10 Easy Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• 1. Instant Pot Chicken Tacos
• 2. Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
• 3. Instant Pot Vegetable Soup
• 4. Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff
• 5. Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• 6. Instant Pot Lentil Curry
• 7. Instant Pot BBQ Ribs
• 8. Instant Pot Quinoa and Black Bean Bowls
• 9. Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto
• 10. Instant Pot Apple Crisp
• Conclusion
• FAQs

Introduction

In our fast-paced lives, finding time to prepare a nutritious meal can be a challenge. Enter the Instant Pot: a versatile kitchen appliance that can help you whip up delicious meals in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or someone who just wants to save time in the kitchen, these 10 easy Instant Pot recipes will help you conquer your weeknight dinners effortlessly. Let’s dive into these delectable dishes that are not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor!

1. Instant Pot Chicken Tacos

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breasts
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Taco shells and toppings of choice

Instructions

1. Place chicken breasts in the Instant Pot.
2. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the chicken.
3. Pour chicken broth into the pot.
4. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Release the pressure, shred the chicken, and serve in taco shells with your favorite toppings.

Why You’ll Love It

These chicken tacos are not only easy to make but also customizable. You can add toppings like avocado, cheese, or salsa to suit your family’s taste.

2. Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Add macaroni and water to the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
2. Quick release the pressure, stir in cheese, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until creamy and serve hot.

Why You’ll Love It

This creamy mac and cheese is a kid-friendly favorite that can be made in under 15 minutes—perfect for those hectic evenings!

3. Instant Pot Vegetable Soup

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode; add olive oil and onions.
2. Sauté until onions are translucent.
3. Add remaining ingredients and stir.
4. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Quick release and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love It

This hearty vegetable soup is not only nutritious but also a great way to use up leftover veggies in your fridge.

4. Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef stew meat
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Set Instant Pot to sauté mode and brown the beef.
2. Add onions and mushrooms, cook until soft.
3. Pour in beef broth, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
4. Stir in sour cream and flour after releasing pressure, and serve over egg noodles.

Why You’ll Love It

This comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner and can be served over noodles or rice for a filling meal.

5. Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Place chicken thighs in the Instant Pot and cover with teriyaki sauce.
2. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
3. Quick release, then add broccoli and cook on sauté for another 3-5 minutes.
4. Serve over rice.

Why You’ll Love It

This dish is a great way to bring the flavors of takeout into your home without the wait!

6. Instant Pot Lentil Curry

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can coconut milk
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté onion in the Instant Pot until soft.
2. Add lentils, broth, coconut milk, and curry powder.
3. Seal and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
4. Release pressure and serve with rice.

Why You’ll Love It

This vegetarian dish is packed with protein and flavor, making it a healthy option for any night of the week!

7. Instant Pot BBQ Ribs

Ingredients

• 2 lbs pork ribs
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup water

Instructions

1. Place ribs in the Instant Pot and add water.
2. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
3. Quick release the pressure, brush with BBQ sauce, and broil for 5 minutes.

Why You’ll Love It

These BBQ ribs are tender and flavorful, perfect for satisfying your cravings without hours of cooking.

8. Instant Pot Quinoa and Black Bean Bowls

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can black beans, rinsed
• 1 cup corn
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Add quinoa and broth to the Instant Pot; seal and cook on high pressure for 1 minute.
2. Quick release, then stir in beans, corn, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Serve hot with toppings like avocado or salsa.

Why You’ll Love It

This protein-packed bowl is not only healthy but also quick to prepare, making it a perfect meatless meal option.

9. Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Sauté onion and mushrooms in olive oil until soft.
2. Add rice and broth, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
3. Release pressure, stir in cheese, and serve.

Why You’ll Love It

Risotto is often thought of as a labor-intensive dish, but this Instant Pot version is simple and delicious!

10. Instant Pot Apple Crisp

Ingredients

• 4 cups sliced apples
• 1 cup oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Mix apples, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon in the Instant Pot.
2. Dot with butter and seal the lid.
3. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then let it naturally release for 5 minutes.

Why You’ll Love It

This dessert is a sweet end to your meal and can be served warm with a scoop of ice cream!

Conclusion

With these 10 easy Instant Pot recipes, you can transform your weeknight dinners into quick, delicious meals that will please the whole family. The Instant Pot not only saves time but also infuses your dishes with rich flavors, making cooking a breeze. So, grab your Instant Pot and give these recipes a try!

FAQs

Can I double these recipes?

Yes! Most Instant Pot recipes can be doubled, but be sure to adjust cooking times and ensure the pot is not filled beyond the maximum line.

How do I clean my Instant Pot?

Simply wash the inner pot with warm soapy water and wipe down the lid with a damp cloth. The sealing ring can also be removed for thorough cleaning.

Are Instant Pot meals healthy?

Absolutely! Many Instant Pot recipes focus on whole ingredients, making it easy to prepare nutritious meals in less time.

For further information on using your Instant Pot, check out this Ultimate Instant Pot Guide to get started!

By following this guide, you’re well on your way to mastering the art of quick weeknight meals. Happy cooking!