Adventures of Mel

Category: Instant Pot

I love my Instant Pot! And I want to help you love yours too. Here you’ll find loads of Instant Pot recipes and pressure cooker recipes, including easy dinner ideas, recipes for meat lovers, breakfast recipes, desserts, soup recipes, pantry staples, and more!

Reader favorites include Instant Pot apple butter, taco chicken, apple juice, and peaches and cream Instant Pot oatmeal. And if you’re having trouble getting started, check out our Instant Pot quick start guide.

  • Juicy Instant Pot Whole Chicken for an Easy Dinner

    Juicy Instant Pot Whole Chicken for an Easy Dinner

    How to cook a perfectly tender and juicy Instant Pot whole chicken from fresh or frozen in just 30 minutes or less. Quick and easy, healthy one pot meal recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

    I love garlic parm chicken skewers and baked chicken drumsticks, but my go-to easy dinner recipe has always been whole chicken in the CrockPot. I’d plan ahead and throw everything together in the morning so that it could slow cook all day long– That is, until I bought my first Instant Pot. Don’t get me wrong, I still love the slow cooked flavor of a good CrockPot chicken, but cooking whole chicken in the Instant Pot is so much faster for those busy weekdays when I’m in such a rush!

    Instant Pot whole chicken stuffed with lemons and peppers, fresh out of the electric pressure cooker, and ready to eat on a large wooden cutting board

    I can whip up an Instant Pot whole chicken in 30 minutes or less, and it tastes just as good as a slow cooked chicken. If you don’t already have an Instant Pot, I highly recommend getting one; this is one tool that every kitchen needs to have! You can make so many dinner recipes with an electric pressure cooker, including Instant Pot salmon, meatloaf, and baby back ribs.

    whole chicken Instant Pot ingredients lined out on a large wooden cutting board

    Ingredients & Substitutions Notes

    How to Make Instant Pot Whole Chicken

    Before getting started, rinse your whole chicken off and pat dry with paper towels. Then use a large knife to quarter a lemon and medium white onion on a large cutting board. Wash and chop up any veggies that you might use, and then set aside…

    Prepping the Chicken

    1. In a small mixing bowl, combine all of the seasonings.
    2. Then with your chicken on a large cutting board, sprinkle the seasonings over the chicken and cavity.
    3. Next, stuff the cavity with lemon and onions.
    4. Add the oil to the Instant Pot, and set it to the high sauté setting.
    5. Lay the whole chicken in the Instant Pot with the breast facing down. Cook ’til golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. This will create that crispy and golden brown, rotisserie-style skin that we all know and love!
    6. Finally, use a pair of tongs to turn the chicken over and let it cook in the oil for another 3-4 minutes. Then set aside.
    6 step photo collage showing how to make whole chicken in the Instant Pot

    How to Cook a Whole Chicken in the Instant Pot

    1. Start by placing your metal trivet down inside of the Instant Pot with the handles up. Then add the chicken broth.
    2. Place your whole chicken on top of the rack; if you’re adding any veggies, this is where you’ll want to chuck them in. Select the manual setting, and let it cook on high for about 6 minutes per pound. When the timer goes off, naturally release the pressure for about 20 more minutes.
    3. Once the pressure has naturally released, remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and let rest on a cutting board for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

    If you’re cooking the chicken from frozen, you’ll need to double the cooking time to about 12 minutes per pound, and then let it naturally release for 20 minutes like normal.

    3 step photo collage showing how to cook an Instant Pot whole chicken

    That’s it! Serve and enjoy with any sides while fresh and hot. The great thing about cooking a whole chicken is that there’s usually plenty of leftovers that you can use for other meals later in the week!

    juicy whole chicken stuffed with lemons and peppers, and ready to slice and eat on a large wooden cutting board

    What to Serve With Instant Pot Whole Chicken

    Here are a few ideas as to what you can serve with your whole chicken meal…

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    Why isn’t my Instant Pot chicken cooked through?

    This is usually because it wasn’t cooked long enough. Fresh whole chicken needs about 6 minutes of cook time per pound in the Instant Pot. If it comes out raw in the middle, the best thing to do is to close it up, set it to manual and let it cook all over again, this time giving it 6 minutes per pound as recommended in the recipe. Then let it naturally release for about 20 minutes.

    How should I store leftover whole chicken?

    Leftover chicken is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

    Can you freeze leftover chicken?

    Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken for meal planning in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it thaw out overnight in the refrigerator before using in any recipes.

    How do you reheat leftover chicken that’s been refrigerated?

    I usually reheat mine in a microwave-safe dish in the microwave on a medium-high setting for about 3 minutes. If it’s still cold, continue to cook it in 30-second bursts ’til hot, stirring every so often. If your leftover chicken was frozen, be sure to let it thaw out in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

    whole chicken with lemons and peppers fresh out of the Instant Pot on a large wooden cutting board

    Recipes for Leftover Chicken

    Need to use up leftover chicken before it goes bad? Here’s a list of our go-to leftover chicken recipes…

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Instant Pot Whole Chicken

    Perfectly tender and juicy Instant Pot whole chicken from fresh or frozen. Quick and easy dinner recipe that you can cook in just 30 minutes!

    • Paper Towels
    • Large Knife
    • Cutting Board
    • Small Mixing Bowl
    • Tongs
    • 4 pounds Whole Roasting Chicken
    • 2 teaspoons Kosher Salt
    • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
    • 1 teaspoon Paprika
    • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
    • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
    • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
    • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Rosemary
    • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional)
    • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
    • 1 cup Chicken Broth
    • 1 Lemon (quartered)
    • 1 Medium White Onion (peeled and quartered)

    1. Before getting started, rinse your whole chicken off and pat dry with paper towels.

    2. Then use a large knife to quarter a lemon and medium white onion on a large cutting board. Wash and chop up any veggies that you might use, and then set aside…

    3. In a small mixing bowl, combine all of the seasonings.

    4. Then with your chicken on a large cutting board, sprinkle the seasonings over the chicken and cavity.

    5. Next, stuff the cavity with lemon and onions.

    6. Add the oil to the Instant Pot, and set it to the high sauté setting.

    7. Lay the whole chicken in the Instant Pot with the breast facing down. Cook 'til golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. This will create that crispy and golden brown, rotisserie-style skin that we all know and love!

    8. Finally, use a pair of tongs to turn the chicken over and let it cook in the oil for another 3-4 minutes. Then set aside.

    9. Start by placing your metal trivet down inside of the Instant Pot with the handles up. Then add the chicken broth.

    10. Place your whole chicken on top of the rack; if you're adding any veggies, this is where you'll want to chuck them in.

    11. Select the manual setting, and let it cook on high for about 6 minutes per pound.* When the timer goes off, naturally release the pressure for about 20 more minutes.

    12. Once the pressure has naturally released, remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and let rest on a cutting board for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

    13. That's it! Serve and enjoy with any sides while fresh and hot.

    *If you’re cooking your whole chicken from frozen, you’ll need to double the cooking time to about 12 minutes per pound, and then let it naturally release for 20 minutes like normal.

    How should I store leftover whole chicken?

    Leftover chicken is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave on a medium-high setting for about 3 minutes. If it’s still cold, continue to cook it in 30-second bursts ’til hot, stirring every so often.

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    American, Dinner, Main Dish
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  • Perfectly Moist Instant Pot Salmon for an Easy Dinner

    Perfectly Moist Instant Pot Salmon for an Easy Dinner

    How to make perfectly moist and flaky Instant Pot salmon using fresh or frozen fish fillets in 15 minutes or less. Healthy, low carb dinner recipe that you can serve with all your favorite side dishes for a quick and easy weeknight meal!

    My family loves grilled fish fillets and fried crappie, but it just seems like fish can be a lot of work. Lately I’ve been making an effort to eat more fish, but I just don’t usually have much time to cook with all the craziness of life. That’s what got me started with making salmon in the Instant Pot; and let me tell you, this is by far my favorite way to cook salmon fillets!

    Instant Pot salmon fillets lined out on a decorative white plate with fresh lemon slices on top and fresh dill sprigs on the side

    Not only is Instant Pot salmon quick to make, but it’s easy too! The Instant Pot automates the entire cooking process so that you can set it and forget it, and the moist cooking environment keeps the fillet nice and tender. If you’re looking for more Instant Pot recipes, you’ll love this Instant Pot whole chicken, these Instant Pot meatloaf and potatoes, Instant Pot sausage and rice, Instant Pot baby back ribs and shredded chicken tacos in the Instant Pot!

    Instant Pot salmon ingredients lined out on a large wooden cutting board

    Ingredients & Substitutions Notes

    How to Make Instant Pot Salmon

    Before getting started, get your Instant Pot out and ready to go. Remove any pieces from inside the pot and set aside. Let’s get started…

    Assembling the Electric Pressure Cooker

    1. Start by adding water, lemon juice, lemon slices and dill to the bottom of the pot.
    2. Next, install the metal trivet. Then add the salmon fillets, followed by more lemon slices and a sprinkling of salt and pepper on top.
    2 step photo collage showing how to make Instant Pot salmon recipe

    How to Cook Salmon in the Instant Pot

    1. Now secure the Instant Pot lid on top, and turn the pressure release valve to seal. Then set the manual setting to high pressure cook for 4 minutes, adding an extra minute if your fish fillet is thick or frozen.
    2. When your Instant Pot is done cooking, release the pressure valve to vent and release the pressure.
    2 step photo collage showing how to make salmon in the Instant Pot

    That’s it! The best part about the Instant Pot is that there’s absolutely no guess work about whether or not your salmon is fully cooked. Just set the time and forget about it. Top your Insta Pot salmon off with homemade tzatziki sauce or even this peach mango salsa for the ultimate weeknight dinner!

    pressure cooker salmon fillets lined out on a decorative white plate with fresh lemon slices on top and fresh dill sprigs on the side

    What to Serve With Instant Pot Salmon

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    Can I store the leftovers for later?

    Of course! You can store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

    How can I reheat leftover salmon?

    When you’re ready to eat, reheat your salmon in the microwave for a few minutes on high. Alternatively, you can reheat it on a baking sheet in the oven at 350ºF for 5-10 minutes, ’til warmed throughout.

    Insta Pot salmon lined out on a decorative white plate with fresh lemon slices on top and fresh dill sprigs on the side

    More Easy Seafood Recipes

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Instant Pot Salmon

    Make perfectly moist Instant Pot salmon using fresh or frozen fillets. Healthy, one pot dinner recipe you can make in 15 minutes or less!

    • 6-Quart Instant Pot
    • 2 Salmon Fillets
    • 1 cup Water
    • 1/2 cup Lemon Juice
    • 2 Lemons (sliced)
    • 5 sprigs Fresh Dill
    • Sea Salt (to taste)
    • Black Pepper (to taste)

    1. Start by adding the water, lemon juice, roughly half of the lemon slices and dill to the bottom of your Instant Pot.

    2. Next, install the metal trivet, and then add the salmon fillets followed by the rest of the lemon slices and a sprinkling of salt and pepper on top.

    3. Now secure the Instant Pot lid on top, and turn the pressure release valve to seal. Set the manual setting to high pressure cook for 4 minutes. adding an extra minute if your fish fillet is thick or frozen.

    4. When your Instant Pot is done cooking, release the pressure valve to vent and release the pressure.

    5. That's it! Serve and enjoy with your favorite side dishes!

    How should I store leftover salmon?

    You can store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few minutes on high, or on a baking sheet in the oven at 350ºF for 10-15 minutes, ’til warmed throughout. 

    dinner, Dinner Ideas, Main, Main Course, main dish, Meat & Seafood, Seafood Recipes
    American, Dinner, Main Dish
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  • Best Slow Cooker Pork Roast Recipe That’s Tender & Juicy

    Best Slow Cooker Pork Roast Recipe That’s Tender & Juicy

    Learn step by step how to make the best ever slow cooker pork roast that’s perfectly pull apart juicy & tender. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe that’s so easy to make, and it’s perfect for holiday dinners, church potlucks, or even just a healthy and nutritious weeknight meal!

    My family eats a pot roast at least every week. Maybe it’s a Midwestern thing, but they’re just so easy to make. I love a good oven roasted pork roast, and it’s just hard to beat roasted pork tenderloin! And man, leftover pork roast makes the best pork sandwiches.

    slow cooker pork roast garnished with fresh parsley on a bed of root veggies on a large white decorative plate

    Slow cooker pork roast also makes a great holiday meal. We switch it up every year– Sometimes we make a roasted turkey, some years we make a baked ham in the oven (or pineapple glazed ham), some years a slow cooker whole chicken, and other years we’ve made a hearty pot roast or even maple pork chops! This pork roast has so much flavor, and it’s definitely our go-to meal.

    Why You’ll Love Crock Pot Pork Roast

    • Roast pork is super easy to make in the slow cooker, and it uses simple ingredients. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe for busy days!
    • This Crock Pot recipe makes a perfectly tender and juicy pork roast. It cooks on a low heat all day long, giving even the toughest of pork cuts plenty of time to break down for that ultimate pull-apart, fork-tender texture.
    • Pork roast makes the best holiday dinner for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas or even New Year’s Eve. It also makes a complete meal for potlucks, family get-togethers and other large gatherings.
    • The best part is that this flavorful pork roast recipe is just so versatile. Throw in your favorite root vegetables, herbs and spices for the ultimate one-pot meal!
    • This old-fashioned comfort food is nutritious and healthy. Good pork contains a wide range of essential vitamins, minerals and healthy fats. Not to mention, it’s a rich source of lean protein.
    slow cooker pork roast on a bed of cooked root veggies with a garnish of fresh parsley in a large black slow cooker

    Ingredients & Substitutions Notes

    How to Make Slow Cooker Pork Roast

    Before getting started, you’ll need to get all of your ingredients out and ready to go. Then grease up your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. I use a 6-quart slow cooker for a 3-4LB roast.

    For ingredient preparation, you’ll want to mince the garlic, slice up the onion, chop up and peel any root vegetables that you use with a large knife and cutting board. If your pork roast is frozen, I recommend setting it out in the refrigerator overnight so that it has time to thaw before making this recipe. You can add it frozen in a pinch, but you may have to increase the cooking time by a couple hours.

    How to Cook Pork Roast in the Crock Pot

    1. Start by adding the sliced onions and minced garlic to the bottom of the Crock Pot.
    2. Next, center your roast on top of the bed of garlic and onions with the fat side up in the slow cooker.
    3. Situate the chopped up root vegetables around the roast in the slow cooker. It’s okay to really pile them in there!
    4. Once everything is situated, go ahead and dry rub the salt, pepper and any other herbs/spices into the pork roast.
    5. Finally, pour chicken stock over the roast and veggies, and then place the lid on top of your Crock Pot.
    6. That’s it! Now you’ll want to set your Crock Pot on low and let it cook for at least 10-12 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 200ºF with a meat thermometer, and the roast easily falls apart when prodded with a fork.
    6 step collage showing how to make slow cooker pork roast in a large black slow cooker

    Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and fat content of your pork roast. The most important thing is that your roast reaches and maintains at least 200-205ºF for a good while. This is required to break down the collagen in the pork roast that can otherwise make it tough and chewy.

    How to Serve Crock Pot Slow Cook Pork Roast

    Now that your pork roast is fully cooked, it’s ready to serve. I like to slice it up with a large knife and top it off with a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Pair with all of your favorite side dishes and appetizers for an easy meal that the whole family will love!

    slow cooker pork roast sliced up and garnished with fresh parsley on a bed of root veggies on a small blue plate

    And don’t be tempted to throw out the leftover broth in the slow cooker. You can make a flavorful gravy by whisking 1/4 cup of flour into 1 cup of the broth in a medium saucepan or cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Once it starts to simmer and subsequently thicken, add salt and pepper to taste, and drizzle it all over your juicy pork roast!

    What to Serve with Slow Cooker Pork Roast

    Crock Pot pork roast goes well with so many different side dishes and appetizers! Here are a few ideas as to what you can serve with your pot roast…

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    Why is my pork roast not tender in the slow cooker?

    You most likely undercooked the pork roast. For a tender pork roast, a long cooking time is required, and the roast needs to reach at least 200ºF with an instant-read thermometer, and then maintain that temperature for a good while. This is the only way to properly break down the collagen in the pork that can otherwise make it tough and chewy.

    Can I use other kinds of roasts for this recipe?

    Yes, you can use any roast your want. I’ve used this slow cooking method to make a beef roast, whole chicken roast and even a turkey roast.

    How should I store leftover Crock Pot pork roast?

    Crockpot pork roast is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat your pot roast in a covered baking dish in the oven at 350ºF, or you can reheat it in a microwave-safe container in the microwave until hot and ready to serve.

    Can you freeze leftover pork roast?

    Yes, you can freeze leftover pork roast. Place it into a freezer-safe container or freezer bag and into the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it thaw out in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.

    slow cooker pork roast garnished with fresh parsley on a bed of root veggies on a large white decorative plate

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Slow Cooker Pork Roast

    Easy slow cooker pork roast that's perfectly pull apart tender & juicy. It's the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe that anyone can make!

    • 6-Quart Slow Cooker
    • Large Knife
    • Cutting Board
    • Meat Thermometer
    • 3-4 pounds Pork Butt Roast
    • 1 Large Yellow Onion (peeled, sliced)
    • 2 teaspoons Minced Garlic
    • 2 Medium Potatoes (chopped)
    • 3 Medium Carrots (peeled, chopped)
    • 2 Medium Parsnips (peeled, chopped)
    • 1 Medium Turnip (peeled, chopped)
    • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt
    • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
    • 2 cups Chicken Broth

    1. Before getting started, go ahead and grease up your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray and get all of your veggies prepped.

    2. Start by adding the sliced onions and minced garlic to the bottom of the greased slow cooker.

    3. Next, center your roast on top of the bed of garlic and onions in the slow cooker.

    4. Situate the chopped up root vegetables around the roast in the slow cooker. It's okay to really pile them in there!

    5. Once everything is situated, go ahead and rub the salt, pepper and any other herbs/spices into the pork roast.

    6. Finally, pour chicken broth over the roast and veggies, and then place the lid on top of your Crock Pot.

    7. Now you'll want to set your Crock Pot on low and let it cook for at least 10-12 hours*, or until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 200ºF with a meat thermometer, and the roast easily falls apart when prodded with a fork.

    8. That's it! Serve and enjoy with your favorite side dishes and appetizers!

    *Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and fat content of your pork roast.

    How should I store leftover Crock Pot pork roast?

    Crockpot pork roast is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat your pot roast in a covered baking dish in the oven at 350ºF, or you can reheat it in a microwave-safe container in the microwave until hot and ready to serve.

     

    Christmas, dinner, Dinner Ideas, Easter, Holiday, Main, Main Course, main dish, Meat & Seafood, Pork Recipes, Slow Cooker, Thanksgiving
    American, Dinner, Holiday, Main Dish, Thanksgiving
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  • Easy Instant Pot Potato Soup

    Easy Instant Pot Potato Soup

    Dish up a bowl of creamy Instant Pot potato soup for dinner tonight. Easy one pot recipe anyone can make, it’s best topped with crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions!

    Time FLIES! As the weather starts to cool down, it’s hard to beat a good hearty soup to keep warm; and of course, it’s healthy too.

    white bowl of Instant Pot potato soup with bacon, shredded cheese, and green onions

    What I love about this potato soup recipe is just how convenient it is. Even better, it’s so easy to make a large batch to put up for easy weeknight meals.

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    • This yummy pressure cooker potato soup makes a healthy meal for your family; it also happens to be gluten-free.
    • This recipe is so quick and easy. Potato soup is a hearty meal that’s absolutely perfect for a busy weeknight.
    • Potato soup stores and preserves very well. Don’t be afraid to can a large batch for later meals!
    • This recipe uses affordable, every-day ingredients that you likely already have on hand. I like to keep it simple.
    Instant Pot potato soup ingredients in bowls on white marble countertop

    Ingredient Notes

    • Potatoes – Although you can make this recipe with just about any kind of potato, I recommend using a waxier potato, like yellow potatoes, red potatoes, or Yukon Gold potatoes. Russets have a very starchy texture, which can often lead to a gluey, sticky consistency in the soup.
    • Chicken Broth – Any chicken broth will do, including chicken bouillon. If you don’t have any chicken broth on hand, you can substitute with vegetable stock.
    • Milk – For this recipe, I used raw milk from a local dairy farm; I recommend using whole milk. For a dairy-free substitute, I recommend using either coconut milk or almond milk; just be sure to change any other dairy-containing ingredients in the recipe, as well.
    • Heavy Cream – I like to use raw cream, but heavy whipping cream works too. Again, for a dairy-free substitute, I recommend using unsweetened coconut cream. if you’re worried about coconut flavor, don’t be. Coconut cream has a much subtler flavor than coconut flakes; in fact, most people can’t even tell that it’s coconut.

    How to Make Instant Pot Potato Soup

    To make this Instant Pot potato soup recipe, just follow these steps…

    1. Chop the bacon and cook using the sauté function in the Instant Pot, ’til crispy and done.
    2. Set the bacon aside, but leave the bacon grease in the pot. Sauté the minced onion, garlic, salt, and pepper in the grease, ’til the onions are translucent and soft, about 3-5 minutes.
    3. Add the potatoes and chicken broth to the Instant Pot. Then put the lid on your Instant Pot and set the pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 8 minutes. When the timer goes off, do a quick release and remove the lid. The potatoes should be soft and tender.
    4. Set to sauté; stir the milk and cream into the soup, whisking everything together.
    5. If you want, you can use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes, giving the soup a slightly thicker consistency.
    6. Dish up the soup and serve with the crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
    steps for how to make potato soup in Instant Pot, including cooking bacon, onions, potatoes with broth, adding milk and cream, then mashing potatoes and ladling soup

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    Should I soak potatoes before making soup?

    If you are using a potato with a high starch content, like a Russet, I would highly recommend soaking the potatoes before cooking to get rid of some of that excess starch. That said, if you are using a waxy potato with very little starch, I would skip this step. This is because a minimal amount of starch is needed to thicken the soup.

    How do you keep potato soup from getting sticky?

    Gluey potato soup can happen for a few preventable reasons, like using the wrong potato, mashing the potatoes for too long, or even cooking the soup for too long.

    How do you thicken potato soup in Instant Pot?

    The heavy cream in this recipe serves as a thickening agent; it also lends a richer flavor and creamier texture. The variety of potato used also greatly affects the consistency of your soup; as I said before, I prefer to use a waxy potato, like yellow potatoes, red potatoes, or Yukon gold potatoes. However, mashing the potatoes just a bit after cooking lends to a naturally thicker soup, as well.

    How should I store potato soup?

    Potato soup is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stored this way, it should last up to 3-4 days.

    Can I freeze Instant Pot potato soup?

    Potato soup does not generally freeze well. It will often dry out significantly, as the potatoes have a tendency to sponge up too much moisture; and it’ll often become very grainy when thawed. Instead, I highly recommend canning potato soup. Preserved this way, potato soup can sometimes last for quite a long time in a cool, dark environment!

    white bowl of creamy pressure cooker potato soup with spoon

    What to Serve With Instant Pot Potato Soup

    There are so many toppings that go well with potato soup in the Instant Pot. Here are a few ways that you can spice things up…

    white bowls of Instant Pot potato soup topped with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and green onions, on white marble countertop with white blue striped kitchen towel

    More Delicious Instant Pot Recipes

    Haven’t taken your Instant Pot out of the box yet? Learn how to quickly use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, more Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Instant Pot Potato Soup

    Dish up a bowl of creamy Instant Pot potato soup for dinner tonight. Easy recipe, best topped with bacon, shredded cheddar, and green onions!

    • Instant Pot
    • Potato Masher
    • 6 slices bacon
    • 1 medium yellow onion (minced)
    • 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 6 medium potatoes (peeled & chunked)
    • 5 cups chicken broth
    • 1 cup milk
    • 1 cup heavy cream

    1. Chop the bacon and cook using the sauté function in the Instant Pot, 'til crispy and done.

    2. Set the bacon aside, but leave the bacon grease in the pot.

    3. Sauté the minced onion, garlic, salt, and pepper in the Instant Pot, 'til the onions are translucent and soft, about 3-5 minutes.

    4. Add the potatoes and chicken broth to the Instant Pot.

    5. Put the lid on the Instant Pot and set the pot to "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" for 8 minutes. When the timer goes off, do a quick release and remove the lid.

    6. Set to sauté; stir the milk and cream into the soup, whisking everything together.

    7. If you want, you can use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes, giving the soup a slightly thicker consistency.

    8. Dish up the soup and serve with the crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions.

    *If you are using a potato with a high starch content, like a Russet, I would highly recommend soaking the potatoes before cooking to get rid of some of that excess starch.

    How should I store potato soup?

    Potato soup is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stored this way, it should last up to 3-4 days.

    Can I freeze Instant Potato soup?

    Potato soup does not generally freeze well. It will often dry out significantly, as the potatoes have a tendency to sponge up too much moisture; and it’ll often become very grainy when thawed. Instead, I highly recommend canning potato soup. Preserved this way, potato soup can sometimes last for quite a long time in a cool, dark environment!

    Main Course, main dish, Soups & Stews
    American
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  • Easy Instant Pot Applesauce in 30 Minutes or Less

    Easy Instant Pot Applesauce in 30 Minutes or Less

    Now it’s easier than ever to make homemade applesauce with an electric pressure cooker. This Instant Pot applesauce (with skins) has no added sugar, and it’s ready to eat in 15 minutes.

    The fact that it’s pressure cooked takes the work out of making applesauce because you don’t have to stand in front of a hot stove. Instead, just load everything up in the Instant Pot, push a couple buttons, and let it do the work for you.

    homemade Instant Pot applesauce in a Ball canning jar

    My boys love both applesauce and Instapot apple butter, and we eat quite a bit of it throughout the year. I especially like to keep it on hand for times when we’re sick; in a way, it’s a sort of comfort food too.

    It’s quite fulfilling to fill your pantry up with homemade canned foods that your family will actually eat. And when it’s easy to do, it’s a win win.

    [mv_video doNotAutoplayNorOptimizePlacement=”false” doNotOptimizePlacement=”false” jsonLd=”true” key=”feqiv3m4fb2wykmfijd8″ ratio=”16:9″ thumbnail=”https://mediavine-res.cloudinary.com/v1630362383/wfrf9ob81l8m4loh8gmj.jpg” title=”Easy Instant Pot Applesauce in 30 Minutes or Less” volume=”70″]

    Why Make This Recipe?

    I think you’ll love this no-peel applesauce because it’s…

    • Easy to make – Pressure cooker applesauce is made with 3 ingredients, and you just put everything in the Instant Pot and let it cook. That means no need to stand in front of the stove and stir; you can walk away and let the pressure cooker do the work.
    • No peeling required – While you do need to core and slice the apples up, there’s no need to peel off the skins, unless you just want to.
    • Budget-friendly – Let’s face it, good applesauce can be more expensive at the store. And it just doesn’t taste as good as homemade. You can make 5 to 6 pints of applesauce for less than $10, depending on the cost of your apples.
    ingredients for pressure cooker applesauce, including apples, lemon juice, and water

    Ingredient Notes

    The ingredients you need are simple, and you may already have them on hand.

    A bit of advice… I’m very partial to canning applesauce in the fall because it’s usually pretty easy to find seconds at a local orchard or farmer’s market. Buying seconds means you can buy a HUGE box of less-than-perfect apples for a lot less than normal cost, which is going to save you a ton of money.

    • Apples – When it comes to picking the type of apples you should use, I recommend apples that are both sweet and tart; I don’t add any sugar, so I want the unsweetened applesauce to taste really good. Some of the best apples for making applesauce include Jonathan, Jonagold, Braeburn, McIntosh, Winesap, Rome, Golden Delicious, Cortland, Fuji, Gala, and Ambrosia.
    • Lemon juice – I like to use a fresh lemon juice, either straight from a lemon or my favorite shortcut, Minute Maid lemon juice you can find in the freezer section of some grocery stores; I’ve been able to find it at my local Walmart. There are multiple reasons for adding lemon juice to applesauce, but it’s usually to help preserve or protect the color of your apples over time (making your applesauce stay pretty), and/or to make the applesauce more acidic for home canning. Wind fallen apples (including seconds) can have a lower acidity and a higher mold/bacteria count than umblemished apples.

    If you are one who loves to add the flavor of cinnamon to your sauce, you may also love my recipe for cinnamon applesauce.

    How to Make Instant Pot Applesauce

    You can make applesauce from the leftover apple mush you have left behind when you make fresh apple juice. But if you’re not making apple juice, here’s how to make a fresh batch of sauce in your pressure cooker.

    Keep in mind, you can make this recipe in any brand of electric pressure cooker you have, including the Instant Pot, Ninja Foodi, or Power Pressure Cooker XL.

    1. Wash, core, and slice the apples; I use my Johnny apple peeler to core and slice all at once. Cut out any bad spots, as well.
    2. Put the sliced apples in your Instant Pot.
    3. Sprinkle lemon juice over the apples.
    4. Then add water to the apples, as well. If you want to mix everything together, you can; but there’s no need to until after it all cooks.
    how to make applesauce in the Instant Pot, including slicing apples with Johnny apple peeler, putting apples in Instant Pot, then adding lemon juice and water
    1. Put the lid in place on the Instant Pot. Press Manual or Pressure Cook for 10 minutes. When it’s finished cooking, allow the pressure cooker to do a natural release.
    1. Purée the mixture with an immersion blender, standing blender, or food mill; or if you want a chunky applesauce, you can mash the apples with a potato masher. It’s up to you how you prefer the texture and consistency.
    how to make pressure cooker applesauce in Ninja Foodi, then mashing cooked apples with immersion blender

    Freezing Instructions:

    My mom used to freeze a LOT of the applesauce she made when we were kids growing up. She’d keep freezer safe plastic containers just for storing things like her homemade applesauce.

    1. When your applesauce has cooked, allow it to cool to room temperature.
    2. Then just ladle or pour it into freezer safe containers that seal; leave 1/2 inch headroom at the top, to allow for expansion as it freezes.
    3. Label the containers, and place them in the freezer.

    Frozen applesauce should keep for about a year.

    Canning Instructions:

    I prefer water bath canning applesauce.

    1. While your applesauce is cooking, wash pint jars in hot soapy water, rinse, and keep warm. We like to place ours on a baking sheet in a lower temp oven to stay hot.
    2. Once you’ve mashed up your sauce, promptly ladle or pour it into the hot jars you prepared ahead of time. Be sure to leave about a 1/2-inch gap at the top of each jar.
    pouring homemade applesauce into canning jars with yellow canning funnel
    1. Wipe the rim of each jar with a wet towel or rag, place the lid on, and tighten the band.
    2. Then place the hot jars down in a boiling hot water bath canner with 1-2 inches of water over the jars, and process those jars in the hot water bath for about 20 minutes.
    canning applesauce in water bath canner

    Home canned applesauce should last at least 1 year. If you choose to can applesauce, Ball has wonderful Canning Guides to guide you through the process. You can also consult the Ball Blue Book Guide to Preserving.

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    Can you overcook applesauce?

    Yes, actually, you can; and overcooking it will lose a lot of the flavor. That’s why making it in the Instant Pot is better because it cooks for a set amount of time with no guesswork, and pressure cooking is a wonderful way to preserve the flavors of whatever food you’re cooking.

    How should I store it?

    If you’re not freezing or canning your applesauce, it should be kept in the refrigerator. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 5 to 7 days.

    What are some ways I can use applesauce?

    We love to eat applesauce on buttered toast. It’s also delicious on pancakes, especially apple cinnamon pancakes. You can enjoy it with oatmeal, cottage cheese, and pork chops. And you can use it when you’re baking… For example, you can use it to make apple bundt cake; or you can sometimes use it as a substitute for egg, butter, oil, or sugar, depending on the recipe. Momables shares an ingredient substitution list for baking that explains how to sub applesauce in; and Craftsy has a really good explanation, as well, as to how and when to substitute applesauce for certain ingredients when you’re baking.

    white bowl of pressure cooker applesauce

    More Recipes for Fresh Apples:

    You can also learn how to use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    You’ll find a longer recipe tutorial in the Instant Pot applesauce recipe card below.

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Instant Pot Applesauce

    How to make the best homemade Instant Pot applesauce with skins and no added sugar. Easy pressure cooker recipe, ready to eat in 30 minutes or less.

    • Instant Pot
    • Ninja Foodi
    • Johnny apple peeler
    • Immersion blender
    • Pint jars
    • Hot Water Bath Canner
    • Canning Funnel
    • Jar Lifter
    • 6 pounds apples (unpeeled)
    • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
    • 1 cup water

    1. Wash, core, and slice the apples; I use my Johnny apple peeler to core and slice all at once. Cut out any bad spots, as well.

    2. Put the sliced apples in your Instant Pot.

    3. Sprinkle lemon juice over the apples.

    4. Then add water to the apples, as well. If you want to mix everything together, you can; but there’s no need to until after it all cooks.

    5. Put the lid in place on the Instant Pot. Press Manual or Pressure Cook for 10 minutes. When it’s finished cooking, allow the pressure cooker to do a natural release.

    6. Purée the mixture with an immersion blender, standing blender, or food mill; or if you want a chunky applesauce, you can mash the apples with a potato masher. It’s up to you how you prefer the texture and consistency.

    7. If you're not freezing or canning your applesauce, it should be kept in the refrigerator. It'll keep in the fridge for about 5 to 7 days.

    Freezing Instructions:

    1. When your applesauce has cooked, allow it to cool to room temperature.

    2. Then just ladle or pour it into freezer safe containers that seal; leave 1/2 inch headroom at the top, to allow for expansion as it freezes.

    3. Label the containers, and place them in the freezer.

    Canning Instructions:

    1. While your applesauce is cooking, wash pint jars in hot soapy water, rinse, and keep warm. We like to place ours on a baking sheet in a lower temp oven to stay hot.

    2. Once you've mashed up your sauce, promptly ladle or pour it into the hot jars. Be sure to leave about a 1/2-inch gap at the top of each jar.

    3. Wipe the rim of each jar with a wet towel or rag, place the lid on, and tighten the band.

    4. Then place the hot jars in a boiling hot water bath canner with 1-2 inches of water over the jars, and process those jars in the hot water bath for about 20 minutes.

    5. Allow your jars to rest for at least 24 hours, but be sure to check every lid to make sure it's sealed shortly after canning.

    6. Before moving to the pantry, write what it is and the year on the lid, so you know when you made it.

    *When it comes to picking the type of apples you should use, I recommend apples that are both sweet and tart; I don’t add any sugar, so I want the unsweetened applesauce to taste really good. Some of the best apples for making applesauce include Jonathan, Jonagold, Braeburn, McIntosh, Winesap, Rome, Golden Delicious, Cortland, Fuji, Gala, and Ambrosia.

    Canning & Freezing, Sauces & Dressings
    American
    applesauce in the instant pot, canning applesauce, how to make applesauce, Instant Pot applesauce, instant pot applesauce no sugar, instant pot applesauce with skins, no peel applesauce, pressure cooker applesauce
  • Perfect Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes the Easy Way

    Perfect Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes the Easy Way

    How to make easy Instant Pot sweet potatoes to eat whole, mashed, or use in your favorite recipes. Healthy side dish, perfect for casserole!

    This time of year gets me thinking about one of my favorite Thanksgiving desserts, my Great Aunt Jennie’s sweet potato pie. In order to make all my family’s favorite holiday recipes, it’s a given that I’ll need to cook up a bunch of sweet potatoes.

    Now I’ve found a much easier way to make all the sweet potato purée I need for sweet potato casserole, Aunt Jennie’s pie, candied sweet potatoes, and more.

    Instant Pot sweet potatoes sliced open on cutting board with dollop of whipped cinnamon butter

    Of course, we can also just make sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot for a healthy side with our meals. Baked or mashed, we can add our choice of toppings and have a hint of the holidays year round.

    Making pressure cooker sweet potatoes only takes 2 ingredients, and it’s so, so easy to do. It’s as easy as scrubbing your potatoes, placing them in your Instant Pot with a little bit of water, and setting it to cook.

    Don’t you just love an easy side dish? I know I do.

    WHERE CAN I FIND THE ACTUAL RECIPE CARD?

    If you’d rather skip all of my pressure cooking tips, important info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the Instant Pot sweet potato recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.

    ingredients for Instant Pot sweet potatoes, including sweet potatoes on a wooden cutting board, water, and an Instant Pot

    INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

    • Medium-sized sweet potatoes
    • Water

    Keep in mind, all of the ingredient amounts you’ll need are in the printable recipe card below.

    KITCHEN TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT YOU’LL NEED:

    Scrub Brush – A good potato brush makes all the difference in washing potatoes.

    Instant Pot – We use our 8 quart Instant Pot on most occasions.

    Steaming Trivet for the Instant Pot – You’ll need this to keep the potatoes up out of the water.

    WHY COOK SWEET POTATOES IN THE INSTANT POT?

    Making sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot definitely has its advantages.

    • It’s faster. Baking sweet potatoes in the oven can sometimes take well over an hour, but the Instant Pot will have them ready within 30 minutes.
    • It’s easy and convenient. You clean your potatoes, place them in the Instant Pot, and cook; it doesn’t get any easier than that!
    • Pressure cooker sweet potatoes have a far better flavor. The Instant Pot creates a perfectly moist inside with a rich, creamy flavor that’s simply hard to resist.
    pressure cooker sweet potatoes topped with whipped cinnamon butter on wooden cutting board with cinnamon sticks and blue woven placemat

    IS IT BETTER TO BOIL OR STEAM SWEET POTATOES?

    While boiling sweet potatoes may actually retain more nutrients, it’s best to cook sweet potatoes however works best and most efficiently for you.

    I actually prefer to steam my sweet potatoes. Boiled sweet potatoes can typically gain a soggy texture that I just don’t care for.

    Instead I prefer a rich and creamy, melt-in-your-mouth sweet potato, and steaming is the way to go for that. It’s quicker, it’s easier, and the result is far superior in both flavor and texture.

    HOW TO COOK INSTANT POT SWEET POTATOES

    Cooking whole sweet potatoes in a pressure cooker requires very little prep time. Be sure to rinse and scrub your sweet potatoes before getting started, so they’re ready to go.

    Let’s walk through the recipe steps…

    1. Add the water to your Instant Pot, and place a steaming trivet down inside.
    water and steaming trivet in Instant Pot with sweet potatoes on wooden cutting board
    1. Lay the potatoes on top of the trivet. It’s ok to stack the potatoes; the steam in the Instant Pot will cook them thru and thru.
    cooking whole sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot on a steaming trivet

    HOW LONG TO STEAM SWEET POTATOES IN THE INSTANT POT

    1. Place the lid on the Instant Pot, seal the vent, and press Manual mode, setting to high-pressure cook for about 15 minutes. If your sweet potatoes are larger, they’ll need more cooking time.
    2. Allow the pressure cooker to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes.
    3. Then manually release any remaining pressure. Just be careful of the steam, so it doesn’t burn your fingers.

    Tip: To manually release the valve, I like to use the long handle of a wooden spoon covered in a kitchen towel, with my hand under the towel on the other end of the spoon.

    1. Carefully remove the lid, and remove the sweet potatoes to a cutting board or plates.
    pressure cooked whole sweet potatoes with water in Instant Pot
    1. Serve with butter or other toppings of your choice.
    steamed sweet potatoes cooked in the Instant Pot, sitting on wooden cutting board and sliced open

    HOW TO TELL IF YOUR SWEET POTATOES ARE DONE

    It’s fairly easy to tell when sweet potatoes are fully cooked. Just poke the sweet potatoes with a fork or table knife; if your fork slides into the sweet potato easily, it’s done.

    HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT STEAMED SWEET POTATOES

    You can refrigerate leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

    To reheat, just pop them into the microwave (in a microwave-safe dish) and heat on high ’til the sweet potato is heated through and through, probably about 2 minutes or so.

    HOW TO SERVE BAKED SWEET POTATOES

    When it comes to topping your baked sweet potatoes, the sky’s the limit. Here are some simple ideas to serve your sweet potatoes in a manner that your family will be sure to enjoy!

    • Spread butter, salt and pepper for a savory snack, much like a regular baked potato. You could even throw on some sour cream and chives!
    • Mix up a quick batch of whipped cinnamon butter to spread on your baked sweet potatoes.
    • Sprinkle some brown sugar and cinnamon with melted butter for an irresistible sweet treat.
    • Throw some marshmallows on top. This would pair wonderfully with the brown sugar and cinnamon, and you could even throw some pecans on top to imitate a traditional sweet potato casserole.
    • Finish them off in the oven with some melted cheese; cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, mozzarella, Asiago, and even grated parmesan cheese would all be wonderful candidates. You could even add caramelized garlic and onions and sliced tomatoes to this mixture.
    • Make taco stuffed sweet potatoes! Split the potato open, add your taco meat (taco beef or taco chicken), salsa, cheese, and all of the normal taco fixings.
    pressure cooked sweet potatoes on wooden cutting board with cinnamon sticks, on blue woven placemat with white plates, fork, spoon, and small bowl of whipped cinnamon butter

    DO SWEET POTATOES AND REGULAR POTATOES COOK THE SAME?

    Sweet potatoes cook very differently from regular baked potatoes, and I would not recommend substituting one for the other.

    Sweet potatoes are more fibrous and typically contain quite a bit more moisture, which considerably lengthens their cooking time. They are much softer and far creamier with a higher sugar content than that of a regular potato.

    On the other hand, regular potatoes have a much drier, starchier flesh, which is why they’re almost exclusively reserved for use in savory dishes.

    CAN I USE THIS METHOD FOR MAKING SWEET POTATO PUREE FOR CASSEROLE AND OTHER SIDE DISHES?

    Yes, you can use this Instant Pot sweet potato recipe to make sweet potato purée. Just follow the recipe all the way to the end, at which point you will need to peel and mash the potatoes into a smooth, creamy purée.

    Making mashed sweet potatoes can easily be done in a blender or with a hand mixer.

    steamed sweet potatoes and whole sweet potatoes sitting on wooden tray with cinnamon sticks and woven blue placemat

    WAYS TO USE PRESSURE COOKER SWEET POTATOES

    Sometimes the best recipes are the simplest recipes, such as quick and easy creamy mashed sweet potatoes. Also, this sweet potato breakfast hash makes a killer meal for the family.

    Sweet potato chips are a delicious side for burger night, and they’re a great alternative to potato chips if you’re looking for a bit more variety!

    Drenched in a butter and brown sugar sauce, these delicious Traeger grilled sweet potatoes are simply hard to beat.

    Perhaps the most unique of all, this sweet potato crunch bread goes great with a steaming cup of coffee, perfect for that late weekend brunch.

    GET THE PRINTABLE RECIPE

    If you love this Instant Pot sweet potatoes recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest!

    doublie image of Instant Pot sweet potatoes, including top image of cooked sweet potatoes in Instant Pot with water and bottom image of cooked sweet potato sliced open and topped with dollop of whipped cinnamon butter

    CRAVING MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES? Subscribe to my newsletter, and follow along on Pinterest, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram for all the latest updates!

    Perfect Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes the Easy Way

    How to make easy Instant Pot sweet potatoes to eat whole, mashed, or use in your favorite recipes. Healthy side dish, perfect for casserole!

    • OXO Good Grips Vegetable Brush
    • The Step-by-Step Instant Pot Cookbook: 100 Simple Recipes for Spectacular Results — with Photographs of Every Step
    • Instant Pot Duo Crisp Pressure Cooker 11 in 1, 8 Qt with Air Fryer, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate and more
    • 22 Pcs Accessories for Instant Pot 6 8 Qt
    • Instant Pot Stainless Steel Official Wire Roasting Rack, Compatible with 6-quart and 8-quart cookers
    • Watkins Gourmet Spice Tin, Pure Ground Cinnamon, 6 oz. Tin, 1-Count
    • 4 medium-sized sweet potatoes
    • 1 cup water
    1. Rinse and scrub your sweet potatoes before getting started, so they’re ready to go.
    2. Add the water to your Instant Pot, and place a steaming trivet down inside.
    3. Lay the potatoes on top of the trivet. It’s ok to stack the potatoes; the steam in the Instant Pot will cook them thru and thru.
    4. Place the lid on the Instant Pot, seal the vent, and press Manual mode, setting to high-pressure cook for about 15 minutes. If your sweet potatoes are larger, they’ll need more cooking time.
    5. Allow the pressure cooker to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes.
    6. Then manually release any remaining pressure. Just be careful of the steam, so it doesn’t burn your fingers.*
    7. Carefully remove the lid, and remove the sweet potatoes to a cutting board or plates.
    8. Serve with butter or other toppings of your choice.*

    *Tip: To manually release the valve, I like to use the long handle of a wooden spoon covered in a kitchen towel, with my hand under the towel on the other end of the spoon.

    *When it comes to topping your baked sweet potatoes, the sky’s the limit. Here are some simple ideas to serve your sweet potatoes in a manner that your family will be sure to enjoy!

    • Spread butter, salt and pepper for a savory snack, much like a regular baked potato. You could even throw on some sour cream and chives!
    • Mix up a quick batch of whipped cinnamon butter to spread on your baked sweet potatoes.
    • Sprinkle some brown sugar and cinnamon with melted butter for an irresistible sweet treat.
    • Throw some marshmallows on top. This would pair wonderfully with the brown sugar and cinnamon, and you could even throw some pecans on top to imitate a traditional sweet potato casserole.
    • Finish them off in the oven with some melted cheese; cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, mozzarella, Asiago, and even grated parmesan cheese would all be wonderful candidates. You could even add caramelized garlic and onions and sliced tomatoes to this mixture.
    • Make taco stuffed sweet potatoes! Split the potato open, add your taco meat (taco beef or taco chicken), salsa, cheese, and all of the normal taco fixings.

    HOW TO TELL IF YOUR SWEET POTATOES ARE DONE

    It’s fairly easy to tell when sweet potatoes are fully cooked. Just poke the sweet potatoes with a fork or table knife; if your fork slides into the sweet potato easily, it’s done.

    HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT STEAMED SWEET POTATOES

    You can refrigerate leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

    To reheat, just pop them into the microwave (in a microwave-safe dish) and heat on high ’til the sweet potato is heated through and through, probably about 2 minutes or so.

    CAN I USE THIS METHOD FOR MAKING SWEET POTATO PUREE FOR CASSEROLE AND OTHER SIDE DISHES?

    Yes, you can use sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot to make sweet potato purée. Follow this recipe all the way to the end, at which point you will simply peel and mash the potatoes into a smooth, creamy purée. This can also be more easily done in a blender.

    Instant Pot Recipes
    American
    cooking whole sweet potatoes, how to cook sweet potatoes in the instant pot, how to make instant pot sweet potatoes, instant pot sweet potato recipe, instant pot sweet potatoes, instant pot sweet potatoes cut in half, instant pot sweet potatoes recipe, pressure cooker sweet potatoes, sweet potatoes in the instant pot
  • Easy Instant Pot Sausage and Rice (Recipe + Video)

    Easy Instant Pot Sausage and Rice (Recipe + Video)

    Whip up quick and easy Instant Pot sausage and rice for dinner tonight. It’s a hearty one dish recipe you can throw together in minutes and a flavorful weeknight meal everyone will enjoy!

    Don’t you just love it when you can combine 2 or 3 of your favorite foods and create a dish that’s so full of flavor, you want to have it for dinner every night? That’s how this Instant Pot smoked sausage and rice recipe is for me.

    decorative blue bowl with Instant Pot sausage and rice, with green peas, sitting on wooden countertop on gray linen

    I have always loved smoked sausage. When you combine it with rice (or cauliflower rice), onion, garlic, certain spices like smoked paprika, and a dash of green peas, you’ve got a blue ribbon dinner winner.

    Now I do like to use regular white rice, but as I’ve told you before, I have a low carber in the house. So he’ll sometimes make this one pot meal with cauliflower rice, if he even wants any rice at all.

    If you love this Instant Pot kielbasa and rice dish, check out another one-pot meal my family loves, sausage and chicken casserole, also made in the Instant Pot.

    Why You’ll Love This Easy Dinner Recipe

    • This is a delicious dump and go meal, and it really reminds me of a good Cajun dish like this jambalaya recipe, but without all the other ingredients. The smoked paprika gives this a real kick in flavor.
    • This flavorful rice is quick and easy, even with cooking time, and your Instant Pot does the main work for you. I love a good quick meal.
    • It’s a budget-friendly meal. Depending what you already have on hand, this dish can be made for around $5-10, and it can easily feed 5 people.
    • It’s a one pot meal, a rice casserole, per sé. You get your meat, veggies, and carb all in one hearty dish.
    • It’s kid-friendly, a great recipe for kids to help you make.
    Instant Pot kielbasa and rice with peas and wooden spoon in pressure cooker

    Ingredients and Substitutions Notes:

    To make this sausage and rice Instant Pot recipe, you’ll need to gather a few simple ingredients…

    • Olive Oil
    • Garlic Cloves – An easy way to add the garlic is to just used already minced garlic you can find in the produce section at the grocery store.
    • Yellow Onion – While you can use sweet onion, I find the yellow onion gives a nice kick; and this dish has enough carbs (with the rice) without added sugar.
    • Sausage Link – I love to use smoked sausage, usually beef smoked sausage, and Polish sausages. You can get great flavor by using kielbasa, andouille sausage, smoked chorizo, etc. You can also use turkey sausage or chicken sausage. Do keep in mind that if you’re trying to make this gluten-free, be sure to look for sausage labeled gluten-free; you’d be surprised at some of the things that do actually contain gluten.
    • Salt and Ground Black Pepper
    • Smoked Paprika – This is my “not so secret” ingredient that adds spice, smoky flavor, and a kick. Without it, this dish just wouldn’t be the same. It is a wonderful seasoning for so many things and just adds a lot of flavor. Again, be sure to look for the gluten-free label if making this gluten-free.
    • Chicken Broth or Chicken Stock – You can mix up bullion or use ready-made broth or chicken stock; however, if you’re making this gluten-free, be sure to check your labels.
    • White Rice – When it comes to the type of rice, I suggest using long grain rice. We prefer to use a long grain rice to make pressure cooker sausage and rice. Jasmine rice and basmati rice are more great examples of long grain rice. The reason I prefer long grain rice is because it really fluffs up after cooking, and it won’t be so moist; it’ll have a drier texture to it, so it doesn’t just clump up into heaps of cooked rice. You can also make this recipe with brown rice or cauliflower rice, but keep in mind that it will change the texture and taste of the finished dish.
    • Frozen Peas – Just be sure to thaw them. You can also add in other veggies, things like bell peppers, green beans, corn, etc.

    Let’s Talk about the Instant Pot for a Second

    If you haven’t used an Instant Pot for pressure cooking, you’re in for a meal making treat. The Instant Pot is a pressure cooker that allows you to make so many things quickly and easily.

    I love using mine to make one pot dinners and weeknight meals, especially when we’re super busy and just don’t have a lot of time to cook. One pot Instant Pot dinners are the absolute best!

    Not sure how to use your Instant Pot? You’re not alone; I have a lot of friends and readers who’ve ordered one but but have yet to get it out of the box and actually use it. But I’ve got ya covered with my quick and easy Instant Pot guide.

    How to Make Instant Pot Sausage and Rice

    Before you even heat up your Instant Pot, be sure to prep your ingredients and have them ready to go. This means go ahead and mince up your garlic and onion, slice the sausage, and make chicken broth if you’re not using already made broth.

    I’ve used both my 6-quart Instant Pot and 8-quart Instant Pot to make this recipe.

    Just follow these steps…

    1. Press “Sauté” on your Instant Pot, and once it’s heated up, add the olive oil, garlic, and onion, sautéing ’til they become soft and slightly browned.
    2. Add in the sausage slices with the browned bits, and brown for a good 1 to 2 minutes.
    3. Then sprinkle in the seasonings, and add the rice and chicken broth, mixing everything together.
    4. Place the lid on your Instant Pot, set the valve to seal, and press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high pressure, with a cooking time of 5 minutes. Allow it to do a natural release, not a quick release.
    5. Once it’s released, go ahead and remove the lid, and stir in the thawed peas. Put the lid back on, and allow those peas to warm for about 5 minutes. No need to turn on the pot; just let everything sit in its own warmth.
    6. Then stir and fluff the rice, and serve it up!
    steps for how to make Instant Pot kielbasa and rice in Instant Pot, first sautéing onions and garlic, then adding sliced sausage, then adding in chicken broth and rice, pressure cooker set to 5 minutes cook time, adding in peas, and fluffing rice after cooked

    It’s such an easy meal to make, and definitely one your family will love!

    wooden spoonful of Instant Pot smoked sausage and rice with green peas over pressure cooker full of rice

    Recipe Variations

    Here are a few ideas and ways you can switch up this Instant Pot rice and sausage recipe to make it even more fun…

    • Add bell peppers. Bell pepper, including green pepper and red bell pepper, gives excellent flavor to just about any dish.
    • To give it a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce.
    • Try different seasonings. If you want it to have a Tex-Mex feel, try adding taco seasoning or fajita seasoning. If you want Instant Pot Cajun sausage and rice, try adding Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning. If you want more of a Chinese sausage dish, you can try adding soy sauce.
    • Speaking of Tex-Mex, add salsa to the mix, or picante sauce, or better yet, a green salsa.
    • Make it cheesy by adding either some shredded cheese, or a can of cheddar soup.
    • Try making it with other types of meat… Maybe ground sausage or ground beef, bits of steak, chicken, or shrimp.
    • Sprinkle green onions on top of each serving as you dish it out.
    forkful of smoked sausage and rice, with green peas, in blue and red decorative bowl on wooden countertop with gray linen

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    Can you double the recipe?

    Sure you can! You can double or even triple the recipe, as long as your Instant Pot is big enough to hold all the ingredients. This recipe makes enough to feed about 5 people. So if you have a crowd of 10 or more, feel free to increase as needed.

    What if you get a burn message or burn notice?

    Thankfully, this hasn’t happened when we’ve made this recipe, but different brands and types of pressure cookers may differ. A burn notice can also happen when cooking something more dense and starchy like rice, if it sticks to the bottom of the pot. So to avoid that ominous burn message, avoid stirring everything together when you add the chicken broth. Just make sure all the rice is submerged in the liquid, so it will cook properly. Then put the lid on, and pressure cook as instructed.

    How should you store leftovers?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; leftovers should keep for 3-5 days in the fridge. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop in a skillet.

    Can you freeze sausage and rice?

    Yes, you can make smoked sausage with rice ahead of time and freeze it. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

    blue bowl full of pressure cooker sausage and rice with green peas, on wooden countertop with red and white striped kitchen towel

    More Instant Pot Dinners You Can Make in a Jiffy

    If you love this Instant Pot sausage and rice as much as we do, you’re going to love these other Instant Pot recipes you can make too…

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Instant Pot Sausage and Rice

    Quick and easy Instant Pot sausage and rice. Hearty one dish recipe you can throw together in minutes. Flavorful weeknight meal everyone will enjoy!

    • 6-Qt. Instant Pot
    • Wooden Spoon
    • Cutting Board
    • Chef's Knife
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
    • 1 medium yellow onion (minced)
    • 1 pound sliced sausage link*
    • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
    • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
    • 1 cup long grain rice*
    • 1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
    1. Before you even heat up your Instant Pot, be sure to prep your ingredients and have them ready to go.

    2. Press “Sauté” on your Instant Pot.

    3. Once it's heated up, add the olive oil, garlic, and onion, sautéing 'til they become soft and slightly browned.

    4. Add in the sausage slices with the browned bits, and brown for a good 1 to 2 minutes.

    5. Then sprinkle in the seasonings, and add the rice and chicken broth, mixing everything together.
    6. Place the lid on your Instant Pot, set the valve to seal, and press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” with a cook time of 5 minutes. Allow it to do a natural release.
    7. Once it’s released, go ahead and remove the lid, and stir in the thawed peas. Put the lid back on, and allow those peas to warm for about 5 minutes. No need to turn on the pot; just let everything sit in its own warmth.
    8. Then stir and fluff the rice, and serve it up!

    *I love to use smoked sausage, usually beef smoked sausage. You can also get great flavor by using kielbasa, andouille sausage, etc.

    *We prefer to use a long grain rice to make pressure cooker sausage and rice. Jasmine rice and basmati rice are more great examples of long grain rice. The reason I prefer long grain rice is because it really fluffs up after cooking, and it won’t be so moist; it’ll have a drier texture to it, so it doesn’t just clump up into heaps of cooked rice. You can also make this recipe with brown rice or cauliflower rice, but keep in mind that it will change the texture and taste of the finished dish.

    What If You Get a Burn Message?

    To avoid that ominous burn message, you may want to avoid stirring everything together when you add the chicken broth. Just make sure all the rice is submerged in the liquid, so it will cook properly.

    dinner
    American
    Instant Pot kielbasa and rice, Instant Pot sausage and rice, Instant Pot smoked sausage and rice, pressure cooker sausage and rice, smoked sausage and rice, smoked sausage with rice
  • 2-in-1 Instant Pot Meatloaf and Potatoes

    2-in-1 Instant Pot Meatloaf and Potatoes

    How to make Instant Pot meatloaf and potatoes at the same time. Easy, one pot, ground beef dinner recipe, served with the best mashed potatoes!

    I’ve mentioned before that my meatloaf recipe with oatmeal is one of my family’s favorite meals, especially our oldest son. It’s a hearty meal and one that usually leaves us with plenty of leftovers for the next day.

    slices of Instant Pot meatloaf on white plate with mashed potatoes in wooden bowl

    With that in mind and with inspiration from our recipe for whole chicken in the Instant Pot, I decided to tweak my recipe just a bit and make it a pressure cooker meatloaf, using my 8-quart Instant Pot.

    Not only that, but I thought it might make it even easier if I cooked the potatoes right in the same pot with the meatloaf. One pot meal for the win (well, besides veggies, of course).

    Oh my goodness, how flavorful and moist meatloaf is when you pressure cook it. And the potatoes were infused with so much flavor from the meat cooking right above them in the same pot.

    I love how simple this recipe really is. Instant Pot meatloaf and mashed potatoes has been added to our list of favorite dinner time recipes.

    My crew loves a more classic meatloaf recipe (the one with the sauce) too. Next I want to try my friend Kristy’s one-pot Ninja Foodi meatloaf and potatoes.

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    WHERE CAN I FIND THE ACTUAL RECIPE CARD?

    If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the Instant Pot meatloaf recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.

    INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

    Remember, all of the ingredient amounts you’ll need are in the printable recipe card below.

    KITCHEN TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT YOU’LL NEED:

    Large mixing bowl – This makes it easy to just dump in all the ingredients and start mixing.

    Round 7-inch springform pan – Or a similar pan that will fit down into your Instant Pot.

    8-Quart Instant Pot and Trivet

    Meat thermometer

    slicing and serving Instant Pot meatloaf with oatmeal from springform pan with metal spatula flipper

    NOT SURE HOW TO USE YOUR INSTANT POT PRESSURE COOKER?

    Learn how to quickly use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    HOW TO MAKE INSTANT POT MEATLOAF AND POTATOES

    Start by prepping your ingredients, and also be sure to grease the inside of your springform pan (I use a 7-inch springform pan) with cooking spray.

    HOW TO MIX AND SHAPE MEATLOAF:

    1. Add the ground beef, eggs, minced onion, ketchup, BBQ sauce, and seasoned salt to a large mixing bowl. Mix well using a large fork.
    2. Add the oatmeal in and mix well. You can use the fork or just dig in with your hands, which is sometimes easier.
    3. Once everything’s been mixed together well, transfer the meat mixture to the greased springform pan, forming and shaping the meat into the round pan.
    4. Drizzle the top with ketchup.
    steps for how to make Instant Pot meatloaf, including mixing ingredients in mint green mixing bowl and shaping meatloaf in springform pan, then drizzling with ketchup

    COOKING MEATLOAF IN THE INSTANT POT:

    1. Add the potatoes and water to the bottom of the Instant Pot.
    2. Place the trivet in the Instant Pot next.
    3. Then place the meatloaf on top of the trivet.
    4. Secure the lid in place and close the valve on your Instant Pot. Select Manual or Pressure Cook, and set to cook for 30 minutes.
    cooking meatloaf and potatoes in Instant Pot using trivet and springform pan

    When your meatloaf is done (a meat thermometer is definitely something I recommend to make sure the meat has come to temp and is fully cooked), just allow the Instant Pot to do a natural release.

    cooked pressure cooker meatloaf in 8-quart Instant Pot

    Then once you’ve carefully removed the meatloaf and trivet from the Instant Pot, you can mash the potatoes right in the pot.

    cooked potatoes in 8-quart Instant Pot

    Just drain the water off the potatoes, and place the Instant Pot on “Keep Warm.” Add the butter, whipping cream, salt, and pepper to the potatoes, and mash with an immersion blender or hand mixer.

    Instant Pot mashed potatoes in 8-quart Instant Pot

    And that’s it! All you need is a good vegetable to serve with your main course.

    SHOULD I COVER MY MEATLOAF WHILE COOKING?

    While you can cover the meatloaf with aluminum foil, it’s really not necessary. In fact, that might take away from the flavors you’ll get by cooking everything in one pot.

    HANDY TIP FOR REMOVING THE MEATLOAF FROM THE INSTANT POT

    One question that comes up is whether or not you can use aluminum foil in the Instant Pot. While there’s no need to cover your meatloaf, you can use foil to create a sort of sling or lifter for your pan.

    Just tear off a large piece of foil that will fit all the way around your pan, along with maybe 6 to 8 extra inches. Then fold the foil into a long strip (maybe 3-4 inches wide), and place that strip under the pan, bringing the excess ends of the strip up over each side of the pan to act as lifting handles.

    This way it’s easy to remove the hot pan from the pressure cooker once your meatloaf is cooked and ready to serve.

    cooked pressure cooker meatloaf in springform pan

    WHAT IS THE BEST GROUND BEEF FOR MEATLOAF?

    We prefer to use 90/10 ground beef when we’re mixing up a meatloaf. In fact, we use 90/10 for pretty much everything.

    Our reasons are that it’s leaner, there’s less fat, and there will be less grease around your meatloaf.

    Don’t worry about flavor… You’ll still get really good flavor from a leaner ground beef. And you’ll also be eating a bit healthier, as well.

    Note: You can use ground turkey for this recipe in place of ground beef. However, it will change the look, texture, and flavor of your finished meatloaf.

    bite of meatloaf on fork on white plate with blue linen under plate

    CAN YOU SUBSTITUTE OLD-FASHIONED OATS FOR QUICK OATS?

    Yes, you can. I’ve used both old-fashioned oats and quick oats for this meatloaf.

    I’ve even used gluten-free quick oats more recently, so if you want a gluten-free meatloaf, this is the way to go (although you should also check ingredient labels on your other ingredients just to be safe).

    ketchup-topped meatloaf on white plate with fork and mashed potatoes in wooden bowl behind plate

    WHAT GOES GOOD WITH MEATLOAF AND MASHED POTATOES?

    You can serve meatloaf with sides like Instant Pot green beans, corn on the cob, honey glazed carrots, or a good broccoli cauliflower salad.

    MORE FAVORITE MEAT LOVERS’ RECIPES:

    GET THE PRINTABLE RECIPE

    If you love this meatloaf recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest!

    Instant Pot meatloaf recipe

    CRAVING MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES? Subscribe to my newsletter, and follow along on Pinterest, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram for all the latest updates!

    2-in-1 Instant Pot Meatloaf and Potatoes

    How to make Instant Pot meatloaf and potatoes at the same time. Easy, one pot, ground beef dinner recipe, served with the best mashed potatoes!

    • Fayy 7 Inch Springform Pan Compatible for Instant Pot Accessories and Pressure Cooker 6, 8 Quart
    • Instant Pot DUO80 8 Qt 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker and Warmer
    • Stainless Steel Steaming Rack Stand Cooking Ware Steamer Rack Trivet for Instant Pot
    • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1/2 large yellow onion (minced)
    • 1/3 cup ketchup
    • 1/3 cup bbq sauce
    • 1 1/2 cups oatmeal*
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons seasoned salt
    • 4 tablespoons ketchup (for top of meatloaf)
    • 4 to 6 medium potatoes
    • 1 cup water
    • 6 tablespoons salted butter
    • 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream**
    • 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
    • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (to taste)
    1. Grease the inside of your springform pan (I use a 7-inch springform pan) with cooking spray.
    2. Add the ground beef, eggs, minced onion, ketchup, bbq sauce, and seasoned salt to a large mixing bowl. Mix well using a large fork.
    3. Add the oatmeal in and mix well. You can use the fork or just dig in with your hands, which is sometimes easier.
    4. Once everything’s been mixed together well, transfer the meat mixture to the greased springform pan, forming and shaping the meat into the round pan.
    5. Drizzle the top with ketchup.
    6. Add the potatoes and water to the bottom of the Instant Pot.
    7. Place the trivet in the Instant Pot next.
    8. Then place the meatloaf on top of the trivet.
    9. Secure the lid in place and close the valve on your Instant Pot. Select Manual or Pressure Cook, and set to cook for 30 minutes.
    10. When your meatloaf is done (a meat thermometer is definitely something I recommend to make sure the meat has come to temp and is fully cooked), just allow the Instant Pot to do a natural release.
    11. Then once you’ve carefully removed the meatloaf and trivet from the Instant Pot, you can mash the potatoes right in the pot. Just drain the water off the potatoes, and place the Instant Pot on “Keep Warm.”
    12. Add the butter, whipping cream, salt, and pepper to the potatoes, and mash with an immersion blender or hand mixer.
    13. And that’s it! All you need is a good vegetable to serve with your main course.

    *I’ve used both old-fashioned oats and quick oats for this meatloaf. I’ve even used gluten-free quick oats more recently, so if you want a gluten-free meatloaf, this is the way to go (although you should also check ingredient labels on your other ingredients, especially seasonings, just to be safe).

    **You can use whole milk if you don’t have heavy whipping cream.

    WHAT IS THE BEST GROUND BEEF FOR MEATLOAF?

    We prefer to use 90/10 ground beef when we’re mixing up a meatloaf. In fact, we use 90/10 for pretty much everything. Our reasons are that it’s leaner, there’s less fat, and there will be less grease around your meatloaf.

    Don’t worry about flavor… You’ll still get really good flavor from a leaner ground beef. And you’ll also be eating a bit healthier, as well.

    Note: You can use ground turkey for this recipe in place of ground beef. However, it will change the look, texture, and flavor of your finished meatloaf.

    SHOULD I COVER MY MEATLOAF WHILE COOKING?

    While you can cover the meatloaf with aluminum foil, it’s really not necessary. In fact, that might take away from the flavors you’ll get by cooking everything in one pot.

    HANDY TIP FOR REMOVING THE MEATLOAF FROM THE INSTANT POT

    One question that comes up is whether or not you can use aluminum foil in the Instant Pot. While there’s no need to cover your meatloaf, you can use foil to create a sort of sling or lifter for your pan.

    Just tear off a large piece of foil that will fit all the way around your pan, along with maybe 6 to 8 extra inches. Then fold the foil into a long strip (maybe 3-4 inches wide), and place that strip under the pan, bringing the excess strip up over each side of the pan to act as lifting handles.

    This way it’s easy to remove the hot pan from the pressure cooker once your meatloaf is cooked and ready to serve.

    Instant Pot Recipes
    American
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  • How to Make Homemade Apple Juice without a Juicer

    How to Make Homemade Apple Juice without a Juicer

    How to make the most delicious homemade apple juice without a juicer and without any added sugar. Simple and easy Instant Pot recipe.

    For the longest time, I really thought I needed an apple juicer or an apple press for juicing apples. I’m not sure why I thought that because after learning how to make my own apple juice, I realize how easy it really is.

    homemade apple juice in a Sunshine Brand Coffee jar and jelly jar

    You can make apple juice, apple jelly, and pressure cooker applesauce all at the same time. For now, let’s focus on homemade juice.

    Why You’ll Love Making Apple Juice

    • While I use my Instant Pot, you can totally make this homemade apple juice on your stove. The cook time just may be a little longer.
    • There is no added sugar in this apple juice either. The only ingredients you need are apples and water. Of course, you want a sweeter tasting apple, but we’ll talk about the types of apples you can use.
    • It’s easy to make; your Instant Pot does most of the work for you.
    • Have I mentioned it’s the most delicious apple juice recipe?
    fresh apple juice in a jar with a paper straw

    What Are the Benefits of Making Your Own Apple Juice?

    Remember the old saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away?” Apples have a ton of nutritional value and are a great addition to our diet.

    While you’d probably get a LOT more benefit out of the whole apple, apple juice is a good source of vitamin C and potassium. It’s also a great source of antioxidants.

    And since you are able to cook most of the apple, including the core and peeling, when making apple juice, you may have added fiber and other nutrients that a whole apple provides.

    Not to mention, homemade apple juice tastes so much better than store bought. It’s so fresh and crisp and light.

    washing seconds apples in the sink for apple juice recipe

    Ingredients Notes:

    You only need 2 ingredients to make apple juice without a juicer…

    • Apples – You’ll need about 5 pounds of apples. I prefer to use a sweeter apple, so I don’t have to add any sugar. Something like Gala or Honeycrisp works well. We’ll talk more about apples a little further below.
    • Water

    What Kind of Apples Should I Use to Make Apple Juice?

    There are certain types of apples that are sweeter and certain types of apples that have a more tangy, sour taste. As I mentioned above, when making homemade apple juice, you probably want to use a sweeter apple, so you don’t have to add any sugar.

    I used Gala apples for this recipe because they were available as seconds at our local orchard. Gala have a very sweet taste.

    The best apples for juicing include:

    • Gala
    • Honeycrisp
    • Fuji
    • Yellow Delicious or Golden Delicious
    • Rome
    • and Pink Lady
    homemade apple juice made without an apple juicer, in a Sunshine Coffee jar

    Where Can I Find the Best Apples for Juicing?

    Fall is a great time to find the best apples for juicing, but you can use any apples you find, whether you’re shopping at an orchard, a farmer’s market, or the store.

    However, in the fall, you can usually buy seconds at just about any orchard (and sometimes at the farmer’s market). Meaning you can buy a HUGE box of apples for a lot less than normal cost, which is going to save you a ton of money.

    Now I will say… It takes a LOT of apples to get very little juice, jelly, apple butter, or applesauce. But in my opinion, it’s totally worth it.

    how to make apple juice without a juicer, in your Instant Pot with the whole apple, including core and peelings

    How to Make Apple Juice without a Juicer

    For this recipe, you’ll need about 5 pounds of apples, a little bit of water, and an Instant Pot (a pot on the stove will work too, just with a longer cooking time).

    Be sure to wash the apples before you get started. I like to soak any fruit we eat in a vinegar/water bath for at least 10 minutes or more.

    How to Make Fresh Apple Juice without an Apple Juicer, Step By Step…

    1. Using a paring knife, remove any bad spots. Core the apples, either peeling them or leaving the peeling intact; you’ll throw the peeling in the pot too, even if you peel the apples.
    2. Cut the apples into chunks.
    3. Remove the stem and the blossom ends of the apple cores, and throw the cores into your Instant Pot, along with the apple chunks and peelings.
    4. Add enough water to cover about half of the apples. In our case, we used about 5 pounds of apples and 5 cups of water.
    steps for how to make apple juice without a juicer in the Instant Pot, including peeling and coring the apples and adding water
    1. Close your Instant Pot, and set it to Pressure Cook on Normal for 6 minutes. Let the valve naturally release after cooking.
    2. After cooking, you’ll just need to strain the juice from your apples. You can do this with a mesh strainer and/or a flour sack towel or cheesecloth.
    pouring apple juice and pulp into flour sack towel for straining
    1. Try not to squeeze the ingredients too much, so you don’t get a lot of pulp in your juice. Instead let the juice drip into a container for an hour or so.
    straining homemade apple juice with a flour sack towel and bucket

    If you want, you can strain the leftovers in a food mill to make homemade applesauce and cinnamon applesauce. And you can either drink the juice or make homemade apple jelly with a little bit of it.

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    What’s the difference between apple juice and apple cider?

    There are a few differences between apple juice vs apple cider. Apple juice is going to be a thinner, more transparent liquid without any pulp left behind. Apple cider is a thicker, more opaque juice, and it may have pulp and chunks of apple left behind; you can actually make a warm mulled cider with spices and citrus. Also, in terms of commercial apple cider vs apple juice, apple juice is pasteurized and has a longer shelf life than apple cider.

    Is it safe to juice apple seeds? What about Arsenic/Cyanide in the apple seeds?

    Studies have shown that you’d have to eat a whole lotta seeds to have any risk of poisoning. And in this case, we’re not eating the seeds, we’re simply cooking them in the mixture to get the added benefits of the natural pectin in the apple core. I’m just going to leave you with this article from Pick Your Own: Cyanide, Arsenic, and Other Toxins in Fruit: Facts, Myths, and Old Wive’s Tales. Blender Mom also has a really informative post about how Apple Seeds Are Safe. If you’re still not sure, Here’s How Many Apple Cores It Would Take to Poison You. Again, for this recipe, we’re simply cooking the seeds and cores, then straining them out.

    Can you freeze homemade apple juice?

    Yes, you can. In fact, you can freeze or can apple juice, whichever you prefer. We usually don’t keep it around long enough to do either/or; but if you make enough, yes, you can freeze it. If you choose to can it, Ball has wonderful Canning Guides to guide you through the process.

    How should you store apple juice?

    You’ll need to store it in an airtight container, jar, or pitcher in the fridge; it should keep for about 1 week.

    fresh homemade apple juice in Sunshine Coffee jar and jelly jar with paper straw

    If You Love This Instant Pot Apple Juice Recipe, Try Some of Our Other Apple Favorites:

    If you love this homemade apple juice as much as I do, you’ll love our other apple favorites too…

    And learn how to use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    How to Make Homemade Apple Juice without a Juicer

    How to make the most delicious homemade apple juice without a juicer and without any added sugar. Simple and easy Instant Pot recipe.

    • Johnny apple peeler
    • Paring Knife
    • 8-Qt. Instant Pot
    • Mesh Strainer
    • Flour Sack Towels
    • Cheesecloth
    • Food Mill
    • 5 pounds apples
    • 5 cups water
    1. Wash the apples.*
    2. Remove any bad spots from the apples.

    3. Core the apples and cut them up into chunks, either peeling them or leaving the peeling intact. Throw the chunks and peelings into your Instant Pot.

    4. Remove the stem and the blossom ends of the apple cores, and throw the cores into the pot.
    5. Add enough water to cover about half of the apples. In this case, we used about 5 pounds of apples and 5 cups of water.
    6. Close your Instant Pot, and set it to Pressure Cook on Normal for 6 minutes. 
    7. Allow the valve to naturally release after cooking.

    8. Once cooking is done, strain the juice from your apples.* You can do this using either a mesh strainer, flour sack towels, or cheesecloth.

    9. Let the juice drip into a container for an hour or so.*

    10. Once you have all the juice you can possibly get, pour the juice into a pitcher or cups for drinking. 

    11. For what to do with leftovers, see the Recipe Notes.*

    * We used Gala apples for our juice, but you can use any kind of apples. The best apples for juicing are Gala, Fuji, Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, Rome, and Pink Lady.

    *When straining the juice from your apples, try not to squeeze the ingredients too much, so you don’t get a lot of pulp in your juice. Instead let the juice drip into a container for an hour or so.

    *We hung our flour sack towel from a cabinet door handle (make sure it’s strong enough to support the weight) and let it drip into a small bucket.

    *Got leftovers? You can strain the leftovers in a food mill to make applesauce. And you can either drink the juice or make homemade apple jelly with it.

    Store leftover juice in an airtight container, jar, or pitcher in the fridge, where it should keep for about 1 week.

    Drinks
    American
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  • Instant Pot Sausage and Chicken Casserole

    Instant Pot Sausage and Chicken Casserole

    Easy recipe for sausage and chicken casserole in the Instant Pot. Low carb chicken casserole that makes a healthy dinner and a cheesy comfort food.

    sausage and chicken casserole with wooden spoon in black cast iron skillet

    This sausage and chicken casserole is a low carb dinner my family enjoys from time to time. It’s one of those meals we can pretty easily throw together, walk away from it, and let it cook.

    Even though it’s an Instant Pot casserole, it still requires just a little bit of prep work, like cooking the chicken and browning the sausage. I love that everything is mixed together, though, vegetables and all.

    That’s what makes this recipe so delicious. The meats, vegetables, cheeses, and seasonings just all mesh together to form this yummy low carb chicken casserole everyone in our family enjoys.

    Learn how to quickly use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    Love a good casserole? You may also enjoy this classic tater tot casserole recipe. And if it’s a one pot meal you’re after, Instant Pot sausage and rice is one you can throw together in minutes!

    low carb chicken casserole with cauliflower and sausage in black cast iron skillet with wooden spoon

    WHERE CAN I FIND THE SAUSAGE AND CHICKEN CASSEROLE RECIPE?

    If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the delicious chicken casserole recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.

    CAN I USE CAULIFLOWER RICE FOR THIS RECIPE?

    You can definitely use already riced cauliflower to make a sausage cauliflower bake in the Instant Pot.

    However, I don’t recommend using frozen cauliflower rice, because that will add extra water, ultimately changing both the texture and consistency of the casserole.

    I do recommend using either fresh cauliflower or a fresh cauliflower rice over using frozen.

    TIPS FOR HOW TO MAKE THIS LOW CARB CHEESY CHICKEN CASSEROLE

    Gather your ingredients, per the printable recipe card below.

    PREP THE VEGETABLES FIRST…

    You’ll need to prep first by washing and chopping (or mincing) the celery, onion, and garlic. Also, wash and chop the cauliflower if you’re not using cauliflower rice.

    Then pre-heat the Instant Pot in sauté mode.

    ASSEMBLE INGREDIENTS IN THE INSTANT POT

    • Add the butter to your Instant Pot, and let it melt.
    • Sauté the celery, onion, and garlic for about 3 to 5 minutes.
    celery, onions, and garlic sautéing in the Instant Pot
    • Add the sausage in with your veggies and allow it to brown, crumbling it up with the veggies.
    browning sausage with vegetables in Instant Pot pressure cooker
    • Add the cream cheese and shredded chicken in with your vegetable mixture, and mix together well.
    mixing cream cheese and chicken into low carb cheesy chicken casserole in Instant Pot pressure cooker
    • Put the cauliflower, shredded cheeses, salt, pepper, and paprika on top of the vegetable mixture in the Instant Pot.
    adding shredded cheese, cauliflower, and spices to low carb chicken casserole in Instant Pot pressure cooker
    • Then add a cup of water, and place the lid on your Instant Pot.

    COOK YOUR INSTANT POT CASSEROLE

    Turn off the sauté function, press Manual, and set your timer for 8 minutes. Be sure to allow a natural pressure release.

    When it’s done, stir the casserole together… If there’s extra water, you may need to turn the sauté function back on and let it cook down just a little bit.

    You can top it off with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.

    low carb cheesy chicken casserole in cast iron skillet with wooden spoon

    LOOKING FOR MORE LOW CARB DINNER IDEAS?

    SHOP KITCHEN TOOLS FOR THIS RECIPE:

    Ninja Food Chopper Express or Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife

    Instant Pot – We’ve used both our 6-quart and our 8-quart Instant Pot.

    Wooden Spatula – We use a wooden spatula when we need to sauté something.

    Glass Measuring Cup – Oh how I love my measuring cup for measuring liquids… I use it every single time I cook or bake anything.

    PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD FOR INSTANT POT SAUSAGE AND CHICKEN CASSEROLE

    If you love this low carb chicken casserole recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest! If you make the recipe, be sure to share that you tried it on Pinterest. I love when readers share feedback!

    Instant Pot sausage and chicken casserole recipe

    CONNECT WITH ADVENTURES OF MEL!

    Be sure to follow me on social, so you never miss a post!

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    Want to see how to make this recipe? Watch our cooking show video in the recipe card below!

    Instant Pot Sausage and Chicken Casserole

    Easy recipe for sausage and chicken casserole in the Instant Pot. Low carb chicken casserole that makes a healthy dinner and a cheesy comfort food.

    • 2 stalks celery
    • 1/2 large yellow onion
    • 2 cloves garlic
    • 1 head cauliflower (*)
    • 3 tablespoons salted butter
    • 1 pound breakfast sausage
    • 8 ounces cream cheese
    • 1 pound chicken (cooked and shredded)
    • 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
    • 1 cup Colby Jack cheese (shredded)
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
    • 1 cup water
    1. Wash and chop or mince the celery, onion, and garlic; also wash and chop the cauliflower.
    2. Pre-heat the Instant Pot in sauté mode.
    3. Add the butter to your Instant Pot, and let it melt.
    4. Sauté the celery, onion, and garlic for about 3 to 5 minutes.
    5. Add the sausage in with your veggies and allow it to brown, crumbling it up with the veggies.
    6. Add the cream cheese and shredded chicken in with your vegetable mixture, and mix together well.
    7. Put the cauliflower, shredded cheeses, salt, pepper, and paprika on top of the vegetable mixture in the Instant Pot.
    8. Add a cup of water.
    9. Put the lid on your Instant Pot.
    10. Turn off the sauté function, press Manual, and set your timer for 8 minutes; allow a natural pressure release.
    11. When it’s done, stir the casserole together… If there’s extra water, you may need to turn the sauté function back on and let it cook down just a little bit.
    12. You can top it off with chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve and enjoy!

    *While you can use already riced cauliflower, I recommend using fresh for this recipe. Frozen riced cauliflower can have extra water, which changes the entire texture/consistency of this casserole.

    Instant Pot Recipes
    American
    Instant Pot casserole, low carb chicken casserole, sausage and chicken casserole
  • Perfectly Cooked Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal

    Perfectly Cooked Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal

    Simplify mornings with a quick and easy homemade maple brown sugar oatmeal. Dairy free Instant Pot oatmeal recipe using rolled oats and real maple syrup.

    white bowl of maple brown sugar oatmeal with blueberries and pecans

    I remember as a kid when the boxes of instant oatmeal came out on store shelves. They were pretty much an instant hit with most every kid, especially with flavors like peaches and cream, strawberry and cream oatmeal and maple brown sugar oatmeal.

    Both my mom and my grandma were HUGE fans of the maple and brown sugar oatmeal. We’d make it to go with our breakfast and even for the occasional snack.

    Now with the help of my Instant Pot, I like to make it homemade, giving me the option to add less sugar and maybe make it a bit more healthy than those instant packs probably are. My family prefer steel cut or old fashioned oats, so I like to use old fashioned rolled oats.

    If you’ve never made Instant Pot oatmeal, it’s really easy to make. And I’ve got a few tips for you below, especially to help prevent scorching and get that perfectly cooked texture to your oatmeal.

    Looking for more Instant Pot breakfast recipes? Learn how to make easy peel pressure cooked hard boiled eggs, a super quick breakfast when you’re on the go.

    [mv_video doNotAutoplayNorOptimizePlacement=”false” doNotOptimizePlacement=”false” jsonLd=”true” key=”grgy7ldnvwwjtho6re2o” sticky=”false” thumbnail=”https://mediavine-res.cloudinary.com/v1581779863/hf4xw2mrxjxgjzzabknu.jpg” title=”Perfectly Cooked Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal” volume=”100″]

    WHERE CAN I FIND THE MAPLE BROWN SUGAR OATMEAL RECIPE?

    If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the delicious maple brown sugar oatmeal recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.

    Not Quite Sure How to Use Your Instant Pot Pressure Cooker?

    Learn how to quickly use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    spoonful of maple and brown sugar oatmeal above white bowl of oatmeal with pecans and blueberries

    What Kind of Oats Should I Use for Instant Pot Oatmeal?

    For maple oats, I prefer to use old fashioned rolled oats.

    However, you can use steel cut oats. Just keep in mind, you may need to increase the cooking time by a minute or two, since steel cut oats can take longer to cook.

    The nice thing is, with the pressure cooker, things tend to cook more quickly.

    The Kitchn has a great article explaining the difference between steel-cut, rolled, and instant oats.

    Tips for How to Make Maple and Brown Sugar Oatmeal

    With this oatmeal recipe, you can literally throw all your ingredients into the Instant Pot, set it, and forget it. It’s so quick and easy, but here are a few tips that may help you along the way.

    making maple cinnamon oatmeal with old fashioned rolled oats, cinnamon, and water in Instant Pot

    Tips for How to Keep Oatmeal from Scorching

    While I have used milk in the past, and it does tend to leave a film or scorch (but never leaves a burnt flavor), I prefer to use water now.

    With water, the oatmeal doesn’t scorch. In fact, it turns out perfectly cooked, and my family and I all think it tastes just as good or even better than oatmeal cooked with milk.

    maple oats in white bowl with spoon, pecans, and blueberries

    If you don’t want to use water, you may also be able to avoid scorching with the following methods:

    • Substitute another kind of dairy product (like almond milk).
    • If you find you just can’t make it without it scorching, reduce the cook time by a minute or two.
    • Throw everything in, adding the liquid last, and don’t stir. Just cook it.
    • Use the Instant Pot Porridge setting to cook oatmeal.

    Flavor Tips for Oatmeal in the Instant Pot

    How much brown sugar you should put in oatmeal depends on how sweet you want it. For this recipe, I use both maple syrup and brown sugar, so I only use 1/3 cup brown sugar.

    I also like to add a little cinnamon because I love the combo of maple cinnamon oatmeal!

    cooked maple and brown sugar Instant Pot oatmeal with a wooden spoon

    What to Put in Oatmeal

    When the oatmeal is ready to serve, have the following ingredients handy:

    • Sugar or Brown Sugar
    • Cream or Milk
    • Pecans
    • Blueberries
    • Bananas
    • Other Fruits

    I’ve always added cream or milk with a little sugar to my oatmeal after it’s cooked. Makes it oh so delicious!

    white bowl with maple brown sugar oatmeal, made with pressure cooker oatmeal

    More Oatmeal Recipes You May Enjoy

    I love baking, and I love these oatmeal cookies that remind me of my grandma. When I don’t want raisins, oatmeal cookies with chocolate chips will do.

    One of my go to dinner recipes is this easy meatloaf, made with old fashioned rolled oats. It’s by far one of our favorite family meals.

    Shop Kitchen Tools for This Recipe:

    Instant Pot – We’ve used both our 6-quart and our 8-quart Instant Pot.

    Liquid Measuring Cup

    Wooden Spoon

    Fun Cereal Bowls

    PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD FOR MAPLE BROWN SUGAR OATMEAL

    If you love this maple brown sugar oatmeal recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest! If you make the recipe, be sure to share that you tried it on Pinterest. I love when readers share feedback!

    maple brown sugar oatmeal recipe

    CONNECT WITH ADVENTURES OF MEL!

    Be sure to follow me on social, so you never miss a post!

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    Sign up to receive my newsletter, filled with delicious recipes and outdoor travel adventures, in your inbox:

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    Perfectly Cooked Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal

    Simplify mornings with a quick and easy homemade maple brown sugar oatmeal. Dairy free Instant Pot oatmeal recipe using rolled oats and real maple syrup.

    • 2 cups rolled oats (*)
    • 3 1/2 cups water
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
    • 1/3 cup light brown sugar
    • 1/3 cup maple syrup
    1. Add all the ingredients to the Instant Pot, stirring the mixture together.
    2. Place the lid on your Instant Pot.
    3. Set the Instant Pot on the Porridge setting for 6 minutes, and let it cook and do a natural release.
    4. When the oatmeal has finished cooking, serve it with sugar, brown sugar, milk, cream, blueberries, pecans, bananas, and other fruits. 

    *We use old fashioned rolled oats for this recipe. If you prefer to use steel cut oats, you may need to increase the cooking time by a minute or two.

    Breakfast & Brunch
    American
    Instant Pot oatmeal, maple and brown sugar oatmeal, maple brown sugar oatmeal, maple cinnamon oatmeal, maple oats, pressure cooker oatmeal
  • Dump and Go Instant Pot Vegetable Soup

    Dump and Go Instant Pot Vegetable Soup

    Make an easy Instant Pot vegetable soup with potatoes, okra, and other frozen veggies. Healthy pressure cooker recipe the whole family will love!

    Instant Pot Vegetable Soup is one comfort food that warms a body up on a chilly day.

    white bowl of Instant Pot vegetable soup with spoon and crackers

    One of the things I love about this vegetable soup recipe is that it’s a vegetable soup without tomatoes. With Dan trying to stay low carb and my sometimes sensitive tummy, I know full well we can all eat it and enjoy it.

    I also love that it’s pretty much a dump and go soup. The hardest part about this recipe (and it isn’t even hard) is chopping up the garlic, potatoes, onion, carrots, and celery.

    While it does have potatoes, we fill this chunky vegetable soup with all sorts of veggies, including okra and green beans. Cooked in a beefy broth, it’s got the beef flavor without any meat.

    The only seasonings we use are salt and pepper. The vegetables do the rest, and it’s packed with flavor.

    Love a good chunky soup recipe? Me too. Some of my favorites include slow V8 vegetable soup, slow cooker white chicken chili, and creamy potato corn chowder.

    white bowls of chunky vegetable soup with crackers on a wooden cutting board

    WHERE CAN I FIND THE RECIPE CARD FOR INSTANT POT VEGETABLE SOUP?

    If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the delicious vegetable soup recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.

    Things to Keep in Mind When Making Pressure Cooker Vegetable Soup

    There are a few things you should keep in mind when making foods in your Instant Pot, including cook time and release.

    While the cook time is only 30 minutes, keep in mind that if you let the pressure cooker naturally release, it will take more time. It’ll also take time for the Instant Pot to come up to pressure, so it’s important that you add these times into your cook time.

    You can do a quick release (with protection, of course, so you don’t get burnt), but because we usually dump and go with this recipe, we just let it naturally release. That way the veggies get a little more time to soften up through the cooking/release process.

    scoop of pressure cooker vegetable soup in ladle above Instant Pot

    What Kind of Broth Should I Use for This Soup?

    You can use a vegetable based broth or a beef based broth. We use beef because we like the flavor of the beef base with the vegetables.

    You can either use broth you’ve saved from a roast, or you can use a beef base or bullion to make a broth. This beef base is the one we regularly use.

    Tips for How to Make a Chunky Vegetable Soup

    chopped potatoes, onion, carrots, and celery for Instant Pot vegetable soup recipe, on cutting board
    • Begin by washing and prepping all of the fresh vegetables, including the celery, carrots, and potatoes. You’ll also need to chop up the onion and garlic.
    • Just dump all of your chopped and frozen veggies, along with the beef broth, into your Instant Pot.
    fresh and frozen veggies for vegetable soup in Instant Pot pressure cooker
    • Put the lid on the Instant Pot and secure in place. Then set it to “Soup” for 30 minutes.
    • And that’s about it… You can just let it go, let it cook and naturally release, and then dinner will be ready.
    cooked vegetable soup in Instant Pot with wooden spoon

    What to Serve with Vegetable Soup

    Vegetable soup pairs well with crackers, cheddar cheese, toasted sourdough, homemade biscuits, bread rolls, grilled cheese, buttermilk cornbread, etc.

    Alternative Options for Instant Pot Vegetable Soup

    There are a few alternative ingredients you can add to this vegetable soup recipe to kinda switch it up…

    • Add a little pasta or rice.
    • Include other vegetables like lima beans or spinach, although you may need to increase the amount of liquid you add by a cup or so, depending on how much you add.
    • Add meat! You can add hamburger, stew meat, sausage, etc.

    Looking for more delicious Instant Pot recipes?

    Also, learn how to quickly use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    chunky vegetable soup in white soup bowl with spoon

    Kitchen Tools You’ll Need to Make This Soup:

    8 Quart Instant Pot – We use our Instant Pot almost every day. It makes a lot of meals in our house.

    Ninja Food Chopper Express or Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife

    Soup Bowls – Who doesn’t love a pretty bowl?

    INSTANT POT VEGETABLE SOUP RECIPE

    If you love this vegetable soup recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest!

    Dump and Go Instant Pot Vegetable Soup Recipe

    Connect with Adventures of Mel!

    Be sure to follow me on social, so you never miss a post!

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    Instant Pot Vegetable Soup

    Make an easy Instant Pot vegetable soup with potatoes, okra, and other frozen veggies. Healthy pressure cooker recipe the whole family will love!

    • 2 stalks celery (chopped)
    • 4 carrots (chopped)
    • 1/2 large yellow onion (chopped)
    • 2 cloves garlic (chopped)
    • 5 medium potatoes (washed, peeled, and chopped)
    • 12 ounces frozen okra
    • 12 ounces frozen green beans
    • 12 ounces frozen corn
    • 12 ounces frozen peas
    • 4 cups beef broth (*)
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
    1. Prep all the veggies, including the celery, carrots, onion, garlic, and potatoes.
    2. Add all the chopped and frozen veggies to the Instant Pot.
    3. Add the beef broth to the Instant Pot.
    4. At this point, you can give it all a good stir.
    5. Put the lid on the Instant Pot and secure in place.
    6. Set to “Soup” for 30 minutes, and let it do its thing. 
    7. Once the soup has fully cooked and the valve has naturally released, the soup should be ready to serve.

    *If you don’t want to use a beef base, you can also use a vegetable base.

    Soups & Stews
    American
    chunky vegetable soup, Instant Pot vegetable soup, pressure cooker vegetable soup, vegetable soup
  • Peaches and Cream Instant Pot Oatmeal Recipe

    Peaches and Cream Instant Pot Oatmeal Recipe

    Make ahead a large batch recipe for peaches and cream Instant Pot oatmeal, and start mornings with a family favorite, kid approved homemade breakfast!

    Instant Pot oatmeal makes a great breakfast, lunch, or even snack idea. As a teen, I had a thing for Instant Oatmeal, more specifically, Peaches and Cream Oatmeal and strawberries and cream oatmeal. I absolutely loved it.

    bowl of peaches and cream Instant Pot oatmeal on white marble countertop with blue placemat and fresh peaches

    Now I can just make it myself, giving me the freedom to add less sugar and make it a bit more healthy than those instant packs probably are. My family prefer steel cut or old fashioned oats, and to be honest, I prefer to keep things simple too, especially when it comes to the food we eat.

    My guys like this particular oatmeal recipe because it’s not too sweet. Not gonna lie, I’m the sweet tooth in the family, but they definitely keep me in check and make me re-think certain recipes and how much sugar I’m adding.

    Looking for more Instant Pot breakfast ideas? You’ll love maple brown sugar oatmeal.

    wooden spoonful of peaches and cream Instant Pot oatmeal
     

    WHERE CAN I FIND THE RECIPE FOR PEACHES AND CREAM OATMEAL?

    If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the delicious peaches and cream oatmeal recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.

    NOT SURE HOW TO USE YOUR INSTANT POT PRESSURE COOKER?

    Learn how to quickly use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    SHOULD I USE STEEL CUT OATS, QUICK OATS OR OLD FASHIONED OATS FOR INSTANT POT OATMEAL?

    For this recipe, I use old fashioned or rolled oats. However you can use steel cut oats; you just may need to increase the cooking time by a minute or two, since steel cut oats can take longer to cook.

    Ingredients for peaches and cream oatmeal in Instant Pot, cooking oatmeal in the Instant Pot pressure cooker

    The nice thing is, with the pressure cooker, things cook more quickly.

    The Kitchn has a great article explaining the difference between steel-cut, rolled, and instant oats.

    SHOULD I USE FRESH OR FROZEN PEACHES?

    I’ve used both fresh and frozen peaches, and they work equally well. If you’re in a hurry, though, I highly recommend frozen peaches.

    You can also use canned peaches, but be sure to drain the liquid before adding them to the oatmeal.

    TIPS FOR HOW TO MAKE OATMEAL IN THE INSTANT POT

    This oatmeal recipe literally just takes throwing all your ingredients into the Instant Pot and setting it to cook. It’s so easy, but here are a few tips that may help you along the way.

    cooked peaches and cream Instant Pot oatmeal in the Instant Pot pressure cooker

    TIPS TO KEEP YOUR OATMEAL FROM SCORCHING

    Some people say not to use milk because it can scorch on the bottom of the pan. While it’s left a bottom film that kinda clings to the pot, it’s never burned or tasted burnt.

    Also, you may be able to avoid scorching with the following methods:

    • Use all water and no dairy.
    • Substitute another kind of dairy product (like almond milk).
    • If you find you just can’t make it without it scorching, reduce the cook time by a minute or two.
    • Throw everything in, adding the milk last, and don’t stir. Just cook it.

    MY FAVORITE TIPS FOR COOKING OATMEAL IN THE INSTANT POT

    • I use half water/half milk for a more creamy texture to our oatmeal.
    • I also like to add cinnamon because I love the combination of peaches and cinnamon, especially when I make peach cobbler… So good!
    • When you go to serve the oatmeal, you can have things like sugar, brown sugar, cream or milk, and maybe even extra fruit handy for anyone who wants it. I’ve always added cream or milk with a little sugar to my oatmeal after it’s cooked.
    bowl of peaches and cream Instant Pot oatmeal with spoon and fresh peaches

    MORE OATMEAL RECIPES YOU MAY ENJOY

    I love baking, and I love these oatmeal raisin cookies that remind me of my grandma. When I don’t want raisins, oatmeal chocolate chip cookies will do.

    One of our favorite dinnertime meals is this easy meatloaf recipe, made with old fashioned rolled oats. Mmmm, it’s so delicious!

    Sugar Dish Me has a deliciously yummy recipe for apple cinnamon stovetop oatmeal. And Crazy Adventures in Parenting has a decadent recipe for chocolate peanut butter banana overnight oats.

    bowl of peach oatmeal made in the Instant Pot, on a white marble countertop with fresh peaches

    KITCHEN TOOLS YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE INSTANT POT OATMEAL

    Instant Pot – We used our 6-quart Instant Pot.

    Liquid Measuring Cup

    Ninja Food Chopper Express or Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife – if you’re cutting up fresh peaches or even if you want to cut up the frozen peaches.

    Wooden Spoon

    Fun Cereal Bowls

    PEACHES AND CREAM INSTANT POT OATMEAL RECIPE

    If you love this peach oatmeal recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest! If you make the recipe, be sure to share that you tried it on Pinterest. I love when readers share feedback!

    peaches and cream Instant Pot oatmeal recipe

    CONNECT WITH ADVENTURES OF MEL!

    Be sure to follow me on social, so you never miss a post!

    Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube | Instagram | Twitter

    Sign up to receive my newsletter, filled with delicious recipes and outdoor travel adventures, in your inbox:

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    Peaches and Cream Instant Pot Oatmeal

    Make ahead a large batch recipe for peaches and cream Instant Pot oatmeal, and start mornings with a family favorite, kid approved homemade breakfast!

    • 4 cups rolled oats (*)
    • 3 1/2 cups water
    • 3 1/2 cups whole milk
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1/3 cup pure cane sugar
    • 2 cups peaches (**)
    1. Start by prepping your peaches; this will depend on whether you’re using fresh or frozen.***
    2. Add all the ingredients to the Instant Pot, stirring the mixture together.
    3. Pop the lid on your Instant Pot.
    4. Set the Instant Pot on Multigrain for 6 minutes, and let it cook and naturally release.
    5. When the oatmeal has finished cooking, serve it with sugar, brown sugar, milk, cream, and extra sliced peaches. Enjoy!

    *We use old fashioned rolled oats for this recipe. If you prefer to use steel cut oats, you may need to increase the cooking time by a minute or two.

    **You can use fresh, frozen, or canned peaches.

    ***If using fresh, you’ll need to wash, peel, and chop or slice the peaches. If using frozen, you can put them in whole or chop them; they can easily be chopped up, even with a wooden spoon, after cooking. If using canned peaches, drain the liquid before adding them to the pot.

    Breakfast & Brunch
    American
    how to make oatmeal, Instant Pot oatmeal, oatmeal, oatmeal recipe, oats, peaches and cream, peaches and cream oatmeal
    Peaches and Cream Instant Pot Oatmeal
    how to make Instant Pot oatmeal, peaches and cream oatmeal recipe
  • No-Peel Instant Pot Cinnamon Applesauce

    No-Peel Instant Pot Cinnamon Applesauce

    How to make easy, homemade, no-peel, Instant Pot cinnamon applesauce, a delicious recipe for canning or freezing. Make it smooth or chunky, no sugar added!

    Instant Pot cinnamon applesauce is really easy to make and made pretty much the same way as regular Instant Pot applesauce. You really just need to add cinnamon to the mixture.

    white bowl filled with homemade cinnamon applesauce with apples

    This applesauce recipe only calls for 4 ingredients, and none of them includ added sugar. If you use the right apples, which we’ll talk about below, you won’t need additional sugar because it’ll be sweet enough on its own.

    Think about it… Natural ingredients, no need to actually peel apples, all the nutritional benefits of those peelings, and it’s all made in the Instant Pot.

    The fact that it’s pressure cooked takes the work out of making applesauce because you don’t have to stand in front of a hot stove stirring the day away. Instead, just add the ingredients to your Instant Pot pressure cooker, push a couple buttons, and let it do the majority of the work for you.

    Now you can peel your apples if you want to; it’s totally up to you. If you use an immersion blender and not a regular blender, you may have some tiny pieces of peeling still left in your sauce.

    There’s really no reason, though, that you can’t fill your pantry with jars of homemade applesauce. And can I just say it tastes so much better and has a much better texture than store canned applesauce. So much better!

    Let’s get cooking, shall we?

    Looking for apple recipes? Here are 50 mouthwatering apple recipes you may enjoy!

    I JUST WANT THE RECIPE! TAKE ME TO THE RECIPE FOR CINNAMON APPLESAUCE!

    If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the delicious recipe for cinnamon applesauce – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.

    Instant Pot cinnamon applesauce in canning jar with small wooden spoon

    WHERE CAN I FIND THE BEST APPLES FOR APPLESAUCE?

    Fall is probably the best time to find the best apples for applesauce, although you can use pretty much any apples you can find, whether you’re shopping at the store, an orchard, or the farmer’s market.

    In the fall, though, I recommend buying seconds at a local orchard if you have one, and sometimes you can find them at the farmer’s market.

    Buying seconds usually ensures that you can buy a HUGE box of apples for a lot less than normal cost, which is going to save you a ton of money.

    One thing you need to know, though… It does take a LOT of apples to get a little bit of applesauce, fresh homemade apple juice, apple jelly, or apple butter. But in my opinion, that homemade flavor and texture of home canned applesauce is totally worth it.

    washing apples in sink for cinnamon applesauce recipe

    WHAT KIND OF APPLES SHOULD I USE TO MAKE APPLESAUCE?

    Some apples are sweet and some have a more tart, sour taste. Also, some apples are crisp, while others are softer.

    When making a batch of homemade applesauce, I like to use a sweeter apple that has a little bit of tartness to it.  I prefer not to add any sugar, so I want the unsweetened applesauce to taste really good all on its own.

    Most people recommend using a softer apple for applesauce; it doesn’t even matter if your apples are mushy since they’re going to be made into mush anyway.

    We’ve found that Jonagold apples make the BEST applesauce. They’re sweet with just a little bit of tartness. And they mash up really well.

    easy Instant Pot cinnamon applesauce in Ball canning jar with wooden spoon

    Other best apples for applesauce may include:

    • Jonathan
    • Braeburn
    • Honeycrisp
    • McIntosh
    • Winesap
    • Rome
    • Golden Delicious
    • Cortland
    • Fuji
    • Gala
    • Ambrosia

    You can also try mixing and matching different kinds of apples to get the flavor you want for your applesauce.

    WHY ADD LEMON JUICE TO AN APPLESAUCE RECIPE?

    You’ll find different opinions about this topic when you research, but there are two main reasons home canners give for adding lemon juice to home canned applesauce.

    1. It helps preserve or protect the color of your apples over time.
    2. It can help make the applesauce more acidic for home canning. Wind fallen apples (including seconds) can have a lower acidity and a higher mold/bacteria count than unblemished apples.

    Even though their explanation is focused more around homemade jam, The Kitchn provides a great explanation for why it’s important to add lemon juice.

    slicing apples while making cinnamon applesauce

    TIPS FOR HOW TO MAKE CINNAMON APPLESAUCE IN THE INSTANT POT

    For this Instant Pot applesauce, you’ll need about 6 pounds of apples, just a little bit of lemon juice, water, and cinnamon.

    You can make this recipe on the stovetop, or you can even make it as Crock Pot applesauce; keep in mind that cooking times will vary.

    You can also make applesauce from the leftover apple mush you have when you make apple juice.

    sliced apples for making applesauce, cinnamon applesauce recipe, in instant pot pressure cooker

    Here’s how to make a stand alone cinnamon applesauce recipe:

    • Wash, core, and slice the apples. Be sure to cut out any bad spots, as well.
    • Put the sliced apples in your Instant Pot.
    • Add the lemon juice, water, and cinnamon to the Instant Pot, as well. If you want to mix everything together, you can; but there’s really no need to until after it all cooks.
    • Put the lid in place on the Instant Pot, and press Manual or Pressure Cook for 10 minutes.
    add cinnamon to cinnamon applesauce mixture in Instant Pot
    • When it’s finished cooking, allow the pressure cooker to do a natural release.
    • Purée the mixture with an immersion blender, or mash the apples with a potato masher.

    Note: If you want to eliminate any tiny pieces of peeling in the sauce, you may want to blend with a regular blender. It’s up to you how you prefer the texture and consistency.

    immersion blender mixing cinnamon applesauce in Instant Pot

    CAN YOU FREEZE HOMEMADE APPLESAUCE?

    Yes, you can freeze applesauce. In fact, you can freeze or can applesauce, whichever you prefer.

    My mom used to freeze a LOT of the applesauce she made when we were kids growing up. She’d keep freezer safe plastic containers just for storing things like homemade applesauce.

    pouring cinnamon applesauce through funnel into canning jars

    HOW DO I CAN APPLESAUCE?

    Applesauce canning is actually pretty simple. We use a water bath canning method.

    Should you choose to can your cinnamon applesauce, Ball has wonderful Canning Guides to guide you through the process. You can also consult the Ball Blue Book Guide to Preserving.

    cinnamon applesauce water bath for canning applesauce

    This applesauce recipe for canning makes probably around 4-6 pints total. It’s so delicious served on homemade biscuits, toast, and cornbread. Yum!

    MORE APPLE RECIPES YOU MAY ENJOY:

    Learn how to use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    cinnamon applesauce in Ball canning jar with small wooden spoon and fresh apples

    KITCHEN TOOLS YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE INSTANT POT CINNAMON APPLESAUCE

    Jars and Lids – I prefer jelly jars or pint jars. In fact, we usually try to keep our pantry stocked with jars. But don’t forget the lids and rings. They can be easy to forget, and before you know it, you have all the jars you need but no lids.

    Canning Funnel – for pouring the applesauce into the jars without making a mess.

    Jar Lifter

    Apple Corer/Peeler/Slicer – I’m telling you, this tool is so worth every penny we spent at the thrift store, but I’d order one brand new too. It saves so much time.

    coring apples for cinnamon applesauce with johnny apple peeler

    Paring Knife – for trimming off any bad spots or slicing the apples.

    Immersion Blender or Potato Masher – This will allow you to get the texture or consistency that you want.

    Instant Pot – We used our 6-quart Instant Pot.

    CINNAMON APPLESAUCE RECIPE

    If you love this cinnamon applesauce recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest! If you make the recipe, be sure to share that you tried it on Pinterest. I love when readers share feedback!

    easy no-peel Instant Pot cinnamon applesauce recipe

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    No-Peel Instant Pot Cinnamon Applesauce

    How to make easy, homemade, no-peel, Instant Pot cinnamon applesauce, a delicious recipe for canning or freezing. Make it smooth or chunky, no sugar added!

    • 6 pounds apples (unpeeled)
    • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
    • 1 cup water
    • 2 tablespoons cinnamon
    1. Wash, core, and slice the apples. Cut out any bad spots, as well.
    2. Put the sliced apples in your Instant Pot.
    3. Add the lemon juice, water, and cinnamon to the Instant Pot, as well. If you want to mix everything together, you can; but there’s no need to until after it all cooks.
    4. Put the lid in place on the Instant Pot. Press Manual or Pressure Cook for 10 minutes.
    5. When it’s finished cooking, allow the pressure cooker to do a natural release.
    6. If it seems like the applesauce will be a bit watery, drain a bit of the water before mashing the apples.*
    7. Purée the mixture with an immersion blender, or mash the apples with a potato masher.** It’s up to you how you prefer the texture or consistency.
    8. Preserve using your preferred method, whether you choose to freeze or can the applesauce.***

    *You can drink the apple juice if you choose to drain the apples before mashing.

    **If you want to eliminate any tiny pieces of peeling in the sauce, you may want to blend with a regular blender. It’s up to you how you prefer the texture and consistency.

    ***If you choose to can it, Ball has wonderful Canning Guides to guide you through the process. You can also consult the Ball Blue Book Guide to Preserving.

    Sauces & Dressings
    American
    applesauce, applesauce recipe, cinnamon applesauce, Instant Pot applesauce
    easy no-peel instant pot or pressure cooker cinnamon applesauce recipe
  • Instant Pot Quick Start Guide for Easy Home Cooking

    Instant Pot Quick Start Guide for Easy Home Cooking

    Learn how to quickly start using your Instant Pot with this Quick Start Guide, filled to the brim with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more! Kick fear to the curb and start pressure cooking!

    It’s no secret that we love cooking with our Instant Pot. We’ve made so many delicious recipes using the one appliance that may as well sit out on our counter, rather than in our stocked pantry, because we use it almost every day.

    Instant Pot sitting on kitchen counter with towel and spoon

    We also get a lot of questions from readers about how to use it. One recurring theme I’ve noticed with readers is that they’re afraid to use their Instant Pot pressure cooker; so it sits in a box just waiting to be opened up, taken out, and used.

    Let’s dispel some of those fears today, because once you use this handy dandy small kitchen appliance, there will be no turning back. I can promise you that. You’re going to fall in love with it, my friend, because the sky really is the limit on everything you can make with this fancy gadget.

    We are working on a FAQ’s post to address specific questions we’ve gotten over the last year or so; it will be up very soon. But for now, this will get you started using your Instant Pot and even give you ideas for a few Instant Pot accessories and Instant Pot recipes you can add to your weekly menu planner.

    First of all, what is an Instant Pot?

    Close up look at Instant Pot buttons

    Simply put, it’s a pressure cooker. It’s a ‘glammed up’ pressure cooker that makes home cooking a whole lot easier.

    An Instant Pot is a programmable pressure cooker you can use to perform many different functions. For instance, you can use it as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, sauté, steamer, and warmer. You can even use some models to make your own yogurt.

    We have two different models, a smaller 6-quart and a larger 8-quart. With as much cooking as we do, we use them both equally. We use them to make all sorts of things, including chicken, taco chicken, baked potatoes, baby back ribs, hard boiled eggs, cheesecake, and so much more.

    Tips for how to use your Instant Pot pressure cooker

    • First, take it out of the box. That’s the first step to using any new kitchen tool or appliance.
    • Read your manual before you ever start cooking. It’s chock full of information you’ll need to know, and this is one manual that’s actually written in down-to-earth language, simple and easy to understand.
    • Wash the inside liner pot before use. Never wash the Instant Pot itself, only the inside liner and any accessories you may use with it.
    • Make sure your sealing ring is in place before you put the lid on.
    • Check to make sure the pressure valve moves freely. When it starts to come up to pressure, that valve needs to be able to seal.
    pressure valve on Instant Pot pressure cooker
    • Plan for your cooking time. A lot of recipes may only give you the cook time, but you also have to add in time for the Instant Pot to come to pressure, and then time for it to release the pressure after everything is cooked. Instant Pot actually provides these awesome Cooking Time Tables for reference.
    • Natural Release versus Quick Release: Natural Release allows the pressure to go down slowly, still allowing the food to cook even after the timer has gone off. Quick Release is where you carefully vent the release and allow the pressure to go out more quickly. Disclaimer: Quick Release can cause burns if you are not careful. Read your manual for further instruction on Quick Release.
    • Some models have a “Manual” button; others say “Pressure Cook.” This means the same thing, whichever button your model happens to have.
    • You can wipe the outside of your Instant Pot down with a damp cloth; but never submerse it in water, and never pour water or food into your Instant Pot without having the inner pot in place.
    Instant Pot pressure cooker with liner

    Our favorite Instant Pot accessories

    In addition to our Instant Pot pressure cooker, we also have a few accessories we use with it on a regular basis. Here are a few you may want to consider…

    Steamer Basket – Steam vegetables, meat, fish, and more with this basket that keeps your food up out of the water. It’s also dishwasher safe, so it makes for easy cleanup. You may even prefer this Steamer Basket instead, perfect for pressure cooking hard boiled eggs.

    Trivet – We use our trivet quite a bit, especially if we want to keep whatever we’re cooking up out of the liquid.

    Stackable Steamer Insert Pans – These are perfect for cooking pot in pot meals or foods, like a pasta dish, for example.

    Springform Pan – If you want to make cheesecake in your Instant Pot, you’ll need a smaller springform pan that fits down into your pot.

    Mini Mitts – When you need to get the hot food out of the pot, you’ll definitely need something to protect your hands from the heat.

    Baking Pan – If you want to try making desserts with your Instant Pot, a baking pan that fits is a must.

    Cookbook – There are so many cookbooks to choose from. You can find recipes in cookbooks, on blogs, or even in Facebook groups dedicated to this topic.

    Instant Pot recipes to get you started

    We’ve made quite a few main dishes, sides, and desserts with our pot; and we’re always adding more. Here are a few of those recipes.

    Breakfast Ideas

    Peaches and Cream Instant Pot Oatmeal was always a favorite of mine growing up. Now you can use fresh or frozen peaches to make it yourself.

    One of of my favorite breakfast recipes is this maple and brown sugar oatmeal. Not too sweet and oh so delicious!

    Easy Peel Hard Boiled Eggs are perfect for breakfast on the go or a healthy snack.

    Dinner Ideas

    home cooking baby back ribs in a pressure cooker

    Why grill when you can make ribs in your Instant Pot? Ok, so I love grilling too. But Sweet Chili Baby Back Ribs are a meat lover’s dream. The meat literally falls right off the bone.

    Shredded Chicken Tacos, made with Instant Pot Taco Chicken, are the absolute best! They’re so tasty, made with corn tortillas and fresh ingredients. Such a delicious family meal.

    One of my family’s favorite meals is meatloaf and potatoes, so this Instant Pot meatloaf recipe is right up our alley.

    I love a quick and easy one pot meal, and Instant Pot sausage and rice definitely fits the bill.

    Looking for a low carb dinner idea? One of my family’s favorites is this sausage and chicken casserole. It’s so, so good; you don’t even know it has vegetables in it.

    Soup lovers unite with simple, delicious recipes for Vegetable Soup, Chicken Noodle Soup, Instant Pot potato soup, and Chili. You can even use the Slow Cooker function on your pot to make this delicious Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili.

    Delicious Side Dish Recipes

    Instant Pot recipes, including baked potatoes using Instant Pot accessories like a steamer basket

    Have you tried making baked potatoes in your Instant Pot? Save oven time and throw them in your pressure cooker. They come out so tender and delicious. You can even make them this way to serve with a Baked Potato Bar everyone will love.

    Southern Green Beans, made with onion, bacon, and ground beef, are one of my favorite side dish recipes. It’s the perfect side for a holiday get together with family.

    home cooking corn on the cob in the Instant Pot

    With summer comes that old familiar craving for crunchy corn on the cob. Use your Instant Pot to make this golden delicious side for dinner.

    Scrumptious Desserts, Snacks, and Miscellaneous

    If fall is your thing and pumpkin spice is your middle name, you will love Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake made right in your Instant Pot.

    Speaking of fall, one of my favorite things to make during apple season is this apple butter, Instant Pot style. This recipe is quick and easy and happens to be one of our most popular recipes.

    I also love making this homemade apple juice recipe, Instant Pot applesauce, and cinnamon applesauce in our Instant Pot.

    what is an instant pot quick start guide

    Now, I hope this guide convinced you to open that box, take out your Instant Pot, own it, and start pressure cooking all sorts of deliciousness. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to comment or reach out. We’re always happy to connect with our readers!

    Instant Pot Quick Start Guide for Easy Home Cooking
    Instant Pot pressure cooker guide
  • Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

    Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

    Made with Instant Pot chicken, corn tortillas, and fresh ingredients, shredded chicken tacos are an easy homemade dinner recipe the whole family will love!

    Shredded chicken tacos, as well as fish tacos and beef tacos, have been a favorite meal around our house for quite some time. I think it’s both the ease of making them with our favorite taco chicken recipe and our love for delicious Tex-Mex food.

    shredded chicken tacos with fresh ingredients on a muffin pan

    As mentioned, they really are easy to make, especially if you’ve already cooked the chicken. All that’s left is prepping a few fresh ingredients to go on your tacos.

    As long as you have lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream, you’re in business. Extras you may want to add include avocado, green onions, black olives, queso, fruit salsa… The sky’s the limit when it comes to easy chicken tacos.

    You can use regular taco shells you buy in the store; we love these… Or you can make your own, using corn tortillas and frying them up in a bit of bacon grease or oil.

    easy chicken tacos on a cutting board close up with fresh ingredients and sour cream

    If you love Tex Mex, you’ll love these beef taco stuffed peppers. And if it’s less mess, less stress you’re after, try our taco in a bag recipe!

    How to make taco shells for easy chicken tacos:

    To make your own crispy taco shells (they remind me of a Taco Bell Chalupa shell)…

    • Heat about a tablespoon of bacon grease in a skillet; let it melt and heat up.
    • Add a corn tortilla to the skillet, letting it cook on one side.
    • Use tongs to turn the tortilla and let the other side cook.
    • Finally, remove the tortilla from the skillet and let drain on a paper towel or paper bag for maybe 30 seconds or so.
    • Fold into a taco shape and place in either a taco holder or the bottom side of a muffin pan.

    And that’s it, you’ve made your own taco shells. They’re so good!

    Tips for how to make shredded chicken tacos:

    You’ll need to gather your ingredients, including already cooked taco chicken, lettuce, Roma tomatoes, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, green onions, corn tortillas, and sour cream. You may also want extra ingredients like avocado, black olives, queso, mango peach salsa and basil salsa.

    loaded pressure cooker chicken tacos on a cutting board

    While the chicken is cooking in your Instant Pot or pressure cooker, you can take time to wash and chop your lettuce, tomatoes, and green onions. Also, shred the cheese.

    Fry up a batch of corn tortillas to form taco shells. You can use bacon grease or oil.

    Once your chicken is fully cooked and shredded, taco shells are done, and fresh ingredients are prepped, you’re ready to start the process of layering. You can layer ingredients in any order you want, but I prefer to add the chicken into the taco shell first, then the cheese (it gets all melty on the warm chicken), and go from there.

    Add a layer of lettuce, a layer of tomatoes, green onions, and whatever else your heart desires. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream (though I love adding a good layer of sour cream before I even add the chicken; that way I have sour cream in every single bite).

    And that’s it. I love the ease of making pressure cooker chicken tacos for dinner!

    how to make shredded chicken tacos with fresh ingredients, Instant Pot taco chicken, fresh ingredients, and sour cream

    More Tex-Mex recipes with chicken:

    Kitchen tools you may need to make pressure cooker chicken tacos:

    Instant Pot – We use our Instant Pot almost every day. It really does make the most delicious taco chicken for easy chicken tacos.

    Iron Skillet – We’re also avid users of cast iron cookware. We even take our favorite iron skillet camping with us.

    Tongs – They’ll be needed for slipping the corn tortillas in the skillet.

    Taco Holder – Ok, so you don’t technically NEED this, but it sure does come in handy. I just use the bottom side of my muffin pan.

    Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

    Shredded chicken tacos, made with Instant Pot chicken, corn tortillas, and fresh ingredients, are an easy homemade dinner recipe the whole family will love!

    • 3 cups Instant Pot taco chicken
    • 16 corn tortillas
    • 3 to 4 tablespoons bacon grease or oil of choice
    • 1/2 head iceberg lettuce
    • 6 Roma tomatoes
    • 6 green onions
    • 4 ounces cheddar cheese
    • 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese
    • 1/2 cup sour cream

    Corn Tortilla Taco Shells:

    1. Heat about a tablespoon of bacon grease in a skillet; let it melt and heat up.
    2. Add a corn tortilla to the skillet, letting it cook on one side.
    3. Use tongs to turn the tortilla and let the other side cook.
    4. Finally, remove the tortilla from the skillet and let it drain on a paper towel or paper bag for maybe 30 seconds or so.
    5. Fold into a taco shape and place in either a taco holder or the bottom side of a muffin pan.
    6. Continue cooking tortillas until you have the desired number of taco shells.

    Shredded Chicken Tacos:

    1. Cook a batch of taco chicken in your Instant Pot.
    2. Prep and cook taco shells, per the steps above.
    3. Wash and chop the lettuce, tomatoes, and green onions.
    4. Shred or grate both cheeses.
    5. Layer ingredients in any order you want, but I prefer to add the chicken into the taco shell first, then the cheese (it gets all melty on the warm chicken), and go from there.
    6. Add a layer of lettuce, a layer of tomatoes, green onions, and whatever else your heart desires.
    7. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream (though I love adding a good layer of sour cream before I even add the chicken; that way I have sour cream in every single bite).
    Dinner Ideas
    Tex-Mex
    chicken tacos, Instant Pot recipes, Instant Pot tacos, shredded chicken tacos, tacos
    Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos
    how to make the most delicious chicken tacos with shredded chicken and fresh ingredients
  • Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

    Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

    Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs – So easy to make. How to cook baby back ribs using a sweet chili dry rub that gives them a wonderful flavor. They’re fall off the bone delicious!

    Last week one of our cooking show viewers requested that we cook ribs in the Instant Pot. We decided that was a great idea and came up with this Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs recipe.

    Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs on a cutting board

    It’s a recipe that takes delicious to a whole new level. And I’ll let you in on a little secret… I’d never made ribs before this recipe. I’m not sure why because it was so, so easy!

    Dan came up with a baby back rib rub that gives the ribs so much wonderful flavor. They don’t even need any salt; that’s how good they taste.

    Baby back rib rub with baby back ribs on a cutting board

    It’s a simple recipe with simple ingredients. And it also doesn’t take a ton of time to make. If you have an Instant Pot, you’re in business.

    How to make Baby Back Ribs in the Instant Pot

    If you love pork recipes, you may also enjoy our roasted pork tenderloin and oven roasted pork roast recipe.

    Tips for how to cook baby back ribs in your Instant Pot:

    First of all, gather your ingredients… You will need light brown sugar, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, ground black pepper, water, apple cider vinegar, baby back ribs, and BBQ sauce.

    • Rinse the ribs and pat dry.
    • Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs; you can do this by using a knife to scrape up the edge, grab it with a paper towel, and pull it back.
    • Sprinkle and rub the rib rub all over both sides of the ribs, making sure every inch is covered with flavor.
    • Slightly fold the ribs and place them in a semi-circle on top of the trivet inside the Instant Pot.
    • Place the lid on your pressure cooker, and make sure the vent is sealed.
    • Press ‘Pressure Cook’ and set for 25 minutes.
    • Once the Instant Pot is done cooking, allow it to naturally release before opening it up.
    • Pre-heat the broiler on your oven to ‘High’.
    • When the ribs are completely cooked, carefully remove them from the Instant Pot and place them on a cookie sheet.
    • Brush BBQ sauce all over the ribs, on both sides.
    • Place in the oven to broil for 3 to 5 minutes.
    • Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Sometimes I top mine off with my favorite mango peach salsa!
    Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs Recipe

    More Instant Pot recipes you may enjoy:

    Learn how to quickly use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    Broiled BBQ Baby Back Ribs on a Cookie Sheet

    More recipes fellow meat lovers will love:

    Not Your Mama’s Easy Meatloaf

    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs

    Maple Pork Chops with Apples and Onions

    Pressure Cooker Salmon

    Knife Slicing Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs on a Cutting Board

    Kitchen tools you may need to make this baby back ribs recipe:

    Instant Pot – You’ll need an Instant Pot to make these ribs.

    Steamer Rack Trivet – You’ll need to set the ribs up on the trivet so they’re not soaking in the liquid the entire time they cook.

    Cutting Board and Knife – We use our cutting boards with just about every recipe. They’re good for prepping, and (after washing) cutting and serving.

    Basting and Pastry Brush – to brush on the BBQ sauce.

    Cookie Sheet – This will allow you to quickly broil the ribs after cooking.

    Fall off the bone delicious baby back ribs recipe

    Print the recipe for Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

    Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

    Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs are so easy to make. How to cook baby back ribs using a sweet chili dry rub that gives them a wonderful flavor. They’re fall off the bone delicious!

    • 1 cup water
    • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
    • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
    • 2 teaspoons onion powder
    • 2 teaspoons cumin
    • 2 teaspoons chili powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 1 set baby back ribs
    • 1 cup BBQ sauce
    1. Add the water and apple cider vinegar to your Instant Pot. 
    2. Place a trivet down inside your Instant Pot (we used our 8-quart Instant Pot for this recipe).
    3. Now mix together the ingredients for your dry rub: brown sugar, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, and ground black pepper.
    4. Rinse the ribs and pat dry.
    5. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs; you can do this by using a knife to scrape up the edge, grab it with a paper towel, and pull it back.
    6. Sprinkle and rub the rib rub all over both sides of the ribs, making sure every inch is covered with flavor.
    7. Slightly fold the ribs and place them in a semi-circle on top of the trivet inside the Instant Pot.
    8. Place the lid on your pressure cooker, and make sure the vent is sealed.
    9. Press ‘Pressure Cook’ and set for 25 minutes. 
    10. Once the Instant Pot is done cooking, allow it to naturally release before opening it up.
    11. Pre-heat the broiler on your oven to ‘High’.
    12. When the ribs are completely cooked, carefully remove them from the Instant Pot and place them on a cookie sheet.
    13. Brush BBQ sauce all over the ribs, on both sides.
    14. Place in the oven to broil for 3 to 5 minutes. 
    15. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
    Instant Pot Recipes
    American
    baby back ribs, instant pot baby back ribs, instant pot ribs, sweet chili baby back ribs

    Pin this recipe to save all the deliciousness for later!

    Easy recipe for Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs
    Ribs made in the Instant Pot with a sweet chili dry rub
    Broiled saucy baby back ribs from the Instant Pot
  • Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    Instant Pot taco chicken is homemade taco filling with spices and seasonings, fresh pepper and onion, and other flavorful ingredients. Easy to make recipe you can use for tacos, enchiladas, and more.

    Instant Pot Taco Chicken is one recipe you can easily make ahead and freeze for later. We love making tacos and enchiladas with it.

    Close up of Instant Pot Taco Chicken in a Bowl

    We’ve made our taco chicken with salsa and picante sauce in the past. A healthier lifestyle has made me re-think a lot of our old ways, though, especially the ingredients that we use. The fresher and simpler our ingredients, the better.

    The instructions for this recipe are pretty simple too. You’ll basically throw everything together in the Instant Pot, cook, and shred right there in the pot, making it a one pot dish.

    Instant Pot Taco Chicken Ready to Serve

    Tips for how to make Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    First, gather your ingredients… You’ll need water, chicken breasts, garlic, lemon juice, chili powder, salt, ground black pepper, bell peppers, onion, and petite diced tomatoes.

    1. Add water to the Instant Pot.
    2. Place chicken breasts in the Instant Pot.
    3. Keep in mind as you add ingredients, there’s no need to stir.
    4. Mince the garlic, and add it in with the chicken.
    5. Add the lemon juice, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
    6. Wash and chop or mince the peppers and onion. Add them in with the chicken.
    7. Finally, add a can of petite diced tomatoes.
    8. There’s no need to stir or mix together ingredients. Just place the lid on the Instant Pot.
    9. Press the Pressure Cook button and set for 1 hour.
    10. Allow the pressure valve to naturally release.
    11. Once the chicken is done, open up the Instant Pot and shred the chicken with 2 forks. It’ll be so tender, it will easily shred right in the pot.
    12. Finally, give the chicken a good stirring, mixing it up with all the ingredients.
    13. Serve or enjoy in tacos, enchiladas, nachos, quesadillas, burritos, salad, soup, etc. Top with a little tomato basil salsa for an extra flavorful kick.
    Instant Pot Taco Chicken on a Tortilla with Green Onions

    The chicken’s so tender, it easily shreds. And pressure cooking lends to a delicious taco meat packed full of flavor. It’s so good!

    Whether you’re making tacos, enchiladas, burritos, quesadillas, or even a Southwest salad, this is the perfect recipe for taco meat.

    Bowl of Delicious Homemade Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    More recipes you can make with Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    Learn how to quickly use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    Kitchen tools you may need to make Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    Instant Pot – Our Instant Pot has come in handy for so many things; it’s one of the most versatile kitchen appliances we’ve ever owned. And it makes the most tender, delicious, homemade taco chicken.

    Cutting Board – We use our cutting boards (notice plural) every single day.

    Vegetable Cleaver – for chopping and mincing.

    Wooden Spoon – for stirring up the chicken when it’s all shredded and ready to serve.

    Taco with Easy Homemade Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    Instant Pot Taco Chicken, homemade with spices and seasonings, fresh pepper and onion, and other flavorful ingredients. Easy to make recipe you can use for tacos, enchiladas, and more.

    • 1 1/2 cups water
    • 4 large chicken breasts
    • 2 cloves garlic
    • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
    • 1 tablespoon chili powder
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 5 mini or 1 large bell pepper
    • 1/2 large onion
    • 1 can (14.5 ounces petite diced tomatoes)
    1. Add water to the Instant Pot.
    2. Place chicken breasts in the Instant Pot.
    3. Keep in mind as you add ingredients, there’s no need to stir.
    4. Mince the garlic, and add it in with the chicken.
    5. Add the lemon juice, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
    6. Wash and chop or mince the peppers and onion. Add them in with the chicken.
    7. Finally, add a can of petite diced tomatoes.
    8. There’s no need to stir or mix together ingredients. Just place the lid on the Instant Pot.
    9. Press the Pressure Cook button and set for 1 hour.
    10. Allow the pressure valve to naturally release.
    11. Once the chicken is done, open up the Instant Pot and shred the chicken with 2 forks. It’ll be so tender, it will easily shred right in the pot.
    12. Finally, give the chicken a good stirring, mixing it up with all the ingredients.
    13. Serve or enjoy in tacos, enchiladas, nachos, quesadillas, burritos, salad, soup, etc.
    Instant Pot Recipes
    Tex-Mex
    instant pot chicken, Instant Pot recipes, instant pot taco chicken, taco chicken

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    Instant Pot Taco Chicken Recipe
    Easy Recipe for Instant Pot Taco Chicken
  • Instant Pot Baked Potatoes

    Instant Pot Baked Potatoes

    Instant Pot Baked Potatoes are so easy to make, pressure cooked in less than 10 minutes. Tender and delicious, they’re a family favorite dinner side.

    Instant Pot Baked Potatoes are pressure cooked to perfection. Plus, like my Instant Pot sweet potato recipe, they’re super easy to make which makes them a win win in my book.

    Instant Pot Baked Potatoes are pressure cooked in less than 10 minutes. Easy to make, they’re a delicious dinner side dish the whole family will love!

    We pretty much have potatoes on hand all the time. My boys sometimes love to eat a baked potato with their lunch; and less often now, we’ll enjoy mashed potatoes or baked potatoes with our Instant Pot whole chicken dinner.

    It really depends what we’re making. If we’re making slow cooker pork roast, roast beef Philly cheesesteak, baked chicken drumsticks, Insta Pot salmon or meatloaf muffins, potatoes are definitely on the menu.

    And if you haven’t figured it out by now, we absolutely love our Instant Pot. I think it’s safe to say it’s reached the heights of being one of those small appliances I wouldn’t want to live without.

    Baked Potatoes are so quick and easy to make in the Instant Pot. And Instant Pot Baked Potatoes come out cooked to perfection, so tender, moist, and delicious.

    If you’re an Instant Pot fanatic (like us), you’re going to love this hack of a recipe. If you have an Instant Pot and you haven’t opened it up yet, it’s time; in fact, you can use our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide to get you going. And if you’re just not sure about these newfangled contraptions… Well, you’ll definitely be sure after you taste these delicious baked spuds.

    Tips for how to make Instant Pot Baked Potatoes

    First of all, you’ll need to gather your ingredients and supplies. You’ll need your Instant Pot (with a vegetable steamer basket if you have one), a handful of potatoes, and water. Yep, that’s it, easy peasy.

    • Pick out 8 to 10 medium sized potatoes that would make good baked potatoes. They don’t have to be large, but you probably don’t want them to be too small either.
    • Wash the potatoes well.
    • Then take a fork and prick each potato all over. This keeps your potatoes from bursting while cooking.
    • If you have a vegetable steamer basket, place it in your Instant Pot. This will keep your potatoes from getting overly moist from sitting in water while they’re cooking.
    • Place all the potatoes in the steamer basket.
    • Add water to the Instant Pot.
    • Place the lid on your Instant Pot, and hit Manual (or Pressure Cook); set the time to 8 minutes.
    • Let it naturally release when done.
    • Serve while warm with all the fixings that go along with baked potatoes… Butter, sour cream, cheese, crumbled bacon, chives, etc.
    Instant Pot Baked Potatoes will be your new favorite dinner side, especially when you serve them up with all the fixings, like butter, sour cream, cheese sauce, crumbled bacon, chives, etc.

    Looking for more delicious potato recipes?

    Learn how to quickly use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    Kitchen tools you may need to make Instant Pot Baked Potatoes

    Instant Pot – We use our Instant Pot just about every day for all sorts of things. It’s so versatile and handy and makes the perfect baked potatoes.

    Vegetable Steamer Basket – This will keep your potatoes from getting overly moist from sitting in water while they’re cooking.

    Glass Measuring Cup – for measuring the water.

    How to make the most delicious, moist, tender Instant Pot Baked Potatoes. They’re so good! They make an easy side dish for dinner.

    Print the recipe for Instant Pot Baked Potatoes

    Instant Pot Baked Potatoes

    Instant Pot Baked Potatoes are so easy to make, pressure cooked in less than 10 minutes. Tender and delicious, a family favorite dinner side.

    • 8 to 10 medium yellow potatoes
    • 1 1/2 cups water
    • Any dressings you want (salt, pepper, butter, cheese sauce, sour cream, chives, etc.)
    1. Pick out 8 to 10 medium potatoes that would make good baked potatoes. They don’t have to be large, but you probably don’t want them to be too small either. We prefer yellow potatoes.
    2. Wash the potatoes well.
    3. Then take a fork and prick each potato all over. This keeps your potatoes from bursting while cooking.
    4. If you have a steamer basket, place it in your Instant Pot. This will keep your potatoes from getting overly moist from sitting in water.
    5. Place all the potatoes in the steamer basket. 
    6. Add water to the Instant Pot.
    7. Place the lid on your Instant Pot, and hit Manual (or Pressure Cook); set the time to 8 minutes.
    8. Let it naturally release when done.
    9. Serve while warm with all the fixings that go along with baked potatoes… Butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, etc.
    Instant Pot Recipes
    American
    baked potatoes, instant pot baked potatoes, pressure cooker baked potatoes

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    Instant Pot Baked Potatoes are so easy to make, pressure cooked in less than 10 minutes. Tender and delicious, they're a family favorite dinner side.
    Instant Pot Baked Potatoes are a family favorite dinner side. They’re quick and easy to make, pressure cooked in less than 10 minutes. So tender and delicious!
  • Instant Pot Southern Green Beans

    Instant Pot Southern Green Beans

    Southern Green Beans, made with bacon, onion, and ground beef in the Instant Pot. Delicious side dish recipe, perfect for holidays or weeknight meals.

    Southern Green Beans are the most flavorful green beans you’ll ever enjoy. With bacon, onion, and ground beef, the flavors are incredible. Pressure cooked in the Instant Pot, they’re so tender and delicious, not to mention easy to make. And they pair really well with a Crock Pot pork roast or even baked chicken drums!

    Southern Green Beans, made with bacon, onion, and ground beef in the Instant Pot. Delicious side dish recipe, perfect for holidays or weeknight meals.

    They’re reminiscent of the green beans my grandma used to make for every single holiday get together. Also, the fact that I live in Arkansas… That warrants a Southern recipe or two, right? I think so.

    This recipe really only uses 6 ingredients, so it’s a pretty simple recipe. The most work is cooking up the bacon and ground beef beforehand. Otherwise, just throw all the ingredients in the Instant Pot, give them a stir, pop the lid on, and cook.

    Serve up a helping of Instant Pot Southern Green Beans for Thanksgiving or a weeknight meal. Incredible flavor, cooked with bacon and ground beef. So delicious!

    Meaning you can throw it all together and walk away and focus on doing something else (like play a quick game with the kids or keep the laundry going). 

    Tips for how to make Instant Pot Southern Green Beans

    • Chop a medium sized onion.
    • Cook ground beef and onion together in a large skillet.
    • Meanwhile, also cook bacon in another large skillet.
    • When ground beef/onion mixture is done, drain well.
    • Crumble bacon.
    • Add frozen green beans, ground beef/onion mixture, crumbled bacon, salt, pepper, and water to the Instant Pot.
    • Give it all a good stir.
    • Place lid on the Instant Pot.
    • Cook on Manual for 25 minutes. Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release.
    • Serve while warm. We’ve eaten this as both a side dish and a main dish. So good!
    How to make the most delicious Southern Green Beans in the Instant Pot. Full of flavor and cooked with bacon.

    More side dish recipes you may enjoy…

    You may also want to check out my list of The Best Thanksgiving Recipes for Your Holiday Menu and The Best Christmas Recipes for Your Holiday Celebrations for plenty more inspiration. And if you’re wondering what to make for Easter dinner, I’ve gotcha covered.

    Tools you may need to make Instant Pot Southern Green Beans

    Cutting Board and Knife – for chopping the onions and crumbling the bacon.
    Large Skillet – You’ll need to cook both the ground beef and the bacon.
    Wood Spatula – Use for cooking the ground beef.
    Instant Pot – We have the 6-Quart Instant Pot, without the yogurt function. We love it.
    Serving Bowl – This will allow for easier (and prettier) serving than just from the Instant Pot.

    Make Southern Green Beans in the Instant Pot. Pressure cooked to perfection. Bacon, onion, and ground beef give added flavor for a delicious side dish recipe everyone will love!

    Instant Pot Southern Green Beans

    Southern Green Beans, made with bacon, onion, and ground beef in the Instant Pot. Delicious side dish recipe, perfect for holidays or weeknight meals.

    • Large Skillet
    • Instant Pot
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 medium onion (minced)
    • 1 pound ground beef
    • 36 ounces frozen green beans
    • 6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 1 cup water

    1. Add the olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat.

    2. Stir the minced onion into the olive oil and sauté 'til the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

    3. Mix the ground beef together with the onion in the skillet and cook.

    4. When the ground beef mixture is done, drain well.

    5. Add the ground beef mixture, frozen green beans, crumbled bacon, salt, pepper, and water to the Instant Pot.

    6. Give it all a good stir.

    7. Place the lid on the Instant Pot, set the vent to "Sealed," and cook on Manual (or Pressure Cook) for 15 minutes. Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release.

    8. Serve while warm and enjoy!
    Side Dish
    American
    green beans, Instant Pot green beans, southern green beans

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    Southern Green Beans, made with bacon, onion, and ground beef in the Instant Pot. Delicious side dish recipe, perfect for holidays or weeknight meals.
    Southern Green Beans, made in the Instant Pot. Incredible flavor, made with bacon, onion, and ground beef. Delicious recipe, perfect for holidays or dinner.