25 Instant Pot Dinners Better Than Takeout

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After years of weeknights where takeout felt like the only option, the Instant Pot is what finally got dinner back on my table. These 25 Instant Pot dinners cover hearty soups and stews, pasta and rice dishes, shredded chicken, pulled pork, and sandwiches like Italian beef and French dip, most of them ready in about the time a delivery order takes to show up. These are the ones that keep the takeout menus in the drawer.

Instant Pot Jambalaya

Top view of Instant Pot jambalaya in a white bowl with shrimp and sausage.
Instant Pot Jambalaya. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Instant Pot Jambalaya brings the bold flavors of Cajun cooking right to your family table. Combining shrimp, andouille sausage, chicken, and rice, it’s a one-pot meal that cuts down on time without losing any punch, making busy weeknights easier.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jambalaya

Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Pulled pork on a bun with sauce and cabbage.
Instant Pot Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Instant Pot Pulled Pork speeds up a classic slow-cooked favorite so you can enjoy tender, shredded pork in just a couple of hours. This recipe fits perfectly into family dinners when you want a hearty meal without spending all day cooking.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken on wooden cutting board.
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This recipe for Honey Garlic Chicken uses the Instant Pot to deliver juicy chicken thighs in about 30 minutes. It’s a great option for quick family dinners that don’t skimp on flavor or ease.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Olive Garden Minestrone Soup in a white bowl topped with basil.
Olive Garden Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Olive Garden Minestrone Soup made in the Instant Pot is a quick way to get a veggie-packed meal on the table. It’s a simple, nourishing soup that works well for families looking for a no-fuss dinner.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Instant Pot Fish Stew

Fish stew with tomatoes and onions in a white bowl.
Instant Pot Fish Stew. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Instant Pot Fish Stew cooks white fish in a light wine and fennel broth, making a fresh and healthy dinner option. Its quick preparation suits family meals when you want something different but easy to pull together.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Fish Stew

Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken

Buffalo chicken sandwich with blue cheese and celery.
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken is a fast and straightforward way to bring bold, spicy flavors to your family dinner. With just two ingredients, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something packed with flavor but simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken

Instant Pot Ranch Chicken Pasta

Ranch chicken pasta in a pressure cooker.
Instant Pot Ranch Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Ranch Chicken Pasta in the Instant Pot combines tender chicken, creamy ranch sauce, and pasta all in one pot. This recipe works well for families who need a quick, comforting meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Ranch Chicken Pasta

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Two bowls of instant pot macaroni and cheese on a red and white checkered tablecloth.
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese keeps things simple with just five ingredients and one pot. It’s a great choice for family dinners that call for a classic favorite made fast and fuss-free.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Instant Pot Orange Chicken

Plate of orange chicken in a metal bowl from the top.
Instant Pot Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Instant Pot Orange Chicken delivers a fast, flavorful meal inspired by takeout favorites. It’s a great way to bring a bright, Asian-inspired dish to the family table without a long cooking time.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Orange Chicken

Instant Pot Salsa Chicken

Instant pot shredded chicken tacos on a plate.
Instant Pot Salsa Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Salsa Chicken in the Instant Pot is an easy, three-ingredient recipe that cooks chicken with salsa for a versatile meal. It’s perfect for quick dinners that can be turned into tacos, bowls, or sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Salsa Chicken

Instant Pot Vegetable Soup

Two bowls of instant pot vegetable soup in front of the pressure cooker.
Instant Pot Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Instant Pot Vegetable Soup is a hearty meal that comes together quickly, perfect for families who want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s an easy way to get a variety of veggies on the table.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Vegetable Soup

Apple Cider Instant Pot Beef Stew

Bowl of Instant Pot beef stew with carrots and potatoes.
Apple Cider Instant Pot Beef Stew. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Apple Cider Beef Stew uses the Instant Pot to make tender beef and vegetables in a slightly sweet gravy. It’s a comforting dish that fits family dinners when you want a rich meal without the long wait.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Instant Pot Beef Stew

Instant Pot Dirty Rice

Dirty rice with ground beef in a bowl topped with green onions.
Instant Pot Dirty Rice. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Instant Pot Dirty Rice brings Cajun flavors to your weeknight table with a one-pot mix of beef and rice. This recipe is great for families looking for a little spice and a straightforward cooking process.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Dirty Rice

Instant Pot Meatball Soup

close up of bowl of Instant Pot meatball soup
Instant Pot Meatball Soup. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Meatball Soup made in the Instant Pot combines beef meatballs, carrots, and potatoes in a tomato broth for a quick and hearty meal. It’s a simple way to get a comforting dinner on the table fast.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Meatball Soup

Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs

Plate of spaghetti and meatballs topped with parmesan.
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe makes a classic family meal easy by cooking meatballs, sauce, and pasta all in one pot. It’s a great option for busy nights when you want a filling dinner with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs

Instant Pot Fish Tacos

Fish tacos on a plate in tortillas with coriander and lemon wedges.
Instant Pot Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Fish Tacos from the Instant Pot come together in about 30 minutes, even using frozen fish. This recipe is a quick and healthy way to bring a fun, family-friendly dinner to the table.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Fish Tacos

Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwich

Instant Pot Italian Beef on a roll with cheese.
Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwich. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches feature tender beef cooked with pepperoncini and shredded for a flavorful, slightly spicy meal. This recipe fits family dinners and parties where you want something hearty and easy to serve.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwich

Instant Pot Pork Loin Roast

Instant Pot recipe for pork tenderloin served with apple sauce on a white plate.
Instant Pot Pork Loin Roast. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Pork Loin Roast cooked in the Instant Pot with apples and potatoes makes a full meal with minimal effort. It’s a great choice for family dinners when you want something straightforward and complete.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pork Loin Roast

Instant Pot French Dip Sandwiches

Instant pot French dip sandwich next to an instant pot.
Instant Pot French Dip Sandwiches. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Instant Pot French Dip Sandwiches use chuck roast cooked in au jus for tender meat that falls apart easily. This recipe works well for family dinners that want a flavorful sandwich without long prep time.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot French Dip Sandwiches

Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff

Beef stroganoff on a plate topped with parsley.
Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Beef Stroganoff in the Instant Pot combines beef, mushrooms, and egg noodles in a creamy sauce for a comforting one-pot meal. It’s perfect for family dinners that call for something rich but quick to make.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff

Instant Pot Pineapple Chili

Top view of a bowl of pineapple chili.
Instant Pot Pineapple Chili. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Pineapple Chili in the Instant Pot mixes sweet pineapple with spicy beef for a different take on chili. It’s a good option for family dinners when you want something with a little kick and a hint of sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pineapple Chili

Instant Pot Lamb Shank

Instant pot lamb shank recipe with mashed potatoes and carrots.
Instant Pot Lamb Shank. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Lamb Shank cooked in the Instant Pot with red wine and vegetables creates a restaurant-style meal at home. This recipe fits family dinners when you want a special dish that’s easier and faster to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Lamb Shank

Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana

A bowl of creamy yellow soup with chunks of sausage, potato and leafy greens.
Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Zuppa Toscana made in the Instant Pot is a hearty soup packed with flavor that’s ready in about 30 minutes. It’s a solid choice for family dinners on chilly evenings when you want a quick, filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana

Instant Pot Turkey Soup with Rice

closeup of a bowl of Instant Pot turkey soup
Instant Pot Turkey Soup with Rice. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Instant Pot Turkey Soup with Rice is a simple way to turn leftover turkey into a fresh, comforting family meal. It cooks quickly and is perfect for keeping family dinners easy and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Turkey Soup with Rice

Instant Pot Chili

Bowl of chili in front of the Instant pot.
Instant Pot Chili. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Instant Pot Chili recipe brings classic comfort food to your table with an easy pressure cooker method. It’s a go-to for family dinners when you want a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chili

anne

Hi, I’m Anne!

I love to cook and I want to share my recipes with you. I believe cooking should be approachable and fun, not a chore. I want to make simple recipes using everyday ingredients that you can make again and again, whether it is for a busy weeknight, a summer cookout or a special dessert. Read more...

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