Between school drop-offs, work deadlines, and after-school activities, finding time to cook a wholesome meal can feel impossible for busy families. That’s where the Instant Pot comes in—a game-changer for quick, delicious, and nutritious meals with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving comfort food or a healthy dinner, these top 7 Instant Pot recipes will save you time without sacrificing flavor. Let’s dive in!
1. Creamy Instant Pot Mac & Cheese
Nothing beats the classic comfort of mac and cheese, and this Instant Pot version is ready in under 15 minutes. Perfect for picky eaters, this dish is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups water or broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add macaroni and water to the Instant Pot. Cook on High Pressure for 4 minutes.
- Quick release, then stir in butter, milk, and cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.
2. Instant Pot Chicken Tacos
Taco night just got easier! These juicy, flavorful chicken tacos require only 5 minutes of prep and cook in under 20 minutes. Customize with your favorite toppings for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breasts
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Tortillas and toppings (lettuce, cheese, avocado, etc.)
Instructions:
- Place chicken, taco seasoning, salsa, and broth in the Instant Pot.
- Cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes, then shred the chicken.
- Serve in tortillas with your favorite toppings.
3. Instant Pot Beef Stew
Hearty and comforting, this beef stew is packed with tender meat, potatoes, and carrots—all cooked to perfection in under an hour. A one-pot wonder for chilly nights!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp thyme
Instructions:
- Sauté beef, onions, and garlic in the Instant Pot using the Sauté function.
- Add remaining ingredients and cook on High Pressure for 35 minutes.
- Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before serving.
4. Instant Pot Vegetable Soup
Need a healthy, veggie-packed meal in minutes? This Instant Pot vegetable soup is light yet filling, and it’s a great way to sneak in extra nutrients for the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, green beans, etc.)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot.
- Cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes.
- Quick release and serve warm.
5. Instant Pot Spaghetti & Meatballs
Skip the long simmering time—this Instant Pot spaghetti and meatballs dish is ready in just 15 minutes! A family favorite that’s both easy and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1 lb frozen meatballs
- 4 cups water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
- Break spaghetti in half and layer in the Instant Pot with meatballs and sauce.
- Pour water over the top and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes, then quick release.
6. Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet, savory, and sticky—this honey garlic chicken is a hit with kids and adults alike. Serve it over rice for a complete meal in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger
Instructions:
- Place all ingredients in the Instant Pot.
- Cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes.
- Quick release and serve over rice.
7. Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork
Tender, juicy pulled pork with minimal effort? Yes, please! This recipe is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or even loaded nachos—great for meal prep too!
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp onion powder