10+ Quick & Easy Instant Pot Dinner Recipes for Busy Nights

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When you're short on time but still want a satisfying meal, Instant Pot recipes can be a game changer. They simplify dinner prep, letting you whip up hearty dishes in a fraction of the time. Whether you're in the mood for a comforting stew or a light seafood dish, there's something here for everyone. Let's explore some quick options that can transform your busy nights into culinary successes.

Key Takeaways

• Quick cooking times: Instant Pot recipes significantly reduce meal prep, allowing you to serve dinner in under an hour.
• One-pot convenience: Many recipes require minimal cleanup, making it easier to enjoy meals without extensive dishwashing.
• Versatile ingredients: Customize dishes based on personal preferences or what you have on hand, ensuring meals suit all tastes.
• Nutrient-rich options: Recipes like vegetarian chili and vegetable curry provide healthy, satisfying meals packed with nutrients.
• Flavorful dishes: Instant Pot recipes enhance flavors through pressure cooking, making even simple ingredients taste gourmet.

Hearty Instant Pot Beef Stew

Hearty Instant Pot Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave something warm and filling. This dish combines tender chunks of beef with a medley of vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth that brings out the rich flavors.

Using an Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also guarantees that every bite is infused with deliciousness, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

This beef stew isn't only hearty but also versatile. You can easily tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Serve it with a crusty piece of bread or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a truly satisfying meal.

Get ready to enjoy a bowl of warmth that will surely please the entire family!

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function. Add olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove the browned beef and set it aside.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
3. Return the browned beef to the pot, then add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Stir everything together to combine.
4. Close the lid and seal the vent. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" function and set the timer for 35 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure. If using, stir in the frozen peas just before serving.

Extra Tips:

For the best flavor, consider marinating the beef in red wine and herbs for a few hours before cooking. This step infuses the meat with additional richness.

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in after releasing the pressure, then sauté for a few more minutes until it thickens. Enjoy your hearty beef stew!

Creamy Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo

Creamy Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo is a delicious and quick dinner option that brings the comfort of a classic Italian dish right to your table. The pressure cooker allows you to infuse flavors into the chicken and pasta while creating a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce that coats each bite perfectly.

With minimal prep time and the convenience of one-pot cooking, this meal is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with a homemade dish.

This recipe combines tender chicken breast, fettuccine pasta, and a creamy sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. The Instant Pot not only cooks the ingredients quickly but also simplifies the cleanup process, making it an excellent choice for those who want a delicious meal without the fuss.

So, grab your Instant Pot and get ready to enjoy a comforting plate of Chicken Alfredo that's sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Then, add the seasoned chicken breasts and brown them on both sides for about 2-3 minutes each.

2. Next, pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Break the fettuccine in half and arrange it over the chicken. Don't stir.

Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release. Open the lid, remove the chicken, and set it aside.

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth, then slice the chicken and return it to the pot. Toss everything together to combine.

Extra Tips:

For an even creamier sauce, you can add a bit more heavy cream or cheese to taste.

To enhance the flavor, consider incorporating cooked vegetables like broccoli or peas during the final few minutes of cooking.

Ultimately, if you prefer a garlic butter finish, drizzle a little more melted butter on top before serving and garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Alfredo!

Flavorful Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili

This vegetarian chili isn't only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.

Serve it with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or shredded cheese for an extra burst of flavor. Whether you're a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to try something new, this chili is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream

Cooking Instructions:

1. Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" mode and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the bell pepper, carrots, celery, and zucchini to the pot, and sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Next, incorporate the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and verify the valve is set to sealing. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
6. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for 10 minutes before carefully switching the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
7. Open the lid and stir the chili before serving.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of your Vegetarian Chili, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity from the tomatoes.

You can also customize the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This chili freezes well, so feel free to make a double batch and store the leftovers in airtight containers for quick meals later on!

Quick Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp

In just a matter of minutes, you can have a gourmet-style dish ready to serve. Pair it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

The best part is that the cleanup is minimal, making it a hassle-free option for busy evenings. Get ready to enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 cup chicken broth or seafood stock
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Start by setting your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Once it's hot, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Add the shrimp to the pot along with red pepper flakes, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir everything together to combine well.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to "Sealing." Set the Instant Pot to "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" for 1 minute on high pressure. Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release.
4. Open the lid carefully, season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, use fresh shrimp for a more robust flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they're fully thawed before cooking to guarantee even cooking.

You can also customize the spices to your liking—try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or fresh herbs like thyme for an additional flavor dimension.

Finally, serve immediately for the best texture, as the shrimp can become rubbery if left to sit too long. Enjoy your meal!

Savory Instant Pot Quinoa and Black Beans

Savory Instant Pot Quinoa and Black Beans is a nutritious and satisfying dish that's perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe isn't only delicious but also a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your meals. The combination of quinoa and black beans creates a hearty texture, while the spices add a depth of flavor that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Using the Instant Pot makes this recipe incredibly convenient, allowing you to prepare the dish in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. With minimal effort, you can have a flavorful and filling meal ready in just under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead.

Let's explore the simple ingredients and easy steps to create this delightful dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil, and once it's hot, sauté the diced onion for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
2. Then, add the minced garlic and bell pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Next, add the rinsed quinoa, black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together to combine well.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to the sealing position, and set it to cook on high pressure for 1 minute.
5. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before carefully turning the valve to release any remaining pressure.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider incorporating your favorite spices or herbs, such as smoked paprika or oregano.

You can also customize the dish by adding vegetables like corn, diced tomatoes, or spinach during the cooking process.

To make it a complete meal, serve it with avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Enjoy your Savory Instant Pot Quinoa and Black Beans as a standalone dish or as a filling for tacos or burritos!

Easy Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs

Cooking delicious spaghetti and meatballs in an Instant Pot is a game-changer for busy weeknights. This method not only saves time but also infuses the pasta and meatballs with a rich flavor that develops as they cook together.

Imagine tender meatballs coated in a savory tomato sauce, served over perfectly cooked spaghetti—all in less than 30 minutes! It's a comforting meal that the whole family will love, making it a staple in your dinner rotation.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and your Instant Pot, you can create a hearty and satisfying dinner without the fuss of traditional cooking methods.

Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, this Instant Pot spaghetti and meatballs recipe is straightforward and guarantees a delicious outcome every time.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 3 cups water
• 12 oz spaghetti
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into meatballs (about 1-2 inches in diameter).
2. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function. Add a splash of oil and brown the meatballs for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until they're nicely browned. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Once the meatballs are browned, remove them and set aside. Pour in the marinara sauce and water, scraping the bottom to deglaze the pot. Break the spaghetti in half and add it to the pot, pressing it down to submerge it in the liquid.
4. Place the meatballs on top of the spaghetti, then close the lid and seal the valve. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" function and set the timer for 8 minutes. When the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure.
5. Once the pressure is released, stir the spaghetti and meatballs gently to combine everything. If desired, garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers when sautéing the meatballs. You can also customize the dish by using different types of pasta or adding vegetables to the sauce.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the dish to simmer on the "Sauté" setting for a few additional minutes after pressure cooking. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Instant Pot spaghetti and meatballs!

One-Pot Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

One-Pot Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is a delightful and fulfilling meal that comes together effortlessly in your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice makes it a family favorite, and the best part is that everything cooks in just one pot, minimizing cleanup.

This dish isn't only delicious but also customizable. You can add vegetables, switch up the spices, or use different cuts of chicken based on your preferences. The Instant Pot locks in flavors and moisture, ensuring that your chicken is juicy and your rice is perfectly cooked. Once you try this recipe, you'll be inspired to make it again and again!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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 onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Next, season the chicken with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper, then add it to the pot. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.

Next, add the rice, chicken broth, and frozen peas and carrots to the pot. Stir everything together to combine. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 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. Carefully open the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Extra Tips:

For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or sauces for a few hours before cooking. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition.

If you wish to make it a bit spicy, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce can enhance the dish beautifully. Remember to adjust the cooking time if you choose to use brown rice, as it typically requires a longer cooking time. Enjoy your one-pot wonder!

Delicious Instant Pot Vegetable Curry

Not only is this curry delicious, but it's also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through the process of creating a delectable dish that the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the coconut oil, and once melted, toss in the diced onion, garlic, and ginger.

Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Next, stir in the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric, allowing the spices to toast for about a minute.

Add the chopped bell peppers, sliced carrots, green beans, peas, coconut milk, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Close the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the vent is set to sealing, and set it to cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure.

Open the lid, stir the curry, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Extra Tips:

For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating a splash of lime juice just before serving.

This dish can be easily adapted to suit your taste; feel free to add proteins like chickpeas or tofu for a heartier meal. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, and the flavors will only improve as they meld together.

Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Vegetable Curry with steamed rice, naan, or even quinoa for a nutritious twist!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Ingredients in These Instant Pot Recipes?

Using frozen ingredients in your Instant Pot recipes is like adding a secret weapon to your culinary arsenal. You'll save time and still enjoy delicious meals that taste like they've simmered all day.

How Long Does It Take to Preheat the Instant Pot?

It usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes for your Instant Pot to preheat, depending on the recipe and ingredients you're using. Just be patient; it'll speed up your cooking once it's ready!

What Size Instant Pot Is Best for Families?

When choosing an Instant Pot for your family, a 6-quart model is usually ideal. It comfortably serves 4-6 people, while an 8-quart version offers extra capacity for larger gatherings or meal prep.

Can I Double These Recipes in My Instant Pot?

Yes, you can double these recipes in your Instant Pot, but make sure not to exceed the maximum fill line. Adjust cooking times slightly, and keep an eye on pressure release for best results.

How Do I Clean My Instant Pot After Cooking?

To clean your Instant Pot after cooking, unplug it and disassemble the parts. Wash the inner pot, lid, and sealing ring in warm soapy water. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth, and you're done!