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Imagine coming home after a long day and having a delicious, homemade meal ready in minutes. With Instant Pot dump dinners, that's entirely possible. You simply toss in your ingredients, set the timer, and let the pot do the rest. Whether you crave hearty beef stew or spicy chili, there's a variety of options that cater to different tastes. Want to discover how these meals can simplify your busy weeknights?
Key Takeaways
- Instant Pot dump dinners require minimal prep; simply add all ingredients in one pot for easy cooking.
- Versatile recipes like Hearty Beef Stew and Creamy Chicken Alfredo adapt to personal tastes and available ingredients.
- Quick cooking times, often under 30 minutes, make dump dinners ideal for busy weeknights.
- Cleanup is a breeze with everything cooked in one pot, saving time and effort after meals.
- Options like Spicy Chili Con Carne and BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches offer hearty and satisfying meals for the whole family.
Hearty Beef Stew
Hearty Beef Stew is a classic comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings, as it combines tender chunks of beef with a medley of vegetables, all simmered together in a rich and flavorful broth.
Using an Instant Pot not only cuts down on cooking time but also locks in the flavors, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious, hearty meal that your whole family will love. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Get ready to enjoy a warm bowl of stew that's sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up.
Once hot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until they're fragrant and the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Next, add the beef cubes to the pot, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once browned, stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary, ensuring the beef is well coated.
After that, add the carrots, potatoes, and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together and make sure no bits are stuck to the bottom.
Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Finally, stir in the frozen peas, and let the stew sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth before sealing the pot.
You can also thicken the stew by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stirring it into the stew after cooking.
If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Enjoy your hearty beef stew with some crusty bread for dipping!
Creamy Chicken Alfredo
Creamy Chicken Alfredo is a delightful and comforting dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or when you're looking to impress guests with minimal effort. The Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy to create this rich and creamy pasta dish in no time. With tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
This one-pot meal not only simplifies the cooking process but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a satisfying dish that's both hearty and indulgent. Whether you're serving it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, this Creamy Chicken Alfredo is a crowd-pleaser that requires very little cleanup.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pot and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Add the chicken broth to the pot and scrape any browned bits off the bottom. Break the fettuccine in half and add it to the broth, followed by the heavy cream.
Place the seared chicken on top and close the lid. Set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release.
Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some Italian seasoning or freshly cracked black pepper to the dish.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a little extra Parmesan cheese or allow the dish to simmer for a few more minutes after releasing the pressure.
Additionally, feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutritious twist. Enjoy your creamy Chicken Alfredo!
Spicy Chili Con Carne
Spicy Chili Con Carne is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms you from the inside out. This version is perfect for the Instant Pot, allowing you to create a rich, complex flavor in a fraction of the time it would take on the stove. The combination of ground beef, beans, and spices delivers a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or with your favorite toppings.
Not only is this chili easy to prepare, but it also allows for flexibility regarding spice levels and ingredient substitutions. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please. Serve it with cornbread, over rice, or simply with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese on top for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and let it heat for a moment before adding the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onions become translucent.
Next, add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until it's browned, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Once the beef is browned, add the diced tomatoes, drained beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. After cooking, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Stir the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.
Extra Tips:
For a deeper flavor, let the chili sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before reheating; the flavors will meld beautifully. You can also customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or corn, for additional texture and taste.
If you prefer a thicker chili, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry at the end of the cooking process. Enjoy your spicy chili con carne!
Vegetable and Quinoa Medley
Vegetable and Quinoa Medley is a nutritious and flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This one-pot recipe makes use of the Instant Pot's ability to blend and cook ingredients seamlessly, allowing you to create a hearty medley packed with colorful vegetables and protein-rich quinoa.
Not only is it simple to prepare, but it can also be customized based on the vegetables you have on hand or your personal preferences. This dish is ideal for meal prep, as it stores well and reheats beautifully. The combination of quinoa and vegetables provides a balanced meal that's both satisfying and healthy.
With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, the Vegetable and Quinoa Medley is a fantastic option for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome dish without fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps to remove the natural coating called saponin, which can give quinoa a bitter taste.
Next, add the rinsed quinoa, vegetable broth, chopped bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, frozen peas, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the Instant Pot.
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before carefully switching the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
Stir the medley well before serving, and enjoy a colorful and nutritious meal!
Extra Tips:
Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices based on what you have available. You can also add beans or chickpeas for added protein or toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Make sure to adjust the liquid slightly if you add more ingredients to maintain the right consistency.
Teriyaki Salmon and Rice
Cooking a delicious Teriyaki Salmon and Rice in your Instant Pot is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal with minimal effort. This combination of tender salmon fillets paired with fluffy rice and a rich, savory teriyaki sauce makes for a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
The Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also locks in moisture and flavor, guaranteeing that every bite is delightful. This recipe is perfect for busy weekdays when time is of the essence but you still want to serve something homemade and nourishing.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a flavorful dish ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, the clean-up is a breeze with everything cooked in one pot!
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and results in fluffier rice.
Place the rinsed rice into the Instant Pot and add the water or chicken broth. In a separate bowl, mix the teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger.
Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them on top of the rice in the Instant Pot. Pour the teriyaki mixture over the salmon.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure.
Carefully remove the salmon and rice from the pot, and stir the rice to fluff it up. Serve the salmon over the rice, drizzled with any remaining teriyaki sauce, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your Teriyaki Salmon and Rice, consider marinating the salmon in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the fish with even more flavor.
Additionally, feel free to add some vegetables, like broccoli or snap peas, to the pot along with the salmon for a complete one-pot meal. Just make sure they're cut into bite-sized pieces to cook evenly.
Enjoy your quick and tasty dinner!
Classic Beef and Broccoli
Classic Beef and Broccoli is a beloved dish that brings the flavors of Chinese cuisine into the comfort of your own kitchen. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it allows you to simply dump all the ingredients into your Instant Pot and let it work its magic. The tender beef, fresh broccoli, and savory sauce come together to create a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Using the Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also locks in the flavors, guaranteeing that every bite is delicious. With minimal prep and clean-up, this dish isn't only quick but also incredibly easy to make. Gather your ingredients, and let's plunge into this delightful recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
To prepare this Classic Beef and Broccoli in the Instant Pot, begin by combining the sliced beef, soy sauce, beef broth, cornstarch, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in the pot. Stir well to guarantee that the beef is fully coated in the sauce.
Close the lid, seal the vent, and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
After opening the lid, add the broccoli florets to the pot, and stir to combine. Close the lid again and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for an additional 2 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release again. Serve the beef and broccoli over cooked rice and enjoy!
Extra Tips: To enhance the flavor of your beef and broccoli, consider marinating the beef in the soy sauce and sesame oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the sauce after cooking. For an added crunch, top the dish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions before serving.
One-Pot Italian Pasta
One-Pot Italian Pasta is a heartwarming and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Italy right to your dinner table. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping cleanup to a minimum. The combination of fresh vegetables, savory Italian spices, and al dente pasta creates a delightful and satisfying meal.
Not only is this dish comforting, but it's also versatile, allowing you to add your favorite proteins or adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand. With the Instant Pot, you can have a delicious Italian feast ready in no time!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil and let it heat up before adding the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
Next, add the bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Now, you can add the uncooked penne pasta, diced tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to manual high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure. Open the lid and stir the pasta to verify it's evenly coated.
Finally, mix in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Extra Tips:
For added protein, consider including cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or chickpeas to the mix before sealing the pot. Adjust the cooking time slightly if you add raw meat; it may require an additional couple of minutes under pressure.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or pasta shapes, but remember to keep the liquid ratios consistent for the best results. Enjoy your delicious and easy One-Pot Italian Pasta!
Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and Sour Pork is a delightful dish that brings together the perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors. Cooking this dish in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also guarantees that the pork remains tender and juicy. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, and you can serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy.
This easy-to-make dish features a colorful medley of vegetables that complement the sweet and sour sauce beautifully. Plus, the Instant Pot allows for a hands-off cooking experience, enabling you to focus on other tasks while your dinner simmers away. In just a fraction of the time it would take to prepare on the stovetop, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to serve.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
To start, set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the diced pork and season with salt and pepper. Sauté the pork for about 3-4 minutes until it's browned on all sides.
Next, add the diced onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Then, stir in the sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, and pineapple chunks.
Close the Instant Pot lid, confirming it's sealed properly, and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
Open the lid, stir the mixture gently, and serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Extra Tips:
For added texture and flavor, consider including other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or broccoli. You can also adjust the level of sweetness in the dish by adding more or less sweet and sour sauce according to your taste preference.
If you want a thicker sauce, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry after cooking. Just mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce while the Instant Pot is on the sauté setting. Enjoy your Sweet and Sour Pork!
Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish known for its rich, creamy tomato sauce and tender chunks of marinated chicken. Cooking it in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also infuses the chicken with deep flavors, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring minimal prep and cleanup, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home without the fuss.
To kick off this delicious dish, you'll start by marinating the chicken in spices and yogurt, which helps to tenderize the meat while adding fantastic flavors. Then, the Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, simmering everything together to create a harmonious blend of spices that will tantalize your taste buds. Serve it over basmati rice or with warm naan for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and mix until fully coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor.
Once marinated, set your Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and heat the vegetable oil. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Next, add the marinated chicken along with the crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' on high for 10 minutes. After the cooking cycle ends, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Stir in the heavy cream until well incorporated, and your Chicken Tikka Masala is ready to serve!
Extra Tips:
For a more intense flavor, consider roasting the spices in the Instant Pot before adding the chicken and other ingredients. This can be done by sautéing the spices for a minute or two until fragrant.
Additionally, feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference; add more chili powder for heat or more cream for a milder flavor. Leftovers taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch!
Lentil and Vegetable Soup
Lentil and Vegetable Soup is a wholesome and hearty option that's perfect for any day of the week. The Instant Pot makes it easy to combine a variety of vegetables and lentils into a flavorful and nutritious soup in one simple step.
This comforting dish isn't only quick to prepare but is also packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal for both vegetarians and omnivores alike.
With the ability to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, this recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices, or substitute different vegetables according to the season.
This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables, and it's even better when served with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dry lentils (green or brown)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
To make the Lentil and Vegetable Soup, start by rinsing the lentils under cold water and set them aside. In your Instant Pot, add the olive oil (if using), diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
Select the "Sauté" function and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Next, add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.
Open the lid and stir in the chopped kale or spinach, letting it wilt in the hot soup. Serve warm and enjoy!
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing a bay leaf or a few sprigs of fresh herbs along with the vegetables.
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the greens. Additionally, feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking or add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice right before serving for a bright finish.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Simply dump the ingredients into the Instant Pot, set it, and let the magic happen. In just a little over an hour, you'll have succulent pulled pork that can be piled high on soft buns and topped with coleslaw for a delightful crunch.
Whether you're serving it at a barbecue party or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these sandwiches are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Hamburger buns for serving
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Start by cutting the pork shoulder into large chunks for easier cooking. Season the pork with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
- In the Instant Pot, layer the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom. Place the seasoned pork on top.
- Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and half of the BBQ sauce. Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
- After the pork is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the pot and mix in the remaining BBQ sauce. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns and top with coleslaw if desired.
Extra Tips:
For even more flavor, consider marinating the pork shoulder overnight with your favorite spices or BBQ sauce before cooking.
You can also adjust the sweetness and spiciness of the sauce according to your preference. If you have leftovers, they can be easily stored in the fridge for several days or frozen for future meals.
Enjoy experimenting with different toppings, such as pickles or jalapeños, to make your BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches unique!
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a revitalizing and nutritious dish that comes together quickly and easily, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a light lunch. Packed with protein from chickpeas and a vibrant mix of vegetables, this salad bursts with flavors reminiscent of the Mediterranean coast. The combination of fresh ingredients and zesty dressing elevates this dish, making it satisfying and wholesome.
Using the Instant Pot to prepare this salad is a game-changer. While the chickpeas cook to perfection, you can chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing. This method not only saves time but also infuses the salad with complementary flavors, ensuring each bite is delicious. Get ready to enjoy a healthy meal that's as easy to make as it's delightful to eat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas
- 2 cups water
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Start by rinsing the dried chickpeas under cold water and then place them in the Instant Pot with 2 cups of water. Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes, followed by a natural release for about 10 minutes. After the natural release, carefully perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
Once cooked, drain the chickpeas and allow them to cool slightly. While the chickpeas are cooling, prepare the vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the cooled chickpeas to the vegetable mixture, pour the dressing over the top, and toss everything gently until well combined. Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld together.
Extra Tips:
Feel free to customize this salad by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. For a heartier version, you can include quinoa or couscous. This salad makes great leftovers and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be aware that the vegetables may soften over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh!
Taco Soup Delight
Taco Soup Delight is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the comforting essence of tacos into a hearty soup form. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe allows you to simply dump all the ingredients into your Instant Pot, set it, and let it do the work.
With a blend of spices, beans, corn, and ground meat, this soup is sure to satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul. This dish isn't only easy to prepare but also incredibly customizable. You can add your favorite toppings such as avocado, cheese, sour cream, or cilantro to enhance the flavors.
Plus, it's a great way to feed a crowd or meal prep for the week. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of Taco Soup Delight that's bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
To prepare Taco Soup Delight, start by turning on your Instant Pot and using the sauté function. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
Once cooked, drain any excess fat and add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Next, cancel the sauté function and add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 5 minutes before carefully turning the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
Open the lid, stir the soup, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Extra Tips: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground meat and add additional beans or lentils for protein. You can also adjust the spice level by choosing a mild or spicy taco seasoning or adding fresh jalapeños.
This soup freezes well, so consider making a double batch for future meals. Just store in airtight containers and reheat when needed!
Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Cajun Shrimp and Grits is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the taste of the South right to your kitchen with minimal effort. The Instant Pot makes it easy to prepare this classic comfort food, combining succulent shrimp with creamy, cheesy grits in a spicy, savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
In just a short amount of time, you can have a hearty meal that captures the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine. The shrimp cooks quickly while the grits become irresistibly creamy, making for a satisfying combination. With the Instant Pot, all the ingredients come together seamlessly, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours at the stove.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup of grits (quick-cooking)
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup of diced bell peppers (red and green)
- 1/2 cup of diced onions
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Start by adding the chicken broth to the Instant Pot, then stir in the grits and Cajun seasoning. Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure. Open the lid and stir in the butter and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Next, add the diced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic to the pot, mixing well. Finally, fold in the shrimp, making certain they're mixed evenly throughout the grits. Close the lid again and set the Instant Pot to sauté mode for about 5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Extra Tips:
For an extra kick, you can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preference or add a splash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture. If you prefer a more complex flavor, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon or andouille sausage for a heartier version.
Verify the shrimp is fresh and not overcooked to maintain tenderness, and feel free to customize the vegetables based on your taste or what you have on hand. Enjoy your delicious Cajun Shrimp and Grits!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Cook Frozen Ingredients in an Instant Pot Dump Dinner?
You can toss in frozen ingredients without a second thought, and your Instant Pot'll transform them into a delicious meal faster than you can say "dinner is served." It's that easy and convenient!
How Long Does It Take to Prepare a Dump Dinner?
Preparing a dump dinner usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You'll chop your ingredients, toss everything into the pot, and set it to cook. It's quick and easy, leaving you more time to relax!
Can I Meal Prep Dump Dinners in Advance?
Yes, you can definitely meal prep dump dinners in advance. Just assemble your ingredients, store them in airtight containers, and refrigerate or freeze. When you're ready to cook, you'll save time and effort!
What Are the Best Instant Pot Settings for Dump Dinners?
For dump dinners, you should use the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" setting, adjusting the time based on ingredients. Don't forget to seal the valve and select "High Pressure" for best results. Happy cooking!
How Do I Clean My Instant Pot After Cooking?
Did you know that 70% of Instant Pot users report easier clean-up? To clean yours, unplug it, remove the inner pot, and wash it with warm soapy water. Wipe the exterior and steam release valve, too.
