20 Quick Instant Dutch Oven Recipes for Busy Weeknights

20 Quick Instant Dutch Oven Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen on weeknights, only to be left with a mediocre meal? Do you wish you had more time to cook up a storm without sacrificing flavor and quality? Look no further! In this article, we’ll share 20 quick instant Dutch oven recipes that will revolutionize your cooking routine. From hearty stews and soups to comfort food classics and decadent desserts, these recipes are designed to be fast, easy, and delicious.

Whether you’re a busy professional or a family on-the-go, our collection of Dutch oven recipes has got you covered. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor payoff, you’ll be amazed at how quickly and effortlessly you can whip up a meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the joy of quick and easy Dutch oven meals!

Dutch Oven Beef Stew

Dutch Oven Beef Stew Recipe

Savor the rich flavors of a hearty beef stew cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying meal with family and friends.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the beef in a little oil, then set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes until tender.
4. Add the browned beef back into the pot along with the red wine (if using), beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover the Dutch oven and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Instant Pot Dutch Oven Bread

Experience the magic of a homemade bread with minimal effort using your Instant Pot! This recipe yields a tender, crusty loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches or toast.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions:

1. In the Instant Pot’s stainless steel inner pot, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add yeast and warm water; stir until the mixture forms a shaggy dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes in the Instant Pot using the sauté function or with a stand mixer.
4. Shape into a round loaf and place it on a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat in the inner pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 25-30 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally (NPR) for 10-15 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Remove the bread from the Instant Pot and let it cool on a wire rack.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Dutch Oven Chicken and Dumplings

Moist chicken and fluffy dumplings cooked together in a rich broth – a comforting classic that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, heavy cream, and mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 pieces. Shape each piece into a ball.
5. Place the chicken in the preheated Dutch oven. Arrange the carrots and celery around it.
6. Cover the pot with a lid. Cook for 45 minutes.
7. Remove the lid, add the dumplings on top of the chicken. Cover again.
8. Continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

One-Pot Dutch Oven Chili

One-Pot Dutch Oven Chili Recipe

A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering. This one-pot wonder is easy to make and packed with tender ground beef, crunchy vegetables, and rich tomatoes.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and crushed tortilla chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with your favorite fixings.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese

Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy, and satisfying Dutch oven mac and cheese recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp works best)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the preheated Dutch oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Dutch Oven Pot Roast

Savor a hearty, comforting pot roast cooked to perfection in your Dutch oven.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 pound beef pot roast (such as chuck or rump)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pot roast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in the preheated Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the pot roast until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Remove the pot roast from the Dutch oven and set aside.
6. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the Dutch oven, cooking until the onion is translucent.
7. Add the beef broth, red wine, and thyme to the Dutch oven, stirring to combine.
8. Return the pot roast to the Dutch oven, cover with a lid, and cook for 2-3 hours or until tender.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Dutch Oven Apple Crisp

A classic dessert that’s perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in, this Dutch Oven Apple Crisp is a warm and comforting treat.

Ingredients:

– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Dutch Oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to the preheated Dutch Oven.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using). Sprinkle topping evenly over the apples.
5. Cover Dutch Oven with lid and bake for 45-50 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
6. Remove from heat and let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Dutch Oven Jambalaya

Experience the rich flavors of Louisiana with this hearty Dutch Oven Jambalaya recipe, perfect for a crowd or a cozy evening meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced

Instructions:

1. Preheat Dutch Oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and garlic in olive oil until browned.
3. Add rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked sausage and stir gently.
5. Transfer mixture to the preheated Dutch Oven and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
6. Simmer for 30-40 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Dutch Oven Pulled Pork

Get ready to slow cook your way to tender, juicy pulled pork with this easy Dutch oven recipe.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in the preheated Dutch oven.
5. Pour in barbecue sauce and water.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the oven.
7. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight (minimum 6 hours).
8. Remove from heat, let rest for 30 minutes before pulling apart.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours

Dutch Oven Beef Bourguignon

A hearty, slow-cooked beef stew that simmers to perfection in a Dutch oven, resulting in tender, flavorful meat and rich sauce.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 sprig fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown beef cubes in olive oil; remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to pot; add carrots and potatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Cover Dutch oven; transfer to preheated oven at 275°F (135°C).
7. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender and sauce has thickened.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours

Dutch Oven Cornbread

Savor the rich flavors of homemade cornbread cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven. This hearty recipe yields a moist and golden-brown treat that’s perfect for snacking, serving alongside chili or stew, or as a side dish at your next family gathering.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients; stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour batter into preheated Dutch oven.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Dutch Oven Clam Chowder

A hearty and comforting recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This Dutch oven clam chowder is a twist on the classic, using fresh clams and smoky bacon to create a rich and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 (16 ounce) package of frozen clams, thawed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups clam juice
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F.
2. Melt butter in the Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bacon; cook until crispy, stirring occasionally.
4. Add clams, flour, clam juice, and milk. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the chowder has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Dutch Oven Beef Stroganoff

A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, Dutch Oven Beef Stroganoff is a twist on the classic Russian recipe. This slow-cooked meal is packed with tender beef, rich mushrooms, and creamy sauce, all cooked to perfection in a single pot.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles

Instructions:

1. Preheat Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the beef strips in a small skillet, then transfer to the Dutch oven.
3. Add onion, mushrooms, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, or until onions are translucent.
4. Pour in beef broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 2 hours, or until beef is tender.
6. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
7. Serve beef and sauce over cooked noodles.

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler

Transform sweet summer peaches into a mouthwatering cobbler with this easy Dutch oven recipe.

Ingredients:

– 3 cups sliced fresh peaches (about 2-3 medium-sized)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 pie crust dough (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced peaches, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until the fruit is evenly coated.
3. Pour the peach mixture into the prepared Dutch oven.
4. Roll out the pie crust dough to fit the top of the Dutch oven. Place it on top of the peaches.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the pie crust.
6. Cook for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the fruit is tender.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Dutch Oven Ratatouille

Dutch Oven Ratatouille Recipe

Summary:
This hearty Dutch oven ratatouille recipe is a twist on the classic French vegetable stew, perfect for a chilly evening or as a side dish for your next campout. This easy-to-make dish combines tender vegetables with rich flavors.

Ingredients:

– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 medium eggplants, chopped
– 2 medium zucchinis, chopped
– 2 red bell peppers, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In the preheated Dutch oven, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the chopped eggplants, zucchinis, and red bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
6. Stir in the diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.

Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes

Dutch Oven Chicken Cacciatore

Dutch Oven Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Summary: This hearty Dutch oven chicken cacciatore recipe is a classic Italian-inspired dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, onions, garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
4. Transfer the mixture to the preheated Dutch oven.
5. Cover with lid and cook for 45-50 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
6. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Dutch Oven Beef and Barley Soup

A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Dutch Oven Beef and Barley Soup is made with tender beef, nutritious barley, and aromatic vegetables. Simmered to perfection in your trusty Dutch oven, this recipe serves 6-8 people.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown the beef in the pot, then add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the barley, broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Stir well.
4. Cover the pot and simmer for 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Dutch Oven Sausage and Peppers

Enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal with this easy-to-make Dutch oven sausage and peppers recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the sausage from its packaging and place it in the preheated Dutch oven.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion around the sausage.
4. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the top of the vegetables.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the ingredients.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Dutch Oven Mushroom Risotto

A creamy and savory risotto dish cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven, featuring earthy mushrooms and Arborio rice.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add olive oil and sauté chopped onion until translucent.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning.
4. Add Arborio rice, garlic, and white wine (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add warmed chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is creamy and tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Dutch Oven Chocolate Lava Cake

Experience the ultimate chocolate indulgence with this decadent Dutch oven lava cake recipe. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in, this treat is sure to satisfy any chocoholic’s cravings.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Grease the inside of the pot with butter.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and flour.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a separate bowl and whisk into the dry ingredients until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared Dutch oven and cover with a lid.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Summary

Get ready to revolutionize your busy weeknights with these quick and delicious instant Dutch oven recipes! From hearty stews and roasts to decadent desserts, this collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes will satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for beef stew or apple crisp, these easy-to-make recipes are sure to become new favorites. With a range of flavors and textures, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the perfect blend of convenience and culinary delight.