free flour to thicken the stew, while fire-roasted tomatoes add depth and texture. It can be served on its own or over rice or cauliflower rice, making it a versatile and hearty meal option.

Credit: Cotter Crunch

16. Instant Pot Cauliflower Mac & Cheese

Instant Pot Low Carb Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

This recipe combines the creamy, cheesy comfort of classic mac and cheese with a hidden boost of grated cauliflower, making it a healthier twist on a favorite dish.

The cauliflower blends seamlessly with the pasta and cheese, creating a rich texture without any noticeable vegetable flavor.

Prepared quickly in an Instant Pot, the dish requires only a few minutes of pressure cooking, saving time without sacrificing taste. It’s a simple way to enjoy a comforting meal that sneaks in extra nutrition, perfect for picky eaters and busy cooks alike.

Credit: Well Plated

17. Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon

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This recipe demonstrates how to cook lemon garlic salmon directly from frozen using an Instant Pot. It combines simple ingredients like lemon juice, garlic, fresh herbs, and seasoning to create a flavorful, tender dish in about 20 minutes.

The method involves steaming the salmon on a rack inside the Instant Pot with a citrusy herb-infused liquid. This technique eliminates the need to defrost the fish beforehand, making it a quick and convenient meal option for busy nights.

Credit: The Natural Nurturer

18. Instant Pot Seafood Gumbo

Whole30 Instant Pot Seafood Gumbo

This Instant Pot seafood gumbo combines tender sea bass, shrimp, and a medley of vegetables in a flavorful, low-carb, and dairy-free stew. It offers a quick, one-pot meal that balances rich Cajun spices with wholesome ingredients, making it suitable for paleo and Whole30 diets.

The recipe highlights the use of sustainable seafood and omega-3-rich fish, providing a healthy alternative to traditional gumbo. Cooking under pressure in the Instant Pot ensures the seafood remains moist and the flavors meld perfectly without any heaviness after eating.

Credit: The Movement Menu

19. Turkey Meatball Stroganoff 

Meatball Stroganoff 8

This item features a recipe for Turkey Meatball Stroganoff, combining tender turkey meatballs with a creamy sour cream and mushroom sauce. The dish can be prepared using a stove, Instant Pot, or slow cooker, offering flexible cooking options to suit different kitchen setups.

The meatballs are seasoned with herbs and spices, then browned before simmering in the rich sauce, creating a comforting and flavorful meal. It can be served over egg noodles or spiralized butternut squash for a lower-carb alternative, making it adaptable to various dietary preferences.

Credit: Skinnytaste

20. Instant Pot Lasagna Soup

1 image 422 - The Instant Pot, a multifunctional kitchen appliance, has revolutionized home cooking by offering a quicker, more efficient way to prepare meals. Its ability to function as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, and more makes it a versatile tool for busy individuals and families alike.

This healthy lasagna soup combines classic Italian flavors into a warm, comforting dish made entirely on the stovetop. It features Italian turkey sausage, fresh vegetables like carrots and spinach, and whole grain pasta simmered in a savory tomato and herb broth.

Each serving is topped with a creamy blend of ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses that adds a rich, gooey finish. The recipe balances hearty ingredients with nutritious swaps to create a satisfying meal that’s both flavorful and wholesome.

21. Instant Pot Burrito Bowls 

chicken burrito bowls vertical

This recipe creates a flavorful and convenient chicken burrito bowl using an Instant Pot. It combines frozen chicken breasts, dry brown rice, and dry black beans with spices and broth to cook all in one pot, saving time and effort.

After pressure cooking, the chicken is shredded and mixed back into the pot for a well-blended dish. The bowl can be customized with toppings like cheese, avocado, or salsa to suit personal tastes and make a satisfying meal.

Credit: My Crazy Good Life

22. Instant Pot Southwestern Chicken & Rice

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This recipe creates a hearty Southwestern chicken and rice dish cooked entirely in an Instant Pot. It combines brown rice, salsa, beans, corn, and spices with whole chicken breasts for a flavorful, one-pot meal ready in about 30 minutes.

After cooking, the chicken is shredded and mixed back into the rice along with shredded cheddar cheese. The dish can be served with tortilla chips and hot sauce, and leftovers freeze well for quick future meals.

Credit: Meaningful Eats

23. Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Stew

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This hearty Mexican chicken stew combines tender chicken thighs with fresh vegetables, black beans, corn, and a zesty blend of spices in a rich, flavorful broth.

It cooks effortlessly in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, making it a convenient option for warming weeknight dinners or meal prep.

The stew is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, with optional toppings like avocado, shredded cheese, or sour cream to suit your taste. It can be prepared ahead of time, stored in the fridge or freezer, and easily reheated for quick, satisfying meals throughout the week.

Credit: Sweet Peas & Saffron

24. Instant Pot Mexican Cauliflower Rice Bowl

25. Instant Pot Chicken Tacos

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Credit: Eating on a Dime

What are some essential tips for using an Instant Pot?

Use the Right Amount of Liquid: Instant Pots need a minimum amount of liquid to build pressure. Follow recipe guidelines for the correct amount. Layer Ingredients: Place denser ingredients like meat or root vegetables at the bottom and lighter ingredients on top.

Avoid Overfilling: Do not fill the Instant Pot beyond the maximum fill line to prevent overflow and ensure proper cooking.

How do I convert traditional recipes to Instant Pot recipes?

Adjust Cooking Time: Reduce the cooking time significantly, as pressure cooking is faster. For example, a recipe that takes an hour on the stovetop might only need 10-15 minutes under pressure.

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Ingredients with similar cooking times should be grouped together.

Modify Liquid Amount: Decrease the amount of liquid used since there is less evaporation in a sealed pressure cooker. Layering and Timing: Consider the cooking time of different ingredients and layer them accordingly.

Can I cook frozen food in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook frozen food in an Instant Pot. The pressure cooker will take longer to come to pressure, and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

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Always ensure that meats reach a safe internal temperature.

Are there any foods I should avoid cooking in an Instant Pot?

Delicate Pasta: It can become mushy if overcooked.
Dairy Products: These can curdle under high pressure. Add them after pressure cooking.
Fried Foods: Breaded or battered foods can become soggy rather than crispy.

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Samantha Nicole

Here at the EHL, it's all about delicious, easy recipes for casual entertaining. So come and join me at the beach, relax and enjoy the food.