37 Deliciously Easy Instant Pot Christmas Recipes for a Stress-Free Holiday Dinner

Sandra Walker

September 17, 2025

Perfectly timed for the holiday season, these Instant Pot Christmas recipes are sure to impress your guests with their ease of preparation and delicious flavors. From hearty breakfast dishes to decadent desserts, this collection has something for every occasion. With its versatility and speed, the Instant Pot is an indispensable tool in any busy kitchen. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight meal or hosting a large holiday gathering, it’s always on hand to help.

And with its numerous functions beyond just pressure-cooking, from sautéing to slow cooking and even baking, it’s no wonder that I turn to my Instant Pot time and again. Did you know that the Instant Pot is capable of not only whipping up stews and roasts but also baked goods like cakes and bread? It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves to cook.

And with 37 handpicked recipes in this collection, including show-stopping dishes like ham and turkey, eggnog and pudding, you’ll have no trouble creating a memorable Christmas feast.

Instant Pot Ham

Instant Pot Ham

Little did I know that cooking Christmas ham was a task that could be tackled with ease, requiring only three simple ingredients and an Instant Pot. The pressure cooker function of this kitchen appliance works its magic in just 30 minutes, transforming a humble ham into a truly impressive dish. But what’s most remarkable is the level of tenderness and moisture achieved in such a short cooking time, resulting in a Christmas ham that’s not only delicious but also incredibly delectable.

Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup

Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup

Bringing together the perfect blend of flavors and textures, this recipe caters specifically to those who have rice as their staple food. Although rice is commonly seen as a side dish, it takes center stage in this recipe. A delightful combination of wild rice, mushrooms, and vegetables swathed in a rich and creamy gravy makes for a satisfying and comforting meal that’s sure to become your new holiday tradition.

Instant Pot Pork Roast

Instant Pot Pork Roast

Beneath its rich and savory flavors lies a surprising secret: this mouthwatering pork pot roast can be prepared in just 20 minutes. Its delectable components, including succulent vegetables, come together seamlessly in the same pot, making it a joy to cook and serve.The magic happens when you add the veggies during the final five minutes of cooking time for the roast – voila!

Instant Pot Turkey Breast

Instant Pot Turkey Breast

Clearly, one common criticism of turkey breast is that it can be uninspiring and lackluster in flavor. However, when cooked using the Instant Pot, even the most skeptical of eaters will be pleasantly surprised by its juicy and rich texture, accompanied by a creamy gravy that’s sure to elevate the dish. I’ll admit, as a dark meat fan myself, I’m not usually swayed by white meat offerings, but these succulent slices have won me over.

To create an even more indulgent experience, consider serving this turkey breast alongside a hearty portion of mashed potatoes – it’s a match made in heaven that’s sure to become the centerpiece of your next Christmas gathering.

Instant Pot Whole Turkey

Instant Pot Whole Turkey

Keen on cooking a perfect holiday turkey? Fear not, as with the aid of this Instant Pot recipe, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the task. The Instant Pot’s capabilities will make quick work of cooking the turkey, ensuring it turns out perfectly. With crispy skin and moist meat, your turkey will be the star of the show. And the best part? It can all be achieved in under an hour!

Instant Pot Beef Stew

Instant Pot Beef Stew

Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie

Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie

Zeroing in on comfort food, this chicken pot pie may not have a traditional crust, but it’s bursting with flavor nonetheless. The combination of shredded chicken, chopped veggies, and a rich, creamy broth is a winning formula that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And the best part? You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen making your own crust – simply serve this pot pie alongside some fluffy biscuits or flaky croissants for a satisfying meal.

Instant Pot Char Siu or Chinese BBQ Pork

Instant Pot Char Siu or Chinese BBQ Pork

Instant Pot Short Ribs

Instant Pot Short Ribs

Gourmet food lovers are often drawn to the irresistible charm of short ribs. Their succulent texture and rich flavor make them a culinary delight. These particular short ribs stand out from the rest, thanks in part to their finger-lickin’ sensational glossy sauce coating. While the meat itself is undoubtedly delicious, it’s the sauce that takes center stage. Red wine-infused, the sauce adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish to new heights, leaving your taste buds wanting more.

Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Tantalizing the taste buds of foodies worldwide, murg makhani is an iconic Indian dish that has won hearts with its delectable combination of succulent chicken and rich buttery sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or yet to experience the delightful flavors of this popular recipe, this dish has something for everyone.

The tender chunks of chicken are perfectly enveloped in a creamy and velvety curry sauce, creating a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to transport your senses to a world of gastronomic bliss. And when you take that first bite, accompanied by a generous serving of fluffy basmati rice, the experience becomes truly sublime.

Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken

Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken

Make your American Christmas dinner stand out with a fun twist by trying this Instant Pot Tuscan chicken recipe. The dish is a masterful blend of tender chicken in a rich and creamy garlic sauce, offering an Italian take on traditional flavors we all adore. What gives the meal its unmistakable Italian flair are the sundried tomatoes, which introduce a delightful sweet and tangy contrast to the savory and comforting dish.

Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken

Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken

With a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment, you can create a mouth-watering rotisserie chicken in the comfort of your own home. Firstly, let’s talk about the visual appeal of a homemade rotisserie. Looking at the bird alone, it’s clear that the presentation is far superior to store-bought options. The combination of crispy skin and tender, juicy, and flavorful meat makes it a culinary masterpiece.

When you take your first bite, you’ll be amazed by the explosion of flavors on your palate. This is because homemade rotisserie chicken allows for complete control over the seasoning and marinating process, resulting in a more authentic taste experience. Go to Recipe

Instant Pot Lamb Shoulder Roast

Instant Pot Lamb Shoulder Roast

Happily, there’s a lamb recipe that’s a game-changer for those who adore its rich flavor. While pork, beef, and chicken have their own fans, lamb enthusiasts know that nothing quite compares to the depth of a perfectly cooked lamb pot roast. The beauty of lamb lies in its naturally robust taste, which means minimal additions are needed to make it shine. For this recipe, just four ingredients will do: garlic, thyme, honey, and salt and pepper.

Despite its simplicity, the resulting dish is nothing short of spectacular.

Slow Cooker or Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore

Slow Cooker or Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore

Unwrapping the simplicity of Italian cuisine, we present another delectable dish perfect for a hassle-free Christmas dinner. Cacciatore is a traditional braised dish cooked in the style of a hunter, typically featuring meat or poultry slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce flavored with wine and herbs. However, in this instance, we’re modernizing the approach by using an Instant Pot to achieve the same flavors without the lengthy cooking time.

As an added benefit, this chicken cacciatore recipe is not only low-carb but also paleo-friendly and gluten-free, making it an inclusive option for everyone.

Pressure Cooker Cranberry Balsamic Pork Loin

Pressure Cooker Cranberry Balsamic Pork Loin

Unlocking a succulent and tender pork loin has always been a challenge for many home cooks. The key lies in balancing the cooking time and temperature. A sweet and tangy cranberry balsamic glaze adds an extra layer of flavor, elevating the dish to new heights. Merry Christmas, indeed! One of the reasons pork loin can be tricky is its tendency to dry out if not cooked correctly.

However, with the Instant Pot’s precision control and pressure cooking capabilities, you can achieve a perfectly cooked pork loin every time. The Instant Pot eliminates the risk of overcooking, allowing you to enjoy a moist and flavorful dish without the worry.

Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon

Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon

Virtually anyone can make Beef Bourguignon, despite its seemingly intimidating name. This classic French stew may sound fancy, but it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. At its core, beef bourguignon is a hearty stew filled with tender chunks of beef and a variety of vegetables that are cooked to perfection. What sets it apart from other stews is the rich, red wine-infused sauce in which the beef is braised. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a truly satisfying meal.

Instant Pot Cranberry Meatballs

Instant Pot Cranberry Meatballs

Oozing with flavor, this recipe is perfect for those who crave a sweeter take on traditional meatball dishes. Unlike a classic marinara sauce, the cranberry sauce used in this recipe provides a tangy and sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the meatballs. The combination of savory and sweet notes creates a harmonious balance that’s hard to resist. This recipe yields incredibly delicious meatballs that are impossible to put down once you take a bite.

Instant Pot Hot Chocolate

Instant Pot Hot Chocolate

Most people agree that Christmas wouldn’t feel complete without a warm cup of hot chocolate in hand. And, surprisingly, this festive holiday beverage can be easily prepared in the Instant Pot. Making use of the Instant Pot for hot chocolate is one of my favorite winter traditions. Not only does it keep the drink perfectly warm throughout the night, but it’s also incredibly convenient and time-saving.

Instant Pot Gingerbread

Instant Pot Gingerbread

Zero in on the perfect holiday treat with this Instant Pot gingerbread cake recipe! This delightful dessert is packed with dense, moist texture and an explosion of sweet, spiced, and warming flavors. Its effortless beauty makes it a showstopper without requiring advanced decorating skills. Simply drizzle some sugar glaze over the top for a stunning finish. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your loved ones.

Easy Instant Pot Monkey Bread

Easy Instant Pot Monkey Bread

While Instant Pots are commonly used for pressure cooking elaborate dishes like roast beef and turkey, what’s truly remarkable is their ability to also make a variety of baked goods, including delicious homemade bread. This all-in-one kitchen appliance has become the go-to tool for many home cooks due to its versatility and convenience. If you’re still on the fence about purchasing an Instant Pot, consider trying out this sweet, sticky, pull-apart bread recipe – it’s sure to win you over!

Instant Pot Eggnog Cheesecake

Instant Pot Eggnog Cheesecake

Taking advantage of leftover eggnog can be a delicious way to reduce food waste. Transforming the festive holiday drink into a mouth-watering dessert is easier than you think. The Instant Pot’s versatility shines again with its ability to produce a rich, creamy, and delectable cheesecake that rivals those baked in traditional ovens. This heavenly eggnog cheesecake will leave everyone wondering how it was cooked, with the Instant Pot being the secret ingredient.

Instant Pot Peppermint Cheesecake

Instant Pot Peppermint Cheesecake

Taking center stage is yet another delectable cheesecake creation that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Topped with an rich, velvety chocolate ganache and adorned with crushed peppermint candies for added visual appeal, this show-stopping dessert is a true masterpiece. Its opulent presentation is almost as impressive as its decadent flavor profile.

Instant Pot Cinnamon Roll Bread

Instant Pot Cinnamon Roll Bread

Wrapped in a familiar pound cake appearance, but with a taste that defies convention, this bread is more akin to a fusion of cinnamon rolls and French toast casserole. The combination is nothing short of tantalizing, and the aroma alone has the power to transport your senses into overdrive! If that doesn’t already have you craving for more, I’m not sure what will.

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

What sets this mac and cheese apart from other recipes is its versatility – it can be enjoyed as a comforting family dinner or elevated to a show-stopping party dish. With three distinct types of cheese, including sharp cheddar, creamy cream cheese, and nutty parmesan, this Instant Pot mac and cheese promises to be an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates, making it an excellent choice for special occasions like holidays or gatherings.

Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce

Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce

Welcoming the holiday season with a homemade touch, your main dish can either shine or falter with the right accompaniment. One essential component that can make or break your carefully crafted meal is cranberry sauce. If you’re determined to prepare everything from scratch this year, this recipe for cranberry sauce will surely come in handy.

A delicious blend of fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, and a warm combination of fall spices, this condiment might not be the star of the show, but its flavor is undeniably delightful.

Instant Pot Eggnog

Instant Pot Eggnog

Just like any other recipe, the key to making perfect eggnog in an Instant Pot lies in its ability to cook the mixture evenly and at a consistent temperature. This is achieved through the Instant Pot’s keep warm and water bath functions, which ensure that your eggnog doesn’t curdle or turn into an unappetizing egg scramble. The result is a smooth, creamy, and deliciously rich eggnog that meets all your expectations.

Instant Pot Sweet Potato Casserole

Instant Pot Sweet Potato Casserole

Combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of various seasonings creates this mouth-watering casserole that has captured the hearts of many. Unlike regular mashed sweet potatoes, this dish boasts an added depth of flavor and texture from roasted marshmallows and toasted pecans, making it a standout in any gathering or special occasion.

The simplicity of its ingredients belies its complexity, as each component plays a crucial role in balancing out the flavors and textures, resulting in a truly satisfying experience for those who indulge.

Instant Pot Sausage Stuffing

Instant Pot Sausage Stuffing

Versatile in its applications, this sausage-based side dish shares some similarities with traditional turkey stuffing. Visually, it resembles a puddling-like mixture, comprised of ground sausage and bread, which can be used as an accompaniment to the main course or served independently as a standalone dish.

Instant Pot Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Instant Pot Roasted Brussels Sprouts

While Brussels sprouts may not be the most conventional choice for holiday cuisine, they offer a refreshing twist amidst the rich and indulgent dishes that often dominate festive tables. In fact, this particular recipe serves as an excellent counterbalance to the decadence of your Christmas spread.

Instant Pot Poached Pears

Instant Pot Poached Pears

Not only do poached pears possess an unassuming appearance, but they also harbour a depth of flavour that is truly captivating. The process involves gently cooking whole pears in a mixture of apple juice, blackberries, and aromatic spices, allowing the fruit to absorb these flavours and transform into a sweet and spiced dessert of great complexity.

Paired with a scoop of creamy ice cream and a sprinkle of fresh blackberries, poached pears make for an indulgent and visually appealing treat that is sure to delight.

Country Green Beans, Potatoes, and Ham in the Instant Pot

Country Green Beans, Potatoes, and Ham in the Instant Pot

Diving into the world of festive cuisine, ham, green beans, and potatoes come together in perfect harmony to create a satisfying, nutritious, and scrumptious Christmas feast. The delightful combination of flavors and textures is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Instant Pot Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread

Instant Pot Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread

Packed with a perfect blend of flavors, regular cornbread takes a backseat to this mouth-watering jalapeno cheddar version. The richness of the cheese perfectly complements the subtle heat from the jalapenos, creating an incredibly addictive taste experience that will leave you craving for more.

Instant Pot Carrots with Brown Sugar Glaze

Instant Pot Carrots with Brown Sugar Glaze

Elevating the humble carrot from a supporting role to the star of the show is this delightful recipe. Rather than simply providing a subtle flavor boost, carrots take center stage with a sweet and sticky brown sugar glaze that amplifies their natural sweetness even further.

Slow Cooker Spiced Mulled Wine with Pomegranates

Slow Cooker Spiced Mulled Wine with Pomegranates

Sipping on a warm, spiced mulled wine is a staple of many Christmas parties, and for good reason – it adds a joyful touch to the yuletide celebration. This recipe allows you to elevate simple red wine into the perfect holiday spirit with just a few easy-to-find ingredients and some basic cooking skills.

37 Easy Instant Pot Christmas Recipe Collection

Transform your holiday cooking routine with our collection of delectable Instant Pot Christmas recipes. From succulent hams to perfectly roasted turkeys, mouth-watering roasts, decadent cakes, and a variety of savory sides, every dish has been crafted to make your holiday season easier and more enjoyable.

Instructions

Instructions

Focus on making this holiday season special by preparing a delicious Christmas meal in no time. To do this, start by selecting your preferred recipe from a collection of traditional and modern options. Once you have chosen a dish, take note of all the necessary ingredients required for its preparation. Finally, aim to complete the entire process within 30 minutes or less, making it an ideal solution for busy families and individuals alike.

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