15 Easy Instant Pot Dinner Recipes For Family

Finding time to cook for your family can be tricky, but with these easy Instant Pot dinner recipes for family, it’s a breeze to get a delicious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. These recipes are perfect for those busy weeknights when you need quick Instant Pot dinner recipes for family that don’t break the bank.

Whether you’re looking for cheap Instant Pot dinners or easy dinner recipes for family Instapot, these dishes are packed with flavor and sure to please everyone. From hearty curries to comforting pastas, these Instapot dinner recipes are not only quick and simple but also versatile enough for picky eaters. So, let’s dive into these quick and easy dinner recipes Instant Pot to make mealtime stress-free and enjoyable!

1. Chicken Biryani

Chicken Biryani is like a party in your mouth. It’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat your family to something amazing. The layers of spiced chicken and fragrant rice come together beautifully, and it smells soooo good while it cooks. My kids love this dish, especially with a dollop of yogurt or raita on the side. This recipe serves 4–6 people and is ready in about 1.5 hours.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1 lb chicken (bone-in or boneless)
• 2 onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup yogurt
• 3 tbsp cooking oil or ghee
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tsp biryani masala powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
• 2-3 green chilies, slit
• 4 cups water
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prep the Rice: Wash the basmati rice until the water runs clear. Soak it for 30 minutes, then cook it with a pinch of salt until 70% done. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat oil or ghee in a large pot. Add the sliced onions and fry until golden brown. Remove half the onions for garnishing. Add ginger-garlic paste, then the chicken, and cook until it changes color.
3. Add Spices and Yogurt: Stir in tomatoes, turmeric, chili powder, and biryani masala. Cook until the tomatoes soften. Add yogurt, mint, and cilantro, and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and coated in the masala.
4. Layer It Up: In the same pot, layer half the cooked rice over the chicken. Sprinkle some fried onions, mint, and cilantro. Add the rest of the rice and repeat the garnish.
5. Steam It (Dum): Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid or foil. Cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes until the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Serve: Gently mix the layers before serving with raita or a simple salad.

2. Beef Keema (Ground Beef Curry)

Beef Keema is a comforting dish that’s so versatile! It’s full of warm spices and juicy ground beef that soaks up all the flavors. You can serve it with rice, roti, or even use it as a stuffing for samosas or parathas. My family loves this recipe because it’s quick, hearty, and full of flavor. This recipe serves 4–6 and is ready in about 40 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (keema)
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 cup peas (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Onion: Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they sizzle, add the chopped onion and cook until golden brown.
2. Cook the Beef: Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute. Then, add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink. Break it up with a spoon to avoid clumps.
3. Add Spices and Tomatoes: Mix in turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, and coriander powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they’re soft and the oil starts to separate.
4. Simmer: Add a little water if needed, cover, and let it cook for 15–20 minutes until the flavors come together.
5. Optional Veggies: Stir in peas if using and cook for 5 more minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve hot with roti, naan, or rice.

3. Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug. It’s creamy, rich, and just a little tangy from the tomatoes. This recipe is a bit indulgent, but totally worth it for family dinners or special occasions. My kids always ask for seconds when I make this! It serves 4–5 people and takes about 50 minutes to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken (boneless, skinless thighs or breast)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp cooking oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 2 tbsp plain yogurt
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Mix yogurt, turmeric, chili powder, and salt in a bowl. Add the chicken and let it marinate for 20–30 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat oil and 1 tbsp butter in a pan. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden but not fully done. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, add the remaining butter and chopped onions. Cook until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute.
4. Add Spices and Tomato Puree: Stir in cumin, coriander, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook for 2 minutes, then add the tomato puree. Cook until the oil separates.
5. Combine and Simmer: Add the chicken back to the pan, along with cream. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with cilantro and serve with naan or rice.

4. Lentil Soup (Daal)

This Lentil Soup, or Daal, is such a comforting and nutritious dish. It’s simple but packed with flavor, and it goes so well with rice or roti. My family loves this for a light dinner, especially when paired with a side of pickles or a little salad. It serves 4 and takes about 40 minutes to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils (masoor dal)
• 4 cups water
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 dried red chilies
• 1 tsp red chili powder (optional)
• 1 tbsp ghee or oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Lentils: Rinse the lentils and cook them with water, turmeric, and a pinch of salt in a pot or pressure cooker until soft. This takes about 20 minutes on the stovetop or 8 minutes in a pressure cooker.
2. Make the Tempering (Tadka): Heat ghee in a small pan. Add cumin seeds and dried chilies, letting them sizzle. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in ginger-garlic paste, tomatoes, and chili powder. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil separates.
4. Combine: Add the tempering to the cooked lentils and simmer for 5–10 minutes. Adjust salt and water to your desired consistency.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve with rice, roti, or on its own with lemon wedges on the side.

5. Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Chicken Alfredo Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and super kid-friendly. It’s one of those dishes that makes everyone happy without much effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, and you can even add veggies like broccoli or mushrooms to make it a bit healthier. This recipe serves 4 and takes about 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fettuccine pasta
• 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a pan and cook the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and pepper until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for a minute. Add cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and a bit of salt and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
4. Combine Everything: Toss the pasta and chicken into the sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.

6. Vegetable Pulao

Vegetable Pulao is an easy, one-pot dish that’s flavorful and packed with colorful veggies. It’s great as a light meal or a side dish with curries. My kids love it with a little yogurt on the side! This recipe serves 4–6 and takes about 40 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans)
• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 cardamom pods
• 2 cloves
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 4 cups water

Instructions:

1. Prep the Rice: Wash and soak the rice for 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Spices: Heat ghee in a large pot and add cumin seeds, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and bay leaf. Let them sizzle.
3. Add Onions and Veggies: Add sliced onions and cook until golden. Stir in turmeric, garam masala, and salt. Add the mixed veggies and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
4. Add Rice and Water: Add the drained rice and water. Stir gently and bring to a boil.
5. Simmer: Lower the heat, cover, and cook until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed (about 20 minutes).
6. Fluff and Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.

7. Spaghetti and Meatballs (Beef or Chicken)

This Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is a classic family favorite. Juicy meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, served over spaghetti, make it a dish everyone loves. I like using either beef or chicken for the meatballs, depending on what I have on hand. This recipe serves 4–6 and takes about 45 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef or chicken
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Make the Meatballs: In a bowl, mix ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into small balls (about 1 inch).
2. Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the meatballs until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Simmer in Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce. Add the meatballs and simmer for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked.
4. Cook the Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss with a bit of olive oil.
5. Serve: Plate the spaghetti, top with meatballs and sauce, and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.

8. Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp Fried Rice is quick, flavorful, and perfect for using up leftover rice. The juicy shrimp, mixed with veggies and soy sauce, gives it that restaurant-style vibe. My kids call it “fancy rice” and always ask for seconds! This recipe serves 4 and takes about 25 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cooking oil
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the Shrimp: Heat oil in a pan and cook the shrimp with a pinch of salt until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Scramble the Eggs: In the same pan, scramble the eggs and set aside.
3. Cook the Veggies: Add a bit more oil, then sauté garlic and mixed veggies until tender.
4. Add the Rice: Add the rice and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes. Drizzle in soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing well.
5. Combine Everything: Add the shrimp, scrambled eggs, and green onions. Mix and cook for another minute. Serve hot.

9. Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is one of those dishes that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make. The grilled chicken and creamy, spiced tomato sauce are a perfect combo. It’s great for family dinners or impressing guests. This recipe serves 4–5 and takes about 1 hour.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken (boneless thighs or breast)
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Mix yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, and cumin in a bowl. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill or Cook the Chicken: Cook the chicken on a grill or in a pan until slightly charred and fully cooked. Set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: Heat butter in a pan and sauté onions until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste, then stir in the tomato puree and cook until thickened.
4. Add Spices and Cream: Stir in garam masala, salt, and cream. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
5. Combine: Add the chicken to the sauce and simmer for another 10 minutes. Serve with naan or rice.

10. Potato and Chickpea Curry

Potato and Chickpea Curry is a hearty vegetarian dish that’s simple to make and so flavorful. The creamy potatoes and protein-packed chickpeas soak up the spices beautifully. It’s great with rice or naan and perfect for a cozy family dinner. This recipe serves 4–5 and takes about 40 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder (optional)
• 1 cup water
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Onion: Heat oil in a pot, add cumin seeds, and let them sizzle. Add the onion and cook until golden brown.
2. Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, coriander, and garam masala. Cook for 1–2 minutes, then add the tomatoes. Cook until soft.
3. Add Potatoes: Add the potatoes and stir to coat them in the spices. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add Water and Chickpeas: Pour in water, add chickpeas, and cover the pot. Simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 15–20 minutes).
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

11. BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

These BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are messy, saucy, and totally delicious! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun family picnic. The chicken is tender and flavorful, and the sandwiches come together in no time. This recipe serves 4 and takes about 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• 4 brioche buns
• 1 cup coleslaw (optional)
• 1 tbsp oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet and sear the chicken on both sides.
2. Simmer with BBQ Sauce: Add BBQ sauce and chicken broth to the pan. Cover and cook on low heat for 20 minutes, until the chicken is tender.
3. Shred the Chicken: Use two forks to shred the chicken in the sauce. Mix well so it’s fully coated.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast the buns lightly, then pile on the BBQ chicken. Add coleslaw if desired.
5. Serve: Serve warm with chips or a simple salad.

12. Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Moroccan Chicken Tagine is a beautifully spiced dish that’s perfect for when you want something a little different. It’s filled with warm flavors like cinnamon, turmeric, and apricots, making it sweet, savory, and irresistible. This recipe serves 4–5 and takes about 1 hour.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup dried apricots
• 1/4 cup green olives
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ginger powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in a pot and brown the chicken on both sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Add turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger. Stir for a minute.
3. Simmer: Add chicken broth, apricots, and olives. Return the chicken to the pot. Cover and simmer on low for 30–40 minutes.
4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
5. Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve with couscous, rice, or crusty bread.

13. Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is creamy, comforting, and always a hit at the dinner table. It’s made with tender beef strips, mushrooms, and a rich sour cream sauce. Serve it over noodles or rice for a complete meal. This recipe serves 4 and takes about 40 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or tenderloin)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Egg noodles or rice for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef: Heat oil in a skillet and quickly sear the beef strips. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Veggies: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms until softened.
3. Make the Sauce: Add beef broth and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 5–10 minutes, then stir in sour cream.
4. Combine: Return the beef to the skillet and simmer for a few more minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve: Serve hot over egg noodles or rice.

14. Spinach and Chickpea Stew

Spinach and Chickpea Stew is a cozy, healthy dish that’s packed with protein and veggies. It’s simple to make and perfect for a light dinner or lunch. My family loves this with a side of crusty bread or rice. This recipe serves 4–5 and takes about 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a pot and cook the onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Add the tomatoes and cook until soft.
3. Add Chickpeas and Broth: Stir in the chickpeas and broth. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add Spinach: Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Adjust salt to taste.
5. Serve: Serve warm with rice, bread, or on its own.

15. Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice

Lemon Herb Chicken with Rice is fresh, zesty, and so easy to make! The juicy chicken and herbed rice make a perfect pair for a light yet satisfying dinner. This recipe serves 4 and takes about 40 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Season the chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Rice: In the same pan, melt butter and toss the cooked rice with parsley and a little salt.
4. Serve: Slice the chicken and serve it over the herbed rice. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.

Easy Instant Pot dinner recipes for family are a game changer for busy households. These dinner recipes for family Instant Pot provide delicious meals that can be prepared in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. Whether you’re searching for quick Instant Pot dinner recipes for family or cheap Instant Pot dinners, there’s something here for everyone.

From flavorful curries to comforting pasta dishes, these easy dinner recipes for family Instapot take the stress out of mealtime. With these Instapot dinner recipes, you can enjoy quick and easy dinner recipes Instant Pot that are both satisfying and affordable, making dinner time a breeze for the whole family.