15 Instant Pot Dinner Ideas

Craving Delicious Instant Pot Dinners? Get Dinner on the Table Fast with Easy Recipes!

We all love a delicious and satisfying meal, but who has hours to spend in the kitchen? That’s where your Instant Pot comes in!

This amazing appliance can whip up incredible dinners in a fraction of the time. But with so many recipes out there, where do you start?

Look no further! In this guide, we’ll unveil a treasure trove of Instant Pot dinner recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights or even weekend feasts.

From classic comfort food to international flavors, we have something for everyone. So ditch the takeout menus and get ready to impress your family with these quick and easy Instant Pot dinner ideas!

1. Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

This Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup combines tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables in a creamy, savory broth. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, and the Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy to prepare.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
• 1 cup wild rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup flour

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil, then sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in wild rice, chicken broth, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 25 minutes.
5. Once done, do a quick release. Stir in heavy cream and flour until the soup is thickened.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Serve with: Crusty bread or a green salad.

Drink with: A glass of Chardonnay or a warm cup of herbal tea.

2. Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

Craving takeout but want to stay in? This Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli is your answer. Juicy beef slices and crisp-tender broccoli come together in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that’s better than any restaurant. Plus, it’s ready in a flash thanks to the Instant Pot!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1 broccoli head, cut into florets
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add vegetable oil and brown the beef slices.
2. Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
3. Pour in soy sauce, beef broth, and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
4. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Do a quick release, then stir in broccoli florets.
6. Mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry, then add to the pot and sauté until the sauce thickens.
7. Serve over steamed rice.

Serve with: Steamed rice or quinoa.

Drink with: Green tea or a light beer.

3. Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Sweet, savory, and utterly delicious, this Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken thighs are cooked in a flavorful honey garlic sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp water

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides.
2. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the Instant Pot.
4. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 15 minutes.
5. Do a quick release. Remove chicken and set aside.
6. Mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry, then stir into the sauce. Sauté until thickened.
7. Return chicken to the pot and coat with the sauce.

Serve with: Steamed rice and sautéed green beans.

Drink with: A crisp white wine or iced green tea.

4. Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili

This hearty chili is full of vegetables, beans, and spices, making it a perfect vegetarian option. It’s protein-packed and can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can kidney beans, drained
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 1 can corn, drained
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Cook onion, bell peppers, and garlic until softened.
2. Add beans, corn, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 15 minutes.
4. Do a quick release. Stir well and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with your favorite chili toppings.

Serve with: Cornbread or tortilla chips.

Drink with: A cold beer or sparkling water with lime.

5. Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Everyone loves a good mac and cheese, and this Instant Pot version is super creamy and cheesy. It’s the perfect side dish or a satisfying main course on its own.

Recipe

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. Add macaroni and water to the Instant Pot. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 4 minutes.
2. Do a quick release. Drain any excess water.
3. Stir in butter, milk, and cheese until creamy and smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve with: A side salad or steamed vegetables.

Drink with: A glass of milk or a light white wine.

6. Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas

Get ready for a fiesta in your kitchen with these Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas! Juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and onions are cooked to perfection with a blend of spices. Wrap them in warm tortillas and enjoy a delightful, flavor-packed meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add chicken slices and cook until slightly browned.
2. Add bell peppers, onion, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in chicken broth and stir well.
4. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Do a quick release. Stir and serve the chicken and veggies in warm tortillas.

Serve with: Guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.

Drink with: A margarita or a cold beer.

7. Instant Pot Cuban Pork Stew

This flavorful stew is packed with tender pork, black beans, and a vibrant sofrito base. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cold winter night.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder, cubed
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and brown the pork cubes.
2. Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
3. Stir in potatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
4. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 30 minutes.
5. Do a quick release. Stir well and serve hot.

Serve with: White rice and black beans.

Drink with: A mojito or a glass of cold lemonade.

8. Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon

This Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon is a quick and healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor. The tender salmon fillets are infused with the zesty taste of lemon and the aromatic touch of garlic, making it a delightful dish for any occasion.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 lemons, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
2. Pour in chicken broth and place lemon slices on the bottom of the pot.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them on top of the lemon slices.
4. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Do a quick release. Remove salmon and serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Serve with: Steamed asparagus or a mixed green salad.

Drink with: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon.

9. Instant Pot One-Pot Pasta Primavera

This colorful pasta dish is packed with fresh vegetables and tossed in a light and flavorful sauce. It’s a great way to get your daily dose of veggies in a satisfying meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
2. Add pasta, vegetable broth, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, yellow squash, broccoli, and bell pepper.
3. Stir well, then seal the lid and set to high pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Do a quick release. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Serve with: Garlic bread or a side salad.

Drink with: A glass of Pinot Grigio or iced tea.

10. Instant Pot Thai Curry Chicken

Bring the exotic flavors of Thailand to your kitchen with this Instant Pot Thai Curry Chicken. Creamy coconut milk, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables make this dish a real treat for your taste buds.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
• 1 can coconut milk
• 2 tbsp red curry paste
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add vegetable oil and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
2. Add chicken and cook until slightly browned.
3. Stir in red curry paste, coconut milk, fish sauce, and soy sauce.
4. Add bell peppers, onion, and snap peas.
5. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Do a quick release. Stir well and serve hot.

Serve with: Jasmine rice or rice noodles.

Drink with: A Thai iced tea or a cold beer.

11. Instant Pot Short Rib Ragu

Looking to impress? This Instant Pot short rib ragu is a showstopper. The short ribs are braised to tender perfection in a rich and flavorful sauce. Serve it over pasta for a decadent and satisfying meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef short ribs
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and brown the short ribs on all sides.
2. Remove short ribs and set aside. Add onion, carrots, and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, red wine, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Return short ribs to the pot.
5. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 45 minutes.
6. Do a natural release. Remove bay leaves and shred the meat, then stir it back into the sauce.
7. Serve over pasta or polenta.

Serve with: Creamy polenta or pappardelle pasta.

Drink with: A robust red wine like Chianti or a glass of sparkling water.

12. Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

Warm, zesty, and full of flavor, this Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any day. With tender chicken, hearty beans, and a flavorful broth, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Tortilla strips for garnish

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and cook onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add chicken breast, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Do a quick release. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
5. Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, avocado, and cilantro.

Serve with: Tortilla chips or a side of Mexican rice.

Drink with: A cold cerveza or lime-infused sparkling water.

13. Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff

This classic comfort food is even easier to make in the Instant Pot. Tender beef strips are cooked in a creamy mushroom sauce for a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Egg noodles for serving

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and brown the beef slices.
2. Add onion, mushrooms, and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 15 minutes.
5. Do a quick release. Mix flour with sour cream, then stir into the pot until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve over cooked egg noodles.

Serve with: A side of steamed green beans or a simple salad.

Drink with: A glass of Merlot or a cold glass of water with a lemon slice.

14. Instant Pot Lentil Soup

This Instant Pot Lentil Soup is hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal, loaded with lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and cook onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
2. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 15 minutes.
4. Do a quick release. Stir well and serve hot.

Serve with: Crusty bread or a side salad.

Drink with: A glass of red wine or a warm herbal tea.

15. Instant Pot Cheeseburger Soup

This Instant Pot Cheeseburger Soup is a fun and hearty dish that combines all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a comforting, creamy soup. It’s perfect for a cozy meal that the whole family will love.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tbsp flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and brown the ground beef.
2. Add onion, carrots, potatoes, and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
4. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Do a quick release. Mix flour with milk, then stir into the pot along with cheddar cheese until the soup is creamy and thickened.
6. Serve hot, topped with extra cheese if desired.

Serve with: Garlic bread or a side salad.

Drink with: A milkshake or a cold glass of soda.

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