Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for your wallet? Look no further! With the Instant Pot, cooking delicious and budget-friendly meals has never been easier. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering and affordable recipes that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
From hearty stews to comforting casseroles, these Instant Pot recipes are perfect for anyone looking to stretch their food dollars without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re a busy professional or a student on a tight budget, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of instant pot cooking and sharing some of our favorite recipes that won’t break the bank. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get started!
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
This Instant Pot lentil soup recipe is a simple and nutritious meal option that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and comforting bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: your choice of spices or herbs (e.g. paprika, thyme, bay leaves)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, water or broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes total (including natural pressure release)
Cheesy Instant Pot Rice and Beans
This comforting dish is a perfect combination of creamy cheese, fluffy rice, and tender beans, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, water, black beans, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 6 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Open the lid and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
Cooking a delicious chicken and rice dish has never been easier! This recipe uses the pressure cooker feature of your Instant Pot to create a tender and flavorful meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tbsp of butter.
2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Vegetable Instant Pot Stew
This hearty and comforting stew is a perfect way to use up any combination of vegetables you have on hand, all cooked to tender perfection in under an hour. It’s a great option for a quick and easy dinner that’s also healthy and nutritious.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, etc.)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, water, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Spaghetti with Marinara
Get a comforting and classic Italian-inspired meal on the table in no time with this easy-to-make recipe using your Instant Pot. With minimal effort, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying spaghetti dish that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Break the spaghetti into pieces and add it to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Cheap and Easy Instant Pot Chili
This recipe makes a big batch of flavorful chili that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick cooking time, you’ll have a warm and comforting meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, pepper, and water.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and cook on high for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Enjoy your delicious and easy Instant Pot chili!
Instant Pot Beef and Potato Hash
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this effortless and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any time of day. With tender beef, crispy potatoes, and rich flavors, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef cubes (such as chuck or sirloin)
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes, garlic, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes followed by a 5-minute natural release.
6. Quick-release any remaining pressure and open the lid. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus 5-minute natural release)
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Creamy Mac and Cheese in a Snap: Instant Pot Recipe
This comforting classic gets a modern twist with the help of your trusty Instant Pot! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich, velvety macaroni and cheese dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add the macaroni and cook until lightly toasted, stirring occasionally.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, flour, and salt. Add the mixture to the pot with the macaroni.
4. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook for 5 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Instant Pot Tacos
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, using the convenience of an Instant Pot to cook black beans and corn together. The result is a deliciously tender filling that’s perfect for tacos, salads, or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups water
– Taco seasoning (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
2. Add black beans, corn kernels, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
3. Pour in water and stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 20 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Serve filling in tacos, salads, or as a topping.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Instant Pot Vegetable Curry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy take on traditional Indian curry, made possible with the ease of the Instant Pot. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and green beans)
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water or vegetable broth, to cover the ingredients
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the ingredients.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” for 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Transform a pork shoulder into tender, juicy pulled pork sandwiches using your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the pork shoulder, salt, and pepper. Brown the meat for 2-3 minutes.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
5. Remove the pork from the pot and shred with two forks.
6. Add BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika to the shredded pork. Mix well.
7. Split hamburger buns and fill with pulled pork. Top with coleslaw and pickles (if desired).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Soothe your soul with this comforting Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe, packed with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and soft noodles. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup uncooked egg noodles
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and add egg noodles. Stir to combine and let it sit for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Garlic Butter Pasta
This Instant Pot recipe brings together the comfort of pasta, rich garlic butter, and a hint of creaminess, all cooked to perfection in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and melt butter. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Add pasta, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 8 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and check pasta is al dente. If not, close lid and cook an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes (8 minutes cooking + 5-minute natural release)
Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
This comforting recipe combines sweet bell peppers with savory sausage and a hint of spices, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Soup
This recipe yields a rich and creamy tomato soup in just minutes using your Instant Pot. Perfect as a comforting snack or a quick lunch, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and basil. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders
Get ready to elevate your slider game with these tender and juicy Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a mouthwatering meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, onions, cheese
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 1 tbsp of butter.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
3. Add BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening.
6. Slice the chicken into thin strips and assemble sliders with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Minestrone Soup
Enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of Italian-inspired minestrone soup with the help of your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 cup canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, pasta, kidney beans, salt, and pepper.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Stir in chopped parsley and serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
This Instant Pot recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavors of garlic and chicken, creating a deliciously quick and easy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekends, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the honey mixture over the chicken and close the lid.
5. Set the valve to “Sealing” and press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 8-10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice
This recipe combines the best of comfort foods – cheesy goodness, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice – all cooked to perfection in just one pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a stress-free weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 bunch broccoli (about 3-4 cups florets)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add the water and broccoli; stir well.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Quick-release pressure, then open the lid.
6. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious meal with this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Bowl recipe! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white or brown rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot with 1 tbsp of oil.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and mixed vegetables to the pot.
4. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode for 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
6. Serve chicken over cooked rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Summary
Looking for delicious and budget-friendly meals? Look no further! This article shares 20 mouth-watering Instant Pot recipes that won’t break the bank. From comforting soups to satisfying stews, and from pasta dishes to tacos, these recipes cater to a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Try making instant pot lentil soup, cheesy rice and beans, chicken and rice, or one of the many other tasty options. With an Instant Pot, you can cook up a storm without sacrificing flavor or your wallet.
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