As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.
When your weeknights are packed, finding time to cook can feel impossible. That's where Instant Pot meals shine. They offer a range of hearty soups, stews, and quick pasta dishes that can be on your table in under 35 minutes. Plus, with simple cleanup and customizable ingredients, you can whip up something delicious without the stress. Ready to explore some quick and satisfying options for your busy evenings?
Key Takeaways
- Hearty Instant Pot soups can be prepared quickly, using various vegetables and proteins for a customizable, nutritious meal in under 30 minutes.
- Flavorful Instant Pot stews combine sautéing and pressure cooking, allowing for rich flavors and tender meat, ready in about 45 minutes.
- Quick Instant Pot pasta dishes require minimal ingredients and can be cooked in just 4-6 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
- Easy Instant Pot chicken recipes, like garlic lemon chicken, are tender and flavorful, often ready in under 30 minutes with simple seasoning.
- Vegetable quinoa bowls are a nutritious one-pot meal, combining quinoa and assorted vegetables, cooked quickly for a healthy dinner option.
Hearty Instant Pot Soups
This recipe will guide you through making a classic and hearty vegetable soup that's packed with nutrients and flavor. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or any leftovers you have on hand, making it a great way to reduce waste while enjoying a wholesome meal.
Get ready to enjoy a satisfying bowl of goodness that's ready in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups spinach or kale
Cooking Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil, and once it's hot, sauté the diced onion for 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Next, add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften.
Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the chopped zucchini, diced tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Open the lid carefully and stir in the spinach or kale until wilted before serving.
Extra Tips:
Feel free to customize this hearty soup by adding in your favorite protein, such as cooked chicken or beans, for extra heartiness.
You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. If you prefer a thicker soup, consider blending a portion of the soup after cooking, or adding a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up.
Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of soup!
Flavorful Instant Pot Stews
The beauty of using an Instant Pot for stews isn't only the time saved but also the ability to sauté, pressure cook, and even slow cook all in one pot. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious beef stew that's packed with flavor and sure to please any palate.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
Start by selecting the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Next, add the beef cubes to the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, add the tomato paste, stirring well to coat the beef.
Then, add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Select the pressure cook function and set the timer for 35 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to venting to release any remaining steam.
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider searing the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. This allows for better browning and more depth of flavor.
Additionally, feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what's in season; mushrooms, peas, or green beans can make excellent additions.
If you want a thicker stew, consider mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stirring it in after the cooking is complete, then sauté for a few minutes until thickened.
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Instant Pot stew!
Quick Instant Pot Pasta Dishes
When you're in a rush but still want a delicious home-cooked meal, Instant Pot pasta dishes are the perfect solution. They allow you to prepare a hearty meal in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop.
With minimal prep and cleanup, you can enjoy a variety of pasta styles and flavors in just minutes. Whether you prefer classic spaghetti, creamy fettuccine, or zesty penne, the Instant Pot has got you covered.
Cooking pasta in the Instant Pot isn't only quick but also helps to lock in flavors and nutrients. You can easily customize the dish with your favorite proteins, vegetables, and sauces.
Just add everything to the pot, set it to cook, and let the Instant Pot work its magic. In no time, you'll have a steaming bowl of pasta ready to serve!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (any type)
- 4 cups water or broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms)
- Optional: cooked protein (chicken, sausage, or shrimp)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by adding the pasta, water or broth, olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to the Instant Pot. If you're using vegetables or cooked protein, this is the time to add them as well.
Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 4-6 minutes, depending on the type of pasta you're using (4 minutes for thin pasta like angel hair, 6 minutes for thicker pasta like penne).
Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure. After releasing the pressure, carefully open the lid and stir in the marinara sauce and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined.
If the pasta is too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Extra Tips:
For best results, avoid overcooking the pasta by following the recommended cooking times closely. Remember that the pasta will continue to cook slightly after you release the pressure, so it's better to err on the side of slightly undercooked.
You can also experiment with different sauces or add-ins to suit your taste. Enjoy your quick and delicious Instant Pot pasta dish!
Easy Instant Pot Chicken Recipes
Cooking chicken in an Instant Pot isn't only quick but also yields incredibly tender and flavorful results.
Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week, these easy Instant Pot chicken recipes are a game changer. The pressure cooking method locks in moisture and infuses the meat with your choice of spices and sauces, making it a versatile base for countless meals.
One of the simplest yet most delicious ways to cook chicken in the Instant Pot is by making a savory garlic lemon chicken. This dish combines fragrant garlic, zesty lemon, and fresh herbs to create a delightful flavor profile that pairs well with rice or vegetables. You can customize it by adding your choice of vegetables to the pot for a complete one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and lemon zest.
Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Place the chicken back in the pot, sealing it with the lid. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before switching to a quick release.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a couple of hours before cooking.
You can also substitute chicken thighs for a richer taste. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken after cooking, set the Instant Pot to sauté, and let the liquid simmer until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy garlic lemon chicken!
Simple Instant Pot Vegetarian Meals
Cooking a wholesome vegetarian meal doesn't have to be time-consuming, especially when using the Instant Pot. One of the best ways to create a nutritious, filling dish is by making a Vegetable Quinoa Bowl. This recipe combines protein-rich quinoa with a variety of colorful vegetables, all cooked together in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop.
Not only is this meal quick to prepare, but it's also versatile; you can swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated. The flavors meld beautifully, making it a satisfying option for lunch or dinner.
Plus, with the addition of spices and fresh herbs, you can customize the taste to suit your preferences. Let's explore the ingredients and cooking instructions for this delicious and easy Instant Pot recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (like cilantro or parsley), for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In the Instant Pot, combine the rinsed quinoa, vegetable broth, and all the diced vegetables, including bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and corn.
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together gently to guarantee the spices and vegetables are evenly distributed.
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 1 minute. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before quickly releasing any remaining pressure.
Carefully open the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs, and enjoy your healthy, quick vegetarian meal!
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider sautéing the vegetables in the Instant Pot on the 'Sauté' mode before adding the quinoa and broth. This can enhance the overall taste and give the veggies a nice texture.
If you prefer a creamier dish, stir in some avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different spices or add legumes like black beans or chickpeas for extra protein.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Ingredients in My Instant Pot Recipes?
Absolutely, you can use frozen ingredients in your Instant Pot recipes! Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen items might require a bit longer to cook thoroughly compared to fresh ingredients.
How Do I Clean My Instant Pot After Cooking?
After a delicious meal, you stare at your Instant Pot, wondering about the cleanup. Let it cool, then remove the inner pot and lid. Wash them with soap, rinse, and feel that satisfaction of a job well done.
What Size Instant Pot Is Best for a Family?
When choosing the best size Instant Pot for your family, consider how many people you usually cook for. A 6-quart model suits most families, while an 8-quart is great if you often entertain or meal prep.
Can I Substitute Ingredients in Instant Pot Recipes?
Yes, you can substitute ingredients in Instant Pot recipes. Just keep in mind the cooking times and flavors. Experimenting can lead to delicious results, so don't hesitate to adjust ingredients based on your preferences!
How Do I Prevent Burning Food in My Instant Pot?
To prevent burning food in your Instant Pot, always add enough liquid, avoid overfilling it, and use the sauté function carefully. Stir ingredients well and don't skip the recommended cooking times for ideal results.
