When dinner needs to happen fast, the Instant Pot is basically a kitchen superhero. It turns weeknight chaos into calm, tender meat, rich sauces, and big flavor with minimal effort.
Here at Green and Keto, we love recipes that feel like a win without draining your energy or your grocery budget. These Instant Pot dinners check every box: easy, comforting, and totally doable even on your busiest days.
Let’s be honest, when one pot does all the work, and the cleanup stays minimal, that’s a lifestyle upgrade.
Below you’ll find the full list of 25 ideas, then we’ll dive into the first five in delicious detail.
1. Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken
This is the kind of cozy, creamy dinner that tastes like you worked way harder than you did. Juicy chicken, rich garlic flavor, and a silky sauce that begs to be spooned over everything.
⏱ 10 min prep | 15 min pressure | 25 min total
Start with 2 lb (900 g) boneless chicken thighs seasoned generously with salt and pepper. Sauté them in 2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil until lightly golden, then set aside. In the same pot, add 4 cloves of garlic, minced, and let it bloom for about 30 seconds.
Pour in 1 cup (240 mL) chicken broth, scraping up all those flavorful bits. Return the chicken, seal the lid, and pressure cook until tender. Finish with 1 cup (240 mL) heavy cream and ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan, stirring until the sauce thickens.
The result is deeply savory, creamy without being heavy, and perfect over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles. No kidding, this one disappears fast.
Tip: Add a handful of spinach at the end for color and extra nutrients.
Full recipe via Eating Well.
2. Instant Pot Beef Stew
Classic comfort food, but faster and honestly better. The Instant Pot locks in flavor and gives you fork-tender beef every time.
⏱ 15 min prep | 35 min pressure | 50 min total
Use 2 lb (900 g) beef chuck, cut into chunks and seasoned well. Brown the beef in 2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil. Add 1 chopped onion, 2 cloves garlic, 2 cups (480 mL) beef broth, and 2 tbsp (30 g) tomato paste.
Toss in 2 cups (300 g) carrots and 2 cups (300 g) celery, then pressure cook until the beef is meltingly tender. A quick natural release keeps everything juicy.
The broth turns rich and savory, with vegetables that soak up every ounce of flavor. It’s the kind of dinner that makes the house smell incredible.
Tip: Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar for deeper flavor.
Full recipe via Damn delicious
3. Instant Pot Salsa Chicken
This one is almost too easy to be real, but it delivers every time. Three main ingredients, endless uses.
⏱ 5 min prep | 12 min pressure | 17 min total
Place 2 lb (900 g) chicken breasts in the pot and season lightly. Pour over 1½ cups (360 g) of salsa and ½ cup (120 mL) of chicken broth.
Seal, cook, and shred the chicken right in the pot. The result is juicy, flavorful meat perfect for bowls, lettuce wraps, or low-carb tacos.
It’s spicy, saucy, and weeknight-friendly in the best way. At Green and Keto, this is one of those reliable recipes we keep coming back to.
Tip: Mix in cream cheese for a richer, creamy version.
Full recipe via Yellow Thyme.
4. Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Restaurant-style flavor without the takeout bill. This butter chicken is rich, warming, and deeply satisfying.
⏱ 15 min prep | 20 min pressure | 35 min total
Start with 1½ lb (680 g) chicken thighs, cut into pieces. Sauté with 2 tbsp (30 g) butter, 1 diced onion, 1 tbsp (15 g) garam masala, and 1 tsp (5 g) paprika.
Add 1 cup (240 mL) crushed tomatoes and ½ cup (120 mL) heavy cream, then pressure cook until tender. Stir in another 2 tbsp (30 g) butter before serving.
The sauce is silky, mildly spiced, and incredibly comforting. Pair it with cauliflower rice, and you’re set.
Tip: Add chili powder if you like a little heat.
Full recipe via Recipes from a Pantry.
5. Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken
Creamy, garlicky, and packed with sun-dried tomatoes, this one feels fancy but stays easy.
⏱ 10 min prep | 15 min pressure | 25 min total
Brown 2 lb (900 g) chicken breasts in 2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil. Add 3 cloves of garlic, ½ cup (120 g) sun-dried tomatoes, and 1 cup (240 mL) chicken broth.
Pressure cook, then stir in 1 cup (240 mL) heavy cream and ½ cup (50 g) Parmesan. Finish with fresh basil if you have it.
The flavors are bold, creamy, and just a little indulgent. You’ll thank yourself later for adding this to your rotation.
Tip: Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer extra juiciness.
Full recipe via Delish.
6. Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Tender, juicy pulled pork with barely any effort is always a win. This is the kind of dinner that works just as well for busy weeknights as it does for lazy Sundays.
⏱ 10 min prep | 60 min pressure | 1 hr 10 min total
Start with 3 lb (1.4 kg) pork shoulder, cut into large chunks. Season generously with salt, pepper, and 2 tsp (4 g) smoked paprika. Sear in 2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil until browned.
Add 1 cup (240 mL) chicken broth and ½ cup (120 mL) sugar-free BBQ sauce. Pressure cook until the pork shreds effortlessly, then pull it apart right in the pot to soak up all that smoky, savory sauce.
This one’s rich, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Serve it over cauliflower mash, tucked into lettuce wraps, or straight from the bowl, no judgment.
Tip: Broil the shredded pork for 5 minutes for crispy edges.
Full recipe via Kylie Cooks.
7. Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
Bold spices, creamy sauce, and juicy chicken come together fast thanks to pressure cooking. It tastes slow-simmered, even though it’s not.
⏱ 15 min prep | 18 min pressure | 33 min total
Sauté 1 diced onion in 2 tbsp (30 g) butter, then add 1½ lb (680 g) chicken thighs, cubed. Stir in 2 tbsp (30 g) tikka masala paste, 1 tsp (5 g) ground cumin, and 1 tsp (5 g) paprika.
Pour in 1 cup (240 mL) crushed tomatoes, seal, and pressure cook. Finish with ¾ cup (180 mL) heavy cream, stirring until the sauce turns velvety and fragrant.
It’s warming, deeply spiced, and perfect over cauliflower rice. Let’s be honest, homemade versions like this beat takeout every time.
Tip: Add a squeeze of lemon to brighten the sauce before serving.
Full recipe via Little Sunny Kitchen.
8. Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
This takeout favorite gets a weeknight-friendly makeover, and it’s ready faster than delivery.
⏱ 10 min prep | 15 min pressure | 25 min total
Slice 1½ lb (680 g) flank steak thinly against the grain. Sauté in 1 tbsp (15 mL) sesame oil. Add ½ cup (120 mL) beef broth, ¼ cup (60 mL) soy sauce, and 1 tbsp (15 g) grated ginger.
Pressure cook briefly, then stir in 3 cups (270 g) broccoli florets and let them steam in the residual heat. The sauce thickens naturally and coats everything beautifully.
Savory, slightly sweet, and packed with tender beef, this is a reliable crowd-pleaser. You’ll thank yourself later for skipping the takeout menu.
Tip: Add chili flakes if you like a little heat.
Full recipe via Natasha’s Kitchen.
9. Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
Creamy, comforting, and just spicy enough to keep things interesting, this chili is perfect for cooler nights or meal prep.
⏱ 15 min prep | 20 min pressure | 35 min total
Add 1½ lb (680 g) chicken breasts, 1 diced onion, 2 cloves garlic, 2 cups (480 mL) chicken broth, and 1 tbsp (15 g) ground cumin to the pot.
Pressure cook until the chicken shreds easily. Stir in ½ cup (120 g) cream cheese and ½ cup (120 mL) heavy cream, letting everything melt into a thick, cozy chili.
It’s hearty without being heavy, and the flavors deepen even more the next day. At Green and Keto, this is one of our favorite make-ahead dinners.
Tip: Top with avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Full recipe via The Cozy Cook.
10. Instant Pot Pot Roast
Old-school comfort meets modern convenience. This pot roast is rich, tender, and deeply satisfying.
⏱ 15 min prep | 70 min pressure | 1 hr 25 min total
Season 3 lb (1.4 kg) chuck roast generously and sear in 2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil. Add 1 cup (240 mL) beef broth, 1 tbsp (15 g) Worcestershire sauce, 2 cups (300 g) carrots, and 2 cups (300 g) celery.
Pressure cook until the meat falls apart with a fork. The vegetables soak up the savory juices, and the broth turns into a rich, spoon-worthy gravy.
This is the kind of dinner that makes everyone linger at the table a little longer.
Tip: Thicken the gravy with a quick cornstarch slurry if desired.
Full recipe via Kristine’s Kitchen Blog.
11. Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Salmon
Bright, buttery, and shockingly fast, this salmon dinner feels light but still satisfying. Ideal for nights when you want something fresh without extra fuss.
⏱ 5 min prep | 5 min pressure | 10 min total
Place 4 salmon fillets, about 6 oz (170 g) each, on the trivet. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp (5 g) garlic powder. Add 1 cup (240 mL) of water to the pot.
Pressure cook briefly, then finish with a sauce made from 2 tbsp (30 g) butter, 2 tbsp (30 mL) lemon juice, and 1 clove garlic, minced.
The salmon turns out tender and flaky, never dry. The lemon-garlic finish keeps everything clean and vibrant, perfect with steamed veggies or a simple salad.
Tip: Add lemon zest for extra citrus punch.
Full recipe via The Natural Nurturer.
12. Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
Creamy, comforting, and unapologetically indulgent, this Alfredo delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
⏱ 10 min prep | 12 min pressure | 22 min total
Add 1½ lb (680 g) chicken breasts, sliced, to the pot with 2 tbsp (30 g) butter and 2 cloves of garlic. Pour in 1 cup (240 mL) of chicken broth and pressure cook until tender.
Stir in 1 cup (240 mL) heavy cream and ¾ cup (75 g) grated Parmesan, letting the sauce thicken into velvety perfection.
Rich, garlicky, and deeply satisfying, this dish feels like comfort food done right. Serve over zucchini noodles or roasted vegetables for balance.
Tip: Add a pinch of nutmeg for classic Alfredo depth.
Full recipe via Damn Delicious.
13. Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup
All the cozy flavors of stuffed peppers, none of the extra work. This soup is hearty, filling, and incredibly weeknight-friendly.
⏱ 15 min prep | 20 min pressure | 35 min total
Brown 1½ lb (680 g) ground beef with 1 diced onion in 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil. Add 2 cups (480 mL) beef broth, 1 cup (240 g) crushed tomatoes, and 2 cups (300 g) chopped bell peppers.
Pressure cook until everything melds together into a rich, savory soup. The peppers stay tender, and the broth carries all that classic stuffed pepper flavor.
This one’s great for leftovers, and it reheats the next day.
Tip: Finish with shredded cheese for extra comfort.
Full recipe via Happy Foods Tube.
14. Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
Sweet, smoky, and finger-licking good, this BBQ chicken is as easy as it gets.
⏱ 5 min prep | 15 min pressure | 20 min total
Add 2 lb (900 g) chicken thighs to the pot with ¾ cup (180 mL) sugar-free BBQ sauce and ½ cup (120 mL) chicken broth.
Pressure cook until juicy, then shred or serve whole, coated in that rich BBQ sauce. It’s bold, satisfying, and endlessly versatile.
Serve it with roasted veggies, in lettuce wraps, or straight from the pot when no one’s looking.
Tip: Brush with extra BBQ sauce and broil for caramelization.
Full recipe via Craving Tasty.
15. Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
Classic, hearty, and packed with flavor, this one-pot dinner is a total crowd-pleaser.
⏱ 10 min prep | 12 min pressure | 22 min total
Brown 1½ lb (680 g) Italian sausage in the pot. Add 2 cups (300 g) sliced bell peppers, 1 sliced onion, 2 cloves garlic, and ½ cup (120 mL) chicken broth.
Pressure cook until the peppers are tender and the sausage is juicy. Everything soaks up the savory juices, making each bite better than the last.
This dish is bold, simple, and incredibly satisfying, exactly what weeknight cooking should be.
Tip: Use spicy sausage for an extra kick.
Full recipe via Thekitchn.
16. Instant Pot Lentil Curry
Warm, fragrant, and surprisingly filling, this lentil curry proves that simple ingredients can still bring big flavor.
⏱ 10 min prep | 15 min pressure | 25 min total
Add 1½ cups (300 g) dried lentils, rinsed, to the pot with 1 diced onion, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tbsp (15 g) curry powder, and 1 tsp (5 g) ground cumin.
Pour in 2 cups (480 mL) vegetable broth and 1 cup (240 mL) canned coconut milk. Pressure cook until the lentils are tender and creamy.
The texture is thick and comforting, with warm spices that feel cozy without being overpowering. It’s a great meatless dinner that still satisfies.
Tip: Stir in fresh cilantro before serving for brightness.
Full recipe via Well Plated.
17. Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
This is pure comfort in a bowl: tender chicken, fluffy rice, and simple flavors that never disappoint.
⏱ 10 min prep | 12 min pressure | 22 min total
Add 1½ lb (680 g) chicken thighs, 1 cup (185 g) long-grain rice, rinsed, 1½ cups (360 mL) chicken broth, and 1 tbsp (15 g) butter to the pot.
Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp (5 g) garlic powder, then pressure cook until the rice is perfectly tender.
Everything cooks together, soaking up savory flavor with zero babysitting required. It’s dependable, comforting, and ideal for busy nights.
Tip: Add frozen peas at the end for a pop of color.
Full recipe via A Saucy Kitchen.
18. Instant Pot Mississippi Roast
Tangy, savory, and ridiculously tender, this roast is bold and unforgettable.
⏱ 10 min prep | 80 min pressure | 1 hr 30 min total
Place a 3 lb (1.4 kg) chuck roast in the pot. Sprinkle over 1 packet (30 g) ranch seasoning and 1 packet (30 g) au jus mix.
Add ½ cup (120 mL) beef broth, 6 pepperoncini peppers, and 2 tbsp (30 g) butter. Pressure cook until the meat falls apart.
The flavors are rich, slightly tangy, and incredibly satisfying. Serve it over mashed cauliflower or roasted vegetables.
Tip: Shred the meat and let it sit in the juices for extra flavor.
Full recipe via All Recipes.
19. Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi
Fast, garlicky, and elegant enough for company, this shrimp scampi comes together in minutes.
⏱ 5 min prep | 3 min pressure | 8 min total
Add 1 lb (450 g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, to the pot with 3 cloves of garlic, 2 tbsp (30 g) butter, and ¼ cup (60 mL) chicken broth.
Pressure cook briefly, then finish with 2 tbsp (30 mL) lemon juice and fresh parsley.
The shrimp stay tender, bathed in buttery garlic sauce with just enough brightness from the lemon. It’s light, flavorful, and shockingly easy.
Tip: Add red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Full recipe via Garden In The Kitchen.
20. Instant Pot Turkey Chili
Hearty, comforting, and perfect for meal prep, this turkey chili checks all the boxes.
⏱ 15 min prep | 25 min pressure | 40 min total
Brown 1½ lb (680 g) ground turkey with 1 diced onion and 2 cloves of garlic. Add 2 cups (480 mL) chicken broth, 1 cup (240 g) crushed tomatoes, and 1 tbsp (15 g) chili powder.
Pressure cook until thick and flavorful, letting the spices meld into a rich, satisfying chili.
It’s lighter than beef chili but still deeply comforting, and leftovers taste even better the next day.
Tip: Top with avocado or shredded cheese before serving.
Full recipe via Oh Sweet Basil.
21. Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Simple ingredients, big comfort. This soup is smooth, cozy, and tastes like it simmered all afternoon.
⏱ 10 min prep | 15 min pressure | 25 min total
Add 2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil, 1 diced onion, and 2 cloves of garlic to the pot and sauté until soft. Pour in 2 cups (480 mL) crushed tomatoes and 1 cup (240 mL) vegetable broth.
Pressure cook, then blend until smooth. Stir in ½ cup (120 mL) heavy cream and a handful of fresh basil leaves.
The result is rich, velvety, and lightly sweet with herbal freshness. It’s perfect on its own or paired with a simple side.
Tip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Full recipe via Recipe Teacher.
22. Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet, savory, and incredibly family-friendly, this chicken delivers big flavor with very little effort.
⏱ 10 min prep | 15 min pressure | 25 min total
Place 2 lb (900 g) chicken thighs in the pot. Whisk together ⅓ cup (80 mL) honey, ¼ cup (60 mL) soy sauce, 3 cloves garlic, and ½ cup (120 mL) chicken broth.
Pressure cook until juicy and tender. The sauce thickens slightly and coats every piece beautifully.
It’s sticky, garlicky, and dangerously easy to love. Serve it with roasted vegetables or over cauliflower rice.
Tip: Add grated ginger for extra depth.
Full recipe via Kitchen Sanctuary.
23. Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
Crispy edges, juicy meat, and bold citrus flavor make these carnitas a total standout.
⏱ 10 min prep | 60 min pressure | 1 hr 10 min total
Add 3 lb (1.4 kg) pork shoulder, cut into chunks, to the pot. Season with 2 tsp (4 g) cumin, 2 tsp (4 g) oregano, and 1 tsp (5 g) salt.
Pour in ¾ cup (180 mL) orange juice and ½ cup (120 mL) chicken broth. Pressure cook until fork-tender, then shred and crisp briefly if desired.
The flavor is rich, citrusy, and deeply satisfying. Lettuce wraps, bowls, or straight from the pan, it all works.
Tip: Broil the shredded pork for a crispy texture.
Full recipe via Kitchen Sanctuary.
24. Instant Pot Vegetable Curry
Colorful, comforting, and packed with flavor, this curry proves that vegetables can absolutely be the star.
⏱ 15 min prep | 10 min pressure | 25 min total
Add 2 cups (300 g) mixed vegetables, 1 diced onion, 2 cloves of garlic, and 1 tbsp (15 g) curry paste to the pot.
Pour in 1 cup (240 mL) of coconut milk and 1 cup (240 mL) of vegetable broth. Pressure cook until the vegetables are tender and the sauce is fragrant.
It’s creamy, gently spiced, and perfect for an easy meatless dinner that still feels hearty.
Tip: Add lime juice before serving for brightness.
Full recipe via America’s Test Kitchen.
25. Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana
We’re closing with a classic. Creamy, savory, and loaded with comfort, this soup is always a hit.
⏱ 15 min prep | 20 min pressure | 35 min total
Brown 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage with 1 diced onion in the pot. Add 3 cups (720 mL) of chicken broth and 2 cups (300 g) of cauliflower florets.
Pressure cook, then stir in ¾ cup (180 mL) heavy cream and a handful of chopped kale.
It’s rich without being overwhelming, and deeply satisfying in every spoonful. A perfect way to end the list.
Tip: Use spicy sausage for extra warmth.
Full recipe via Damn Delicious.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, 25 easy Instant Pot dinner ideas that truly pull their weight on busy nights.
From cozy soups to bold, saucy mains, these are the kinds of recipes that make cooking feel manageable again.
That’s exactly the kind of everyday win we love celebrating at Green and Keto: dependable meals, clear timing, and flavors you actually look forward to.
Save your favorites, rotate them often, and let your Instant Pot keep doing the heavy lifting.
