
The holiday season is all about warmth, joy, and of course, delicious food that brings everyone around the table.
This year, impress your guests with these 15 mouthwatering Instant Pot holiday recipes, each designed to deliver delightful flavors with minimal fuss.
Whether you're hosting a big family gathering or an intimate dinner party, these easy, festive dishes are sure to steal the show and leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to fill your home with the inviting aromas of the season, as we take your holiday cooking to new heights with the magic of the Instant Pot.
Contents
- 1. Instant Pot Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
- 2. Instant Pot Honey Glazed Ham
- 3. Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
- 4. Instant Pot Classic Stuffing
- 5. Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
- 6. Instant Pot Beef Stew
- 7. Instant Pot Green Bean Casserole
- 8. Instant Pot Pumpkin Pie
- 9. Instant Pot Chocolate Lava Cake
- 10. Instant Pot Beet Salad
- 11. Instant Pot Chicken Adobo
- 12. Instant Pot Risotto
- 13. Instant Pot Baked Ziti
- 14. Instant Pot Mulled Wine
- 15. Instant Pot Cheesecake
1. Instant Pot Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

Elevate your holiday side dishes with these creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic and herbs.
The Instant Pot makes whipping up this classic comfort food a breeze, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your guests. Serve them alongside your main dish, and watch as everyone raves about the fluffy texture and rich flavor. Perfectly pairing with gravy or just a sprinkle of fresh chives, these mashed potatoes are undeniably irresistible.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Calories: 200 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (like rosemary or parsley)
Instructions:
1. Place the cubed potatoes and minced garlic in the Instant Pot.
2. Add chicken broth and season with salt and pepper.
3. Seal the lid and set to manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Once done, perform a quick release.
5. Add milk and butter, then mash until smooth.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
- For extra flavor, try adding sour cream or cream cheese before mashing.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
2. Instant Pot Honey Glazed Ham

When it comes to holiday feasts, a glazed ham is always a showstopper. This Instant Pot honey glazed ham is tender, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to make!
Infused with a sweet and tangy honey glaze, this dish will be the centerpiece of your holiday table. Perfectly cooked and caramelized, your guests will love the mix of flavors, and you'll love the hassle-free preparation. The Instant Pot locks in moisture, ensuring every bite is succulent and delicious.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Calories: 350 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 25g
Ingredients:
- 4 lb bone-in ham, pre-cooked
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Mix honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves in a small bowl.
2. Score the ham and brush the glaze over it.
3. Pour the water into the Instant Pot and place the ham on the trivet.
4. Seal the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 30 minutes.
5. Once done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before a quick release.
6. Serve with additional glaze if desired.
- For extra caramelization, broil the ham for a few minutes after cooking.
- Save leftovers for sandwiches!
3. Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup

Warm up your holiday gatherings with a comforting bowl of butternut squash soup, effortlessly made in your Instant Pot!
This velvety and slightly sweet soup is packed with flavor from spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, making it a perfect appetizer for any festive meal. Plus, it's entirely vegan and gluten-free, so everyone at your gathering can enjoy it. Serve it with a swirl of coconut cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for an extra touch.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Calories: 150 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: pumpkin seeds, coconut cream
Instructions:
1. Sauté onion and garlic in the Instant Pot until translucent.
2. Add the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, and spices.
3. Seal the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 15 minutes.
4. Perform a quick release once done.
5. Blend the soup with an immersion blender until smooth.
6. Serve with toppings as desired.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Freeze leftovers for a quick meal later.
4. Instant Pot Classic Stuffing

Stuffing is an essential part of any holiday spread, and this Instant Pot classic stuffing is both easy to make and packed with flavor.
With a delightful mix of bread, herbs, and vegetables, this dish is the perfect complement to your turkey or ham. The Instant Pot locks in moisture, giving you a stuffing that’s tender on the inside and slightly crispy on top. Add in sausage or nuts for a personal twist that your guests will love.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Calories: 250 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 6g
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Sauté onion and celery in the Instant Pot until softened.
2. Add the cubed bread, spices, and broth.
3. Stir to combine and ensure the bread absorbs the broth.
4. Seal the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 15 minutes.
5. Once done, allow natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release.
6. Fluff with a fork before serving.
- Use day-old bread for better texture.
- Feel free to add cooked sausage or nuts for extra flavor.
5. Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is the perfect balance of tart and sweet, and making it in the Instant Pot makes it even easier.
This quick recipe brings out the bright flavors of fresh cranberries, sugar, and a hint of orange zest. It’s a vibrant side that can enhance your turkey or be used in sandwiches the next day. Plus, it only takes minutes to prepare, allowing you to focus on the main dishes.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 10
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Calories: 100 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 2mg
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 0g
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- Zest of one orange
Instructions:
1. Combine fresh cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and zest in the Instant Pot.
2. Seal the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
3. Once the timer goes off, quickly release the pressure.
4. Stir the sauce, allowing it to cool and thicken before serving.
- Adjust the sugar to your taste for a sweeter sauce.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to a week.
6. Instant Pot Beef Stew

Warm up those chilly holiday nights with a hearty beef stew made effortlessly in your Instant Pot!
Packed with tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and a rich broth, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. The pressure cooker brings out all the flavors and makes the meat melt-in-your-mouth tender in record time. Perfect for cozy evenings with family or friends, this stew can be served with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Calories: 300 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 25g
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Sauté beef in the Instant Pot until browned.
2. Add onions and garlic, cooking until translucent.
3. Stir in carrots, potatoes, broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Seal the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 35 minutes.
5. Allow natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
6. Serve warm with bread.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine before cooking.
- Leftover stew can be frozen for future meals.
7. Instant Pot Green Bean Casserole

No holiday meal is complete without a classic green bean casserole, and making it in your Instant Pot makes it both quick and stress-free!
This recipe combines fresh green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions, resulting in a deliciously gooey side that pairs perfectly with turkey or ham. Easy to prepare and serve, this casserole is sure to impress your guests and is a must-have on your holiday table.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Calories: 200 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 4g
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 cups mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup crispy fried onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add green beans, mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
2. Mix well and seal the lid.
3. Cook on manual high pressure for 20 minutes.
4. Quick release the pressure, then stir in half of the crispy fried onions.
5. Transfer to a baking dish and top with the remaining onions.
6. Broil for 2-3 minutes until crispy.
- You can make this ahead and reheat before serving.
- Feel free to add grated cheese on top for extra richness.
8. Instant Pot Pumpkin Pie

End your holiday meal on a sweet note with a luscious pumpkin pie made effortlessly in your Instant Pot!
This recipe captures all the flavors of the season, with its rich, spiced filling set in a buttery crust that’s just to die for. It’s the perfect dessert to bring smiles to your family and friends. Once you've whipped it up, you can serve it warm with whipped cream or let it cool for an all-time favorite after-dinner treat.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 mins
- Calories: 300 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 4g
Ingredients:
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, pumpkin spice, and salt until smooth.
2. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
3. Place the pie on the trivet inside the Instant Pot.
4. Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the pot and seal the lid.
5. Cook on manual high pressure for 50 minutes.
6. Allow natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
7. Let the pie cool before serving.
- Top with whipped cream for a classic finish.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
9. Instant Pot Chocolate Lava Cake

For the chocoholics in your life, this Instant Pot chocolate lava cake is a must-try holiday dessert!
With a rich, gooey center and a moist exterior, this cake is sure to impress. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make in your Instant Pot. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream and watch your guests swoon over this indulgent treat. Perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy family dinners, this dessert is an instant favorite.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Total Time: 22 mins
- Calories: 350 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Melt butter and chocolate chips together in a bowl.
2. Whisk in powdered sugar, eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until combined.
3. Fold in flour until just incorporated.
4. Grease four ramekins and divide the batter among them.
5. Place them on the trivet in the Instant Pot with 1 cup of water.
6. Seal the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 12 minutes.
7. Allow quick release and serve immediately with ice cream.
- Make sure not to overcook for that gooey center.
- You can use any chocolate you prefer for customization.
10. Instant Pot Beet Salad

Add a vibrant and healthy touch to your holiday spread with this Instant Pot beet salad!
Full of earthy flavors and topped with a tangy vinaigrette, this dish not only looks stunning but is also nutritious. Beets are high in antioxidants and can be served warm or cold. Pair it with goat cheese and walnuts for added creaminess and crunch. This salad is a great option for your guests who are looking for something lighter during the holiday feast.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Calories: 120 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients:
- 4 medium beets, scrubbed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
Instructions:
1. Place the beets in the Instant Pot with 1 cup of water.
2. Seal the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 15 minutes.
3. Perform a quick release and let the beets cool.
4. Slice beets and toss with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt.
5. Serve topped with goat cheese and walnuts.
- Use gloves while handling beets to avoid staining your hands.
- Feel free to add additional veggies like arugula for more flavor.
11. Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Bring a taste of the Philippines to your holiday table with Instant Pot chicken adobo!
This dish features tender chicken simmered in a sweet and tangy sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and spices. It’s packed with bold flavors and pairs perfectly with rice. The Instant Pot makes this traditional dish quick and hassle-free, ensuring you have time for all your holiday festivities. Your guests will love the unique flavor profile this dish brings to the table.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Calories: 250 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 20g
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In the Instant Pot, combine soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, peppercorns, bay leaves, and water.
2. Add chicken thighs and ensure they are submerged in the sauce.
3. Seal the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 20 minutes.
4. Allow natural release for 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.
5. Serve with rice and drizzle some sauce over the top.
- Add hard-boiled eggs for an authentic touch.
- Use chicken breasts for a leaner option.
12. Instant Pot Risotto

Impress your guests with a creamy, luscious risotto, made effortlessly in your Instant Pot!
This dish is perfect for the holiday season, as it can be customized with seasonal vegetables or cheeses. With minimal stirring required, you’ll have a rich and comforting dish ready in just minutes. Perfect as a side or a main, this risotto is bound to be a crowd-pleaser at any festive gathering. You can even make it vegetarian or add seafood for variety.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Calories: 320 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 8g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Sauté onion and garlic in the Instant Pot until soft.
2. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil.
3. Pour in white wine and stir until absorbed.
4. Add broth and seal the lid. Cook on manual high pressure for 15 minutes.
5. Quick release when done and stir in parmesan and butter.
6. Serve hot, garnished with more cheese if desired.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or peas for added flavor and color.
- Stir in fresh herbs right before serving.
13. Instant Pot Baked Ziti

Comfort food at its best, this Instant Pot baked ziti is a cheesy, hearty dish that everyone will love!
Made with pasta, marinara sauce, and three types of cheese, this dish is perfect for a holiday potluck or family gathering. The Instant Pot makes it easy to prepare, blending all the flavors beautifully while keeping the pasta perfectly al dente. Serve it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that will please even the pickiest of eaters.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Calories: 400 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 15g
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups water
- Italian seasoning to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Pour water and marinara sauce into the Instant Pot and add ziti.
2. Stir in ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Seal the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 20 minutes.
4. Quick release when done and stir in mozzarella and parmesan.
5. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.
- You can add cooked sausage or vegetables for extra flavor.
- Top with fresh basil for a pop of color.
14. Instant Pot Mulled Wine

Warm up your holiday gatherings with a cozy glass of instant pot mulled wine!
This spiced red wine drink infuses inviting flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and citrus, creating a warm, comforting beverage that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Your guests will love sipping on this festive drink while enjoying the festivities around them. Plus, it only takes minutes to prepare in your Instant Pot, leaving you more time to celebrate with loved ones.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Calories: 150 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 0g
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle red wine (750ml)
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar
- 2 oranges, sliced
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 1 star anise (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pour the red wine into the Instant Pot.
2. Add honey, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.
3. Seal the lid and set to manual low pressure for 30 minutes.
4. After cooking, allow natural release for 10 minutes.
5. Strain and serve hot in mugs.
- Garnish with extra orange slices or a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
- You can adjust the sweetness to your preference.
15. Instant Pot Cheesecake

End your holiday feast on a sweet note with a sumptuous Instant Pot cheesecake that will impress everyone!
This rich and creamy dessert is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings. The Instant Pot helps to create a perfectly smooth texture that’s sometimes hard to achieve with traditional baking methods. Top with fruits or chocolate sauce for an unforgettable treat that will have everyone going back for more.
Recipe Overview:
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Calories: 350 per serving
Nutrition Information:
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 6g
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter to form the crust.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan.
3. In another bowl, beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
5. Pour filling over the crust and cover with foil.
6. Place on the trivet inside the Instant Pot with 1 cup of water.
7. Seal the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 40 minutes.
8. Allow natural release for 15 minutes, then quick release.
9. Chill before serving with toppings.
- Let the cheesecake cool for several hours or overnight for the best texture.
- Experiment with different toppings like fruit or chocolate drizzle.
Conclusion

These 15 irresistible Instant Pot holiday recipes are designed to make your celebrations more enjoyable and stress-free.
From savory dishes to delightful desserts, each recipe offers a unique twist that will leave your guests talking long after dessert is served. Embrace the joy of cooking with these easy, festive options that bring everyone together around the table. What will you make first?
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