Let’s be honest, cooking for a crowd can feel like a full-contact sport. That’s exactly why the Instant Pot earns its permanent spot on the counter.
It handles big flavors, tender textures, and impressive results without you hovering over the stove all day.
Here at Green and Keto, we’re big fans of meals that make hosts look wildly competent with minimal effort, no kidding. This lineup is packed with comfort classics, keto-friendly favorites, and universally loved dishes that disappear fast.
Below, you’ll see all 25 crowd-pleasing Instant Pot meals, with full, detailed breakdowns for the first 5 to get you started strong.
1. Instant Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken
This one feels fancy enough for guests but comforting enough for weeknights, which is basically the sweet spot. Juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a silky cream sauce come together in a way that makes everyone pause after the first bite.
⏱ 10 min prep | 12 min pressure | 22 min total
Start by seasoning 2 lb (900 g) chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Sauté them in 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil using the Instant Pot’s sauté mode until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
Add 4 cloves of garlic, minced, and ½ cup (120 mL) of sun-dried tomatoes, letting them bloom in the heat. Pour in 1 cup (240 mL) chicken broth, scraping up every flavorful bit. Nestle the chicken back in.
Pressure cook on high for 12 minutes. Once done, stir in ¾ cup (180 mL) heavy cream and ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan, then add 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach until just wilted.
The sauce thickens naturally and clings to every bite. Serve with zucchini noodles or mashed cauliflower and watch it vanish.
Tip: Add a pinch of chili flakes if your crowd likes a little heat.
Full recipe via Delish.
2. Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa
If your crowd loves bold, slow-cooked flavor, this one delivers in a big way. It’s rich, deeply seasoned, and perfect for tacos, bowls, or lettuce wraps.
⏱ 15 min prep | 60 min pressure | 1 hr 15 min total
Start with 3 lb (1.35 kg) beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks. Season with salt, cumin, and smoked paprika. Sear in 1 tbsp (15 mL) avocado oil until browned.
Blend ¾ cup (180 mL) beef broth, ¼ cup (60 mL) apple cider vinegar, 3 tbsp (45 g) tomato paste, garlic, and chipotle peppers. Pour over the beef.
Pressure cook for 60 minutes, then naturally release for 10. Shred the beef directly in the pot, letting it soak up every drop of sauce.
The result is juicy, spicy-savory beef that tastes like it was cooked all day, because technically, it kind of was.
Tip: Crisp the shredded beef under the broiler for 5 minutes for extra texture.
Full recipe via The Chunky Chef.
3. Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork
This is the kind of dish that makes people hover near the pot with buns in hand. Sweet, tangy, and fall-apart tender, it’s a guaranteed hit.
⏱ 10 min prep | 70 min pressure | 1 hr 20 min total
Rub 4 lb (1.8 kg) pork shoulder with paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear in 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil until caramelized.
Add 1 cup (240 mL) sugar-free BBQ sauce, ½ cup (120 mL) chicken broth, and 1 tbsp (15 mL) apple cider vinegar. Pressure cook for 70 minutes.
Shred the pork and stir it back into the sauce. It’s sticky, saucy, and impossible to resist.
Serve with keto coleslaw or low-carb buns if you’re feeling generous.
Tip: Let it rest 10 minutes before shredding for juicier meat.
Full recipe via Kylie Cooks.
4. Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Creamy, spiced, and universally adored, this dish has serious crowd appeal. Even picky eaters tend to come back for seconds.
⏱ 15 min prep | 10 min pressure | 25 min total
Marinate 2 lb (900 g) chicken breast in yogurt, garam masala, and garlic. Sauté onion in 2 tbsp (30 mL) butter, then add tomatoes and spices.
Pressure cook for 10 minutes, then finish with ½ cup (120 mL) heavy cream and extra butter for that signature richness.
The sauce is smooth, aromatic, and perfect over cauliflower rice.
Tip: A pinch of fenugreek leaves adds authentic depth.
Full recipe via Recipes from a Pantry.
5. Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
Comfort food energy, straight up. This one feels nostalgic and modern all at once, and it feeds a lot of people without stress.
⏱ 10 min prep | 8 min pressure | 18 min total
Add 2 lb (900 g) chicken breast, 1 cup (240 mL) chicken broth, and seasoning. Pressure cook for 8 minutes, then shred.
Stir in 3 cups (270 g) broccoli florets, 1 cup (240 mL) heavy cream, and 1½ cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese until creamy and cohesive.
It’s rich, cheesy, and exactly what people want when they hear the word “casserole.”
Tip: Broil briefly after cooking for a golden cheese top.
Full recipe via The Cozy Cook.
6. Instant Pot Chili Con Carne
This is the chili that gets people arguing about secret ingredients, in the best way. It’s thick, deeply spiced, and hearty enough to feed a crowd without blinking.
⏱ 15 min prep | 25 min pressure | 40 min total
Start by sautéing 2 lb (900 g) ground beef in the pot with 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil until browned. Add 1 medium onion (150 g) and 3 cloves of garlic, cooking until fragrant.
Stir in 2 tbsp (30 g) tomato paste, 1½ cups (360 mL) crushed tomatoes, 1 cup (240 mL) beef broth, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Lock the lid and pressure cook for 25 minutes.
Once released, the chili thickens naturally, rich and spoon-coating. Adjust salt and spice, then serve with shredded cheese or sour cream.
Tip: Let it sit 10 minutes before serving for an even deeper flavor.
Full recipe via The Cozy Cook.
7. Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast
Let’s be honest, this one feels almost too easy for how good it is. Savory, tangy, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, it’s a total crowd magnet.
⏱ 10 min prep | 90 min pressure | 1 hr 40 min total
Place a 3–4 lb (1.4–1.8 kg) chuck roast in the pot. Sprinkle with 1 packet (30 g) ranch seasoning and 1 packet (30 g) au jus mix.
Add ½ cup (120 mL) beef broth, ¼ cup (60 g) butter, and 6–8 pepperoncini peppers. Pressure cook for 90 minutes with natural release.
Shred the beef directly in the juices. It’s rich, salty, and downright addictive over mashed cauliflower.
Tip: Spoon extra juice over the meat just before serving.
Full recipe via Allrecipes.
8. Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
Bold, warming spices and a creamy tomato sauce make this one a universal favorite. It feels special without being fussy, which is always a win.
⏱ 15 min prep | 10 min pressure | 25 min total
Sauté 1 chopped onion (150 g) in 1 tbsp (15 mL) ghee until soft. Add garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, and paprika.
Stir in 2 lb (900 g) chicken thighs, 1 cup (240 mL) crushed tomatoes, and ½ cup (120 mL) chicken broth. Pressure cook for 10 minutes.
Finish with ½ cup (120 mL) heavy cream, stirring until smooth and fragrant. The sauce is velvety and perfectly spiced.
Tip: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Full recipe via Little Sunny Kitchen.
9. Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff
Creamy, savory, and comfort-forward, this dish feels like a warm hug in bowl form. It’s a classic for a reason.
⏱ 15 min prep | 20 min pressure | 35 min total
Sauté 2 lb (900 g) sliced beef sirloin in 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter until just browned. Remove and set aside.
Cook 1 small onion (100 g) and 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms until softened. Add 1½ cups (360 mL) beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
Pressure cook for 20 minutes. Stir in ¾ cup (180 g) sour cream and return the beef to the pot. The sauce turns silky and rich.
Tip: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash.
Full recipe via The Cozy Cook.
10. Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Simple flavors, done really well. Crispy-edged chicken, savory garlic, and nutty Parmesan make this one disappear fast.
⏱ 10 min prep | 12 min pressure | 22 min total
Season 2½ lb (1.1 kg) chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear in 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil until golden.
Add ¾ cup (180 mL) chicken broth and pressure cook for 12 minutes. Remove the chicken and stir ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan into the sauce.
Broil the chicken briefly to crisp, then spoon sauce over the top before serving.
Tip: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness.
Full recipe via The Cozy Cook.
11. Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
Creamy without being heavy, gently spiced, and incredibly comforting, this chili always surprises people in the best way.
⏱ 15 min prep | 20 min pressure | 35 min total
Add 2 lb (900 g) chicken breast, 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil, 1 chopped onion (150 g), and 3 cloves of garlic to the pot. Stir in 1½ cups (360 mL) chicken broth, cumin, and oregano.
Pressure cook for 20 minutes, then shred the chicken. Stir in 1 cup (240 mL) heavy cream and ½ cup (120 g) cream cheese, letting it melt into a velvety base.
The result is rich, savory, and perfect with avocado or shredded cheese on top.
Tip: Add diced green chilies for extra warmth.
Full recipe via The Cozy Cook.
12. Instant Pot Short Rib Ragu
This one feels restaurant-worthy but comes together with almost no babysitting. Deeply savory, slow-cooked flavor in a fraction of the time.
⏱ 20 min prep | 45 min pressure | 1 hr 5 min total
Season 3 lb (1.35 kg) beef short ribs with salt and pepper. Sear in 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil until browned.
Add 1 cup (240 mL) crushed tomatoes, 1 cup (240 mL) beef broth, garlic, and Italian herbs. Pressure cook for 45 minutes with natural release.
Shred the meat into the sauce until thick and luxurious. Serve over zucchini noodles or roasted vegetables.
Tip: Finish with grated Parmesan for extra depth.
Full recipe via The Wooden Skillet.
13. Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
Creamy, cheesy, and endlessly comforting, this dish never goes out of style. It’s familiar, satisfying, and always welcome on the table.
⏱ 10 min prep | 8 min pressure | 18 min total
Add 2 lb (900 g) chicken breast, 1 cup (240 mL) chicken broth, garlic, and seasoning. Pressure cook for 8 minutes and shred.
Stir in 1 cup (240 mL) heavy cream and 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan, mixing until smooth and rich.
The sauce clings beautifully to the chicken, making every bite creamy and indulgent.
Tip: A pinch of nutmeg enhances the sauce subtly.
Full recipe via Damn Delicious.
14. Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
Bold, colorful, and packed with flavor, this one brings serious crowd energy. It’s casual food done really well.
⏱ 10 min prep | 12 min pressure | 22 min total
Sauté 2 lb (900 g) Italian sausage until lightly browned. Add 3 bell peppers (450 g), sliced, and 1 onion (150 g).
Pour in ¾ cup (180 mL) crushed tomatoes and ½ cup (120 mL) chicken broth. Pressure cook for 12 minutes.
The sausages turn juicy, the peppers tender, and the sauce ties everything together beautifully.
Tip: Finish with fresh basil for brightness.
Full recipe via Thekitchn.
15. Instant Pot Loaded Cauliflower Soup
This is comfort soup with a lighter twist. Creamy, savory, and loaded with flavor, it satisfies without feeling heavy.
⏱ 15 min prep | 15 min pressure | 30 min total
Add 1 large cauliflower head (900 g), chopped, 1 medium onion (150 g), 3 cups (720 mL) chicken broth, and seasoning to the pot.
Pressure cook for 15 minutes, then blend until smooth. Stir in ¾ cup (180 mL) heavy cream and 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese.
Top with bacon crumbles and chives, and you’ve got a soup people remember.
Tip: Roast the cauliflower first for a deeper flavor.
Full recipe via Delish.
16. Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet, savory, and sticky in all the right ways, this one hits that perfect balance that keeps plates coming back empty.
⏱ 10 min prep | 12 min pressure | 22 min total
Season 2 lb (900 g) chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Sear in 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil until lightly golden.
Whisk together ⅓ cup (80 mL) honey, ¼ cup (60 mL) soy sauce or coconut aminos, 3 cloves garlic, and ½ cup (120 mL) chicken broth. Pour over the chicken.
Pressure cook for 12 minutes, then simmer briefly to thicken the sauce. It turns glossy and coats every bite beautifully.
Tip: Add a splash of rice vinegar for balance.
Full recipe via Kitchen Sanctuary.
17. Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup
All the cozy flavor of stuffed peppers, without the extra work. It’s hearty, colorful, and perfect for feeding a group.
⏱ 15 min prep | 20 min pressure | 35 min total
Sauté 2 lb (900 g) ground beef with 1 onion (150 g) and 3 cloves of garlic until browned.
Add 3 bell peppers (450 g), chopped, 1½ cups (360 mL) crushed tomatoes, 1½ cups (360 mL) beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Pressure cook for 20 minutes.
The result is thick, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Top with cheese and fresh herbs if you like.
Tip: Let it rest 5 minutes to thicken before serving.
Full recipe via Happy Foods Tube.
18. Instant Pot Lamb Curry
Rich, aromatic, and deeply comforting, this dish feels special without requiring constant attention. It’s a standout for adventurous eaters.
⏱ 20 min prep | 40 min pressure | 1 hr total
Brown 2½ lb (1.1 kg) lamb shoulder, cubed, in 1 tbsp (15 mL) ghee. Add onion, garlic, ginger, and curry spices.
Stir in 1 cup (240 mL) coconut milk and ½ cup (120 mL) beef broth. Pressure cook for 40 minutes.
The lamb becomes fork-tender, soaking up every bit of the spiced sauce.
Tip: Finish with fresh cilantro and lime juice.
Full recipe via Yellow Thyme.
19. Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken
This is a meal-prep hero that doubles as a party favorite. Juicy, boldly seasoned chicken that works in just about everything.
⏱ 10 min prep | 15 min pressure | 25 min total
Add 2½ lb (1.1 kg) chicken breast, 1 cup (240 mL) chicken broth, 1 tbsp (15 g) taco seasoning, cumin, and garlic powder.
Pressure cook for 15 minutes, then shred directly in the pot so the chicken absorbs all the flavor.
Use it for tacos, bowls, or lettuce wraps. It’s endlessly versatile.
Tip: Stir in fresh salsa at the end for brightness.
Full recipe via The Chunky Chef.
20. Instant Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken
Bright, silky, and surprisingly elegant, this one cuts through rich menus beautifully. It’s a refreshing change of pace.
⏱ 10 min prep | 10 min pressure | 20 min total
Season 2 lb (900 g) chicken thighs and sear in 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter. Add ¾ cup (180 mL) chicken broth and pressure cook for 10 minutes.
Stir in ½ cup (120 mL) heavy cream, 2 tbsp (30 mL) lemon juice, and lemon zest. The sauce turns smooth and lightly tangy.
It’s delicate, comforting, and quietly impressive.
Tip: Serve with roasted asparagus for balance.
Full recipe via The Cozy Cook.
21. Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
Savory, saucy, and better than takeout on a busy night, this one always earns praise for flavor and texture.
⏱ 15 min prep | 10 min pressure | 25 min total
Slice 2 lb (900 g) flank steak thinly against the grain. Sauté in 1 tbsp (15 mL) avocado oil until lightly browned.
Whisk ¾ cup (180 mL) beef broth, ¼ cup (60 mL) soy sauce or coconut aminos, 2 tbsp (30 mL) sesame oil, and garlic. Pressure cook for 10 minutes.
Add 3 cups (270 g) broccoli florets and simmer briefly until tender. The sauce thickens and clings beautifully.
Tip: A teaspoon of grated ginger adds extra depth.
Full recipe via Natasha’s Kitchen.
22. Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
Crispy-edged, citrusy, and deeply flavorful, these carnitas are always the first protein to disappear.
⏱ 10 min prep | 45 min pressure | 55 min total
Add 3½ lb (1.6 kg) pork shoulder, cut into chunks, to the pot. Season with cumin, oregano, and salt.
Pour in ½ cup (120 mL) orange juice, ½ cup (120 mL) chicken broth, and lime juice. Pressure cook for 45 minutes.
Shred and broil briefly to crisp. The contrast of juicy meat and crispy edges is unbeatable.
Tip: Don’t skip the broiler, it makes all the difference.
Full recipe via Kitchen Sanctuary.
23. Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Chicken
Earthy, cozy, and quietly elegant, this one wins over mushroom lovers instantly.
⏱ 15 min prep | 12 min pressure | 27 min total
Sauté 1 lb (450 g) mushrooms in 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter until browned. Remove and set aside.
Add 2 lb (900 g) chicken thighs, ¾ cup (180 mL) chicken broth, and thyme. Pressure cook for 12 minutes.
Stir in ¾ cup (180 mL) heavy cream and return mushrooms to the pot. The sauce turns rich and silky.
Tip: Finish with cracked black pepper for warmth.
Full recipe via Salt and Lavender.
24. Instant Pot Keto Lasagna Bowl
All the comfort of lasagna, none of the noodles. This one surprises people with how satisfying it is.
⏱ 15 min prep | 20 min pressure | 35 min total
Brown 2 lb (900 g) ground beef with garlic and onion. Add 1½ cups (360 mL) crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and ½ cup (120 mL) beef broth.
Pressure cook for 20 minutes. Stir in 1 cup (225 g) ricotta, 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella, and ½ cup (50 g) Parmesan.
It’s rich, cheesy, and layered with flavor, just like the classic.
Tip: Let it rest for 5 minutes for cleaner scoops.
Full recipe via Budget Bytes.
25. Instant Pot Chicken Enchilada Filling
This is the ultimate crowd-ready base. Bold, saucy chicken that works for enchiladas, bowls, or wraps.
⏱ 10 min prep | 15 min pressure | 25 min total
Add 2½ lb (1.1 kg) chicken breast, 1½ cups (360 mL) red enchilada sauce, and ½ cup (120 mL) chicken broth to the pot.
Pressure cook for 15 minutes, then shred and stir until fully coated. The chicken stays juicy and intensely flavorful.
Serve with toppings and let everyone build their own plate.
Tip: Add a pinch of cocoa powder for depth.
Full recipe via Instant Pot Eats.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, 25 Instant Pot crowd-pleaser meals that take the pressure off hosting while delivering serious flavor.
Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or a hungry group that showed up unannounced, these dishes have your back.
That’s exactly the kind of dependable, delicious cooking we stand for at Green and Keto.
Save this list, rotate it often, and enjoy being the person everyone secretly hopes is cooking tonight.
