Top 5 Festive Instant Pot Recipes for Holiday Cheer

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. 1. Instant Pot Honey Glazed Ham
3. 2. Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
4. 3. Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
5. 4. Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff
6. 5. Instant Pot Eggnog Cheesecake
7. FAQs
8. Conclusion

Introduction

The holiday season is a time for gathering, feasting, and celebrating with loved ones. But let’s face it—spending hours in the kitchen can take away from the joy of the festivities. Enter the Instant Pot, a versatile kitchen marvel that can simplify your cooking while delivering delicious, festive dishes. In this article, we’ll explore five delightful Instant Pot recipes that are sure to elevate your holiday cheer. So put on your apron, and let’s get cooking!

1. Instant Pot Honey Glazed Ham

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ham: Score the ham in a diamond pattern and place it in the Instant Pot.
2. Mix the Glaze: In a bowl, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and whole cloves. Brush this mixture over the ham.
3. Add Water: Pour the water into the pot to create steam.
4. Cook: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes per pound. Allow it to naturally release for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
5. Glaze Again: Once done, brush the ham with the leftover glaze and broil for 5-10 minutes for a caramelized finish.

Why You’ll Love It: This Honey Glazed Ham is not only visually stunning, but the sweet and tangy flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!

2. Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes: Peel and chop the potatoes into even chunks. Place them in the Instant Pot with garlic cloves.
2. Add Water: Pour in enough water to cover the potatoes; about 1 cup should suffice.
3. Cook: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Quick release the pressure when done.
4. Mash: Drain the potatoes and garlic, then return them to the pot. Add butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth.

Why You’ll Love It: Creamy, buttery, and infused with the rich flavor of garlic, these mashed potatoes are the perfect side dish to accompany your holiday ham. For more delicious side options, check out 10 Delicious Healthy Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights.

3. Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: Place cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon stick, and water in the Instant Pot.
2. Cook: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Allow natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
3. Mash or Leave Whole: Depending on your preference, use a fork to mash the sauce or leave it whole.

Why You’ll Love It: This zesty cranberry sauce is a fantastic balance of tart and sweet, making it a refreshing addition to your holiday table.

4. Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Sauté the Meat: Turn on the sauté function and add olive oil. Brown the beef stew meat, then add chopped onions and mushrooms until softened.
2. Add Broth: Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
3. Cook: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Quick release the pressure.
4. Add Noodles and Sour Cream: Stir in the egg noodles and sour cream, then cook on sauté mode until the noodles are tender.

Why You’ll Love It: This hearty dish offers a cozy and comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly holiday nights. Check out 10 Easy Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes for Busy Weeknights for more effortless meal ideas.

5. Instant Pot Eggnog Cheesecake

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press into the bottom of a springform pan.
2. Mix Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, eggnog, vanilla, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Pour and Cook: Pour the filling into the crust, cover with foil, and add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 40 minutes.
4. Cool: Allow to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.

Why You’ll Love It: This creamy, spiced cheesecake is the perfect way to end your festive meal, featuring the classic flavors of eggnog! For more dessert ideas, check out 10 Irresistibly Healthy Dessert Recipes You’ll Love.

FAQs

Q: Can I substitute ingredients in these recipes?
A: Yes! Feel free to substitute based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For example, you can use sweet potatoes for the mashed potatoes or a different type of meat for the stroganoff.

Q: How do I clean my Instant Pot?
A: Most parts of the Instant Pot are dishwasher safe. For deep cleaning, soak the inner pot in warm soapy water, then scrub with a non-abrasive sponge.

Q: Can I prepare these recipes ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Many of these recipes can be prepared in advance and reheated. The flavors often intensify after a day in the fridge.

Conclusion

This holiday season, let the Instant Pot take some of the stress out of your cooking while still allowing you to impress your guests. From savory ham to creamy cheesecake, these festive recipes will bring joy and flavor to your celebrations. So, gather your loved ones, whip up these delightful dishes, and make this season one to remember!

For more holiday inspiration, check out resources like Food Network or Bon Appétit for a plethora of festive ideas. Happy cooking!