20 Effortless Instant Pot Dinners for Busy Weeknights

Instant Pot dinners can save the day when you’re short on time but still want a delicious, home-cooked meal. With these 20 recipes, you’ll find meals that practically cook themselves, letting you enjoy flavorful dinners without the stress of long prep times. Grab your Instant Pot and get ready for some seriously easy cooking!

Instant Pot Hamburger Helper

A bowl of creamy pasta with ground beef and herbs

Instant Pot Hamburger Helper is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights. Just picture a bowl filled with tender pasta, juicy ground beef, and a blend of savory spices. This dish is not only hearty but also incredibly easy to make, bringing a taste of home to your table in no time.

To whip up this delicious meal, you’ll need some basic ingredients. Grab ground beef, elbow macaroni, broth, diced tomatoes, and a few seasonings. It’s a simple recipe that delivers a big flavor punch. Start by browning the beef in the Instant Pot, then add the rest of the ingredients, stir, and let the machine do its magic.

The result is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that everyone will love. You can even customize it by adding veggies or different seasonings. For a detailed recipe, check out this link. It’s a foolproof way to prepare a meal that practically cooks itself!

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

A bowl of creamy macaroni and cheese with a fork twirling some pasta.

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is a favorite comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce with tender pasta. This dish is simple yet satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Just imagine digging into a bowl filled with delicious pasta coated in cheesy goodness.

The image captures a fork twirling some perfectly cooked macaroni, topped with a sprinkle of cheese. The warm, creamy texture looks inviting and delicious, showing just how easy it is to whip up this dish in your Instant Pot.

To make this mac and cheese, you’ll need ingredients like elbow macaroni, cheese, milk, and a few spices. Start by adding the macaroni and water to your Instant Pot, then cook for a few minutes. Once done, stir in your cheese and milk for that creamy finish. You can find the full recipe and detailed instructions for making this Instant Pot Mac and Cheese here.

This dish comes together quickly, allowing you to serve up a hearty meal in no time!

Instant Pot French Onion Soup

Bowl of French onion soup with crispy bread on top

French onion soup is a classic dish that warms the heart. It’s filled with rich flavors and topped with crispy bread and melted cheese. Using an Instant Pot makes it easy to whip up this cozy meal without spending hours by the stove.

The image shows a hearty bowl of French onion soup, with golden-brown crispy bread on top. The warm broth is full of noodles and a touch of green, making it a comforting choice for any day. This dish is not just filling; it also brings a bit of French cuisine right to your kitchen.

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need onions, broth, bread, and cheese. Start by sautéing the onions until they’re caramelized and sweet. Then, add the broth and let the Instant Pot do the work. Once it’s ready, ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite bread and a sprinkle of cheese. For the full recipe, check out this link.

Beef Stew Recipe

A warm bowl of beef stew with chunks of beef, carrots, and potatoes.

This hearty beef stew is a classic comfort dish that’s easy to whip up in your Instant Pot. The rich aroma wafting from your kitchen will draw everyone in, and the flavors meld beautifully to create a warming meal.

The stew features tender chunks of beef, vibrant carrots, and creamy potatoes swimming in a savory broth. Each ingredient is perfectly cooked, providing a satisfying bite in every spoonful. You can whip this up on a busy weeknight or serve it on a chilly weekend.

Gather your ingredients: beef chunks, carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, onions, garlic, and your favorite herbs. Simply sauté the beef, add in your veggies and broth, and let the Instant Pot do the magic. For the full recipe, check out this delicious beef stew recipe.

Instant Pot Spaghetti

A plate of spaghetti with meatballs and basil

Instant Pot Spaghetti is a go-to meal for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a comforting plate of spaghetti topped with hearty meatballs and rich tomato sauce.

The image perfectly captures this mouthwatering dish, showing spaghetti intertwined with savory meatballs, all coated in a vibrant red sauce. Fresh basil leaves add a pop of color and a hint of freshness, making this dish not just tasty but visually appealing.

To make your own Instant Pot Spaghetti, you’ll need spaghetti, meatballs, tomato sauce, garlic, and spices. Simply layer the ingredients in your Instant Pot, set it to cook, and let it do its magic. In no time, you’ll have a warm, satisfying dinner on the table. For a detailed recipe, check out this link: Instant Pot Spaghetti.

Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Bowl of chicken noodle soup with fresh herbs and a half avocado in the background

Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a cozy dish that warms the soul. It combines tender chicken, fresh veggies, and hearty noodles in a flavorful broth. The vibrant colors of the carrots and herbs make this soup not only tasty but also visually appealing.

This dish is simple to prepare. You just need a few ingredients: chicken, broth, noodles, and some vegetables like carrots and celery. The Instant Pot does the hard work for you, cooking everything quickly while keeping all the flavors intact.

To make this delicious soup, start by sautéing your veggies in the Instant Pot. Then, add the chicken and broth, and let it cook under pressure. Once done, throw in the noodles and let them soak up all that goodness. For the full recipe, check out this link.

Perfect for busy weeknights, Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a go-to meal that feels homemade without the fuss. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a comforting dinner ready in no time!

Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce

A plate of pulled pork with BBQ sauce, cornbread, coleslaw, and corn

Pulled pork is a classic dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. This image showcases tender, juicy pulled pork drenched in rich BBQ sauce, sitting perfectly on a plate. The vibrant colors of the sauce and the side dishes make it hard to resist!

This recipe is super easy with your Instant Pot. You’ll need a pork shoulder, your favorite BBQ sauce, and some seasonings. Just toss everything in and let the pot work its magic. In no time, you’ll have flavorful pulled pork ready to enjoy.

Serve it with classic sides like coleslaw and cornbread to make a complete meal. For detailed steps, check out the full recipe here: pulled pork with BBQ sauce. It’s a fantastic choice for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner!

Beef Lasagna Roll-Ups

Beef Lasagna Roll-Ups in a white baking dish topped with marinara sauce and cheese

Beef Lasagna Roll-Ups are a wonderful twist on the classic lasagna. This dish is not only comforting but also a breeze to make in your Instant Pot. The image shows perfectly rolled lasagna noodles, filled with savory beef and cheese, all covered in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese.

To whip up this delicious meal, you’ll need ingredients like ground beef, lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and marinara sauce. Start by cooking the beef until browned, then mix in your cheeses and some seasoning. Roll the mixture in the lasagna noodles, place them in the pot, and top with sauce and cheese. Set your Instant Pot, and let it work its magic!

You can find the full recipe and detailed steps for making these tasty Beef Lasagna Roll-Ups right here. These roll-ups are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, and they taste just as good as they look!

Beef Stroganoff

A plate of beef stroganoff served over noodles with a side of bread and fresh parsley.

Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for busy evenings. This dish combines tender beef with a creamy sauce over a bed of noodles, making it both hearty and satisfying. The rich flavors and smooth texture invite you to dig in, and the smell alone can warm up any kitchen.

The visual appeal of the dish is undeniable. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta and meat, creating a beautiful contrast against the bright green parsley on top. A slice of crusty bread nearby is perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.

Making Beef Stroganoff in an Instant Pot saves time without sacrificing flavor. You’ll need ingredients like beef, mushrooms, onions, and sour cream, all of which come together quickly. For a full recipe, check out this delicious Beef Stroganoff recipe.

Chicken Alfredo Bake

A creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake with pasta, chunks of chicken, and melted cheese on top.

This Chicken Alfredo Bake is a true crowd-pleaser. The image shows a creamy, cheesy dish with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. The golden-orange chunks on top add a pop of color and a hint of flavor that makes this meal irresistible.

Making this dish is super easy. You’ll need simple ingredients like chicken, pasta, Alfredo sauce, and cheese. The combination creates a rich and comforting meal that everyone will love. Plus, it cooks right in the Instant Pot, making cleanup a breeze!

If you’re ready to whip up this delicious dinner, check out the full recipe for Chicken Alfredo Bake. You’ll be enjoying a warm, creamy plate in no time!

Chicken and Rice Casserole

A casserole dish filled with chicken and rice, garnished with parsley.

This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that makes dinner a breeze. The creamy sauce and tender chicken blend perfectly with fluffy rice, creating a meal that satisfies everyone at the table.

The image shows a warm casserole dish filled with golden rice and juicy chicken pieces, garnished with fresh parsley. The inviting colors and textures make it hard to resist. This dish not only looks delicious, but it also requires minimal effort to prepare.

To make this dish, you’ll need simple ingredients like chicken, rice, broth, and your favorite seasonings. You can find the full recipe and step-by-step instructions at this link. Just toss everything in the Instant Pot, set it, and let it do all the work!

Chili Con Carne

A bowl of Chili Con Carne topped with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.

Chili Con Carne is a fantastic dish that warms you from the inside out. The rich, red sauce and tender chunks of meat create a comforting meal that everyone loves. This image shows a delightful bowl of chili, topped with vibrant yellow cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and flavor.

Making Chili Con Carne in an Instant Pot is simple and quick. Start with ground beef, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes. Add in spices like cumin and chili powder for that classic flavor. Once everything is in the pot, let the Instant Pot do the work. You’ll have a hearty dinner ready in no time!

Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is filling and satisfying. Serve it with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal. For those eager to try it out, here’s a great recipe to get started: Chili Con Carne Recipe.

Beef Bourguignon (Crockpot Recipe)

A close-up of Beef Bourguignon with chunks of beef, carrots, and beans in a savory red sauce.

Beef Bourguignon is a classic dish that warms the heart and soul. The rich, deep flavors from the tender beef and vegetables simmered in a savory broth create an unforgettable meal. This image captures the essence of a hearty bowl filled with chunks of beef, carrots, and beans, all swimming in a luscious red sauce.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Just toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and let it do the work for you. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss. You can find all the details to make this comforting dish in this easy Beef Bourguignon crockpot recipe.

Gather your favorite ingredients like beef chunks, carrots, onions, and flavorful herbs. Let the slow cooking meld all the flavors together, and you’ll soon have a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Serve it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a complete meal that the whole family will love.

Chicken Tetrazzini

A bowl of Chicken Tetrazzini with pasta, chicken, and a creamy sauce topped with bread crumbs.

Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic comfort dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. The image shows a hearty serving of pasta, coated in a luscious sauce, with pieces of chicken, vibrant veggies, and a crispy topping that adds a nice crunch. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel right at home.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You simply toss everything into the Instant Pot, set it, and let it do the work. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, and the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce. It’s easy and delicious!

Gather your ingredients: chicken, pasta, cream, broth, and some spices. You won’t need to spend hours in the kitchen. Just follow the steps and enjoy a comforting meal. For a detailed guide, check out this Chicken Tetrazzini recipe and whip up this delightful dinner in no time!

Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of Shrimp Alfredo with spaghetti, shrimp, lemon, and parsley.

Rich and creamy Shrimp Alfredo is a fantastic option for a quick dinner. This dish combines tender shrimp with buttery pasta, all enveloped in a luscious Alfredo sauce. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to whip up using your Instant Pot.

The image shows a beautiful bowl of spaghetti topped with succulent shrimp, garnished with fresh parsley and a slice of lemon for a pop of color. The pasta looks perfectly cooked, soaking up the creamy sauce, while the shrimp glisten invitingly. It’s a dish that makes your mouth water just by looking at it!

To make this delightful dinner, you’ll need ingredients like shrimp, fettuccine, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Start by sautéing garlic and shrimp in the Instant Pot, then add the rest of the ingredients. Set it to cook, and in no time, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal at home. For a detailed recipe, check out this Shrimp Alfredo recipe.

Chicken Tacos (Crockpot Recipe)

Three chicken tacos filled with shredded chicken, tomatoes, and cilantro, garnished with lime slices

These chicken tacos are a simple and tasty dinner option. Imagine tender, shredded chicken nestled in soft tortillas, topped with fresh tomatoes and cilantro. A squeeze of lime adds the perfect zing!

This Crockpot recipe is perfect for busy days. Just toss your ingredients into the pot, set it, and let it do its thing. You’ll come home to a delicious meal ready to enjoy.

For this dish, you’ll need chicken breasts, taco seasoning, and a few fresh toppings. Serve them with soft tortillas for a quick dinner that everyone will love. It’s a crowd-pleaser!

Enjoy the easy prep and cleanup while savoring every bite of these mouthwatering chicken tacos.

Beef Barbacoa (Crockpot Recipe)

Plate of beef barbacoa with tortillas and lime slices

Beef barbacoa is a dish that fills the home with amazing smells while it cooks. This version, made in a crockpot, is easy and requires minimal effort. You’ll love the tender, shredded beef that is perfect for tacos or burritos.

In the image, we see a beautifully arranged plate of juicy barbacoa served with fresh lime slices, tortillas, and a sprinkle of cilantro. The beef looks so rich and inviting, making it hard to resist. This meal is all about flavor and comfort.

To make this recipe, you’ll need ingredients like beef chuck roast, chipotle peppers, garlic, and spices. Simply season the meat, add everything to the crockpot, and let it cook low and slow. You can find the full details in this easy crockpot recipe.

Chicken Vindaloo

A plate of Chicken Vindaloo with rice and naan

Chicken Vindaloo is a flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. This recipe captures the essence of Indian cuisine with its spicy and tangy profile. The vibrant colors of the chicken, rich sauce, and fluffy white rice come together beautifully on the plate.

To make this delicious meal, you’ll need ingredients like chicken, vinegar, garlic, and various spices. The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy tender, spicy chicken in no time. Just brown the chicken, add the spices, and let the Instant Pot work its magic.

This dish pairs perfectly with rice and naan, making it a comforting dinner option. You can find the full recipe and detailed steps to create this tasty meal on this Chicken Vindaloo page.

Vegetable Soup (Crockpot Recipe)

A bowl of colorful vegetable soup with carrots, potatoes, and celery in a crockpot.

Check out this colorful and hearty vegetable soup, perfect for a cozy dinner. The warm hues of carrots, potatoes, and celery make it look super inviting. It’s not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to prepare.

To whip up this soup, you just need some basic ingredients: diced potatoes, chopped carrots, celery, onions, and your favorite broth. Toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and let it do its magic. It’s that simple!

This vegetable soup recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend. You can customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand. Just remember, the longer it simmers, the more the flavors blend together.

Serve it hot with some crusty bread, and you have a meal that warms the soul. Enjoy!

Meatloaf Recipe

A delicious meatloaf slice topped with ketchup, served with green beans and mashed potatoes.

This meatloaf is comfort food at its finest. Juicy and tender, it’s topped with a classic ketchup glaze that makes it even more delicious. Served alongside fluffy mashed potatoes and fresh green beans, this meal is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

The secret to this easy meatloaf is the perfect blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. You can whip it up in no time, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner. Simply mix your ingredients, shape your loaf, and let your Instant Pot do the work!

If you want to try this fantastic recipe, check it out here: Meatloaf Recipe. You’ll love how simple it is to create a homemade classic that tastes like it has been slow-cooked for hours.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top