5 Quick and Easy Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Recipe 1: Instant Pot Chicken Tacos
3. Recipe 2: Instant Pot Vegetable Soup
4. Recipe 3: Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff
5. Recipe 4: Instant Pot Quinoa and Black Beans
6. Recipe 5: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
7. Conclusion

Introduction

Are you tired of scrambling in the kitchen after a long day? The Instant Pot can be your best friend on busy weeknights, transforming simple ingredients into delicious meals in a fraction of the time. This handy kitchen appliance combines functions like a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and even a steamer, making it perfect for preparing quick meals. In this article, we’ll explore five delightful and easy Instant Pot recipes that will have you enjoying a home-cooked meal in no time!

Also, for more quick and healthy meal options, check out our collection of 10 Quick and Healthy Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights.

Recipe 1: Instant Pot Chicken Tacos

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup salsa
• Taco shells and toppings (lettuce, cheese, avocado, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot and sprinkle with taco seasoning.
2. Add Liquids: Pour the chicken broth and salsa over the chicken.
3. Cook: Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual mode for 10 minutes.
4. Release Pressure: Once done, perform a quick release.
5. Shred and Serve: Shred the chicken and serve in taco shells with your favorite toppings.

FAQ:

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time to 15 minutes.

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Recipe 2: Instant Pot Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced potatoes
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables: Use the sauté function to cook carrots, celery, and potatoes for about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Pressure Cook: Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual mode for 5 minutes.
4. Quick Release: After cooking, perform a quick release and serve hot.

FAQ:

Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables.

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Recipe 3: Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 package egg noodles (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté Beef: Use the sauté function to brown the beef for about 5 minutes.
2. Add Ingredients: Add onion, broth, mushrooms, and garlic powder. Stir well.
3. Cook: Seal the lid and set to manual mode for 25 minutes.
4. Release Pressure: Perform a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
5. Thicken Sauce: Mix flour with sour cream, then stir into the pot. Heat on sauté until thickened.
6. Serve: Serve over cooked egg noodles if desired.

FAQ:

Can I use ground beef instead?
Yes! Just reduce the cooking time to 15 minutes.

Recipe 4: Instant Pot Quinoa and Black Beans

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: Add quinoa, black beans, corn, vegetable broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
2. Cook: Seal the lid and set to manual mode for 1 minute.
3. Natural Release: Allow for a natural release of 10 minutes, then quick release.
4. Fluff and Serve: Fluff with a fork and serve as a side or a main dish.

FAQ:

What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs well with salsa and avocado or can be served as a burrito bowl.

Recipe 5: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta: Add macaroni and water to the Instant Pot. Seal the lid and set to manual mode for 4 minutes.
2. Release Pressure: Perform a quick release.
3. Add Cheese and Milk: Stir in cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until creamy.
4. Serve: Enjoy your delicious mac and cheese right away!

FAQ:

Can I add extras like bacon or vegetables?
Definitely! Stir in cooked bacon or steamed vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

These five quick and easy Instant Pot recipes are perfect solutions for your busy weeknights in 2024. They’re not only time-efficient but also packed with flavor and nutrition. So, whether you’re craving tacos, soup, or a comforting bowl of mac and cheese, your Instant Pot has you covered. Happy cooking!

For more Instant Pot recipes and tips, check out Instant Pot’s Official Website or explore our 10 Easy Healthy Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Weeknights.