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When you're short on time but still want a satisfying dinner, Instant Pot dump meals are a game changer. You can toss everything in, set the timer, and walk away. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty beef stew or a zesty taco pasta, there's a recipe to fit your needs. Curious about how to make meal prep a breeze? Let's explore these convenient options that bring flavor to your table with minimal effort.
Key Takeaways
- Instant Pot dump meals require minimal preparation, allowing all ingredients to be added in one step for quick cooking.
- Popular options include Hearty Instant Pot Beef Stew and Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole, both offering comfort with minimal effort.
- Zesty Taco Pasta and Easy BBQ Pulled Pork are flavorful choices that can be customized with various toppings and spices.
- Many recipes, like Quick and Tasty Vegetable Soup, are nutritious and can accommodate a variety of vegetables or proteins.
- Leftovers from these meals store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep and quick future dinners.
Hearty Instant Pot Beef Stew
Hearty Instant Pot Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a warm and filling dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; you can toss all the ingredients into the Instant Pot, set it, and let it do the work for you. The result is a rich, savory stew that's packed with tender beef and hearty vegetables, making it a complete meal in itself.
This stew isn't only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you're serving it on a family dinner night or meal prepping for the week, this hearty stew will surely satisfy your hunger and warm your soul.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon 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 let it heat up. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. You may need to do this in two or three batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
After browning the beef, remove it and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Then, return the browned beef to the pot along with the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before carefully turning the valve to vent to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and give the stew a good stir before serving.
Extra Tips:
For a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the stew after cooking, then use the sauté function for a few minutes until it thickens.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices or add a splash of red wine for an extra depth of flavor. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and also freeze well for future meals. Enjoy your hearty beef stew!
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
If you're looking for a simple, hearty meal that requires minimal effort, Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole made in the Instant Pot is the perfect solution. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauces, and fluffy rice all in one pot, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
With just a few basic ingredients, this casserole delivers comfort and flavor that will satisfy the whole family.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can toss all the ingredients into the Instant Pot, set it, and let it do the work for you. The end result is a creamy, flavorful casserole that's perfect on its own or paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Get ready to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal cleanup!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the Instant Pot. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
Next, add the long-grain white rice on top of the chicken, followed by the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Finally, add the frozen mixed vegetables on top without stirring.
Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Once the pressure is released, carefully open the lid and stir the mixture to combine all the ingredients. If you're using cheese, sprinkle it on top, close the lid again, and let it sit for a few minutes to melt.
Serve the creamy chicken and rice casserole warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or sauces before cooking.
You can also customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or using brown rice; just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
If you prefer a thicker casserole, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in after cooking to thicken the sauce.
Enjoy your meal!
Zesty Taco Pasta
Zesty Taco Pasta is a fun and flavorful dish that combines the beloved tastes of tacos with the comforting appeal of pasta. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The Instant Pot makes it convenient to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the pasta perfectly cooked and tender.
What's great about this recipe is its versatility; you can easily customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. Whether you're cooking for a family or hosting friends, Zesty Taco Pasta is sure to be a hit. Plus, it's a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious creation!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, cilantro, jalapeños
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add the ground beef or turkey, and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Once browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and broth. Add the pasta and corn, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Once finished, do a quick release of the pressure.
- Stir well and mix in the shredded cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and garnish with your choice of toppings.
Extra Tips:
For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture before cooking.
If you prefer a creamier pasta, you can stir in some cream cheese or sour cream after releasing the pressure.
Don't forget to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use; some may require slightly longer or shorter cooking times. Enjoy your Zesty Taco Pasta!
Savory Vegetable Quinoa
Savory Vegetable Quinoa is a delightful and nutritious dish that makes for a perfect meal when you're short on time but still want something wholesome. This one-pot recipe isn't only quick to prepare, but it also packs a punch with its vibrant vegetables and protein-rich quinoa.
Cooking it in an Instant Pot guarantees the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the ingredients tender and delicious. Ideal for a busy weeknight or meal prep, this dish is versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices.
With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time. Plus, it's gluten-free, vegan, and packed with nutrients, making it a great option for everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the rinsed quinoa, vegetable broth, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients well. Close the lid, guaranteeing the steam release valve is set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 1 minute.
- After cooking, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully switching the valve to venting to release any remaining steam.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your Savory Vegetable Quinoa, you can add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast before serving.
Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables or your favorite spices to make the dish your own. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated easily, making this dish perfect for meal prep. Enjoy your healthy and hearty meal!
Simple Instant Pot Chili
With just a few ingredients and the magic of pressure cooking, you can create a delicious chili that's both satisfying and nutritious. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite beans or spices, making it a versatile dish that caters to various tastes.
Whether served with cornbread or topped with cheese and sour cream, this chili is sure to please.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
Cooking Instructions:
Start by selecting the "Sauté" function on your Instant Pot. Add the ground beef or turkey, onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent, breaking up the meat with a spatula as it cooks.
Once browned, turn off the sauté mode. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Next, add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Close the lid and seal the vent. Set the Instant Pot to "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" on high for 15 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Stir the chili well before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some bell peppers or adding corn to the chili.
If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to include chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
This chili can be easily stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage, making it a great option for meal prep.
Enjoy customizing it with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or lime wedges!
Flavorful Lemon Garlic Chicken
Flavorful Lemon Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the zesty brightness of lemon with the aromatic richness of garlic, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. The Instant Pot makes this recipe not only quick but also incredibly easy, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken juicy and tender.
With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can have a delicious dinner ready in no time that the whole family will love. This dish is versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. The lemon-garlic sauce can also serve as a fantastic marinade for other proteins or even vegetables, making it a great recipe to keep in your culinary repertoire.
Get ready to impress your guests or enjoy a comforting meal at home with this flavorful chicken recipe!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano. In your Instant Pot, use the sauté function and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pot and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Next, pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before performing a quick release to release any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the chicken from the pot, and if desired, you can thicken the sauce by turning the Instant Pot back to the sauté function and reducing the liquid for a few minutes.
Serve the chicken drizzled with the sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the lemon juice and garlic mixture for a couple of hours or overnight before cooking. If you prefer bone-in chicken, adjust the cooking time to about 12-15 minutes to guarantee it cooks through properly.
This dish also freezes well, so you can double the recipe and save some for later!
Easy BBQ Pulled Pork
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of BBQ pulled pork that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Serve it on buns for a classic sandwich or pile it on a plate alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal. Either way, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Buns for serving (optional)
- Coleslaw for topping (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by trimming any excess fat off the pork shoulder, then cut it into large chunks for even cooking.
In a large bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork pieces.
Next, pour the chicken broth into the Instant Pot and place the seasoned pork on top. Pour the BBQ sauce over the pork, ensuring it's well-coated.
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 15 minutes before carefully turning the valve to release any remaining pressure.
Remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Mix the shredded pork back into the BBQ sauce in the pot to combine thoroughly.
Serve on buns with coleslaw for added crunch and flavor.
Extra Tips:
For even more tender and flavorful pulled pork, consider marinating the pork shoulder overnight with the spice rub before cooking.
Additionally, if you prefer a smokier flavor, you can add a few drops of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
If you have leftovers, they can easily be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer shelf life.
Enjoy your delicious BBQ pulled pork!
One-Pot Mediterranean Couscous
One-Pot Mediterranean Couscous is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your dinner table. This recipe isn't only simple and quick to prepare, but it also offers a healthy and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
With just a few ingredients, you can create a colorful and nutritious dish that's sure to please everyone in the family. Using an Instant Pot for this recipe makes the cooking process even more convenient, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while greatly cutting down on cooking time.
The fluffy couscous, combined with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, creates a delightful meal that can be enjoyed on its own or served as a side dish to your favorite protein.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup red onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by adding the vegetable broth to the Instant Pot and set it to sauté mode. Once the broth is heated, add the diced red onion, bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
Next, turn off the sauté function and add the couscous to the pot, ensuring it's evenly distributed in the broth.
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
Carefully open the lid and fluff the couscous with a fork. If desired, mix in the crumbled feta cheese and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavors of your One-Pot Mediterranean Couscous, consider adding olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a richer taste.
You can also customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
This dish can be served warm or chilled, making it a great option for meal prep or a revitalizing side at summer gatherings.
Quick and Tasty Vegetable Soup
When you're in need of a quick and delicious meal, this Instant Pot Vegetable Soup is the perfect solution. Packed with a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, it's not only satisfying but also healthy.
The best part? You can throw everything into the pot and let the Instant Pot do the work for you, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting bowl of soup without the hassle.
This soup can easily be customized based on what you have on hand. Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables, and don't hesitate to add some beans or lentils for extra protein. In just a matter of minutes, you'll have a hearty, nourishing soup that's sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Cooking Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" mode. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Next, add the zucchini, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to "Manual" mode for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
Open the lid and stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Your vegetable soup is now ready to serve!
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice right before serving. If you like a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes.
This soup stores well in the fridge for up to three days, and it also freezes beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead meal option. Enjoy your hearty Instant Pot Vegetable Soup!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Ingredients for These Dump Meals?
Yes, you can use frozen ingredients for these meals! Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed. The Instant Pot handles frozen items well, making meal prep even faster and more convenient for you. Enjoy!
How Long Do These Meals Take to Cook in the Instant Pot?
How long do you want to spend cooking? Most Instant Pot dump meals take around 10 to 30 minutes under pressure, depending on the ingredients. You'll enjoy quick, delicious meals without the fuss!
Are These Recipes Suitable for Meal Prep and Freezing?
Yes, these recipes are perfect for meal prep and freezing. You can batch-cook them and store portions in airtight containers. When you're ready, just reheat them for quick, delicious meals throughout the week!
What Can I Substitute for Ingredients if I Have Allergies?
When life hands you allergies, think creatively! You can swap out allergens with safe alternatives like coconut milk instead of dairy or gluten-free pasta instead of regular. Just guarantee your substitutes complement the dish's flavor.
How Do I Clean My Instant Pot After Making These Meals?
After cooking, unplug your Instant Pot and let it cool. Remove the inner pot and wash it with warm soapy water. Wipe the exterior and lid with a damp cloth, ensuring everything's dry before reassembling.
