10+ Must-Try Instant Pot 6-Quart Recipes for Every Meal

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You want hearty breakfasts, quick lunches, and satisfying dinners that don't take hours to prepare. You need recipes that fit your busy lifestyle while still delivering rich flavors. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve all this and more. Explore these 10+ must-try 6-quart recipes that promise to transform your meals. What's waiting to be discovered in the world of Instant Pot cooking?

Key Takeaways

• Start your day with an Instant Pot Breakfast Casserole, customizable with leftovers and packed with protein and veggies for a hearty meal.
• Enjoy a nutritious Instant Pot Quinoa Salad, perfect warm or cold, ideal for meal prepping with high protein and fiber content.
• Prepare a comforting Hearty Vegetable Soup that simmers quickly and can be made with any vegetables on hand for a rich flavor.
• Savor a classic Beef Stroganoff that cooks quickly in the Instant Pot, offering tender beef and creamy sauce for family dinners.
• Delight in a decadent Chocolate Lava Cake, easy to prepare in the Instant Pot, featuring a gooey center that's perfect with ice cream.

Hearty Breakfasts to Start Your Day Right

There's nothing quite like a warm and hearty breakfast to kickstart your day. An Instant Pot breakfast casserole isn't only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect solution for busy mornings. Packed with protein, vegetables, and spices, this dish is sure to please the whole family, whether you're serving it on a weekday or during a special weekend brunch.

This breakfast casserole is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. You can mix and match ingredients or add any leftover vegetables or meats you have on hand. The Instant Pot allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the eggs are cooked to perfection, resulting in a fluffy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup diced potatoes (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by spraying the inner pot of your Instant Pot with cooking spray or adding a little olive oil. Turn on the sauté function and cook the diced potatoes for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften. You can also skip this step if using frozen potatoes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Once the potatoes are ready, add the sausage or bacon, spinach, and half of the shredded cheese to the pot. Pour the egg mixture evenly on top, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on the top layer. Secure the lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before carefully turning the valve to quick release any remaining pressure.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider incorporating your favorite spices or herbs into the egg mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheeses or add diced bell peppers or onions for a bit of crunch.

If you prefer a crusty topping, briefly broil the finished casserole in the oven before serving. This breakfast casserole keeps well in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep—just reheat individual portions in the microwave for quick breakfasts throughout the week!

Quick and Easy Lunch Ideas

When you're short on time but craving a nutritious and filling lunch, this Instant Pot Quinoa Salad is the perfect solution. Packed with protein and fiber, quinoa is a versatile grain that pairs beautifully with a variety of vegetables and dressings. This recipe can be prepared in just a matter of minutes, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal without the hassle of lengthy cooking times.

The Instant Pot not only makes cooking quinoa a breeze but also allows you to infuse it with flavors from the vegetables and spices you choose. This salad can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Simply prepare a batch at the beginning of the week, and you'll have quick lunch options ready to go.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural bitterness. Add the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth to the Instant Pot. Close the lid, making sure the steam valve is set to sealing, and select the manual setting. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute.
2. Once the cooking time is done, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully turning the valve to release any remaining pressure.
3. After the quinoa has cooked, fluff it with a fork and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese (if using).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of your quinoa salad, consider adding additional ingredients such as chickpeas, olives, or avocado. You can also experiment with different dressings, such as balsamic vinaigrette or tahini dressing, to suit your taste.

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a great option for meal prep.

Flavorful Soups and Stews for Comfort

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of hearty vegetable soup to soothe the soul on a chilly day. This Instant Pot recipe is designed to bring out the flavors of fresh vegetables while allowing for a quick and easy preparation. Packed with nutrients and robust flavors, this soup is perfect as a standalone meal or as a side dish.

Plus, it's a versatile recipe that can be tailored to whatever veggies you have on hand. The Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also enhances the flavors by infusing them together under pressure. This means you'll get a rich, savory soup that tastes like it has been simmering for hours in just a fraction of the time.

Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness that's perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and adding the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Next, add the sliced carrots, diced celery, potato, zucchini, and bell pepper to the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice, followed by the vegetable broth. Add the dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, then carefully use the quick release method to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and give the soup a good stir.

Extra Tips:

Feel free to customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or legumes, such as green beans or chickpeas, for added texture and flavor.

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup after cooking. Additionally, this soup freezes well, so you can make a big batch and store leftovers for a quick meal later on. Enjoy with crusty bread or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added comfort!

Satisfying Main Dishes for Dinner

Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food that combines tender beef, creamy sauce, and hearty noodles, making it an ideal main dish for dinner. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve that rich and savory flavor in a fraction of the time it would take to prepare on the stove. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe features succulent pieces of beef cooked to perfection, enveloped in a velvety mushroom and sour cream sauce, served over egg noodles for a complete meal. The Instant Pot not only speeds up cooking but also intensifies the flavors, making each bite a delight. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy yet delicious Beef Stroganoff!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup sour cream
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering. Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, sautéing for another 2-3 minutes until the mushrooms have softened.
3. Next, add the sliced beef to the pot, seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned.
4. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once finished, perform a quick release.
5. After the pressure has released, stir in the sour cream until well combined.
6. Finally, add the egg noodles, mixing them into the sauce. Close the lid again and let the noodles sit in the residual heat for about 5 minutes or until they're tender. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Extra Tips:

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the beef strips in Worcestershire sauce for a few hours before cooking.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in after adding the sour cream.

Adjust the seasoning to taste, and feel free to add other vegetables like peas or bell peppers to customize your beef stroganoff!

Simple and Delicious Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with any main course. Using the Instant Pot, you can achieve tender, flavorful potatoes in a fraction of the time it takes to roast them in the oven.

The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs creates a savory flavor profile that will leave your taste buds wanting more. This recipe isn't only easy to prepare, but it also requires minimal cleanup since you can cook everything in one pot.

Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these potatoes will surely impress your guests and elevate any meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by rinsing the baby potatoes under cold water and then halving them. Place the halved potatoes in the Instant Pot. Add the minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated.
2. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the steam release valve to the sealing position. Select the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' setting and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, do a quick release of the pressure.
3. After the pressure has been released, carefully open the lid and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes. Stir gently to combine and let them sit for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

For a crispy texture, you can use the sauté function on the Instant Pot after the potatoes are cooked. Simply add a little more olive oil and sauté the potatoes for a few minutes until they're golden brown.

Additionally, feel free to customize the seasonings by adding your favorite herbs or spices to enhance the flavor even further!

Tasty Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Chickpea and spinach curry is a delightful vegetarian dish that isn't only easy to make but is also packed with flavor and nutrition. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, allowing the spices to meld beautifully with the chickpeas and fresh spinach, creating a comforting meal that's perfect for any night of the week. This dish is naturally vegan and can be served over rice or with warm naan for a complete meal.

This recipe is perfect for busy individuals or families looking for a hearty yet simple dinner option. The combination of chickpeas, spinach, and aromatic spices creates a delicious and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Plus, it takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to the sauté mode and add the coconut oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes (with their juice), coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, and then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
3. Open the lid carefully and stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Extra Tips:

For added depth of flavor, consider including other vegetables such as bell peppers or peas. You can also adjust the level of spices according to your preference; adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a nice kick.

This curry can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a great option for meal prep. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious chickpea and spinach curry!

Flavor-Packed Chicken Recipes

Indulge your taste buds with this delightful Honey Garlic Chicken recipe cooked effortlessly in your Instant Pot. This dish combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavors of garlic and soy sauce, creating a dish that isn't only flavorful but also incredibly simple to prepare.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or serving guests, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. The Instant Pot makes this dish quick and easy, allowing the chicken to cook in its own juices, resulting in tender, juicy meat that's bursting with flavor. Serve it over a bed of rice or alongside some steamed vegetables for a complete meal that's sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

Begin by placing the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot. In a separate bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Pour this mixture over the chicken in the pot, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam.

After removing the chicken, you can switch the Instant Pot to sauté mode to thicken the sauce if desired. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it reaches the desired consistency. Serve the chicken drizzled with the sauce and garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh finish.

Extra Tips:

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the honey-soy mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking. You can also substitute chicken thighs for a richer taste, and feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables into the pot, such as bell peppers or snap peas, for an all-in-one meal.

Adjust the sweetness and saltiness to your preference by varying the amounts of honey and soy sauce according to your taste.

Savory Beef and Pork Creations

Savor the rich flavors of a hearty beef and pork stew, perfectly cooked in your Instant Pot. This dish combines tender cuts of beef and pork, simmered with a medley of vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion.

The pressure cooking method guarantees that the meat is juicy and the flavors meld beautifully, making it a favorite for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

This savory stew isn't only delicious but also easy to prepare. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve that slow-cooked taste in a fraction of the time. Serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, diced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

Next, add the beef and pork pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

After the meat is browned, add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients, making sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Close the lid and confirm the valve is set to sealing. 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 switch to a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Stir the stew before serving and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Extra Tips:

For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the beef and pork in a mixture of Worcestershire sauce and spices before cooking.

Additionally, you can customize the vegetables according to your preference; feel free to add bell peppers, celery, or peas for variety.

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in after the cooking is complete, then use the sauté function to simmer until thickened.

Enjoy your savory creation!

Decadent Desserts to Indulge Your Sweet Tooth

If you're looking to satisfy your sweet tooth with something truly indulgent, Chocolate Lava Cake is the perfect choice. This rich dessert features a gooey, molten center that flows out like a river of chocolate when you cut into it. The best part? You can whip it up in your Instant Pot, making it a quick and easy treat for any occasion.

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself after a long day, this dessert is sure to impress. Using the Instant Pot to create this decadent dessert not only saves time but also guarantees that your cakes come out moist and perfectly cooked every time.

You can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Let's explore the ingredients and cooking instructions so you can experience this chocolatey delight yourself!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt
• Cooking spray

Cooking Instructions:

Begin by greasing four ramekins with cooking spray and placing them on a trivet in the Instant Pot.

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter together, stirring until smooth. Once melted, mix in the powdered sugar until well combined.

Then, add the eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Finally, gently fold in the flour and a pinch of salt until just combined.

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared ramekins. Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot, then carefully place the trivet with the ramekins inside.

Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.

Remove the ramekins and let them cool for a minute before inverting onto plates.

Extra Tips:

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter for a deeper chocolate taste.

You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate, to create variations of this dessert.

Serve immediately for the best lava effect, but if you need to prepare them ahead of time, you can store the unbaked batter in the fridge and cook them fresh when you're ready to serve. Enjoy your decadent treat!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Clean My Instant Pot After Cooking?

To clean your Instant Pot after cooking, unplug it, remove the inner pot, and wash it with warm soapy water. Wipe the exterior and lid with a damp cloth, ensuring all parts are dry before reassembling.

Can I Double Recipes in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can double recipes in the Instant Pot! Just make sure not to exceed the maximum fill line. Adjust cooking times as needed, and you'll enjoy delicious meals in no time. Happy cooking!

What Safety Features Does the Instant Pot Have?

Your Instant Pot includes several safety features: a safety lock, pressure control, temperature control, and an overheat protection mechanism. These guarantee that you can cook confidently, minimizing risks while you create delicious meals.

How Do I Adjust Cooking Times for Frozen Ingredients?

Did you know that cooking frozen ingredients can reduce meal prep time by up to 30%? To adjust cooking times, increase the pressure cooking duration by 5-10 minutes depending on the ingredient size and type.

What Accessories Are Recommended for Instant Pot Cooking?

For Instant Pot cooking, consider getting a steamer basket for vegetables, silicone mitts for easy handling, and a glass lid for slow cooking. These accessories can enhance your cooking experience and provide versatility for various recipes.