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31 Must-Try Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Brittany Kline | Updated February 12, 2025 Recipes

Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or even satisfying your sweet tooth, the Instant Pot can do it all! Here's 31 of my favorite Instant Pot recipes to help you!
A collage of three delicious Instant Pot recipes: tender pork chops in a rich, red sauce on the left; creamy egg noodles with peas and a creamy sauce at the top right; and cheesy scalloped potatoes with a golden, melted cheese topping at the bottom right. Each dish is served in a clean, white dishware, set against a cozy kitchen backdrop.
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A collage pin showcasing four mouthwatering Instant Pot dump dinners: creamy macaroni and cheese, a hearty cheesesteak sandwich, savory teriyaki chicken over rice, and cheesy scalloped potatoes. The bold title text in the center reads, "Top 31 Easy Instant Pot Dump Dinners," with the website URL "thesavvymama.com" at the bottom, making it clear this pin is a go-to resource for quick and delicious meal ideas.

We’ve all had those nights where figuring out what to make for dinner feels like a chore. After a long day, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen, right?

That’s where the Instant Pot comes in! This handy gadget allows you to whip up delicious meals in no time, and I’ve got some amazing recipes to help you out.

With these Instant Pot recipes, you can whip up quick and delicious dinners that the whole family will enjoy.

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Why I love the Instant Pot 

A collage pin showcasing four mouthwatering Instant Pot dump dinners: creamy macaroni and cheese, a hearty cheesesteak sandwich, savory teriyaki chicken over rice, and cheesy scalloped potatoes. The bold title text in the center reads, "Top 31 Easy Instant Pot Dump Dinners," with the website URL "thesavvymama.com" at the bottom, making it clear this pin is a go-to resource for quick and delicious meal ideas.

  1. It Saves Time—The Instant Pot cooks meals in less time compared to traditional methods.
  2. It’s Incredibly Versatile—From soups and stews to pasta, rice, and even desserts, the Instant Pot can handle it all. 
  3. One-Pot Cooking Means Less Cleanup—I’m all about anything that makes my life easier, and the Instant Pot does just that by allowing me to cook everything in one pot.  
  4. Consistently Delicious Results—The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking magic locks in flavors and juices, so every meal is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. 
  5. It’s a Great Space Saver—With the Instant Pot, I don’t need a slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, or yogurt maker taking up space in my kitchen.  

31 Must-Try Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Let’s dive into the Instant Pot recipes. Each one is designed to be quick, simple, and packed with flavor—perfect for those busy evenings!

Beef Instant Pot Recipes 

1. Instant Pot Bolognese 

Easy Instant Pot Bolognese Sauce by The Savvy Mama
Photo & Recipe by The Savvy Mama

My Instant Pot Bolognese is one of my favorite recipes and a total game-changer for busy nights. It’s rich and hearty and the perfect way to satisfy your pasta cravings without spending hours at the stove. Plus, your kitchen will smell like an Italian restaurant—who doesn’t love that?

2. Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak Recipe by The Savvy Mama
Photo & Recipe by The Savvy Mama

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Instant Pot Philly Cheesesteak. Juicy, tender beef mixed with melty cheese and sautéed peppers, all packed into a crusty roll—this recipe will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

3. Asian Pot Roast

Asian Pot Roast by The Savvy Mama
Photo & Recipe by The Savvy Mama

Elevate your dinner game with this Instant Pot Asian Pot Roast. It’s the perfect blend of savory and sweet, with tender beef that easily melts in your mouth. Pair it with some steamed rice, and you’ve got yourself a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

4. Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast 

Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast by Eating In An Instant
Photo & Recipe by Eating In An Instant

Imagine your favorite French onion soup but in pot roast form! This Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast is a cozy, flavorful dish perfect for chilly nights. The best part? It’s all done in the Instant Pot, so you can kick back while it cooks.

5. Instant Pot Pressure Cooker French Dip Sandwich 

Instant Pot French Dip by Julie's Eats and Treats
Photo & Recipe by Julies Eats and Treats

If you’re a sandwich lover, this Instant Pot French Dip Sandwich is about to become your new favorite. The beef is so tender it almost falls apart, and when you dip it in that rich au jus—wow, just wow. Perfect for a casual dinner or game day treat!

6. Instant Pot Hamburger Soup 

Instant Pot Hamburger Soup by Salt and Lavendar
Photo & Recipe by Salt and Lavendar

This Instant Pot Hamburger Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s packed with ground beef, veggies, and a flavorful broth that’ll have you feeling all cozy inside. Quick, easy, and totally satisfying—what more could you want?

7. Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas Casserole  

Instant Pot 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas Casserole by 365 Days of Crockpot
Photo & Recipe by 365 Days of Crockpot

Busy nights call for recipes like this 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas Casserole. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a cheesy, beefy, enchilada-inspired dish in no time. It’s the perfect dinner when you need something quick and delicious!

8. Instant Pot Beef Tips 

Beef Tips by Soulfully Made
Photo & Recipe by Soulfully Made

These Instant Pot Beef Tips are the definition of comfort food. The beef is incredibly tender, and the savory gravy is just begging to be poured over mashed potatoes. It’s an easy, no-fuss dinner that’ll make everyone at the table happy.

Chicken & Pork Instant Pot Recipes 

9. Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice 

Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice by The Dinner Bite
Photo & Recipe by The Dinner Bite

Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice recipe is a total winner for weeknight dinners. The chicken is juicy, the rice is perfectly cooked, and it all comes together in one pot—less cleanup, more time to relax.  

10. Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken by Family Fresh Meals
Photo & Recipe by Family Fresh Meals

This Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet and savory that’s sure to become a family favorite. The chicken is tender and juicy, coated in a delicious honey garlic sauce that’s just the right balance of sticky and flavorful. Serve it over rice or with your favorite veggies for a quick and satisfying meal.

11. Instant Pot Chicken & Dumplings

Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings by Shugary Sweets
Photo & Recipe by Shugary Sweets

Comfort food doesn’t get much better than this Instant Pot Chicken & Dumplings. With tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy, savory broth, this dish is like a warm hug on a plate. The best part? The Instant Pot does it all, so you can enjoy this classic chicken and dumpling dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

12. Instant Pot Pork Chops

Instant Pot Pork Chops by Dinner Then Dessert
Photo & Recipe by Dinner Then Dessert 

These Instant Pot Pork Chops are juicy, tender, and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you’ll have perfectly cooked pork chops in no time. Serve them with some mashed potatoes or veggies, and you’ve got a delicious meal everyone will love.

13. Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

Instant Pot Pork Carnitas by Skinny Taste
Photo & Recipe by Skinny Taste

Bring a taste of Mexico to your kitchen with these Instant Pot Pork Carnitas. The pork is seasoned to perfection and so tender it practically falls apart, making it perfect for tacos, burritos, or just eating straight out of the pot. It’s a fiesta in your mouth, and it couldn’t be easier!

14. Instant Pot Ribs

Instant Pot Ribs by Spend with Pennies
Photo & Recipe by Spend With Pennies

These Instant Pot Ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with smoky, savory flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just craving some comfort food, these ribs are sure to impress. And the best part? They cook in a fraction of the time so that you can enjoy them without a long wait.

15. Instant Pot BBQ Honey Mustard Pork Chops

Easy Instant Pot Recipes - BBQ Honey Mustard Pork Chops by Simply Low Cal
Photo & Recipe by Simply Low Cal

What I love about these Instant Pot BBQ Honey Mustard Pork Chops is that they are a perfect mix of tangy and smoky flavors. The pork chops come out incredibly tender, with a mouthwatering sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over your favorite sides. 

Pasta & Rice Instant Pot Recipes 

16. Best Instant Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese

Best Instant Pot Creamy Macaroni and Cheese by Recipes That Crock
Photo & Recipe by Recipes That Crock

When you’re craving the ultimate comfort food, this Instant Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese is your go-to. It’s rich, velvety, and so easy to make that you’ll never reach for the boxed stuff again. Plus, it’s ready in just minutes.

17. Instant Pot Stuffed Shells 

Instant Pot Stuffed Shells by Domestic Superhero
Photo & Recipe by Domestic Superhero

These Instant Pot Stuffed Shells are a pasta lover’s dream come true. Stuffed with a deliciously cheesy filling and topped with your favorite marinara sauce, they’re a hearty and satisfying meal that feels fancy but is actually super simple to whip up. 

18. Instant Pot Tuna Casserole

Instant Pot Tuna Casserole by Simply Happy Foodie
Photo & Recipe by Simply Happy Foodie

This Instant Pot Tuna Casserole is a nostalgic dish that’s been given a modern twist. Creamy, comforting, and filled with tender pasta and flaky tuna, it’s the perfect quick and easy dinner when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. 

19. Instant Pot Hamburger Helper  

Instant Pot Hamburger Helper by Jo Cooks
Photo & Recipe by Jo Cooks

Say goodbye to the boxed stuff—this Instant Pot Hamburger Helper is homemade and so much better! It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of hearty beef, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s ready in a flash, which is one of the reasons I love this recipe!

20. Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs 

Instant Pot Spaghetti & Meatballs by Berry Maple
Photo & Recipe by Berry Maple

Who says you need a ton of time to make a classic like Spaghetti and Meatballs? With the Instant Pot, you can have this Italian favorite on the table in no time. The meatballs are juicy, the sauce is flavorful, and everything cooks together for the ultimate one-pot meal!

21. Instant Pot Crack Chicken Pasta 

Instant Pot Crack Chicken Pasta by Shugary Sweet
Photo & Recipe by Shugary Sweet

If you haven’t tried Crack Chicken Pasta yet, you’re in for a treat! This Instant Pot version is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory chicken—basically, it’s an instant hit at the dinner table.  

Vegetable Instant Pot Recipes 

22. Instant Pot Green Bean Casserole

Instant Pot Green Bean Casserole by Adventures of a Nurse
Photo & Recipe by Adventures of a Nurse

Green Bean Casserole is a classic holiday side dish but now you can make it even easier using the Instant Pot. With the Instant Pot or slow cooker, you’ll get perfectly tender green beans in a creamy, savory sauce topped with crispy onions.  

23. Vegan Instant Pot Burrito Bowls 

Vegan Instant Pot Burrito by Okonomi Kitchen
Photo & Recipe by Okonomi Kitchen 

If you are looking for something packed with flavor and veggies, these Vegan Instant Pot Burrito Bowls are for you! With a blend of rice, beans, and fresh toppings, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s both nutritious and delicious.

24. Brown Sugar Carrots Pressure Cooker Recipe 

Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots by Eating on a Dime
Photo & Recipe by Eating on a Dime

What I love about these Brown Sugar Carrots is that they are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, and they cook up in no time in the Instant Pot. The carrots come out tender and glazed with a delicious brown sugar butter sauce that’ll have everyone asking for more.  

25. Instant Pot Au Gratin Potatoes

Instant Pot Au Gratin Potatoes by Cooking with Karli
Photo & Recipe by Cooking With Karli

Instant Pot Au Gratin Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes, creamy cheese sauce, and a golden top make this a dish everyone will love.  

26. Instant Pot Corn on the Cob

Instant Pot Corn on the Cob by Natasha's Kitchen
Photo & Recipe by Natasha’s Kitchen

Making corn on the cob has never been easier, thanks to the Instant Pot. In just a few minutes, you’ll have perfectly cooked, juicy corn that’s great for a summer BBQ or a quick side dish. Just add some butter and salt, and you’re good to go!

27. Instant Pot Baked Potatoes

Instant Pot Baked Potatoes by A Mindfull Mom
Photo & Recipe by A Mindfull Mom

These Instant Pot Baked Potatoes are fluffy on the inside and perfectly cooked every time. No need to heat the oven—just pop them in the Instant Pot, and in no time, you’ll have delicious baked potatoes ready for all your favorite toppings.  

Instant Pot Desserts

28. Instant Pot Apple Crisp

Instant Pot Apple Crisp by Center Cut Cook
Photo & Recipe by Center Cut Cook

Apple Crisp is like the best part of fall in a bowl, and the Instant Pot makes it so easy you can enjoy it anytime you crave a cozy dessert. Top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got yourself a little slice of heaven.

29. 2-Ingredient Instant Pot Cheesecake

2 Ingredient Instant Pot Cheesecake by My Heart Beets
Photo & Recipe by My Heart Beets 

Yes, you read that right—there are just two ingredients to make this dreamy Instant Pot Cheesecake! It’s rich, creamy, and incredibly simple.  

30. Instant Pot Pumpkin Banana Chip Bundt Cake  

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bundt Cake by A Pinch of Healthy
Photo & Recipe by A Pinch of Healthy

What I love about this recipe is that it is the ultimate dessert mashup that you didn’t know you needed! The flavors of pumpkin, banana, and chocolate chips come together in a moist, delicious cake that’s perfect for any occasion. 

31. Instant Pot Upside Down Pineapple Cake 

Instant Pot Upside Down Pineapple Cake by Fork to Spoon
Photo & Recipe by Fork to Spoon

You have to try this Instant Pot Upside Down Pineapple Cake! It is a delicious twist on a classic dessert. The sweet, caramelized pineapples and soft, moist cake make for a delicious treat that’s sure to impress.  

Other Easy Recipes Using Slow Cookers

40-slow-cooker-dump-recipes-that-are-amazing-fb

And if you like easy recipes using just your Instant Pot, you might be interested in my amazing slow cooker dump recipes!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re whipping up a cozy dinner, prepping meals for the week, or treating yourself to a sweet dessert, the Instant Pot really makes everything easier. 

I hope these recipes inspire you to try something new and fall even more in love with your Instant Pot. 

So, go ahead, have fun in the kitchen, and enjoy all the tasty meals you’re about to create with the Instant Pot!

Free Meal Plan System
Tired of Last-Minute Dinner Stress?
Tired of Last-Minute Dinner Stress?

Plan a Week of Dinners in Minutes — Without Overspending or Overthinking It.

Join over 50,000 other savvy moms who’ve simplified dinner time!

✅ Done-for-you templates & shopping lists

✅ Budget-friendly and picky-eater approved

Download My Free Plan Now

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About Brittany Kline

Hi, I’m Brittany Kline—a mom, home systems expert, and culinary enthusiast passionate about helping busy families simplify life—starting in the kitchen. With a master’s degree in education and years of experience creating streamlined home solutions, I specialize in practical meal planning, effortless home organization, and family-friendly recipes that make life easier (and tastier) for moms everywhere.

As a former educator turned household management pro, I understand the daily chaos that comes with raising a family. That’s why I’ve dedicated my work to helping moms take control of meal planning, grocery shopping, and kitchen routines—so they can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying family meals.

My recipes and meal-planning strategies have been featured in leading publications such as Forbes, TIME, USA Today, and Business Insider, among many others. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight dinners or tips to make meal prep stress-free, I’m here to help you turn chaos into calm. Click here to read all of my posts.

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