10 Easy Instant Pot Recipes for Quick and Delicious Meals
The Instant Pot has taken the cooking world by storm, and for good reason. This multi-functional pressure cooker makes it possible to prepare flavorful, homemade meals in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. From tender meats to hearty soups and even desserts, the Instant Pot can do it all.
If you’re new to pressure cooking or simply looking for fresh ideas, this guide covers 10 of the best Instant Pot recipes you can try at home. They’re simple, versatile, and guaranteed to make weeknight cooking a breeze.
Why the Instant Pot Is a Kitchen Game-Changer
Before diving into recipes, let’s look at why the Instant Pot is such a beloved appliance:
- Time-Saving – Meals that normally take hours (like stews or roasts) can be done in under an hour.
- One-Pot Cooking – Sauté, steam, pressure cook, and even slow cook—all in one pot.
- Energy Efficient – Uses less energy compared to ovens or stovetops.
- Hands-Off Cooking – Set it, forget it, and let the Instant Pot do the work.
- Consistent Results – Perfect rice, beans, and soups every time.
1. Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
A family favorite that’s both comforting and filling.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in the Instant Pot.
- Add chicken, rice, broth, and seasoning.
- Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then release naturally for 10 minutes.
2. Instant Pot Beef Stew
This classic dish is ready in less than an hour instead of simmering all afternoon.
Steps:
- Brown beef chunks in the Instant Pot.
- Add carrots, potatoes, onions, beef broth, and seasonings.
- Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.
- The result? Tender beef and perfectly cooked veggies.
3. Instant Pot Chili
A hearty dish perfect for game night or cold weather.
Recipe Overview:
- Sauté ground beef or turkey with onions and garlic.
- Add canned tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin.
- Pressure cook for 20 minutes.
Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
4. Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Forget boxed mac and cheese—this version is creamy, cheesy, and ready in minutes.
Quick Steps:
- Add pasta, water, and a pinch of salt to the Instant Pot.
- Cook for 4 minutes.
- Stir in milk, butter, and shredded cheese until creamy.
5. Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or serving over rice.
Method:
- Rub pork shoulder with spices (paprika, garlic, onion powder).
- Sear in the Instant Pot, then add broth or BBQ sauce.
- Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
- Shred and mix with more sauce before serving.
6. Instant Pot Lentil Soup
A healthy and filling vegetarian option packed with protein.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Spices: cumin, paprika, bay leaf
Cook for 15 minutes on high pressure. Serve with bread for a hearty meal.
7. Instant Pot Hard-Boiled Eggs
Believe it or not, the Instant Pot makes peeling eggs a breeze.
Steps:
- Add 1 cup of water to the pot.
- Place eggs on the trivet.
- Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick release.
- Transfer to an ice bath—shells slip off easily!
8. Instant Pot Cheesecake
Yes, desserts work too! The Instant Pot creates the perfect creamy cheesecake.
Basic Method:
- Prepare graham cracker crust in a springform pan.
- Mix cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla for filling.
- Pour filling over crust, cover with foil, and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
- Chill before serving.
9. Instant Pot Risotto
Skip the constant stirring—let your Instant Pot do the work.
How-To:
- Sauté onions and garlic, then add arborio rice.
- Stir in broth and pressure cook for 6 minutes.
- Release pressure, stir in Parmesan cheese and butter.
- Creamy, rich risotto in half the usual time.
10. Instant Pot Yogurt
Homemade yogurt is easy and cost-effective with this appliance.
Steps:
- Heat milk in the Instant Pot using the “Yogurt” function.
- Cool to 110°F, then stir in yogurt starter.
- Incubate for 8 hours.
- Chill before eating.
Tips for Instant Pot Success
- Always Add Enough Liquid – The Instant Pot needs at least 1 cup of liquid to build pressure.
- Use Natural Release for Meats – It keeps them tender and juicy.
- Cut Ingredients Evenly – This ensures everything cooks at the same rate.
- Don’t Overfill – Never fill the pot more than ⅔ full when pressure cooking.
- Experiment – The Instant Pot is versatile—try soups, stews, desserts, and more.
Final Thoughts
The Instant Pot is more than just a trend—it’s a true kitchen powerhouse. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or someone who loves experimenting with new recipes, this appliance makes cooking faster, easier, and more enjoyable.
From hearty Instant Pot beef stew to creamy mac and cheese and even cheesecake, the possibilities are endless. With just one device, you can whip up meals that taste like they’ve been simmering all day.
So if your Instant Pot has been collecting dust, it’s time to pull it out and try one of these easy Instant Pot recipes today. Your future self (and your taste buds) will thank you.