Hello and welcome, fellow foodies! Are you tired of spending countless hours in the kitchen after a long day at work? Look no further than your trusty Instant Pot. This kitchen gadget has revolutionized the way we cook, saving time and energy while delivering mouth-watering meals. In this blog post, I’ll be sharing 12 easy Instant Pot recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot pro or a beginner, these recipes are sure to please. From delicious soups to hearty stews and flavorful curries, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, pull up a chair and let’s dive into some tasty and hassle-free cooking!
Introduction: What Are Instant Pot Recipes?
Instant pot recipes have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among busy individuals who want to create delicious and healthy meals in a short amount of time. An instant pot is a programmable electric pressure cooker that is designed to simplify the cooking process, making it perfect for those who are short on time or energy. If you’ve been considering trying out this appliance or are simply looking for some inspiration, here’s an overview of what instant pot recipes are all about.
Definition and Benefits of Cooking with an Instant Pot
An instant pot is essentially an all-in-one appliance that can perform several cooking functions, including pressure cooking, slow cooking, and sautéing. It also has the ability to keep food warm for an extended period of time. The pressure cooking function is perhaps the most important feature of an instant pot. It allows you to cook food under high pressure, which speeds up the cooking process significantly.
The benefits of cooking with an instant pot are numerous. First and foremost, it can save you a lot of time. For example, you can make pulled pork in just an hour or cook a whole chicken in just 25 minutes. This is perfect for busy individuals who don’t have a lot of cooking time to spare. Additionally, the food that is cooked in an instant pot tends to come out incredibly tender and flavorful. This is due to the high pressure that forces moisture and flavor into the food as it cooks. The end result is a meal that tastes like it was cooked low and slow for hours.
Another great benefit of using an instant pot is that it can be a money-saver. Since it cooks food quickly, you’ll spend less time using your oven or stove. This can result in lower energy bills. Additionally, since an instant pot can be used for a variety of cooking functions, you may find that you don’t need to buy as many kitchen appliances. This can help you save money in the long run.
Furthermore, an instant pot is an incredibly versatile appliance that can be used to make a wide variety of meals. You can use it to cook everything from soups and stews to rice and pasta dishes. The possibilities are truly endless.
In conclusion, cooking with an instant pot can be a game-changer for busy individuals who want to enjoy delicious, healthy meals without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. With its ability to cook food quickly and tenderly, it’s easy to see why so many people have fallen in love with this handy appliance. If you’re considering purchasing an instant pot, be sure to check out some of the many recipes available online. You’re sure to find something that will appeal to your taste buds!
Popular Instant Pot Recipes to Try
1. Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Mac and Cheese is a classic dish that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something that can be cooked in a jiffy. The best part about this recipe is that it requires minimal preparation time and is ready to eat in less than 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups water
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Combine the macaroni, water, butter, garlic powder, salt, and dry mustard in the Instant Pot. Lock the lid in place and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure. Remove the lid and stir in the milk and cheese until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Mac and Cheese.
2. Instant Pot Beef Stew
Beef stew is a classic comfort food that is perfect for those cold winter nights. This hearty and delicious stew is made with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, and other flavorful ingredients. The Instant Pot method makes it a breeze to prepare, and it will be ready to serve in under an hour.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Press the “saute” button on the Instant Pot. Once the pot is hot, add the olive oil and saute the beef until brown on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- Add the onion and garlic to the Instant Pot and saute until the onion is soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the beef broth and red wine to the pot and stir well to scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot.
- Add the beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.
- Do a natural release of the pressure for 10 minutes before doing a quick release. Once the pressure is released, remove the lid and stir well.
- Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Beef Stew!
3. Instant Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls
If you’re looking for a healthy and flavorful one-pot meal, look no further than these Instant Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls. This recipe is loaded with protein, fiber, and other nutritious ingredients. It’s also incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your personal preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup brown rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
- Combine the chicken, rice, black beans, red pepper, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, water, and chicken broth in the Instant Pot. Make sure the chicken is submerged under the liquid.
- Lock the lid in place and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
- Do a natural release of the pressure for 10 minutes before doing a quick release. Once the pressure is released, remove the lid and stir well.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred with two forks. Return the chicken to the pot and stir in the lime juice and cilantro.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls.
These Instant Pot recipes are easy, delicious, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something that can be cooked in a hurry. Give them a try and see for yourself how versatile and convenient your Instant Pot can be.
Healthy Instant Pot Recipes for Weight Loss
When it comes to healthy cooking, convenience is key. The Instant Pot is an essential tool for healthy meal prep, providing quick and easy cooking methods with minimal effort and mess. These three healthy Instant Pot recipes are perfect for weight loss, providing a balance of protein, fiber, and whole grains.
1. Instant Pot Chili
This Instant Pot chili recipe is perfect for a healthy dinner, loaded with protein and fiber to keep you full and satisfied. Bring on the heat with this spicy and flavorful meal!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and brown the ground turkey with the onion and garlic for 5-7 minutes.
- Add the remaining ingredients to the Instant Pot and stir to combine.
- Close the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 15 minutes.
- Release the pressure manually and serve hot with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, and cilantro.
2. Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
This Instant Pot chicken and rice recipe is a healthier twist on a classic dish, replacing white rice with whole-grain rice and using lean chicken breasts for protein. This dish is perfect for meal prep or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup brown rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
- Add the chicken and brown on both sides for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Add the rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot and stir to combine.
- Close the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 20 minutes.
- Release the pressure manually and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
3. Instant Pot Lentil Soup
This Instant Pot lentil soup recipe is a vegan and gluten-free option that’s high in protein and fiber. Packed with veggies and spices, this soup is an easy and satisfying meal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup dried brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
- Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot and stir to combine.
- Close the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 15 minutes.
- Release the pressure manually and serve hot.
These healthy Instant Pot recipes are perfect for weight loss and provide a balance of protein, fiber, and whole grains. With the convenience and ease of the Instant Pot, healthy cooking has never been easier!
Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Weeknights
Weeknights are always hectic, and cooking a delicious, nutritious meal is the last thing we want to do after a long day at work. Luckily, Instant Pots are here to save the day! These magical kitchen appliances have revolutionized the way we cook our meals, making it easier, quicker, and hassle-free. Here are three easy Instant Pot recipes that you can whip up in no time.
1. Instant Pot Spaghetti
If you have a large family, you know how time-consuming it can be to cook spaghetti. You have to wait for the water to boil, cook the pasta, and then clean up the mess. But with an Instant Pot, you can have a delicious, piping-hot plate of spaghetti in just a few minutes. Here’s how to make it:
- Set your Instant Pot to SAUTE mode and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add a chopped onion, minced garlic, and cook until softened.
- Add a pound of ground beef or turkey, breaking it up with a spoon and cook until browned.
- Add a can of diced tomatoes, a can of tomato sauce, a cup of water, and a pound of spaghetti noodles. Make sure the noodles are submerged in the sauce.
- Cover the Instant Pot and set it to MANUAL mode for 8 minutes.
- Once the timer goes off, release the pressure and stir in some grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with some freshly chopped parsley and enjoy!
2. Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
If you love Indian food, you’ll love this Instant Pot chicken tikka masala recipe. It’s packed with flavors, and the chicken comes out tender and juicy every time. Here’s how to make it:
- Cut two pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast into bite-size pieces.
- In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of garam masala, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Coat the chicken with the yogurt mixture and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Set your Instant Pot to SAUTE mode and add a tablespoon of oil.
- Add the chicken and cook for a few minutes until brown on all sides.
- Add a chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, a can of tomato sauce, and a cup of water. Stir to combine.
- Close the lid and set your Instant Pot to MANUAL mode for 10 minutes.
- Once the timer goes off, release the pressure and stir in a cup of heavy cream.
- Serve hot with rice or naan bread, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
3. Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
Who doesn’t love a creamy bowl of chicken alfredo? With an Instant Pot, you can have this Italian favorite on the table in less than 20 minutes. Here’s how to make it:
- Set your Instant Pot to SAUTE mode and add a tablespoon of butter and a cup of diced onions.
- Cook until the onions are softened, then add a pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cook until browned.
- Add a cup of chicken broth, a cup of heavy cream, a cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and a pound of fettuccine noodles. Make sure the noodles are submerged in the sauce.
- Close the lid and set your Instant Pot to MANUAL mode for 5 minutes.
- Once the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.
- Stir in some chopped parsley and serve hot.
These three Instant Pot recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you just don’t have the time or energy to cook a complicated meal. They’re all made with simple, wholesome ingredients and can be customized to suit your taste. Give them a try, and you’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious they are!
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Instant Pot Recipes
The Instant Pot has rapidly become one of the most popular kitchen appliances in recent years. Thanks to its versatile design, the Instant Pot is a great tool for creating quick and easy meals that are both tasty and healthy. With so many different recipes available online, the possibilities for using an Instant Pot in your cooking are almost endless.
However, it can be challenging to master the art of cooking with an Instant Pot, especially if you’re new to the appliance. In this article, we’ve covered several tips and tricks to help you make the most of your Instant Pot, along with some resources for finding inspiration and recipes.
Tips and Tricks for Making the Most of Your Instant Pot
If you’re just getting started with your Instant Pot, don’t panic! Here are some tips and tricks to help you get comfortable with the appliance and create delicious meals in no time:
1. Start Simple: If you’re new to Instant Pot cooking, start with some of the simpler recipes that are available online. This will help you get a feel for how the appliance works and give you a sense of what to expect.
2. Read the Manual: Before you start using your Instant Pot, take the time to read the manual thoroughly. This will give you a better understanding of the appliance’s features and functions, as well as important safety precautions.
3. Use the Right Liquid: When cooking with an Instant Pot, it’s important to use enough liquid to create the necessary steam and pressure. Most recipes call for at least one cup of liquid, such as broth, water, or wine.
4. Follow the Recipe: While the Instant Pot is a versatile and forgiving appliance, it’s still important to follow the recipe carefully. This will ensure that your meal turns out perfectly every time.
5. Experiment: Once you’ve mastered some of the basic recipes, don’t be afraid to experiment a bit! The Instant Pot is a great tool for creating new and exciting dishes, so feel free to get creative in the kitchen.
Finding Inspiration for Your Instant Pot Cooking
There are many great resources online for finding new recipes and inspiration for your Instant Pot cooking. Here are a few to check out:
1. Instant Pot Community: Join the Instant Pot Community on Facebook to connect with other users and find new recipes and tips.
2. Instant Pot Recipe Blogs: There are many great food blogs out there that focus specifically on Instant Pot cooking. Some of our favorites include TwoSleevers, Pressure Cooking Today, and A Mind Full Mom.
3. Pinterest: Pinterest is a great resource for finding Instant Pot recipes. Simply search for “Instant Pot” or a particular ingredient, and you’ll be sure to find plenty of ideas.
4. Cookbooks: There are many great Instant Pot cookbooks available online and in bookstores. Some of our favorites include The Instant Pot Electric Pressure Cooker Cookbook by Laurel Randolph, and The Ultimate Instant Pot Cookbook by Coco Morante.
By following these tips and using these resources, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an Instant Pot pro. With a little experimentation and creativity, the possibilities for your Instant Pot cooking are endless!
Happy Cooking and Come Back Soon!
Thanks for taking the time to read through our collection of 12 Easy Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Weeknights. We hope that you found a recipe that you’re excited to try out or that you were inspired to create your own instant pot meal. Cooking can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you get to share your creation with others. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and get creative with your instant pot.
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FAQ
1. Can I substitute ingredients in these recipes?
Absolutely! Our recipes are meant to be a starting point that you can customize to your liking. Feel free to swap out ingredients or adjust the cooking time to make the recipe more to your taste.
2. How do I clean my instant pot?
Cleaning your instant pot is easy. Simply remove the inner pot and wash it with soap and water. You can also use a cleaning solution specifically designed for instant pots.
3. Can I cook frozen food in my instant pot?
Yes! You can cook frozen meats and vegetables in your instant pot, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. What is the maximum amount of liquid that I can put in my instant pot?
The maximum amount of liquid that you can put in your instant pot depends on the size of your unit. Refer to your user manual for specific guidelines.
5. Can I make desserts in my instant pot?
Absolutely! Instant pots are great for making desserts like cheesecake, puddings, and rice pudding.
6. What is the best way to reheat leftovers in my instant pot?
To reheat leftovers in your instant pot, simply add them to the inner pot with a little bit of liquid and heat on the “warm” setting.
7. Can I make yogurt in my instant pot?
Yes! Many instant pots have a yogurt setting that allows you to easily make homemade yogurt.
8. How do I know when my instant pot has finished cooking?
Your instant pot will beep and switch to the “keep warm” setting once the cooking time has finished.
9. Can I use my instant pot to make soups and stews?
Yes! Instant pots are great for making soups and stews because they allow you to cook your ingredients quickly and lock in flavor.
10. How do I release pressure from my instant pot?
To release pressure from your instant pot, you can either do a quick release or a natural release. Refer to your user manual for specific instructions.