The Instant Pot has taken the world by storm, revolutionizing the way we cook. This amazing kitchen gadget combines multiple cooking functions in one, from pressure cooking to slow cooking and sautéing, making it easier than ever to whip up delicious meals in record time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, the Instant Pot is a game-changer for meal prep and busy weeknights.
Here are 5 Instant Pot recipes that are quick, easy, and perfect for those who want a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive in!
1. Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo 🍝
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lb fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Add the chicken, onions, and garlic, and cook until the chicken is browned.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the uncooked pasta. Stir well to combine.
- Close the lid, seal the valve, and cook on high pressure for 7 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, quickly release the pressure. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Why it’s great: This creamy, comforting dish comes together in less than 30 minutes and is perfect for busy weeknights. The Instant Pot cooks the pasta and chicken together, making it incredibly easy to prepare!
2. Instant Pot Beef Stew 🍖🥘
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add the garlic, onion, carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
- Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with some broth to create a slurry, then stir it into the stew. Simmer on sauté mode for 5-10 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Why it’s great: This hearty, comforting beef stew is the perfect meal for cooler days. The Instant Pot significantly reduces the cook time compared to traditional stovetop stews, while keeping the flavors rich and tender.
3. Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili 🌶️🥑
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings: Sour cream, avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat some oil. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and sauté until softened.
- Add the beans, diced tomatoes, corn, vegetable broth, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, release the pressure naturally or use a quick release.
- Stir well and taste for seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder as needed. Serve with your favorite toppings.
Why it’s great: This vegetarian chili is packed with fiber, protein, and veggies, making it both healthy and filling. The Instant Pot brings all the flavors together quickly, so you can enjoy a cozy meal in no time.
4. Instant Pot Chicken and Rice 🍗🍚
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme, then brown them in the pot for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
- Add the rinsed rice and chicken broth to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Return the chicken thighs to the pot, placing them on top of the rice.
- Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Fluff the rice and serve the chicken over the rice.
Why it’s great: This simple and flavorful dish requires minimal ingredients but packs a punch. The chicken thighs remain juicy and tender, while the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors.
5. Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos 🌮🍗
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Tortillas (flour or corn)
- Toppings: Shredded lettuce, salsa, avocado, cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the Instant Pot and sprinkle the taco seasoning over them.
- Add the chicken broth and lime juice, stirring to combine.
- Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
- Once done, allow for a natural pressure release. Shred the chicken with two forks.
- Serve the shredded chicken in tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Why it’s great: These tacos are super quick and easy, and they’re perfect for a taco night. The shredded chicken is full of flavor and goes great with all your favorite taco toppings!
Conclusion
The Instant Pot is a fantastic kitchen tool that can help you make flavorful, comforting meals in a fraction of the time. From creamy pasta dishes to hearty stews, the possibilities are endless. These 5 Instant Pot recipes are not only quick and easy but also affordable and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or prepping for a cozy weekend dinner, these recipes will help you create delicious meals with minimal effort. So grab your Instant Pot, and get ready to enjoy these simple yet mouthwatering dishes! 🍽️✨
