The Best Easy Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Families (With Buying Guide)

Byisla Rose
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The Instant Pot has taken the world by storm, and it’s easy to see why. This versatile kitchen gadget can replace multiple appliances, save you hours of cooking time, and still deliver meals that taste like they’ve been simmering all day. Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or already a fan, this guide will walk you through easy Instant Pot recipes that anyone can make and give you a simple buying guide to help you choose the best Instant Pot for your needs.

By the end, you’ll not only have a list of go-to meals but also know exactly which Instant Pot model to buy and where to find it.

Why Everyone Loves the Instant Pot

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Imagine coming home after a long day, tossing in some ingredients, pressing a button, and enjoying a perfectly cooked dinner in under an hour. That’s the magic of the Instant Pot. It’s a multi-cooker that functions as a:

  • Pressure cooker
  • Slow cooker
  • Rice cooker
  • Steamer
  • Sauté pan
  • Yogurt maker
  • Warmer

It’s basically your all-in-one kitchen assistant. No wonder it’s become a must-have in modern kitchens.

Easy Instant Pot Recipes You’ll Actually Cook

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Let’s dive into some simple recipes that are perfect for beginners and busy families.

1. Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

This creamy classic is done in less than 15 minutes.

  • Add pasta, water, and a pinch of salt.
  • Pressure cook for 4 minutes.
  • Stir in butter, cheese, and a splash of milk.

It’s a kid-friendly favorite that beats boxed mac and cheese any day.

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2. Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

A complete one-pot meal with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vegetables.

  • Sauté onions and garlic.
  • Add chicken thighs, rice, broth, and carrots.
  • Cook for 10 minutes on high pressure.

Dinner is ready in about 30 minutes total.

3. Instant Pot Chili

Perfect for game nights or chilly evenings.

  • Brown ground beef or turkey using sauté mode.
  • Add beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and broth.
  • Pressure cook for 15 minutes.

The result? A hearty, flavorful chili that tastes like it simmered for hours.

4. Instant Pot Yogurt

Yes, you can make your own yogurt at home!

  • Heat milk in the Instant Pot.
  • Cool slightly, then stir in a yogurt starter.
  • Let it incubate overnight.

Homemade yogurt is fresher, cheaper, and healthier.

5. Instant Pot Cheesecake

Surprise! Your Instant Pot can also bake.

  • Prepare a graham cracker crust.
  • Pour in cream cheese filling.
  • Pressure cook for 35 minutes.

The result is a rich, velvety cheesecake that rivals any bakery.

Benefits of Cooking with Easy Instant Pot Recipes

  • Time-Saving: Meals that normally take hours are done in minutes.
  • Energy Efficient: One pot does it all, reducing electricity and cleanup.
  • Healthy Options: Steaming and pressure cooking preserve nutrients.
  • Beginner Friendly: Even if you don’t cook often, you’ll feel like a pro.

How to Choose the Right Instant Pot

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Now that you’re ready to try these recipes, let’s talk about how to pick the perfect Instant Pot. There are multiple models and sizes, and it can get confusing. Here’s a breakdown.

1. Size Matters

  • 3 Quart: Great for singles or couples.
  • 6 Quart: The most popular size—perfect for families of 3–5.
  • 8 Quart: Best for large families, meal prepping, or batch cooking.

2. Popular Models

Here are a few top options you can buy directly from Amazon:

  • Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1
    • Pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté, yogurt maker, and warmer.
    • A great entry-level model.
    • Check it out on Amazon
  • Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1
    • Includes all Duo features plus sterilizer and egg cooker.
    • View on Amazon
  • Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1
    • More advanced with faster heating and customizable programs.
    • See it here

3. Features to Look For

  • Number of Functions: The more, the better (but only if you’ll use them).
  • Ease of Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe inner pot is a lifesaver.
  • Safety Features: Modern Instant Pots come with over 10 built-in safety mechanisms.

Accessories That Make Cooking Easier

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Your Instant Pot can do even more with a few handy extras.

  • Steamer Basket: For veggies, dumplings, or eggs.
  • Springform Pan: Perfect for cheesecakes and lasagna.
  • Silicone Egg Bites Mold: Make Starbucks-style egg bites at home.

Tips for Success with Easy Instant Pot Recipes

  1. Always Add Liquid – Pressure cooking requires steam. No liquid, no pressure.
  2. Don’t Overfill – Stick to the fill line. Too much food can block the valve.
  3. Natural vs. Quick Release – Follow the recipe instructions for releasing pressure. Some foods (like beans) need natural release.
  4. Practice Makes Perfect – Your first attempt may not be flawless, but don’t give up. The Instant Pot has a learning curve.

FAQs About Instant Pots

1. Is the Instant Pot safe?
Yes. Unlike old pressure cookers, modern Instant Pots have safety features to prevent accidents.

2. Can I cook frozen meat in the Instant Pot?
Absolutely! That’s one of its biggest perks. Just adjust cooking time slightly.

3. Do I need to buy extra accessories?
Not immediately. The Instant Pot works great on its own, but accessories expand its uses.

4. Can I replace my slow cooker with an Instant Pot?
Yes, most models have a slow cook function.

Final Thoughts

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The Instant Pot is more than just a kitchen gadget—it’s a time saver, a money saver, and in many ways, a sanity saver. From easy Instant Pot recipes like mac and cheese and chili to fancier options like cheesecake, you’ll never run out of meal ideas.

If you’re ready to upgrade your cooking routine, start with the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1. Pair it with a few accessories, and you’ll have everything you need to whip up delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

Cooking has never been this easy, fun, and stress-free. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.