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When life gets busy, finding time to cook can be a challenge. With 12+ Instant Pot dump-and-go recipes, you can whip up satisfying meals with minimal effort. These dishes require little prep and let the pot do the work for you. Imagine enjoying hearty beef stew or zesty taco soup without the fuss. Ready to simplify your dinner routine? Let's explore some effortless options that can transform your busy nights.
Key Takeaways
- Dump-and-go recipes require minimal prep, allowing you to add all ingredients directly to the Instant Pot for effortless cooking.
- Meals like Hearty Beef Stew and Quick Vegetarian Chili are perfect examples, cooking in under 35 minutes with little effort.
- Customization options let you adjust flavors and ingredients based on personal preferences, enhancing meal variety.
- Instant Pot meals can be stored for up to four days in the refrigerator, making them ideal for leftovers and meal prep.
- Recipes like Creamy Chicken and Rice and Zesty Taco Soup offer quick cooking times, perfect for busy weeknights.
Hearty Beef Stew
Hearty Beef Stew is the perfect comfort food that warms you up on chilly days. This dish combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all simmered together to create a rich and flavorful stew. The best part? You can prepare it with minimal effort using your Instant Pot, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
With the "dump-and-go" method, you can toss all your ingredients into the pot and let the Instant Pot do the hard work. This means you can spend more time with your loved ones or simply relax, knowing a warm meal is on its way.
Let's gather the ingredients and get started on this quick and easy Hearty Beef Stew.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Cooking Instructions:
Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil, and once it's hot, brown the beef cubes in batches to guarantee even cooking.
After browning, remove the beef and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
Next, add the browned beef back to the pot along with the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
Open the lid, give the stew a good stir, and adjust seasoning if needed. Your Hearty Beef Stew is ready to serve!
Extra Tips:
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth before cooking.
You can also customize the stew by adding your favorite vegetables, such as peas or mushrooms. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in after cooking, then sauté for a few minutes until it thickens.
Enjoy your meal!
Creamy Chicken and Rice
Creamy Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce all cooked together in your Instant Pot. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss everything in the pot, set it, and let the Instant Pot work its magic. The result is a flavorful dish that will be a hit with the whole family.
This recipe isn't only simple but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese for added flavor. The creamy texture of the dish makes it satisfying and indulgent, while the ease of preparation means you'll want to make it again and again. Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner, this Creamy Chicken and Rice is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the Instant Pot. Pour the rice over the chicken, followed by the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add the frozen peas and carrots, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine, making sure the rice is submerged in the liquid.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for 10 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure. Carefully open the lid, shred the chicken with two forks, and stir everything together. If desired, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Extra Tips:
For an even creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream just before serving. You can also adjust the seasoning to your preference or add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra burst of flavor.
If you're using brown rice instead of white rice, be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts accordingly, as brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time. Enjoy your effortless and delicious meal!
Quick Vegetarian Chili
Quick Vegetarian Chili is a delicious and hearty dish that comes together effortlessly in your Instant Pot. Packed with protein from beans and loaded with vibrant vegetables, this chili is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Best of all, you can simply dump all the ingredients in the pot, close the lid, and let the Instant Pot do the work while you relax!
This recipe isn't only vegetarian but can easily be made vegan as well, depending on your choice of toppings. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a robust flavor that will satisfy everyone at the table. Serve it with cornbread, over rice, or simply enjoy it on its own for a warming dish that nourishes the body and soul.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the Quick Vegetarian Chili, begin by adding all the ingredients to the Instant Pot. Stir them together to combine, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, making sure the steam valve is set to sealing.
Select the manual or pressure cook function and set the timer for 15 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider garnishing your chili with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. You can also adjust the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like it hot.
This chili keeps well in the fridge for several days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Extra Tips: When making this chili, feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, carrots, or even sweet potatoes can add a delightful twist to the dish. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans with a fork after cooking to create a heartier consistency.
Savory Pork Carnitas
Savory Pork Carnitas are a delightful and flavorful dish that can be easily prepared using your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, as it requires minimal effort and delivers tender, juicy pork that can be used in various dishes, from tacos to burrito bowls.
With just a few simple ingredients and the convenience of a dump-and-go method, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time. The beauty of these carnitas lies in the aromatic blend of spices and cooking liquids that infuse the pork with robust flavors.
By sealing the meat under pressure, the Instant Pot guarantees that each bite is bursting with taste and texture. Whether you're serving them for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 orange, juiced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 cup chicken broth
Cooking Instructions:
Start by placing the pork shoulder chunks in the Instant Pot. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika over the pork.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, then pour the orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth over everything. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, making certain the valve is set to the sealing position.
Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting and set the timer for 60 minutes on high pressure. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 15 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to release any remaining pressure.
Remove the lid and shred the pork using two forks. For an added touch, you can crisp the carnitas under the broiler for a few minutes after shredding, allowing the edges to caramelize.
Extra Tips:
For even more flavor, consider marinating the pork shoulder overnight with the spices and citrus juices before cooking. Additionally, you can adjust the seasoning to your taste or add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for longer storage, making this recipe not only delicious but also convenient for meal prep. Enjoy your savory pork carnitas in tacos, on nachos, or in a hearty salad!
Easy Pasta Primavera
Pasta Primavera is a vibrant and colorful dish that celebrates the fresh flavors of seasonal vegetables. With the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a versatile choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful side dish for gatherings.
This Easy Pasta Primavera recipe features a medley of tender pasta and crisp veggies, all cooked together in one pot. The result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that's both healthy and filling. Plus, it's a fantastic way to sneak in some extra servings of vegetables into your diet.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces of pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 2 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup of zucchini, diced
- 1 cup of broccoli florets
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by adding the pasta, vegetable broth, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
Make sure the ingredients are well combined and submerged in the broth. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure. After releasing the pressure, carefully remove the lid and give the pasta a good stir.
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese at this stage. Serve the Pasta Primavera hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite.
Extra Tips:
For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving.
You can also customize this dish by adding your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to make it even more hearty.
Be mindful of the cooking time for different pasta shapes, as some may require slight adjustments. Enjoy your delicious and colorful Pasta Primavera!
Flavorful Lentil Soup
Flavorful Lentil Soup is a delightful and nutritious dish that can be effortlessly prepared using your Instant Pot. This hearty soup is packed with protein-rich lentils, colorful vegetables, and a medley of spices that come together to create a comforting meal.
Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, this "dump-and-go" recipe allows you to toss everything into the pot and let the Instant Pot work its magic.
In addition to being simple to make, this lentil soup is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone dish or paired with crusty bread, this soup is sure to warm you up and satisfy your hunger.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by adding the rinsed lentils, diced onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper into the Instant Pot.
Stir to combine all the ingredients. Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before performing a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
After removing the lid, check the consistency of the soup. If you'd like a thicker texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup.
If using, stir in the fresh spinach or kale and allow it to wilt for a few minutes. For an added brightness, squeeze in the juice of one lemon before serving.
Extra Tips:
For a deeper flavor, consider sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery in the Instant Pot with a little olive oil using the sauté function before adding the remaining ingredients.
This step can enhance the overall taste of the soup. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preferences; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, while fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can be added just before serving for freshness.
Enjoy your homemade lentil soup!
Zesty Taco Soup
Zesty Taco Soup is a flavorful and satisfying dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. With its delicious combination of spices, beans, and vegetables, this soup isn't only quick to prepare but also hearty enough to serve as a main course. The best part? You can simply dump all the ingredients into your Instant Pot and let it do the work for you.
In no time, you'll have a warm, comforting bowl of soup that's bursting with zesty flavors. This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to add your favorite toppings and sides. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, the Zesty Taco Soup can easily be adjusted to suit your taste.
Serve it with tortilla chips, sour cream, avocado, or shredded cheese for an added layer of deliciousness. Let's get started on this easy and scrumptious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup salsa
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the ground beef or turkey, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat, then add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.
Once sautéed, turn off the sauté function. Add the remaining ingredients—black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, broth, and salsa—into the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the manual or pressure cook function and set the timer for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Give the soup a good stir and taste; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Extra Tips:
For an extra kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. You can also experiment with different types of beans or add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
If you want to make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the meat and replace it with more beans or lentils. This soup is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, allowing you to enjoy it multiple times throughout the week!
Simple Potato Casserole
If you're looking for a comforting and hearty dish that requires minimal effort, this Simple Potato Casserole is perfect for you. Utilizing the Instant Pot, you can whip up this casserole with just a few ingredients, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or gatherings. The creamy texture of the potatoes combined with savory cheese and seasonings creates a delightful dish that everyone will love.
This recipe is a true "dump-and-go" style, meaning you can simply toss all the ingredients into your Instant Pot without any pre-cooking or complicated steps. It's a fantastic way to enjoy a home-cooked meal with minimal fuss, allowing you more time to relax and enjoy your evening.
Plus, the Instant Pot does all the hard work for you, delivering a deliciously creamy potato casserole in a fraction of the time it would take in the oven.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
To make the Simple Potato Casserole, start by adding the diced potatoes to the Instant Pot. In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined.
Pour the mixture over the potatoes in the Instant Pot, ensuring the potatoes are evenly coated. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before performing a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
After the pressure has been released, carefully remove the lid and stir the casserole. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and fold it into the mixture until it melts and is well incorporated. If desired, garnish with chopped green onions before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon bits or ham before serving. You can also customize the cheese by using a blend of your favorites such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a bit of spice.
Additionally, if you prefer a crispier top, you can transfer the casserole to a baking dish and broil it in the oven for a few minutes after cooking in the Instant Pot. Enjoy your Simple Potato Casserole!
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a tangy sauce, offering a perfect balance of flavors. Cooking this dish in an Instant Pot isn't only quick but also incredibly easy, making it a fantastic weeknight meal option. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking process, you can create a family-friendly dish that everyone will love without spending too much time in the kitchen.
This recipe features a vibrant sauce made from pineapple juice, vinegar, and ketchup, which perfectly coats the chicken and vegetables. Served over rice or noodles, Sweet and Sour Chicken isn't just delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for any occasion. Plus, with the Instant Pot, you'll have juicy chicken and perfectly cooked veggies in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color)
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, with juice)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
To prepare Sweet and Sour Chicken in your Instant Pot, begin by placing the chicken pieces at the bottom of the pot. Add the chopped bell peppers and onions on top of the chicken.
In a separate bowl, mix together the pineapple chunks (with juice), ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Pour this sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before performing a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
For an extra touch, you can thicken the sauce after cooking by using the sauté function on the Instant Pot. Simply remove the chicken and veggies, and let the sauce simmer until it reaches your desired consistency. Serve the Sweet and Sour Chicken over a bed of rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Extra Tips:
For a more vibrant dish, feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas or carrots. If you prefer a spicier kick, include a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha in the sauce.
Additionally, cooking the chicken fresh will yield the best texture, but you can use frozen chicken if you're in a pinch—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Enjoy your quick and tasty meal!
Teriyaki Salmon and Broccoli
Teriyaki Salmon and Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of teriyaki sauce with tender salmon fillets and vibrant broccoli. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, as it requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it a great choice for busy individuals and families.
The Instant Pot allows you to infuse the salmon with the sweet and savory teriyaki glaze while steaming the broccoli to perfection, ensuring that both components are cooked simultaneously.
With its delicious taste and health benefits, this recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a nutritious meal. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, and broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. Serve this dish over rice or quinoa to create a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
- Optional: green onions for garnish
To start, place the salmon fillets in the Instant Pot and season them with garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the salmon, ensuring that they're well-coated.
Next, add the broccoli florets on top of the salmon. Drizzle sesame oil over the ingredients for added flavor. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a quick release of pressure. Carefully open the lid and serve the salmon and broccoli hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
For best results, choose fresh salmon fillets rather than frozen, as they tend to cook more evenly and have a better texture. You can also adjust the amount of teriyaki sauce to suit your taste preferences, adding more for a richer flavor or less for a lighter dish.
If you're looking to add more vegetables, consider including snap peas or bell peppers along with the broccoli. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Ingredients in These Recipes?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen ingredients in these recipes! Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen ingredients may require a bit longer to cook thoroughly. Enjoy your quick and easy meals!
How Do I Adjust Cooking Times for Larger Servings?
When you're cooking for a crowd, think of it like adjusting the sails on a ship. Increase your cooking time by about 10-15% for larger servings, ensuring everything cooks evenly and thoroughly. Enjoy!
What if I Don't Have an Instant Pot?
If you don't have an Instant Pot, don't worry! You can use a slow cooker, stovetop, or oven instead. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, and you'll still create delicious, satisfying meals without the pressure cooking.
Are These Recipes Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes, these recipes are great for meal prep! You'll save time by making larger batches, and you can easily portion them into containers for convenient, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week. Enjoy hassle-free planning!
Can I Substitute Ingredients for Dietary Restrictions?
Absolutely, you can substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions! Just keep in mind the cooking times and flavors might change. Experimenting with alternatives can lead to delicious meals tailored to your needs. Enjoy the process!
