Are you tired of breaking the bank on expensive meals? Look no further! The Instant Pot is a game-changer for anyone looking to cook delicious, budget-friendly meals. With its pressure cooking capabilities and versatility, it’s easy to whip up a tasty meal in no time. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that won’t break the bank. From hearty lentil soups to creamy mac and cheese, these instant pot recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Get ready to start cooking with some of the most affordable and impressive meals you’ve ever had!
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious Instant Pot lentil soup recipe. This flavorful soup is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a perfect meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: Your favorite herbs or spices for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cheesy Instant Pot Rice and Beans
Satisfy your hunger with this creamy, cheesy rice and beans dish cooked to perfection in just minutes using an Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Add rice, water, kidney beans, butter, cumin, and paprika to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 16-18 minutes (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
This comforting dish is a staple of busy households – with minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner. This recipe yields a deliciously moist chicken breast served atop fluffy white rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken breast and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove from the pot.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with the remaining oil. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot, close the lid, and set valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press “Manual” mode and cook at high pressure for 8 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Vegetable Beef Steak in Instant Pot
Quickly cook tender beef, vegetables, and steak to perfection with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck roast, sliced into thin strips
– 1 lb vegetable medley (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 steak ( Ribeye or Sirloin), cut into thin strips
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the beef strips, vegetable medley, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode with high pressure for 30 minutes.
6. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Remove the beef steak from the pot and serve with the cooked vegetables and sauce.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Instant Pot Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce
In just a few minutes, you can have a satisfying and flavorful spaghetti dish using your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the marinara sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the spaghetti to the pot, breaking it apart as needed to prevent tangling.
6. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”.
7. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 4 minutes at high pressure.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
9. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 14 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Instant Pot Chili
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional chili, packed with fiber-rich black beans, sweet corn, and spices. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, and chili powder; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Get perfectly cooked mashed potatoes with minimal effort using your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the diced potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
3. Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheap and Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
This recipe transforms classic macaroni and cheese into an instant pot sensation, using minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the macaroni, water, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
4. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and stir the macaroni until creamy and well coated.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including pressure release)
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese!
Instant Pot Potato Soup
Get ready to cozy up with a warm and comforting bowl of potato soup made quickly and easily in your Instant Pot. This recipe yields a rich and creamy soup that’s perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
This recipe is a classic combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the broccoli florets, beef broth, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
7. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Simple Instant Pot Chicken Tacos
Get ready for a flavorful and effortless meal with this recipe! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have delicious chicken tacos cooked to perfection in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 6-8 tacos shells
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Shred the chicken with two forks and serve in tacos shells with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Vegetable Curry
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious Instant Pot Vegetable Curry recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and green beans)
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the oil until shimmering.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, and water.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
7. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Enjoy!
Instant Pot Pulled Pork
In just a few minutes, you can enjoy tender and juicy pulled pork with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat until shimmering.
2. Add the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the pork shoulder and chicken broth to the Instant Pot. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
4. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 90 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Remove the pork shoulder from the Instant Pot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including pressure release)
Cheap Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting soup recipe is a staple in many households. With the help of an Instant Pot, you can whip up a delicious and nutritious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the chicken until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, water, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the chicken to the pot and add the frozen noodles.
6. Stir to combine and cook on “Saute” mode until the noodles are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Cheap Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup!
Instant Pot Garlic Butter Pasta
In this simple yet satisfying recipe, tender pasta is infused with the rich flavors of garlic and butter, all made possible by the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the pasta, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and stir the pasta to ensure it’s well coated with the garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
This recipe is a perfect blend of spicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, and savory tomatoes, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. It’s an easy and delicious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the sausage until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the bell peppers, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure all the ingredients are covered.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the simplicity of canned tomatoes with the richness of heavy cream, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and melt the butter. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken
A sweet and savory twist on traditional chicken dishes, this Instant Pot recipe yields tender and flavorful results with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chicken, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic powder. Stir to coat evenly.
3. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Cabbage and Sausage
This recipe combines the flavors of tender cabbage and savory sausage, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 4 smoked sausages (such as Andouille or knockwurst), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the olive oil, chopped onion, and sliced sausage. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the chopped cabbage, caraway seeds (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “SEALING”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. When the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes total
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Sweet and savory, this Instant Pot recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights! With minimal prep and quick cooking time, you’ll have deliciously glazed chicken thighs in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 1 tbsp of butter.
2. Add chicken thighs, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat.
3. Pour in chicken broth and close the lid.
4. Set valve to “Sealing” and cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Remove chicken thighs and serve with juices spooned over.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus natural pressure release)
Summary
Get delicious and budget-friendly meals with these 20 instant pot recipes! From hearty lentil soup to creamy mac and cheese, there’s something for everyone. Try Instant Pot Lentil Soup, Cheesy Rice and Beans, or Chicken and Rice for a quick and easy meal. For a vegetarian option, check out Vegetable Beef Steak in the Instant Pot or Black Bean and Corn Chili. And don’t forget about comfort foods like Mashed Potatoes and Potato Soup. With these recipes, you’ll be cooking up a storm in no time!
Leave a Reply