20 Pressure Cooker Recipes That Will Make Your Taste Buds Explode with Flavor

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I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Pressure cookers are amazing kitchen tools that can save you time and effort while creating tasty meals. You can make a wide variety of dishes in a pressure cooker, from hearty stews to tender meats and even creamy desserts. These handy appliances use steam pressure to cook food quickly, often cutting cooking time by more than half compared to traditional methods.

Using a pressure cooker is simple and safe. Modern models like the Instant Pot have built-in safety features and easy-to-use controls. You’ll love how fast you can whip up delicious meals for your family, even on busy weeknights. Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or looking for fresh ideas, there are loads of yummy recipes to try.

Beef Stew

Here’s a yummy beef stew recipe for your pressure cooker:

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cubed
  • 2 potatoes, chopped
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

  1. Season the beef with salt and pepper.

  2. Set your pressure cooker to sauté mode. Add oil and brown the beef in batches.

  3. Add onions and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes.

  4. Stir in broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf.

  5. Add potatoes and carrots.

  6. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.

  7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release.

  8. Open the lid and give it a stir. Your stew is ready to enjoy!

This hearty meal is perfect for chilly days. The pressure cooker makes the beef super tender in no time. You’ll love how easy and tasty this stew is!

Chicken Tikka Masala

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 lbs boneless chicken, cut into chunks
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 can (14 oz) fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • Salt to taste

Now, let’s cook!

  1. Mix the chicken with yogurt and set aside.

  2. Turn on your pressure cooker to sauté mode. Add oil and cook onions until soft.

  3. Toss in garlic and ginger. Stir for a minute.

  4. Add all the spices and cook until fragrant.

  5. Put in the marinated chicken, tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir well.

  6. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.

  7. Quick release the pressure when done.

  8. If the sauce is too thin, simmer on sauté mode until it thickens.

Serve your tasty chicken tikka masala with rice or naan bread. Enjoy your homemade meal!

Risotto

Ready to make creamy risotto in your pressure cooker? You’ll need:

  • 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Set your pressure cooker to sauté mode. Add oil and butter, then cook the onion until soft.

  2. Add the rice and stir for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.

  3. Pour in the wine if using, and let it absorb. Add the broth and stir well.

  4. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 5-6 minutes.

  5. Quick release the pressure when done. Open the lid and stir in the Parmesan cheese.

  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy risotto!

Your risotto will be ready in about 15 minutes total. It’s that easy!

Chili

Ready to make some tasty chili in your pressure cooker? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup beef broth

Now let’s get cooking!

  1. Set your pressure cooker to sauté mode. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks.

  2. Add onions, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until vegetables soften, about 3-4 minutes.

  3. Stir in tomatoes, beans, spices, and broth. Mix well.

  4. Close the lid and set to high pressure for 20 minutes.

  5. When done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

  6. Give it a good stir and taste. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Your chili is ready to serve! Top with cheese, sour cream, or your favorite fixings. Enjoy your quick and delicious pressure cooker chili!

Pulled Pork

Here’s a tasty pulled pork recipe for your pressure cooker:

Ingredients:

  • 3-4 lb pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Season the pork cubes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

  2. Turn on your pressure cooker’s sauté function and brown the pork in batches.

  3. Mix barbecue sauce, broth, brown sugar, and vinegar in the pot.

  4. Add the browned pork back to the pot and stir to coat.

  5. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 40 minutes.

  6. Let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

  7. Remove the pork and shred it using two forks.

  8. Mix the shredded pork with some of the cooking liquid and extra barbecue sauce if you like.

See also  Pumpkin Muffins

Your pulled pork is now ready to enjoy! Serve it on buns for sandwiches or use it in tacos, salads, or any other dish you fancy.

Vegetable Soup

Here’s a tasty vegetable soup recipe for your pressure cooker:

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 potatoes, cubed
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup green beans
  • 1 cup corn
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Turn on your pressure cooker’s sauté function. Add oil and cook onion until soft, about 3 minutes.

  2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in tomato paste and seasonings.

  3. Pour in broth and add all vegetables. Close the lid and set to high pressure for 5 minutes.

  4. When done, do a quick release. Open the lid and stir.

  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Your veggie soup is ready to enjoy!

This soup is perfect for chilly days. You can add different veggies based on what you have in your fridge. It’s a flexible recipe that’s sure to warm you up!

Bean and Ham Soup

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound dry navy beans
  • 1 ham bone or 2 cups diced ham
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Rinse the beans and add them to your pressure cooker.

  2. Add the ham bone or diced ham, onion, celery, carrots, and garlic.

  3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf.

  4. Close the lid and set to high pressure for 50 minutes.

  5. Let the pressure release naturally for about 20 minutes.

  6. Open the lid carefully and remove the ham bone if used.

  7. If the soup is too thin, turn on the sauté function and simmer for a few minutes.

  8. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

  9. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting bean and ham soup!

Pot Roast

Here’s a simple pot roast recipe for your pressure cooker:

Ingredients:

  • 3-4 lb beef chuck roast
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lb carrots, peeled and chunked
  • 1 lb potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional)

Directions:

  1. Season your roast with salt and pepper.

  2. Turn on your pressure cooker’s sauté function and add a bit of oil. Brown the roast on all sides.

  3. Add sliced onion, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot.

  4. Lock the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.

  5. Do a quick release, then add carrots and potatoes.

  6. Cook for another 10 minutes on high pressure.

  7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.

  8. If you want thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it in.

Your pot roast is ready! The meat should be tender enough to pull apart with a fork. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Butter Chicken

Get ready to make a tasty butter chicken in your pressure cooker! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 can tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • Salt to taste

Directions:

  1. Mix the yogurt, garam masala, ginger, and garlic in a bowl. Add the chicken and coat well.

  2. Set your pressure cooker to sauté. Add some oil and cook the onions until soft.

  3. Add the marinated chicken and tomato sauce. Stir well.

  4. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes.

  5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.

  6. Open the lid and stir in the cream and butter until melted.

  7. Taste and add salt if needed.

Your butter chicken is ready! Serve it over rice for a yummy meal. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors you’ve created in your pressure cooker.

Lentil Curry

Ready to make a tasty lentil curry in your pressure cooker? Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 cup red lentils
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: coconut milk, cilantro

Now, let’s cook!

  1. Rinse the lentils and set aside.

  2. Turn on your pressure cooker’s sauté function. Add a splash of oil and cook the onion until soft.

  3. Toss in the garlic, curry powder, and garam masala. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

  4. Add the lentils, tomatoes, and broth. Give it a good stir.

  5. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.

  6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.

  7. Open the lid and stir. If you like, add some coconut milk for extra creaminess.

  8. Taste and add salt if needed.

  9. Serve hot over rice, topped with fresh cilantro if you want.

See also  Cherry Amaretto Jam

Enjoy your homemade lentil curry! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep.

Beef and Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced thin
  • 1 lb broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water

Ready to cook? Follow these easy steps:

  1. Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, and beef broth in your pressure cooker.

  2. Add the sliced beef and stir to coat.

  3. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes.

  4. While it’s cooking, steam your broccoli in the microwave for 3-4 minutes.

  5. When the beef is done, do a quick pressure release.

  6. Mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add it to the pot and stir.

  7. Add your steamed broccoli and mix gently.

  8. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.

Your beef and broccoli is ready to serve! Enjoy it over rice for a complete meal.

Mashed Potatoes

You’ll need:

  • 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Put 1 cup water in your pressure cooker. Place a steamer basket inside and add the potato quarters.

  2. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.

  3. When done, do a quick release of pressure. Carefully open the lid.

  4. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and milk.

  5. Mash the potatoes until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

  6. Give them a final stir and serve hot.

Your pressure cooker mashed potatoes are ready! They’re creamy, fluffy, and so easy to make. Enjoy your delicious side dish!

Carnitas

Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious carnitas in your pressure cooker:

  • 3-4 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Now, let’s make those carnitas!

  1. Mix the spices in a bowl. Rub the pork cubes with the spice mix.

  2. Set your pressure cooker to saute mode. Add oil and brown the pork in batches.

  3. Pour in the broth, lime juice, orange juice, and garlic. Stir to combine.

  4. Close the lid and set to high pressure for 30 minutes.

  5. Let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

  6. Remove the pork and shred it with two forks.

  7. For crispy carnitas, spread the meat on a baking sheet and broil for 5-10 minutes.

Your carnitas are ready to enjoy! Serve them in tacos, burritos, or on their own.

Chicken Noodle Soup

You’ll need:

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups egg noodles
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Set your pressure cooker to sauté mode. Melt the butter and cook onions, carrots, celery, and garlic for 3 minutes.

  2. Add chicken, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Close the lid and set to high pressure for 10 minutes.

  3. Quick release the pressure when done. Remove the chicken and shred it.

  4. Add the noodles to the pot. Set to sauté mode and cook for 6 minutes or until noodles are tender.

  5. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir.

Your comforting chicken noodle soup is ready! Serve it hot and enjoy the rich flavors. This easy recipe is perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Beef Stroganoff

Ready to make a tasty beef stroganoff in your pressure cooker? Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 8 oz egg noodles

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Set your pressure cooker to sauté mode. Add oil and brown the beef in batches. Set aside.

  2. In the same pot, sauté onions, mushrooms, and garlic until soft.

  3. Add beef back to the pot with broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Stir well.

  4. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Let it naturally release for 10 minutes.

  5. Open the lid and stir in sour cream. Add salt and pepper to taste.

  6. Serve your stroganoff over cooked egg noodles.

See also  25 Vegan Winter Recipes That'll Warm Your Soul and Delight Your Taste Buds

Enjoy your homemade beef stroganoff! It’s creamy, rich, and perfect for a cozy dinner.

Butternut Squash Soup

You’ll love this easy butternut squash soup in your pressure cooker! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 1 apple, cored and diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp sage
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: cream for serving

Directions:

  1. Turn on your pressure cooker’s sauté function. Add a bit of oil and cook the onion until soft.

  2. Toss in the garlic and cook for another minute.

  3. Add the squash, carrots, apple, broth, sage, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir.

  4. Close the lid and set to high pressure for 8 minutes.

  5. When done, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.

  6. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender.

  7. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

  8. Serve hot with a swirl of cream if you like.

This soup is perfect for chilly days and so easy to make!

Spaghetti and Meatballs

You’ll need:

  • 1 pound frozen meatballs
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 24 oz jar pasta sauce
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Add the frozen meatballs to your pressure cooker.

  2. Break the spaghetti in half and place it on top of the meatballs in a criss-cross pattern.

  3. Pour the pasta sauce and water over the spaghetti. Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top.

  4. Close the lid and set to high pressure for 8 minutes.

  5. When done, do a quick release of pressure.

  6. Stir everything gently to combine. The sauce might look thin at first but will thicken as it sits.

  7. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

  8. Add salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan if you like.

Your spaghetti and meatballs are ready! This easy one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights. The pasta comes out al dente and the meatballs are tender and juicy. Enjoy your home-cooked dinner with minimal cleanup!

Steel-Cut Oats

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1/2 cup steel-cut oats
  • 1 1/4 cups water
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional toppings: fruit, nuts, cinnamon, maple syrup

Now let’s make some delicious oats!

  1. Spray your pressure cooker pot with cooking spray.

  2. Add the oats, water, and salt to the pot. Give it a quick stir.

  3. Close and lock the lid. Make sure the valve is set to sealing.

  4. Set your cooker to high pressure for 10 minutes.

  5. When it’s done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.

  6. Open the lid and give your oats a good stir.

  7. Scoop into bowls and add your favorite toppings.

That’s it! You’ve got creamy, perfectly cooked steel-cut oats.

Want them softer? Cook for 15 minutes instead. Like them extra creamy? Go for 20 minutes.

You can easily double this recipe. Just keep the same ratio of oats to water.

Enjoy your hearty, healthy breakfast!

Baked Beans

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound dry navy beans
  • 8 cups water
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Soak the beans overnight in the pressure cooker pot with water and a pinch of salt.

  2. Drain and rinse the beans. Set them aside.

  3. Turn on the sauté function and cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and save for later.

  4. In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft.

  5. Add the beans and all other ingredients. Stir well.

  6. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.

  7. Let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

  8. Open the lid and give everything a good stir.

  9. If the beans are too watery, use the sauté function to simmer and thicken them up.

  10. Add the crispy bacon back in and serve your delicious baked beans!

Cheesecake

Ready to make a creamy cheesecake in your pressure cooker? Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, room temperature
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp flour
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 tbsp melted butter

Now let’s get cooking!

  1. Mix cream cheese until smooth in an electric mixer.

  2. Add sugar and flour, beat for 3 minutes.

  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low.

  4. Stir in sour cream and vanilla.

  5. Pour into a greased 7-inch springform pan.

  6. Add 1 cup water to your pressure cooker.

  7. Place the pan on a trivet inside the cooker.

  8. Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.

  9. Let pressure release naturally for 20-30 minutes.

  10. Cool on a rack for 1 hour, then refrigerate for 6 hours.

Your cheesecake is now ready to enjoy! Top with fresh fruit or jam for extra flavor.