10+ Instant Pot 8-Quart Recipes for Large Batch Cooking

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If you're looking to simplify your meal prep and feed a crowd, large batch cooking with an Instant Pot can be a game-changer. With its 8-quart capacity, you can whip up hearty meals that satisfy everyone's cravings. From savory beef stews to zesty lentil chili, there's a variety of recipes to explore. Let's take a closer look at some satisfying options that will make dinner time a breeze.

Key Takeaways

• The Instant Pot 8-quart can accommodate larger portions, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings.
• Hearty dishes like BBQ Pulled Pork and Hearty Beef Stew are perfect for large batch cooking.
• Quick and easy side dishes, such as Cheesy Broccoli and Rice, complement main courses and can be made in bulk.
• Customizable recipes, including Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole, allow for varying ingredients based on preferences and availability.
• Cooking techniques like sautéing and pressure cooking maximize flavor and efficiency in large batch recipes.

Hearty Beef Stew

Hearty beef stew is the perfect comfort food, especially on chilly days. The Instant Pot makes it easy to whip up a delicious, savory stew that's packed with flavor, while also considerably reducing the cooking time compared to traditional methods. Using this versatile kitchen appliance, you can achieve tender beef and perfectly cooked vegetables in just a fraction of the time.

This recipe for hearty beef stew combines tender chunks of beef with a medley of vegetables and aromatic herbs. The Instant Pot not only enhances the flavors but also locks in moisture, resulting in a rich and satisfying stew that's sure to please the whole family. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 4 potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

To start, set your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned beef and set it aside.

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Then, stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes.

Return the beef to the pot and add in the beef broth, carrots, and potatoes. Stir well to combine.

Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and adjust the time to 35 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then carefully switch to quick release to let out any remaining steam.

If you're using frozen peas, stir them into the stew after opening the lid and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

When cooking hearty beef stew, feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. You can also thicken the stew by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stirring it into the pot while on sauté mode until it thickens to your liking. Enjoy your warm, hearty meal!

Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe utilizes the Instant Pot to reduce cooking time while still delivering a flavorful meal that everyone will love.

With minimal prep and easy cleanup, you can have this satisfying casserole on the table in no time. This dish is versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices. The combination of chicken broth and cream creates a luscious texture, while the addition of cheese adds an irresistible cheesy flavor.

Serve it on its own or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot, searing them for 2-3 minutes on each side. Then, pour in the chicken broth, ensuring to scrape any bits off the bottom of the pot. Stir in the rice, cream of mushroom soup, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
3. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is completed, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure. Open the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of your Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley just before serving. If you prefer a bit of heat, throw in some red pepper flakes.

For a creamier texture, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version or use cream cheese. Always check the doneness of the chicken before serving, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Enjoy your delicious, creamy casserole!

Spicy Lentil Chili

Spicy Lentil Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for those chilly evenings or when you're craving something warm and comforting. Packed with protein-rich lentils, this chili isn't only nutritious but also easy to prepare in your Instant Pot. The combination of spices, tomatoes, and vegetables creates a delightful depth of flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.

Plus, it can be made in under an hour, making it a great option for busy weeknights. With its spicy kick, this chili can be adjusted to suit your heat preference. Whether you enjoy a milder flavor or a fiery experience, you can easily tweak the spices to match your taste.

Serve it with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. Let's explore the ingredients and steps to create this delicious Spicy Lentil Chili!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, avocado, sour cream, cheese

Cooking Instructions:

Start by setting your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" mode. Add the olive oil, and once heated, toss in the diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to soften.

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, allowing the spices to toast for about a minute until fragrant. Next, add the diced tomatoes, rinsed lentils, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine and make sure the lentils are submerged.

Cancel the "Sauté" mode and secure the lid of the Instant Pot. Set it to "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" on high for 15 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Stir the chili, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve with your favorite toppings.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider incorporating a splash of lime juice before serving to brighten the dish. You can also swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

If you want a thicker chili, after cooking, you can use the "Sauté" function again to simmer it for a few minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. Enjoy your Spicy Lentil Chili!

Vegetable Quinoa Pilaf

Vegetable Quinoa Pilaf is a nutritious and flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for any meal. Packed with protein-rich quinoa and a variety of colorful vegetables, this recipe isn't only delicious but also visually appealing. Cooking it in an Instant Pot makes the process even easier, allowing you to have a hearty meal ready in no time.

This pilaf is incredibly versatile; you can customize it by using your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. The combination of spices and broth enhances the flavors, making it a great option to pair with grilled meats or to enjoy as a vegetarian main course.

Let's explore the ingredients and instructions to create this delightful dish!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup zucchini, diced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once hot, sauté the diced onion and garlic until they're translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the diced bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini, and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
3. Stir in the rinsed quinoa, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing.
4. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute, then allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully switching to quick release for any remaining pressure.
5. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of your Vegetable Quinoa Pilaf, consider toasting the quinoa in the Instant Pot for a couple of minutes before adding the broth. This will give it a nuttier flavor.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different vegetables and spices according to your taste preferences. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, making this dish a great option for meal prep!

BBQ Pulled Pork

BBQ Pulled Pork is a mouthwatering dish that's perfect for gatherings, parties, or a cozy family dinner. Cooking it in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also infuses the meat with incredible flavors, making it tender and juicy. This recipe will guide you through making delicious BBQ Pulled Pork in your 8-quart Instant Pot, ensuring that each bite is packed with tangy and smoky goodness.

The beauty of the Instant Pot lies in its ability to pressure cook, which drastically reduces cooking time while still allowing the pork to absorb all the rich flavors of the BBQ sauce and spices. Once you've mastered this recipe, you can experiment with different sauces and seasonings to suit your taste.

Whether served on a bun, with coleslaw, or alongside your favorite sides, BBQ Pulled Pork is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 pounds pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by cutting the pork shoulder into large chunks for easier handling. Season the pork with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder, making sure to coat all sides evenly.
2. Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the seasoned pork to the pot, searing it on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and BBQ sauce, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze any browned bits.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" for 60 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for about 15 minutes before switching the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
5. After releasing the pressure, remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Mix it back with the sauce in the pot for added flavor and serve hot.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, allow the pulled pork to sit in the BBQ sauce for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors. If you have leftover pulled pork, it freezes well and can be reheated for a quick meal later.

Experiment with different BBQ sauces or add a kick of heat with hot sauce, depending on your preference.

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting dish that warms both the body and soul. This hearty soup is packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and egg noodles, making it a perfect meal for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather.

Using an Instant Pot allows you to create this classic dish in a fraction of the time, while still achieving that homemade taste. With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, this Chicken Noodle Soup isn't only delicious but also customizable.

You can easily adjust the seasoning, swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand, or even use leftover rotisserie chicken for added convenience. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite and a go-to for meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups egg noodles
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, parsley, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken breasts on top of the sautéed vegetables, then pour in the chicken broth. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to "Sealing."
4. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting and set the timer for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before carefully switching the valve to "Venting" to release any remaining pressure.
5. Remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with the egg noodles.
6. Select the "Sauté" function again and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of soy sauce to the soup before serving.

You can also enhance the nutrition by incorporating leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. If you're planning to make this soup ahead of time, store the noodles separately to prevent them from soaking up too much broth.

Enjoy your warm and satisfying bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup!

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice is a comforting and nutritious dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or as a side for a family dinner. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare using your Instant Pot, allowing you to enjoy creamy, cheesy goodness in no time.

The combination of tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and rich cheese makes for a delightful meal that everyone will love. Plus, it's a great way to sneak some veggies into your diet!

Using the Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also helps retain the vibrant color and nutrients of the broccoli. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a hearty and satisfying dish ready to serve.

Let's gather our ingredients and get started on this delicious Cheesy Broccoli and Rice recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.

Place the rinsed rice, broth, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes, then allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.

2. Once the pressure has been released, carefully remove the lid and stir in the butter and broccoli florets. Close the lid again, sealing the valve, and cook on high pressure for an additional 2 minutes.

After this time, do a quick release to release the steam. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and blends into the rice, creating a creamy texture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider sautéing some chopped onions or garlic in the Instant Pot before adding the rice and broth.

You can also swap out the cheddar cheese for other varieties like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a creamier dish, feel free to add a splash of cream or milk when stirring in the cheese.

Enjoy your Cheesy Broccoli and Rice as a standalone dish or as a side to grilled meats or fish!

Italian Sausage and Peppers

Italian Sausage and Peppers is a classic dish that brings together the hearty flavors of sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers and onions. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to share with family and friends.

Cooking it in an Instant Pot not only speeds up the process but also infuses the ingredients with rich flavors, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.

This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways. You can enjoy the sausage and peppers on their own, over a bed of rice, or stuffed into a sub roll for a delicious sandwich. The Instant Pot makes it easy to achieve tender, juicy sausage while keeping the peppers perfectly cooked, so they retain their vibrant color and texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
• 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil and once it's hot, add the Italian sausage links. Brown the sausage on all sides for about 5 minutes, then remove them from the pot and set aside.

In the same pot, add the sliced onions and bell peppers, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Next, deglaze the pot by adding the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Return the browned sausage to the pot, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper.

Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Extra Tips:

For an extra flavor boost, consider using a combination of sweet and spicy Italian sausage. You can also experiment with different types of bell peppers or even add zucchini or mushrooms for additional vegetables.

This dish can be easily doubled to feed a larger crowd, and it also reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep!

Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Sweet and sour meatballs are a delightful dish that brings a perfect balance of flavors to your table. The meatballs are juicy and tender, coated in a tangy sauce that creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite. They make for a fantastic main course and can be served with rice, noodles, or even on their own as appetizers.

Using the Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also locks in the flavors, making your meal prep easier and faster. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you're entertaining guests. With minimal prep and quick cooking times, you can have a delicious homemade meal ready in no time.

Paired with your favorite sides, sweet and sour meatballs will surely become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this scrumptious dish!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add a little oil. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides. This should take about 5 minutes. Once browned, remove the meatballs and set them aside.
3. Pour in the sweet and sour sauce, followed by the pineapple chunks and bell pepper. Stir to combine, then gently add the browned meatballs back into the pot. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.

Extra Tips:

For a twist on traditional sweet and sour meatballs, feel free to add other vegetables such as snap peas or carrots to the sauce for extra color and nutrition.

You can also adjust the sweetness of the sauce to your liking by adding more or less sugar or using a homemade sweet and sour sauce recipe. If you're meal prepping, these meatballs store well in the fridge for a few days or can be frozen for later use. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Double These Recipes for the 8-Quart Instant Pot?

You can definitely double those recipes for your 8-quart Instant Pot. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if needed, and keep an eye on the maximum fill line to avoid any overflow.

How Do I Adjust Cooking Times for Frozen Ingredients?

Did you know frozen ingredients can increase cooking times by up to 50%? When using frozen items, add extra time to your recipes, ensuring everything cooks evenly and reaches the proper temperature for safety.

What Are the Best Storage Methods for Leftovers?

To store leftovers effectively, use airtight containers or resealable bags. Label them with dates, and refrigerate or freeze them promptly. This'll help you maintain freshness and avoid waste, making meal planning easier next time.

Can I Use Other Proteins in These Recipes?

Absolutely, you can use other proteins in these recipes! Feel free to substitute chicken, beef, or tofu based on your preferences. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for best texture and flavor. Enjoy experimenting!

How Should I Clean My Instant Pot After Cooking?

Cleaning your Instant Pot after cooking is as easy as pie! Just unplug it, remove the inner pot and lid, wash them with soap and water, and wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. You're done!