Unlock the Secret to Delicious and Nutritious Meals with Easy Instant Pot Recipes!

When the Instant Pot entered my life, it revolutionized my approach to meal preparation. It transformed meal prep into a stress-free activity, ensuring a delicious dinner could be on the table in under 30 minutes. Using this versatile kitchen appliance, I discovered how to create quick and healthy meals any night of the week. I'm excited to share my favorite healthy Instant Pot recipes.

The Instant Pot is an electric pressure cooker with a wide array of culinary functions. It can steam, sauté, slow cook, ferment, bake, and braise. The Instant Pot simplifies healthy eating and turns it into a relaxed, hands-off approach to cooking. When cooking feels easy, we are more likely to do it often!

Why the Instant Pot is a Game Changer

The Instant Pot is more than just another kitchen gadget; it's a game-changer. While I appreciate my garlic press, greens and herbs stripper, and avocado slicer, nothing has had the same transformative impact as my Instant Pot. It stands out as a top-tier electric pressure cooker, capable of handling a wide range of culinary tasks, including steaming, sautéing, slow cooking, fermenting, baking, and braising.

Tips for Healthier Cooking

Over the years, I’ve figured out a few tips and tricks on how to make just about any recipe healthier:

Creamy Without Cream: Use pureed vegetables in place of cream to make soups and sauces extra creamy.
Use Yogurt Instead of Mayo or Sour Cream: Swap Instant Pot Yogurt for mayo and sour cream in sauces. Homemade yogurt tastes much better than store-bought for this trick!
Use Lean Meat: Leaner cuts of chicken, beef, pork, and any ground meat do well in the pressure cooker with proper cooking instructions.
Use Less Oil: Cut down the amount of oil called for in recipes and still have amazing results. Whether it’s oil for sauteing or oil in salad dressings, try reducing it by a third.
Air Fry Instead of Deep Fry: Air Fryers crisp and brown food with little to no oil needed.
Use Spices Instead of Salt or Fat: Instead of using salt and fat to add flavor, use your spice cupboard! There is so much flavor to unleash from both dried and fresh herbs and spices.
Use Whole Grains: Instead of white flour, use whole wheat white flour. It is more mild in color and flavor then red whole wheat flour and adds lots of fiber and nutrients.
Use Flavorful Cheese: Instead of using more cheese, use more flavorful cheese! Go for sharp or extra sharp cheddar, blue cheese, goat cheese, etc.

Instant Pot Basics

If you are new to the Instant Pot, check out my Instant Pot Basics recipes and my Favorite Accessories for the Instant Pot.

Read also: Easy Weeknight Dinners

Always Add Water: Always add water or broth. Instant Pot is a pressure cooker and it creates pressure from heating up thin liquids.
Don’t Overfill: Never fill the Instant Pot higher than the 2/3 mark you see on your inner stainless steel Instant Pot liner, or even 1/2 full for expanding foods like rice. Pressure needs room to build up.
Avoid Burn warning: Add tomato products on top (last), don’t stir, make sure the valve is set to Sealing (to prevent liquids from evaporating) and always add liquid.
Natural Release vs. Quick Release: There are 2 easy to release pressure from your pot before you can open the lid (it won’t let you otherwise). Natural Release which is basically letting pressure subside on its own until the pin drops.

Healthy Instant Pot Recipes

Here's a categorized list of healthy Instant Pot recipes to get you started:

Breakfast Recipes

Instant Pot Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oats: A warm and comforting breakfast ready in just 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Cinnamon Oatmeal: A kid-friendly (KF) option that takes only 25 minutes to prepare.
Instant Pot Blueberry Oatmeal Muffins: Another KF recipe ready in 30 minutes, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Instant Pot Mason Jar Breakfast Casserole: A convenient and customizable breakfast option ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Blueberry Oatmeal: A nutritious and flavorful breakfast, ready in 40 minutes.
Instant Pot Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole: A delicious and comforting breakfast treat ready in 35 minutes.
Instant Pot Zucchini Banana Bread: A KF recipe that's a great way to use up ripe bananas and zucchini, ready in 70 minutes.
Instant Pot Pancake Muffins: A fun and easy breakfast option ready in just 15 minutes.
Instant Pot Healthy Egg Bites: A protein-packed breakfast option ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Strawberry Lemon Poppy Seed Breakfast Cake: A delightful and flavorful breakfast cake ready in 55 minutes.

Soup and Chili Recipes

Instant Pot Creamy Ravioli Butternut Squash Soup: A creamy and comforting soup that's also kid-friendly (KF), ready in 40 minutes.
Instant Pot Spring Soup with Chicken Ricotta Meatballs: A light and flavorful soup ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup: An exotic and flavorful soup ready in just 25 minutes.
Instant Pot Lentil Soup with Lemon: A hearty and nutritious soup ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Triple Bean Chili: A hearty and flavorful chili ready in 45 minutes.
Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Corn Chowder with Sweet Potatoes: A creamy and comforting chowder ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Broccoli Zucchini Cheddar Soup: A kid-friendly (KF) soup packed with veggies, ready in 20 minutes.
Instant Pot French Onion Soup: A classic soup made easy in the Instant Pot, ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Tomato Basil Soup: A kid-friendly (KF) soup that's perfect for a quick and easy meal, ready in 45 minutes.
Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup: A creamy and comforting soup ready in 30 minutes.

Chicken Dinner Recipes

Instant Pot Healthy Crack Chicken: A flavorful and addictive chicken dish that's also kid-friendly (KF), ready in 45 minutes.
Instant Pot Healthy Orange Chicken with Mango Black Bean Salsa: A healthy twist on a takeout favorite, ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl with Lemon Garlic Chicken: A healthy and flavorful bowl packed with protein and nutrients, ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A light and refreshing meal ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Caprese Chicken: A simple and flavorful chicken dish inspired by the classic Caprese salad, ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Chipotle Shredded Chicken: A versatile shredded chicken that can be used in tacos, salads, and more, ready in 40 minutes.
Instant Pot Easy Buffalo Wings: A kid-friendly (KF) recipe for crispy and flavorful buffalo wings, ready in 25 minutes.
Instant Pot Chipotle Chicken Panini: A quick and easy panini recipe perfect for lunch or dinner, ready in 20 minutes.
Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala with Raita: A flavorful and aromatic Indian dish ready in 45 minutes.
Instant Pot Hasselback Chicken Cordon Bleu: A creative and delicious twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, ready in 45 minutes.

Pork Recipes

Instant Pot Dijon Maple Glazed Ham: A flavorful and festive ham that's also kid-friendly (KF), ready in 60 minutes.
Instant Pot Egg Roll Bowl: A quick and easy meal that's a healthier alternative to egg rolls, ready in 25 minutes.
Instant Pot Tamale: A traditional Mexican dish made easy in the Instant Pot, ready in 75 minutes.
Instant Pot Barbecue Ribs: Tender and flavorful ribs that are ready in just 60 minutes.
Instant Pot Ham with Spiced Honey Glaze: A delicious and flavorful ham perfect for any occasion, ready in 60 minutes.
Instant Pot Paprika Pork Pineapple Pita: A quick and easy meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner, ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Thai Green Coconut Curry, Pork, and Lime Risotto: A flavorful and exotic risotto ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Hawaiian Barbecue Pork Tacos: A kid-friendly (KF) recipe for flavorful and festive tacos, ready in 2 hours.
Instant Pot Easy Moo Shu Pork: A quick and easy meal that's a healthier alternative to takeout, ready in 18 minutes.
Instant Pot Sweet Potato, Spinach, And Sausage Breakfast Casserole: A hearty and flavorful breakfast casserole ready in 60 minutes.

Beef Recipes

Instant Pot Steak Fajitas: A quick and easy meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner, ready in 40 minutes.
Instant Pot Easy Philly Cheesesteak: A classic sandwich made easy in the Instant Pot, ready in 40 minutes.
Instant Pot Cheesy Meatball Sub Soup: A kid-friendly (KF) soup that's perfect for a cold day, ready in 40 minutes.
Instant Pot Greek Meatballs: A flavorful and healthy meatball recipe ready in 25 minutes.
Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage: A traditional Irish dish made easy in the Instant Pot, ready in 110 minutes.
Instant Pot Pot Roast: A classic comfort food made easy in the Instant Pot, ready in 3 hours.
Instant Pot Green Chile Beef Burritos: A flavorful and satisfying burrito recipe ready in 3 hours.
Instant Pot Taco Meat: A kid-friendly (KF) recipe for quick and easy taco meat, ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Meatball Sandwich: A kid-friendly (KF) sandwich that's perfect for lunch or dinner, ready in 35 minutes.
Instant Pot Stuffed Italian Meatloaf: A creative and delicious meatloaf recipe ready in 60 minutes.

Vegetarian Recipes

Instant Pot Mexican Street Corn Salad: A flavorful and festive salad ready in 20 minutes.
Instant Pot Black Beans: A versatile and healthy ingredient ready in 60 minutes.
Instant Pot Tofu: A quick and easy way to cook tofu, ready in 20 minutes.
Instant Pot Blue Cheese Cheesecake: A decadent and surprisingly easy dessert ready in 50 minutes.
Instant Pot Refried Beans: A kid-friendly (KF) recipe for creamy and delicious refried beans, ready in 90 minutes.
Instant Pot Red Lentil Soup: A hearty and nutritious soup ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Magic Sunshine Soup: A kid-friendly (KF) soup packed with veggies, ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes - 3 ways: A versatile and healthy ingredient cooked three different ways, ready in 35 minutes.
Instant Pot Sweet Corn and Tomato Pasta: A quick and easy pasta dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner, ready in 40 minutes.
Instant Pot Cauliflower Fettuccine Alfredo: A kid-friendly (KF) recipe for a healthier version of Fettuccine Alfredo, ready in 16 minutes.

Side Dishes

Instant Pot Honey Glazed Carrots: A kid-friendly (KF) side dish that's perfect for any meal, ready in 15 minutes.
Instant Pot Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A kid-friendly (KF) side dish that's a classic comfort food, ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Caramelized Onions: A flavorful and versatile ingredient ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Healthy Potato Salad: A healthier version of a classic side dish, ready in 25 minutes.
Instant Pot Salt Potatoes: A simple and delicious side dish ready in 15 minutes.
Instant Pot Mexican Street Corn Salad: A flavorful and festive salad ready in 20 minutes.
Instant Pot Corn on the Cob: A quick and easy side dish that's perfect for summer, ready in 10 minutes.
Instant Pot Creamy Vegetable Medley: A kid-friendly (KF) side dish packed with veggies, ready in 10 minutes.
Instant Pot Sweet Potato Casserole: A classic holiday side dish made easy in the Instant Pot, ready in 75 minutes.
Instant Pot Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread: A flavorful and slightly spicy cornbread recipe ready in 55 minutes.

Dessert Recipes

Instant Pot Hasselback Apples: A kid-friendly (KF) dessert that's perfect for fall, ready in 25 minutes.
Instant Pot Pumpkin Butter: A delicious and versatile spread ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Applesauce: A healthy and homemade applesauce recipe ready in 25 minutes.
Instant Pot Healthy Cookie Dough: A kid-friendly (KF) recipe for a healthier version of cookie dough, ready in 90 minutes.
Instant Pot Fruit Soup: A kid-friendly (KF) dessert that's perfect for summer, ready in 20 minutes.
Instant Pot Naturally Sweetened Caramel Apple Pie: A healthier version of a classic dessert, ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Spiced Blackberry Poached Pears: A flavorful and elegant dessert ready in 20 minutes.
Instant Pot Homemade Chocolates: A fun and easy way to make your own chocolates, ready in 25 minutes.
Instant Pot Crio Bru: A unique and flavorful beverage ready in 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Chocolate Syrup: A homemade chocolate syrup that's perfect for ice cream or other desserts, ready in 15 minutes.

Specific Recipe Highlights

Here are some stand-out recipes, highlighting their unique benefits and key ingredients:

Kitchari

This recipe is filled with detoxifying ingredients and easy-to-digest fiber, kitchari offers a comforting warmth suitable for any season. While it can be cooked on the stove, using the Instant Pot maximizes ease and minimizes cooking time. Turmeric is an essential ingredient, providing anti-inflammatory properties and a beautiful golden color.

Turkey Chili Verde

This chili recipe avoids traditional, often inflammatory, ingredients to create a nutrient-filled and delicious meal. Diced green chiles add a burst of flavor and heat to this one-pot wonder.

Channa Masala

Inspired by childhood memories, this recipe translates into a culinary masterpiece. The masala, cooked in olive oil, gives everything a richer, deeper flavor.

Porridge

Transform your perception of porridge with this recipe that swaps oats for millet and amaranth. Top with a spoonful of yogurt for added flavor and creaminess.

Vegetable Curry

With just 15 minutes of prep time, this vibrant, veggie-filled curry turns out a masterpiece of a meal, showcasing the Instant Pot's ability to deliver high reward for minimal effort.

Mujadara

A classic Arabic recipe that exemplifies delicious simplicity. The dish consists of lentils and rice, enhanced by a mix of Moroccan spices.

Mushroom Risotto

The combination of hearty mushrooms and arborio rice creates a food heaven.

Lentil Soup

This recipe relies on lentils for a meaty texture without the meat, enhanced by a rainbow of beautiful veggies.

Read also: Flavorful Keto Pot Roast

Sweet Potatoes

With the Instant Pot, sweet potatoes become super creamy, plus that Thai-inspired peanut sauce?

Savory Oatmeal

Miso paste transforms the morning staple.

Tikka Masala

Relying on a whole head of cauliflower for the main source of mouthfeel, the result is tender, melt-in-your-mouth cauliflower. Fenugreek leaves add a fascinating flavor profile.

Beans

Ditching canned beans in favor of dry ones results in creamy, hearty beans, ready in under an hour, that can serve as the base for many meals.

Sweet Potato Soup

Sweet potatoes are pretty much the coziest addition to any meal, especially when paired with creamy elements like coconut milk. Warming spices like cinnamon and clove make this soup extra cozy.

Burrito Bowls

Making these burrito bowls in an Instant Pot is a life hack that everyone needs to know about, especially when it comes to meal-prepping. Quinoa ties this burrito bowl together.

Cashew Chicken

If you’re feeling takeout, but want to keep it healthy, this cashew chicken will do the trick. Top with cashews for the perfect crunch.

Pineapple Chicken Tacos

Adding a jalapeño to your Instant Pot chicken gives these tacos the perfect kick.

Orange Chicken Lettuce Wraps

One cup of fresh orange juice for the sauce will go a long way.

Mongolian Beef

Sweeten with honey as a healthy alternative to processed sugars.

Chicken Soup

Lemon in soup is one of the best ways to fight a cold.

Plant-Based Bowl

Pressing your tofu and seasoning thoroughly before cooking is also a great way to ensure it ends up crispy and tasty.

Instant Pot Tips and Tricks

Hands-off Cooking: The Instant Pot provides a hands-off way to cook, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
Cook from Frozen: You can safely and effortlessly cook meat from frozen, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Flavor Development: The pressure cooking process develops delicious flavors quickly, enhancing the taste of your meals.
Minimum Prep: Prep time is maximum 10 minutes with most recipes.
One Pot Meals Workhorse: Electric pressure cooker makes true one pot meals acting like skillet and pot at same time.

Choosing the Right Instant Pot

I own multiple Instant Pots, often using two at the same time for meal prep or to cook a main dish and side dish simultaneously. I regularly use both a 6-quart and an 8-quart Instant Pot. The 8-quart is great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping large batches of dried beans.

tags: #instant #pot #healthy #recipes