Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for your wallet? Look no further! The Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we cook, and it’s especially great for those on a budget. With its ability to pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, and more, this kitchen appliance can help you whip up delicious meals in no time – all without breaking the bank.
In fact, many of our favorite comfort foods are just as tasty (if not tastier!) when made with an Instant Pot. And the best part? These recipes won’t put a dent in your wallet. Whether you’re a college student looking for easy and affordable meals or a busy professional seeking to save time and money, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering Instant Pot recipes that are not only budget-friendly but also quick, easy, and packed with flavor. From hearty soups to comforting casseroles, these dishes are sure to become new favorites. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking!
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
This Instant Pot lentil soup recipe is a comforting and nutritious meal that’s ready in no time. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a warm and satisfying bowl of goodness in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, water, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “SEALING”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Open the pot and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Instant Pot Rice and Beans
This comforting dish combines creamy rice with flavorful beans, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. It’s a perfect meal for a busy day or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, black beans, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
6. When the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
Prepare a comforting meal with minimal effort using your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, and thyme; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add rice, broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode for 6-8 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time:
– High Pressure Cooking: 6-8 minutes
– Natural Release: 10 minutes
Vegetable Instant Pot Stew
A hearty and comforting stew made with a variety of colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, corn, and bell peppers)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped carrots and potatoes, mixed frozen vegetables, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Spaghetti with Marinara
Quick and Easy Instant Pot Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce
Enjoy a classic spaghetti dish without the hassle of long cooking times or tedious stirring.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the spaghetti and stir to coat with the tomato sauce.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 14-16 minutes
Cheap Instant Pot Chili
This recipe makes a deliciously simple and budget-friendly chili that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a warm and comforting meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper, cooking until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder and cumin, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth, stirring to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped onions or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Instant Pot Potato Soup
This hearty potato soup recipe is perfect for a chilly evening. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll have a warm and comforting bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk or heavy cream (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
8. If desired, add milk or heavy cream and stir until combined.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ready in under 30 minutes, this creamy macaroni and cheese dish is a comforting staple for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Pilot the Instant Pot to “Saute” mode. Add butter and let it melt.
- Once melted, add flour, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add milk and whisk until smooth. Bring mixture to a simmer.
- Add macaroni, stirring well to coat pasta evenly. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until al dente.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Turn off the Instant Pot and let the pressure release naturally (NR).
Cooking Time:
10 minutes at high pressure, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
This classic combination of beef, broccoli, and savory sauce is a staple for a reason. This Instant Pot recipe makes it easy to cook tender beef and crisp broccoli in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (sirloin or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), ginger, and black pepper to the pot.
4. Stir to combine, then close the lid and set the valve to “SEAL”.
5. Press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode for 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Budget-Friendly Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Savor the tender, smoky flavor of slow-cooked pulled pork without breaking the bank! This recipe is a game-changer for busy households and college students on a budget.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and melt 2 tablespoons of brown sugar.
2. Add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Place pork shoulder in the pot, then add chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and set cooking time to 60 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Shred pork with two forks and serve on a bun, topped with your favorite barbecue sauce.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Black Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a flavorful and nutritious meal option that’s perfect for any time of day. With its rich, slightly smoky flavor and tender black beans, it’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the rinsed black beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Simple Instant Pot Chicken Tacos
Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal. Simply cook chicken breast with spices and veggies, then serve it in tacos with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 8 oz of tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Tortillas, shredded cheese, lettuce, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken breasts, taco seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir in the diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the chicken mixture in tacos with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Vegetable Curry
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious blend of sautéed vegetables cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 large can of diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and any desired additional spices. Stir well.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheap Instant Pot Minestrone
This Instant Pot recipe for Cheap Minestrone is a twist on the classic Italian soup, using affordable ingredients to create a flavorful and filling meal. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious and nutritious soup ready to go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, green beans, and tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add soaked kidney beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
This hearty one-pot meal is a perfect blend of savory sausage, sweet peppers, and creamy potatoes. With the Instant Pot’s quick cooking time, you can enjoy this comforting dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sausage (such as Italian or Chorizo), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the sausage until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cubed potatoes, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and close the lid. Make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
6. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
This recipe is a twist on classic pasta dishes, with the added convenience of cooking everything in one pot using an Instant Pot. The result is a rich and creamy sauce coated perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
8. Open the lid and stir in the cooked pasta. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Cabbage and Sausage
This Instant Pot recipe yields a flavorful and comforting stew perfect for a weeknight dinner. The natural sweetness of cabbage pairs beautifully with savory sausage, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken sausage (such as applewood-smoked or maple)
– 2 medium-sized heads of cabbage, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot with the olive oil.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the pot, then close the lid.
6. Set the Instant Pot to “Manual” mode and cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Get ready for a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for any meal! This recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken thighs with a honey-garlic sauce that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes total.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and thyme.
5. Pour the honey-garlic mixture over the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10-12 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Summary
Looking to save money and cook delicious meals? Look no further! This article presents 18 mouth-watering, budget-friendly recipes that can be easily made using an Instant Pot. From hearty lentil soup to comforting mac and cheese, there’s something for everyone. These recipes are not only easy on the wallet but also quick to prepare, with many ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a busy professional or a family looking for affordable meal solutions, these Instant Pot recipes are sure to become new favorites.
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