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    Home » Recipes » Dinners » Instant Pot

    Instant Pot Easy Meals

    Published: Jan 8, 2019 · Modified: Jul 14, 2022 by Ang Paris · 5 Comments
    This post may contain affiliate links·

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    Instant Pot Meals the Whole Family Will Love - wings, tacos, mac and cheese, beef stew, ribs, soup, pork tenderloin, even meatloaf! via @jugglingactmamaInstant Pot Meals the Whole Family Will Love - wings, tacos, mac and cheese, beef stew, ribs, soup, pork tenderloin, even meatloaf! via @jugglingactmamaInstant Pot Meals the Whole Family Will Love - wings, tacos, mac and cheese, beef stew, ribs, soup, pork tenderloin, even meatloaf! via @jugglingactmamaInstant Pot Meals the Whole Family Will Love - wings, tacos, mac and cheese, beef stew, ribs, soup, pork tenderloin, even meatloaf! via @jugglingactmamaInstant Pot Meals the Whole Family Will Love - wings, tacos, mac and cheese, beef stew, ribs, soup, pork tenderloin, even meatloaf! via @jugglingactmama

    Instant Pot Easy Meals - When you want dinner on the table but don't have the time to stand over the range cooking it on busy weeknights, the Instant Pot can really save the day.

    collage - Instant Pot Easy Meals

     Stumped as to what to make in your pressure cooker? Look no further! We've rounded up lots of different Instant Pot meals that are perfect for busy weeknights.

    >>> PIN FOR LATER <<<

    Jump to:
    • Simplifying Dinnertime
    • Instant Pot FAQ
    • Instant Pot Tips
    • Instant Pot Easy Meals for Busy Moms
    • Pork Instant Pot Recipes
    • Chicken Instant Pot Recipes
    • Beef Instant Pot Recipes
    • Meatless Instant Pot Recipes
    • Instant Pot Soup Recipes
    • 💬 Comments

    Simplifying Dinnertime

    If you struggle to get dinner on the table, you need two things:

    1. My FREE Menu Planner and Grocery List Printable Set.
    2. Instant Pot

    Getting organized is key, and finding quick and easy recipes are my specialty!  Instant Pot Meals are fast and often cheap, too.  You can do so much more than just make soup with your Instant Pot. 

    Collage of Instant Pot Easy Meals

    Instant Pot FAQ

    Here are some frequently asked questions about using an Instant Pot:

    How is an Instant Pot Different from a Crock-Pot?

    An Instant Pot is basically a pressure cooker that cooks food quickly while a Crock-Pot or "Slow Cooker" typically takes 4 hours or longer. Both devices make cooking easier for busy moms, but the slow cooker requires planning ahead and usually prepping the meal in the morning. Instant Pot meals are made just before mealtime and require less planning.

    What dishes can go in an Instant Pot?

    An oven-safe bowl will work in the Instant Pot and you can use disposable aluminum pans also. Most pressure cookers come with a trivet also.

    Can you put aluminum foil or parchment paper in the Instant Pot?

    Yes, both aluminum foil and parchment paper are fine in the Instant Pot.

    What is natural pressure release?

    An Instant Pot works by building pressure up in the inner pot. Before you can open the lid, you need to release the pressure. NPR or natural pressure release is one way to do that.

    Can you put frozen meat in an Instant Pot?

    While you can put frozen meat into an Instant Pot, it is not recommended. It will take extra time for the pressure to build so your recipe will take longer than if the meat is thawed. Your meat may be uncooked or unevenly cooked, therefore I recommend always starting with thawed ingredients.

    How do I set my Instant Pot to seal?

    • Put the cooking vessel into the pressure cooker.
    • Add your ingredients and liquid to the pot.
    • After that, lock the lid into place.
    • Place the vent in the sealing position.
    • Next, select a button for cooking.
    • Then, set the cooking time. After the machine beeps, it will begin cooking.
      Note: It can take 5 to 25 minutes for the pressure cooker to come up to the desired temperature depending on the size of your pot and the ingredients inside.
    Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

    Instant Pot Tips

    • Just like any recipe, read through the entire thing before you begin making your Instant Pot recipe and follow the recipe as written.
    • Cut your meat and/or vegetables into uniform sizes so that they cook evenly.
    • Do not overfill your cooking pot.
    • Take care in where you place your pressure cooker, keeping in mind where the steam will vent. It's never a good idea to keep it underneath wooden cabinets.
    • To keep your Instant Pot in good working order, you'll want to replace the silicone sealing ring every 18-24 months because they stretch over time.

    Check out these tips and resources from my friend Deb to help guide and simplify making Instant Pot Meals.

    Instant Pot Easy Meals for Busy Moms

    There are so many amazingly delicious meals that will work in a pressure cooker that will save you loads of time.

    You may also want to check out my Busy Moms Survival Guide for more tips and ideas on how to get meals on the table without going crazy!

    Pork Instant Pot Recipes

    Using a pressure cooker for pork is really simple, and these are the recipes we think you should try right away:

    • Pulled pork is one of my favorite foods in the world, but sometimes I don't want to wait all day to enjoy it. This Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork recipe will let you enjoy it in under 2 hours!
    Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
    Our easy Instant Pot Pork Carnitas recipe crazy good - the whole family will love the tender, crispy and juicy pork. This recipe is great for tacos, burritos, salads, and more!
    Get the Recipe >>>
    Instant Pot Korean Meatballs
    Korean Meatballs are a breeze in the Instant Pot
    Get the Recipe >>>
    Korean Meatballs in a soft taco shell with purple cabbage. An Instant Pot Pressure cooker is seen in the background.
    Easy Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin Dinner
    Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin and Potatoes is an all-in-one meal the whole family will love!
    Get the Recipe >>>
    Easy Instant Pot Pork Loin Dinner

    Chicken Instant Pot Recipes

    If you're like me, you probably eat chicken several times a week, right? You are sure to find an Instant Pot Easy Meal on this list:

    • Speaking of comfort food, you don't want to miss Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings! Look at how creamy and delicious it looks!
    • With only five minutes prep time, this Chicken Taco Bowl recipe is sure to save the day on those busy weeknights where you hardly have any time to make dinner.
    • Instant Pot Chicken Wings will be a hit whether you're making them as an appetizer for a party or as a quick meal.
    • If you're in a hurry, make this Asian Chicken in the Instant Pot. It's also a wonderful recipe for the slow cooker, too, if you have more time.
    Instant Pot Bourbon Chicken
    The whole family will love this instant pot honey bourbon chicken! It's a delicious recipe with tender chicken and sticky sauce that's perfect any night of the week.
    Get the Recipe >>>
    Top down view of Instant Pot bourbon chicken in a bowl next to a black and white towel.
    Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
    Every busy mom needs this quick Chicken and Rice recipe! Cook brown rice, chicken breasts and carrots all at the same time for the perfect easy weeknight dinner.
    Get the Recipe >>>
    Instant Pot Orange Chicken Recipe

    Beef Instant Pot Recipes

    The list of Instant Pot Easy Meals with beef are nearly endless, but here are some of our most favorite dishes:

    • Mongolian Beef and Broccoli is a flavorful, easy dish with tender beef and lots of yummy sauce - it's one of my favorite instant pot meals!
    • We had pot roast for dinner on many Sundays when I was growing up, and it's still one of my favorite comfort foods today. Pressure Cooker Pot Roast ensures you get your favorite "tastes like home" dish on the table in no time.
    Instant Pot Beef Chili
    Seasoned ground beef and tomatoes simmered with garbanzo, pinito and kidney beans for a flavorful and hearty meal.
    Get the Recipe >>>
    Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff
    Make creamy beef stroganoff quick and easily in the instant pot. This all in one meal is perfect for busy families on the go!
    Get the Recipe >>>
    two bowls of creamy beef stroganoff with an instant pot in the background
    Instant Pot Beef Stew
    This Instant Pot Beef Stew is flavorful comfort food at it's best without having to wait all day for it to cook! Tender beef with tasty root vegetables make this the perfect beef stew recipe.
    Get the Recipe >>>
    Amazing Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe
    An aluminum pan with Instant Pot Meatloaf ready to be served.
    Instant Pot Meatloaf

    Meatless Instant Pot Recipes

    Going meatless for one or two meals each week can save loads of money on your grocery bill. You're going to love these easy recipes:

    • You won't even miss the meat with this Instant Pot Lo Mein. It's chock full of veggies!
    • My Instant Pot Mac and Cheese (pictured below) is a favorite because it's super quick and easy and SO darn good!
    Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

    Instant Pot Soup Recipes

    When it comes to Instant Pot Easy Meals, it doesn't get much more simple than making soup! Here are some must-try recipes:

    • Ham and White Bean Soup is a wonderful meal to make in a large pressure cooker. You'll have lunch ready for days!
    • And whether you're sick or simply craving a familiar dish, there's never a bad time to have a big bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup.
    • Zucchini and Tomato Soup makes a great lunch when you're looking for something light and healthy.
    • Easy Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
    • Instant Pot Beef Chili Recipe
    • 35+ Easy Weeknight Recipes
    • Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin and Potatoes
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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. June says

      March 20, 2017 at 6:23 pm

      These recipes look really good ... although for the Asian-style foods, try using roasted sesame seeds for better flavor.

      Reply
    2. Lisa L says

      March 22, 2018 at 10:35 am

      I would be excited to try the chicken noodle soup!

      Reply
    3. jamie says

      January 16, 2019 at 8:43 am

      I just got an instant pot for Christmas and I've been looking for some yummy recipes to make. thank you!

      Reply
    4. Ellen R says

      February 04, 2019 at 4:38 pm

      I love my instant pot. Thanks for the ideas!!

      Reply
      • Ang Paris says

        February 05, 2019 at 7:44 am

        It's such a time saver!! Thanks for stopping by!

        Reply

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