Instant Pot recipes: Seven versatile meal ideas

Instant Pots have a cult-like fan base

The Instant Pot is a cult-favourite kitchen appliance

There is one kitchen appliance that millions of people say they can not live without - and it’s not a dishwasher or microwave.

Rather, it’s the Instant Pot, a new-and-improved version of the old-fashioned pressure cooker, that will change the way you cook - because you can make just about anything inside.

The small electronic appliance is a multi-cooker, which means it is can be used as a steamer, a pressure cooker, a slow cooker, and a rice cooker - as well as for other uses such as making yoghurt or cake.

Because of the versatility and usefulness of Instant Pots, the countertop cookers have become a cult-classic.

These are seven of the varied recipes you can make in an Instant Pot.

New York Cheesecake

New York is known for many classic foods - one of them being cheesecake.

Fortunately, owning an instant pot means you don’t need to search for a bakery selling the perfect cheesecake, as you can make your own creamy version.

To make a New York Cheesecake in an Instant Pot, it requires several steps - but it is possible.

You can make cakes and cheesecake in an instant pot (Stock)

According to the recipe from Amy and Jacky, making Instant Pot cheesecake is as simple as using graham crackers to make a crust, and then pouring a batter that incorporates cream cheese, sour cream and sugar inside. Once the mixture is encased inside a cheesecake pan, all it takes is 26 minutes of cooking in the Instant Pot - and then refrigeration overnight.

You can find the whole recipe here.

Mashed potatoes

To make simple-yet-easy mashed potatoes, you can also rely on an Instant Pot.

Although it depends on which model you have, the creamy potatoes require just one pressure cook cycle before they are ready - which makes the side dish much easier to make than in the past.

You can find the full recipe here.

Hard-boiled eggs

Instant pots can also be used for simple snacks, such as hard-boiled eggs.

The method is basically "foolproof" according to the recipe, and requires just eggs and ice water.

You can see how here.

Mulled wine

Proving the versatility of the kitchen appliance, mulled wine can also be on the menu when using an Instant Pot. Although the flavours you use can vary by personal preference, the end result is a beverage that can warm you on even the coldest winter day.

To make the warm drink, you'll need wine, apple cider and various spices - and you'll get to use the saute button on the Instant Pot.

You can see the full recipe here.

Steamed rice

To make an easy side dish such as rice, the Instant Pot is perfect.

Whether you are planning on using the rice as a side dish or a base for a flavourful sauce, which can also be made inside the Instant Pot, it is extremely simple to make - and you'll never end up with overcooked rice again.

You can see how to make Instant Pot rice here.

Tacos

You can even host your own taco night via Instant Pot, and you won't have to worry about splatters or undercooked meat.

Although gathering the sides cannot be done in the Instant Pot, unfortunately, any meat fillings will be perfectly prepared.

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You can make tacos in an instant pot (Stock)

You can see the full recipe for Instant Pot tacos here.

Healthy chocolate steel-cut oats

Instant pots can also be used to make vegan oats perfect for breakfast - meaning you won't have to scramble in the morning to prepare something before work.

Although steel-cut oats can be made with various toppings, this recipe calls for bananas, cocoa powder and no added sugar - meaning it is healthy and fast to make.

​To see how to make steel-cut oats in an Instant Pot, you can see the recipe here.

To get the most out of your Instant Pot, make sure you read the instructions before you start to cook, as all pots have different functions and uses.