15 Quick and Easy Instant Pot Recipes for Beginners

If you’re new to the Instant Pot and looking for the best easy Instant Pot recipes, you’re in the right place! This list is packed with quick and beginner-friendly dinner ideas that are perfect for any night of the week.

Whether you’re exploring easy pressure cooker recipes or flipping through your instant pot cookbook, these instant pot dinner recipes are sure to impress without stressing you out. From super simple recipes to crowd-pleasing meals, these easy Instant Pot recipes for beginners will help you master your Instant Pot pressure cooker in no time.

Get ready to dive into these delicious instant recipes and discover your new favorite instapot recipes—dinner just got easier! 😊

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1. Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

This is one of my go-to dinners when I’m in a rush. It’s so comforting and simple, but it tastes like you spent hours on it! The chicken is juicy, and the rice soaks up all those yummy flavors. Perfect for picky eaters too! Plus, cleanup is a breeze.

Servings: 4
Cook Time: 35 minutes (10 min prep, 25 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups uncooked basmati rice
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into chunks)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
2. Add the chicken chunks, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken starts to brown.
3. Turn off sauté mode. Add the rice and chicken broth, stirring everything together.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 12 minutes.
5. Once done, allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.

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2. Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff

Creamy, beefy, and downright delicious—this is the recipe that made me fall in love with my Instant Pot. No need to stand over the stove forever; this does the work for you. My kids are obsessed with this one too!

Servings: 4-6
Cook Time: 40 minutes (15 min prep, 25 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into chunks
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Add the beef, searing on all sides.
2. Stir in onion, garlic, and mushrooms, cooking until softened.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well.
4. Pour in the beef broth and add salt and pepper. Cancel sauté mode.
5. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 20 minutes.
6. After cooking, do a quick release. Stir in egg noodles and switch to sauté mode. Cook until noodles are tender.
7. Stir in sour cream, mixing until creamy. Serve hot.

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3. Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili

This vegetarian chili is hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor! Even my meat-loving husband goes back for seconds when I make this. It’s great for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal that tastes amazing?

Servings: 6
Cook Time: 45 minutes (10 min prep, 35 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
2. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, corn, and vegetable broth. Stir everything well.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 15 minutes.
5. Once cooking is done, do a quick release.
6. Stir the chili, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream.

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4. Instant Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This is a restaurant-quality meal that you can whip up in no time. The garlic butter sauce is rich and flavorful, and the shrimp cooks perfectly in the Instant Pot. My family always thinks I went all out when I make this, but it’s so easy!

Servings: 4
Cook Time: 25 minutes (10 min prep, 15 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Break the spaghetti in half and place it in the Instant Pot. Add chicken broth, making sure the pasta is covered.
2. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 8 minutes.
3. While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a pan and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add shrimp, salt, and pepper. Cook until shrimp is pink, then set aside.
4. Once the Instant Pot is done, quick release the pressure and stir the pasta.
5. Add the garlic butter shrimp and mix well. Stir in Parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley before serving.

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5. Instant Pot Lentil Soup

This lentil soup is a hug in a bowl. It’s filling, nutritious, and full of earthy flavors. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that still feels like comfort food. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you need something wholesome.

Servings: 6
Cook Time: 40 minutes (10 min prep, 30 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils (any color)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened.
2. Stir in cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir everything well.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 20 minutes.
5. Once done, allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
6. Stir the soup, adjust seasoning, and serve warm with crusty bread.

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6. Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Butter chicken is a classic, but making it in the Instant Pot is such a game-changer! It’s creamy, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with rice or naan. My kids love it, and I love how easy it is to make.

Servings: 4
Cook Time: 35 minutes (10 min prep, 25 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt the butter. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
2. Stir in garam masala, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken, tomato puree, and yogurt. Stir well to coat the chicken.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 15 minutes.
5. Once done, quick release the pressure and stir in the heavy cream.
6. Serve with rice or naan and enjoy the creamy goodness!

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7. Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken with Vegetables

Teriyaki chicken is always a hit in my house, and the Instant Pot makes it so easy. The chicken comes out tender, and the sauce is sweet and savory. Adding vegetables makes it a complete meal—no extra dishes required!

Servings: 4
Cook Time: 30 minutes (10 min prep, 20 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned.
2. Stir in soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Turn off sauté mode.
3. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 10 minutes.
4. Once done, quick release the pressure and add broccoli and carrots. Set to sauté mode and cook for 5 minutes until veggies are tender.
5. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve over rice.

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8. Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs

Spaghetti and meatballs in one pot? Yes, please! This recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights when I don’t want to dirty multiple dishes. The pasta cooks perfectly, and the meatballs soak up all that yummy sauce.

Servings: 4-6
Cook Time: 25 minutes (5 min prep, 20 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb frozen or fresh meatballs
• 8 oz spaghetti, broken in half
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups water
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the meatballs in the Instant Pot.
2. Add the broken spaghetti, spreading it out in layers.
3. Pour marinara sauce and water over the top, ensuring the pasta is covered.
4. Sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 8 minutes.
6. Quick release the pressure, stir well, and serve with grated Parmesan.

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9. Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious—this Chicken Alfredo pasta is comfort food at its best. It’s a one-pot wonder that saves time and still feels fancy. My kids always ask for seconds!

Servings: 4
Cook Time: 30 minutes (10 min prep, 20 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 8 oz fettuccine, broken in half
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt the butter. Add chicken, garlic, salt, and pepper, cooking until the chicken is browned.
2. Add the fettuccine and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 8 minutes.
4. Quick release the pressure and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until creamy. Serve warm.

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10. Instant Pot Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a family favorite, and the Instant Pot makes it super easy. The eggplant gets tender without frying, and the cheesy layers are just perfect. Even non-eggplant fans might love this!

Servings: 4
Cook Time: 40 minutes (15 min prep, 25 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into rounds
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Lightly toast breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning. Remove and set aside.
2. Layer eggplant slices, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese in the Instant Pot. Repeat layers.
3. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 20 minutes.
4. Once done, quick release the pressure. Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top and serve.

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11. Instant Pot Moroccan Chickpea Stew

This Moroccan chickpea stew is so flavorful and aromatic! The spices make the whole house smell amazing, and it’s packed with healthy ingredients. It’s great on its own or over rice or couscous.

Servings: 4
Cook Time: 35 minutes (10 min prep, 25 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 sweet potato, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add cumin, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Add chickpeas, tomatoes, sweet potato, carrot, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 15 minutes.
5. Once done, allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
6. Stir and serve warm.

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12. Instant Pot Honey Garlic Salmon

This honey garlic salmon is my secret weapon for a quick and healthy dinner. The sweet and savory sauce is out of this world, and the salmon comes out tender and flaky every time. It’s fancy enough for guests but simple enough for a busy weeknight!

Servings: 4
Cook Time: 25 minutes (10 min prep, 15 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
• Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and olive oil. Set aside.
2. Place the salmon fillets on the Instant Pot trivet and pour water into the pot.
3. Brush the honey garlic sauce over the salmon.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 5 minutes.
5. Once done, quick release the pressure. Remove salmon and set aside.
6. Turn on sauté mode, add the remaining sauce to the pot, and stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook until thickened. Drizzle over salmon before serving.

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13. Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes and Gravy with Rotisserie Chicken

This is a comfort meal that comes together so easily! The mashed potatoes are creamy, and the gravy is rich and flavorful. Pair it with rotisserie chicken for a hearty, satisfying dinner. Perfect for when you need something cozy but quick!

Servings: 4-6
Cook Time: 35 minutes (15 min prep, 20 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp butter (for gravy)
• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded

Instructions:

1. Add diced potatoes to the Instant Pot and cover with water. Close the lid and set to “Manual” for 8 minutes.
2. Quick release the pressure, drain the water, and mash the potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. Turn on sauté mode and melt 2 tbsp butter in the pot. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, cooking until the gravy thickens.
5. Serve the mashed potatoes with shredded rotisserie chicken and gravy poured on top.

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14. Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are such a fun and colorful dinner! This Instant Pot version cooks the peppers perfectly tender, and the filling is hearty and flavorful. It’s one of those meals that feels special but doesn’t take much effort.

Servings: 4
Cook Time: 30 minutes (10 min prep, 20 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 lb ground beef or chicken
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, ground meat, onion, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the filling mixture.
4. Place 1 cup water in the Instant Pot and add the trivet. Arrange the peppers on the trivet.
5. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 12 minutes.
6. Quick release the pressure, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of each pepper, and serve warm.

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15. Instant Pot Sweet Potato Curry

This sweet potato curry is one of my favorite plant-based meals. It’s creamy, full of spices, and incredibly satisfying. You won’t even miss the meat! Serve it with rice or naan for a delicious dinner that warms you up from the inside out.

Servings: 4
Cook Time: 30 minutes (10 min prep, 20 min cooking)

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 can (15 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Stir in curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir well.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 10 minutes.
5. Quick release the pressure, stir well, and serve over rice or with naan.

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And there you have it—the best easy Instant Pot recipes to make dinner a breeze! Whether you’re flipping through your instant pot cookbook or searching for quick instant pot recipes, these instant pot dinner recipes are perfect for busy nights or when you’re just starting out.

From easy beginner recipes to dinner recipes for beginners, these super simple recipes prove that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. The Instant Pot pressure cooker truly makes cooking fun, fast, and flavorful.

So, explore these recipes for the Instant Pot, find your favorite instapot recipes, and enjoy creating easy pot recipes that everyone will love. Happy cooking!