In my pre-instant pot days, my kitchen skills are pretty much limited to spaghetti, rice, and burritos. But after trying out the fancy schmancy countertop kitchen appliance*, I’ve now added a few more in my repertoire that in turn make me feel like a fancy schmancy cook. Check out my top favorite easy instant pot recipes that are healthy, delicious, and quick to make. All wins in my (cook)book.
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Recommended resources
- Our new favorite kitchen contraption*
- A tempered glass lid* so you can watch as your food cooks before your eyes
- Fancy yet functional, heavy duty gloves so you don't burn your hands admiring your kitchen prowess
- An egg rack for hard boiled eggs* that doubles as another trivet for some advanced instant pot cooking
And be sure to check out this list of top recommended instant pot accessories by the best Insta-pot cooks on the web.
Hard boiled eggs
Protein-packed, perfect eggs are easy to make in bulk in the insta-pot. Refrigerate them afterwards to make them more readily available as a snack or for your next meal since all you’ll need is a few minutes to reheat. (via Unsophiticook)
Garlic hummus
This healthy snack dip is also high in protein. And the savory garlic flavor makes it extra delicious. (via Amy + Jacky)
Popcorn
Having a clear instant pot lid* for this light snack will make it easier to keep an eye on the popped kernels. This version uses coconut oil as a healthier fat substitute. And it only takes 5 minutes to make. (via The Typical Mom)
Applesauce
Add a little fruit in your diet with this easy recipe. Only three ingredients: apples, cinnamon, and water, and less than 10 minutes to make. Use a potato masher for chunkier applesauce or immersion blender if you want a smoother consistency. (via Busy Mommy Media)
Corn on the cob
Admittedly, the Cajun butter is not the healthiest way to season your corn, but it does give it a nice zing. (via Instant Pot Eats)
If you do want a healthy substitute, try a lemon and garlic drizzle.
Mashed potatoes
In go potatoes out come creamy, delicious mashed potatoes. This healthier version of mashed potatoes doesn’t use any dairy or oil. (via Veggies Save the Day)
Mac and cheese
For this recipe, you won’t be using the boxed version of mac and cheese. Instead, you're joining the big league with real pasta noodles (which you no longer have to wait for water to boil when you cook in an instant pot so a definite plus for me), and different types of cheeses. (via Center Cut Cook)
If you like, at the end of the recipe, you can stir in some broccoli florets to add a little color and veggies to this dish.
Portobello pot roast
Mushrooms are an excellent alternative to beef in this tasty pot roast. One advantage with using mushrooms is that you won’t have to worry about the different cook times of your ingredients since it’s all veggies. Don’t worry, you won’t sacrifice any of that great flavor since the secret’s in the sauce. (via Gimme Some Oven)
Sweet potato chili
The instant pot is great for cutting down recipes that used to take ages to make to less than half an hour. This sweet potato chili melds the flavors of lots of veggies and spices. A great comfort food. (via Living Sweet Moments)
Spicy carrot soup
If you'd rather try a simple yet sophisticated soup instead, then this spicy carrot one would be an excellent choice. (via Pinch of Yum)
Or any of these other easy instant pot soups could fit your fancy.
Quinoa bowl
Another tasty yet healthy easy recipe for the instant pot is this Mexican-style quinoa bowl. Incorporate variety in your ingredients without headache in this simple recipe. (via Detoxinista)
Rice pudding
Couldn't end this list without a dessert recipe! This dish is great hot, cold, or even for breakfast. (via The Typical Mom)
Conclusion
These recipes are a great way to get acquainted with your instant pot as a beginner or if you’re short on time. And as you can see, fast and easy instant pot recipes don’t have to come at the price of flavor and nutritional value. Enjoy great food in record time.
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Shelley says
I feel in love with your Blog. You are an inspiration and I will be an active member of your blog. I really so enjoyed checking out all the areas you are touching on.
I am a Mom of Five. All grown, kids of theirs own, but to see your delight in sharing your life, knowledge and such makes my heart sing. Thank you for sharing.
Sylvia | Mommy Over Work says
Hi Shelley, this really made my day! I’m glad that you are enjoying the posts.
And my, what a feat to have raised 5 children! Kudos for your selflessness in motherhood!