When the weather turns chilly or you just need a cozy meal, there's nothing better than turning to comforting food that feels like a warm hug. Instant Pot recipes have made it easier than ever to whip up these soul-soothing dishes in no time at all.
From creamy pastas to hearty stews, these 15 recipes are sure to become staples in your home. Each recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss, making them perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. So, grab your Instant Pot and get ready to indulge in dishes that not only taste amazing but also fill your home with comforting aromas. You won’t believe how easy these are to make!
Let's jump into the deliciousness and discover your new favorites!
Contents
- 1. Creamy Chicken and Rice
- 2. Classic Beef Stew
- 3. Creamy Mushroom Risotto
- 4. Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
- 5. Hearty Lentil Soup
- 6. Savory Italian Meatballs
- 7. You Won't Believe This Eggplant Parmesan
- 8. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
- 9. Savory Pulled Pork Tacos
- 10. Cheesy Cauliflower Chowder
- 11. Sweet and Sour Chicken
- 12. Rustic Vegetable Chili
- 13. Easy Chicken Alfredo
- 14. Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
- 15. Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake
1. Creamy Chicken and Rice
There's something about creamy chicken and rice that just feels like home. Using your Instant Pot, you can create this dish in a fraction of the time it takes on the stove. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, while the rice absorbs all the rich flavors.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Calories: 420 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 50g
- Fat: 10g
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a drizzle of oil. Sauté the onions until translucent.
2. Add the chicken and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until lightly browned.
3. Stir in the rice and chicken broth, then seal the lid. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Once done, quick release the pressure, stir in the heavy cream, and serve warm.
Use leftover rotisserie chicken for an even faster meal!
FAQs: Can I use brown rice? Yes, but adjust the cooking time to 22 minutes.
2. Classic Beef Stew
Beef stew is the ultimate comfort food, especially on cold days. With the Instant Pot, you can skip the slow cooking and still achieve that deep, rich flavor. The meat is tender, and the vegetables are perfectly cooked, creating a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Calories: 350 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 12g
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cubed
- 4 potatoes, cubed
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the Instant Pot, set it to sauté and brown the beef in batches.
2. Add the onions and cook until softened. Stir in tomato paste and herbs.
3. Add the broth, potatoes, and carrots. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
4. Quick release the pressure and serve hot.
Letting it rest for a few minutes before serving enhances the flavors.
FAQs: Can I use frozen beef? It’s best to thaw it first for even cooking.
3. Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Risotto can seem intimidating, but the Instant Pot makes it manageable and incredibly delicious. This creamy mushroom risotto is rich and indulgent, making it perfect for dinner parties or a comforting weeknight meal. The Instant Pot cuts the cooking time significantly while still delivering that characteristic creaminess.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Calories: 450 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 70g
- Fat: 15g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- ½ cup white wine
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt the butter. Cook the onions and mushrooms until soft.
2. Stir in the rice and white wine until absorbed.
3. Add the broth, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
4. Quick release, stir in the Parmesan, and season before serving.
Stir vigorously after releasing pressure to make it extra creamy.
FAQs: Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Spinach or peas are great additions.
4. Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
This cheesy broccoli and rice casserole is a kid-friendly classic that adults love too. Made effortlessly in the Instant Pot, it’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutrients. The best part? You can have this cozy meal ready in under 30 minutes!
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Calories: 320 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 44g
- Fat: 10g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup cream cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine rice and chicken broth in the Instant Pot, then add the broccoli on top.
2. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
3. Quick release, stir in the cheeses, and season to taste.
You can substitute other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach.
FAQs: Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, just add it directly without thawing.
5. Hearty Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is the epitome of comfort food, and it’s surprisingly easy to make in the Instant Pot. This hearty version is full of flavor and packed with protein, making it both filling and nutritious. Perfect for chilly nights, this soup will warm you up and keep you satisfied.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Calories: 250 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 5g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the Instant Pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until soft.
2. Add the lentils, broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
4. Quick release and adjust seasoning before serving.
Top with a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
FAQs: Can this be made ahead? Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for about a week.
6. Savory Italian Meatballs
These savory Italian meatballs are full of flavor and perfect for pasta night or as a hearty appetizer. The Instant Pot keeps them juicy and tender, while the sauce simmers to perfection. Serve them over spaghetti or in a sub for a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Calories: 400 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 20g
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 jar marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, and seasoning. Form into meatballs.
2. Pour marinara sauce into the Instant Pot, place meatballs on top.
3. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Quick release and serve over pasta or in a sub.
Add fresh basil for extra flavor!
FAQs: Can I freeze these? Yes, they freeze well before cooking.
7. You Won't Believe This Eggplant Parmesan
This Eggplant Parmesan is so hearty and full of flavor that you'll forget it's vegetarian! Using the Instant Pot makes the eggplant perfectly tender without all the oil from traditional frying methods. Layered with marinara and cheese, this dish is a showstopper for any dinner table.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Calories: 350 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 18g
Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Layer eggplant slices in the Instant Pot with salt and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture.
2. Rinse and pat dry, then layer in the pot with marinara and cheeses.
3. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
4. Quick release and serve garnished with basil.
Pair with garlic bread for a complete meal!
FAQs: Can I use zucchini instead? Yes, it’s a great alternative.
8. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect partner for a grilled cheese sandwich. Rich, tangy, and smooth, it's made easy in the Instant Pot, where fresh tomatoes become a comforting bowl of delight. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it's like a warm hug in a bowl.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Calories: 280 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 10g
Ingredients:
- 4 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the Instant Pot, sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.
2. Add diced tomatoes, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
3. Quick release, stir in heavy cream, and blend until smooth.
4. Add chopped basil before serving.
Serve with a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
FAQs: Can I make this vegan? Yes, substitute cream with coconut milk.
9. Savory Pulled Pork Tacos
These savory pulled pork tacos are perfect for gatherings or a quick family dinner. With the Instant Pot, you can make tender, flavor-packed pork in a fraction of the time. Serve them with your favorite toppings for a customizable meal that everyone will adore.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 60 mins
- Total Time: 70 mins
- Calories: 380 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 15g
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork with salt, pepper, and cumin.
2. Sauté the onions in the Instant Pot until soft, then add pork and broth.
3. Seal and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
4. Quick release and shred the pork in the pot, mixing it with barbecue sauce. Serve in tacos.
Top with coleslaw for an extra crunch!
FAQs: How do I store leftovers? They can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
10. Cheesy Cauliflower Chowder
This cheesy cauliflower chowder is a creamy, dreamy dish that feels indulgent yet is packed with veggies. The Instant Pot makes it quick and easy, so you can enjoy a warm bowl of chowder any day of the week. It's perfect for those who love comfort food without the heaviness.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Calories: 320 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 20g
Ingredients:
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Sauté onion in the Instant Pot until soft.
2. Add cauliflower and broth, seal and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
3. Quick release, blend until smooth, add cheese and cream, and stir until melted.
4. Season to taste and serve.
Garnish with chives for that extra touch!
FAQs: Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, just reduce the cooking time by a couple of minutes.
11. Sweet and Sour Chicken
Sweet and sour chicken is a classic dish that’s easy to prepare in the Instant Pot. This version is healthier but still delivers on that satisfying sweet and tangy flavor. Served over rice, it makes a quick dinner that feels like a treat.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Calories: 350 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 5g
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup sweet and sour sauce
- 2 cups cooked rice
Instructions:
1. Sauté chicken in the Instant Pot until browned.
2. Add bell peppers, pineapple, and sweet and sour sauce.
3. Seal and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Quick release and serve over rice.
Add sesame seeds on top for extra crunch!
FAQs: Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just ensure to increase cooking time by a few minutes.
12. Rustic Vegetable Chili
This rustic vegetable chili is a hearty and healthy option that’s packed with flavor. The Instant Pot brings together all the lovely spices and ingredients to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s a fantastic choice for meal prep, and it’s even better the next day!
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Calories: 280 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 8g
Ingredients:
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Sauté onion and peppers in the Instant Pot until soft.
2. Add all beans, tomatoes, and chili powder.
3. Seal and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
4. Quick release and serve warm.
Top with avocado or sour cream for a creamy finish!
FAQs: Can I add meat? Absolutely, ground beef or turkey works great.
13. Easy Chicken Alfredo
Who doesn't love a creamy chicken alfredo? With the Instant Pot, you can create this classic Italian dish in one pot—less mess, less stress! The chicken stays juicy, and the pasta cooks perfectly in the rich, cheesy sauce. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Calories: 500 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 50g
- Fat: 20g
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 lb fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Sauté the chicken in the Instant Pot until browned.
2. Add pasta, broth, and cream; stir to combine.
3. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
4. Quick release and stir in Parmesan before serving.
Garnish with parsley for a pop of color!
FAQs: Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes, just slightly adjust the cooking time.
14. Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
This lemon garlic butter shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish that you can whip up in no time! Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night at home, this recipe uses the Instant Pot to retain all those delicious flavors. The shrimp is tender, and you’ll love the buttery sauce.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Calories: 300 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 5g
- Fat: 20g
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in the Instant Pot, then add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add shrimp, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 2 minutes.
4. Quick release and serve with crusty bread.
Serve over pasta or rice for a filling meal!
FAQs: Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just increase the cooking time by a minute.
15. Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake
Finish your meal on a sweet note with this decadent chocolate lava cake made right in your Instant Pot. This molten chocolate dessert is perfect for special occasions or just a treat for yourself. The gooey center oozes out when you cut into it, providing the perfect indulgence.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Calories: 450 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 60g
- Fat: 22g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup flour
Instructions:
1. Melt chocolate and butter together in a bowl.
2. Whisk in eggs and sugar until smooth, then fold in flour.
3. Pour batter into greased ramekins.
4. Place in the Instant Pot on a trivet with 1 cup of water and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Allow to sit for a minute before serving warm with ice cream.
Dust with powdered sugar for a fancy touch!
FAQs: Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, just refrigerate and steam before serving.
Conclusion
These 15 Instant Pot comfort food recipes are bound to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. Each dish not only satisfies your hunger but also creates memories around the dinner table. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a gathering with friends, these easy recipes will certainly impress.
So, roll up your sleeves and start cooking! It’s time to bring smiles and warmth back to your home with these soul-soothing meals.
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