29 Easy Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Nights

Busy nights don’t leave much time to think about dinner, and that’s where these Instant Pot recipes come in. Whether you’re still learning your way around the kitchen or just too tired to cook from scratch, these meals make things simple. With only a few steps and quick cook times, you can get something hot and filling on the table without all the stress.

Image shows irresistible bowl of tomato basil soup.

Tomato Basil Bisque. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chicken Curry

Image shows a Bite of chicken curry on a fork with the rest of the bowl in the background.
Chicken Curry. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Big flavor doesn’t have to mean big effort, and this chicken curry proves that. The Instant Pot helps the chicken soak up rich spices while the sauce turns thick and bold. It’s an easy go-to for anyone looking for a flavorful dish with minimal fuss. Make this the next time you’re craving something satisfying but don’t have a lot of time.

Get the Recipe: Chicken Curry

Creamy Chickpea Tomato Soup

Image shows A bowl of creamy chickpea tomato soup with dried chickpeas around it.
Creamy Chickpea Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This soup is smooth, thick, and full of flavor without being heavy. The Instant Pot makes it easy by blending tomatoes and chickpeas into a creamy, comforting dish. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a filling homemade soup without the long wait. Keep this recipe on hand for when you want something hearty without all the effort.

Get the Recipe: Creamy Chickpea Tomato Soup

Tomato Lime Chicken

Image shows a Bite of tomato lime chicken on a fork with rice and the rest of the bowl in the background.
Tomato Lime Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Tangy lime and rich tomato come together in a dish that’s packed with flavor and super simple to make. The Instant Pot does all the hard work, leaving the chicken juicy and tender in no time. This is a great choice for those looking for a fresh, bold meal that’s quick to prepare. Try it next time you want something light yet satisfying.

Get the Recipe: Tomato Lime Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Bowl of chicken noodle soup with carrots, celery, and noodles, next to sliced bread on a wooden cutting board with a knife.
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This chicken noodle soup brings comfort with every bite and comes together fast. The Instant Pot keeps the chicken tender and the broth rich while the noodles cook just right. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a cozy, classic meal without a lot of prep. Make this on those nights when you need a warm, comforting dish in no time.

Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Beer Cheese Soup

Image shows Pretzel dipping into beer cheese soup.
Beer Cheese Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Melted cheese and beer come together in a smooth, creamy soup that feels like it came from a restaurant. The Instant Pot handles everything, blending bold flavors with almost no work. If you want something rich and filling that comes together in no time, this is the perfect pick. Get this one going when you want a satisfying meal with minimal effort.

Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese Soup

Chicken Tikka Masala

Overheat shot of chicken tikka masala in a green bowl on a white table.
Chicken Tikka Masala. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This takeout favorite is easier than it sounds, thanks to the Instant Pot. It helps the chicken soak up spices while the sauce thickens into something rich and comforting. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to make a flavorful homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try when you want bold flavors without the long cooking time.

Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala

Cinnamon Apples

Image shows a Fork holding a bite of cinnamon apples with a ramekin holding more in the background.
Cinnamon Apples. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

These sweet, spiced apples taste homemade and take hardly any effort. The Instant Pot softens them until they’re tender while the cinnamon adds warmth and sweetness. It’s a quick, easy dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without any complicated steps. Keep this in mind for when you want something cozy and sweet with minimal work.

Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Apples

Tomato Basil Bisque

Image shows a close up of a bowl of Tomato Basil Bisque with grated parmesan on top of it.
Tomato Basil Bisque. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This smooth, creamy bisque brings out bold tomato flavor with a touch of basil. The Instant Pot makes it rich and velvety in less time than it takes to heat up the stove. This is a great option for anyone who loves a flavorful soup but doesn’t want to spend all day making it. Try it when you want something delicious with minimal prep.

Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Bisque

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Image shows A bowl of broccoli cheddar soup with broccoli around it.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cheddar cheese and soft broccoli mix together in a soup that’s thick, rich, and easy to love. The Instant Pot melts everything down into one warm, comforting bowl. Perfect for anyone who loves creamy, hearty meals without the stovetop hassle. Make this when you’re craving something cheesy, creamy, and satisfying without the extra steps.

Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Carnitas

Image shows Tongs holding carnitas over a tray.
Carnitas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

These carnitas are full of flavor and take a fraction of the time thanks to the Instant Pot. The pork turns juicy and tender as it cooks in bold spices, ready to crisp up when done. This is a classic dish that’s perfect for anyone who loves flavorful, tender meat without hours of cooking. Add it to your weeknight dinner plans when you want a dish that’s simple yet full of taste.

Get the Recipe: Carnitas

Pulled Pork

Image shows a Pulled pork sandwich on white plate with pretzels on the side.
Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Pulled pork doesn’t have to take hours to turn out tender and full of flavor. The Instant Pot keeps it juicy while breaking it down just right for sandwiches or bowls. It’s a great meal for anyone who wants something smoky and savory with little effort. Keep this in your back pocket for a no-fuss dinner that will impress.

Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork

Instant Pot Baked Potato Soup

Image shows A bowl of cheesy loaded baked potato soup with bacon and cheese.
Instant Pot Baked Potato Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Creamy and packed with bacon and cheese, this baked potato soup hits the spot. The Instant Pot turns simple ingredients into a thick, satisfying bowl in no time. If you’re in the mood for comfort food that’s easy to make, this is a perfect choice. Whip this up when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Baked Potato Soup

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Overhead shot of chicken tortilla soup in a red bowl on wooden table with tortilla strips on the soup.
Chicken Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This soup is spicy, filling, and full of flavor, but it comes together fast. The Instant Pot blends chicken, beans, and bold spices into a rich, warm dish. It’s a solid meal for anyone who loves hearty, satisfying soup with minimal work. Make this when you want something bold and comforting without the extra effort.

Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup

Potato Corn Chowder

Spoon holding potato and corn chowder with bacon with the full bowl of soup behind it.
Potato Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Corn and potatoes make a creamy, thick chowder that feels like a full meal in a bowl. The Instant Pot brings out all the flavor while keeping things simple. If you want a filling, hearty dish that comes together quickly, this is the one for you. Keep it in mind for those nights when you’re craving something warm and creamy.

Get the Recipe: Potato Corn Chowder

Mashed Potatoes

Overhead shot of a bowl of mashed potatoes in a blue bowl with parsley sprinkled over it.
Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes come out perfect every time with the help of the Instant Pot. It takes all the guesswork out of cooking, making it simple to mash them just the way you like. This foolproof side dish will make any meal feel like a special occasion without any stress.

Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

Meatballs and Sauce

Image shows easy to make instant pot spaghetti and meatballs.
Meatballs and Sauce. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Tender, juicy meatballs in a savory sauce can be yours without spending all day in the kitchen. The Instant Pot cooks everything together, infusing the flavors and making the meatballs extra juicy. It’s a classic dish made easy, perfect for when you want something hearty with minimal fuss.

Get the Recipe: Meatballs and Sauce

Shredded BBQ Chicken

Image shows a BBQ shredded chicken sandwich on a wooden board.
Shredded BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Big barbecue flavor is ready without the need for a grill. The Instant Pot helps the chicken absorb the smoky, tangy sauce, making it tender and full of flavor. This is a go-to meal for anyone who loves barbecue without the grill hassle.

Get the Recipe: Shredded BBQ Chicken

French Onion Soup

Image shows a Spoon pulling cheese from a bowl of French onion soup in a blue ramekin.
French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Rich, caramelized onions and savory broth come together in this classic comfort food, made faster with the Instant Pot. It cuts down on the time usually needed to develop deep flavors, delivering a bowl of warmth in minutes. Perfect for when you want a homemade favorite without the wait.

Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

Chicken and Rice Soup

Image shows Chicken and rice soup on a spoon with the full blue bowl behind it.
Chicken and Rice Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This cozy, hearty chicken and rice soup is easier to make than you think. The Instant Pot brings everything together in a rich, comforting broth, making it feel like it simmered all day. It’s a simple, filling dish perfect for a busy night.

Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Soup

Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Image shows A bowl of lentil soup with a spoon in it.
Instant Pot Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

A hearty, flavorful lentil soup can be on the table in no time, thanks to the Instant Pot. The rich seasoning infuses the lentils, making each spoonful taste like it’s been simmering for hours. This is a great choice for a wholesome, satisfying meal with minimal prep.

Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Tomato Soup

Overhead image of a bowl of tomato soup with parmesan grated into it.
Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Creamy tomato soup is just minutes away with the Instant Pot. It blends ripe tomatoes and seasonings into a smooth, comforting dish that feels homemade without the long cooking time. Perfect for when you want a quick, satisfying bowl of soup.

Get the Recipe: Tomato Soup

Risotto with Peas and Lemon

Image shows instant pot pea risotto in a bowl.
Risotto with Peas and Lemon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Creamy, restaurant-quality risotto doesn’t have to take hours or require constant stirring. The Instant Pot cooks the rice to tender perfection, while peas add a touch of sweetness, and lemon brightens the dish. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s easy to pull off.

Get the Recipe: Risotto with Peas and Lemon

Lemon Garlic Chicken

Close up image of lemon garlic chicken with rice on a white plate.
Lemon Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Zesty lemon and bold garlic come together in this easy yet impressive chicken dish. The Instant Pot locks in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy while infusing it with rich, bright flavors. It’s the perfect meal when you want something fancy with little effort.

Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Stock

Image shows four mason jars of chicken stock sitting on a railing in the snow.
Instant Pot Chicken Stock. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Homemade chicken stock doesn’t have to mean hours at the stove. The Instant Pot pulls all the deep, savory flavors from the bones, giving you a rich broth for soups, sauces, or sipping. This easy method will have you making your own stock in no time.

Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Stock

Chicken Paprikash

Image shows Bite of chicken paprikash on a fork sitting on a glass plate on a wooden table.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Tender chicken in a smoky, paprika-rich sauce can be made easy with the Instant Pot. The sauce thickens and the flavors deepen in a fraction of the time, giving you a dish that feels like it’s been simmering for hours. It’s a great choice for anyone craving a traditional meal without the time commitment.

Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Honey Bourbon Chicken

Overhead shot of honey bourbon chicken in a bowl on a black counter.
Honey Bourbon Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Sweet, savory, and smoky flavors come together in this easy-to-make chicken dish. The Instant Pot helps the sauce thicken while keeping the chicken juicy and tender. Perfect for anyone craving takeout-style flavor at home without the extra work.

Get the Recipe: Honey Bourbon Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Overhead shot of a plate of chicken adobo with rice and scallions on the side.
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Adobo comes to life quickly in the Instant Pot, bringing tender chicken in a flavorful, sweet-savory glaze. This Filipino favorite is made easy without sacrificing any of the authentic taste. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a rich, comforting dish with minimal effort.

Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy

A bowl of instant pot roast beef with gravy and vegetables.
Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Tender roast beef and savory gravy are ready in no time, all thanks to the Instant Pot. The beef turns melt-in-your-mouth tender while the gravy absorbs all the rich flavors. It’s a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare, perfect for any night you want a comforting, home-cooked dinner.

Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy

Instant Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice

Picture of chicken and rice in a red bowl topped with avocado slices.
Instant Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

This flavorful chicken and rice dish brings bold Mexican flavors together in just minutes. The Instant Pot makes it quick and easy, with perfectly cooked chicken and fluffy rice every time. A great go-to meal when you need something satisfying and packed with flavor.

Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice

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