Ever find yourself dreaming of cheap and easy Instant Pot recipes that let you enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals without emptying your wallet or spending all day in the kitchen? Well, dream no more—because the Instant Pot is here to save the day! This magical kitchen gadget is a total game-changer, making it easier than ever to whip up affordable, fuss-free meals that taste like you’ve been slaving away for hours.
Let’s be real: cooking on a budget can sometimes feel like you’re sacrificing flavor or quality. But with the Instant Pot, that’s not the case. It’s like having a kitchen superhero that cuts down on prep time, locks in all those rich, hearty flavors, and does it all in one pot. Think about it—less cleanup, less time, and more deliciousness. Sounds pretty perfect for today’s busy life, right?
In this article, we’re diving into the world of cheap and easy Instant Pot recipes that are as nourishing as they are wallet-friendly. We’ll share some of our favorite budget-friendly dishes, plus handy tips on ingredient swaps, prep hacks, and creative ways to tweak recipes to suit your taste and budget. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned pro, these recipes are designed to be simple, satisfying, and totally doable.
So, if you’re looking to stretch your grocery budget, simplify your dinner routine, or just try something new, you’re in the right place. Grab your Instant Pot, and let’s get cooking! Together, we’ll prove that flavorful, easy, and affordable meals are totally within reach. Let’s go!
Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta :cheap and easy instant pot recipes
This cheap and easy Instant Pot recipe is a crowd-pleaser—creamy, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast (diced)
- 2 cups pasta (penne or fusilli work great)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add the diced chicken, pasta, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
- Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes.
- Once done, do a quick release. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley or extra cheese if you’re feeling fancy.
Why We Love It: This dish is the ultimate cheap and easy Instant Pot recipe—minimal prep, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli : cheap and easy instant pot recipes
Craving takeout but don’t want to spend the cash? This cheap and easy Instant Pot recipe brings the flavors of your favorite Chinese dish right to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak (sliced thin)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp ginger (minced)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
Instructions:
- Add the sliced beef, soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, garlic, and ginger to the Instant Pot.
- Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes.
- Do a quick release, then stir in the broccoli.
- Mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir it into the pot to thicken the sauce.
- Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Why We Love It: This cheap and easy Instant Pot recipe is faster (and cheaper!) than ordering takeout. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and veggies.
If you’re looking for quick meals that even your kids will love, check out these easy Instant Pot recipes for kids. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you need something nutritious and fuss-free!
Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili : cheap and easy instant pot recipes
Even meatless meals can be hearty and satisfying with this cheap and easy Instant Pot recipe. It’s perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to cut back on meat.
Ingredients:
- 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 bell pepper (diced)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add all the ingredients to the Instant Pot and give it a good stir.
- Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes.
- Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.
- Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices for extra yum.
Why We Love It: This cheap and easy Instant Pot recipe is not only budget-friendly but also packed with protein and flavor. It’s a win-win for your wallet and your taste buds!
For cost efficiency, consider buying in bulk or visiting local farmers’ markets. Spices too can often be purchased in smaller quantities at ethnic markets to help reduce costs. For inspiration on sourcing budget-friendly ingredients, visit Budget Bytes.
Try these cheap and easy Instant Pot recipes that are packed with flavor and won’t strain your wallet.
Preparation Essentials
To make the most of this recipe, you’ll need just a few kitchen essentials. First and foremost is an Instant Pot—any model will do, but a 6-quart version works well for most families. This versatile appliance will be your ticket to quick and easy cooking.
Here’s a checklist of what else you’ll need:
- Cutting Board: For chopping any fresh add-ins like onions or garlic.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accuracy, particularly with rice and spices.
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your Instant Pot’s surface.
If you’re new to the Instant Pot, don’t worry—it’s extremely beginner-friendly. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and ingredients are pre-measured. Familiarize yourself with your Instant Pot’s “Sauté” and “Pressure Cook” functions, as these will be your go-to settings for this recipe.
Need additional help getting started with your Instant Pot? Check out this beginner’s guide from Food Network. It’s a great resource for understanding the basics and troubleshooting common beginner mistakes.
Troubleshooting and Tips
Even the best Instant Pot recipes can come with a learning curve, but don’t worry—this section will ensure a smooth cooking experience for everyone, especially beginners.
Common Challenges and Solutions
One frequent issue is the dreaded “Burn” notice. This typically happens when there’s not enough liquid in the pot or food particles stick to the bottom. To prevent this, always deglaze the pot after sautéing by adding a bit of broth or water and scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon. If the message appears mid-cooking, add more liquid, stir, and restart.
Another challenge some face is undercooked ingredients, such as rice or dried beans. To avoid this, ensure you follow the exact order of layering ingredients (e.g., add liquid before sealing) and use the correct pressure settings. For dried beans, pre-soak them or opt for canned versions to save time.
Flavor Enhancers
Instant Pot dishes can sometimes lack depth if the layering of flavors isn’t done right. One tip is to toast spices in oil during the sauté stage to amplify their aroma. Additionally, consider finishing your dish with a squeeze of lemon or a dollop of yogurt for brightness.
General Efficiency Tips
If you’re doubling the recipe for a crowd, avoid overfilling the Instant Pot—stick to the max line to ensure pressure cooking works effectively. Always check the sealing ring on the lid for proper placement before starting, as a misaligned ring can affect the cooking process.
With these easy fixes and tips, your Instant Pot experience will remain stress-free and highly rewarding.
Creative Twists and Variations
The beauty of this recipe lies in how effortlessly it adapts to different tastes, dietary needs, or even cuisines. Here are some creative ways to tweak this Instant Pot dish and make it uniquely yours.
Discover Global Flavors
A few small changes in the spice blend can transform this base recipe into something entirely new. Incorporate garam masala and coconut milk for an Indian-inspired curry, or add chipotle powder and black beans for a Tex-Mex infusion. The versatility of this dish ensures you’ll never grow bored of its flavor profile.
Make It Plant-Based
To cater to vegan or vegetarian diets, swap any animal-based products (like chicken broth) with vegetable stock. You can also crumble in firm tofu or add cubed sweet potatoes to increase the nutritional value while keeping costs low.
Protein-Packed Options
For those craving meat, shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even sliced sausage can be added. Simply brown the protein during the sauté stage before layering in the other ingredients.
Meal Prep Hero
This recipe doubles as a fantastic meal prep option. Divide the cooled dish into airtight containers and enjoy it throughout the week. It pairs beautifully with side staples like rice or flatbreads for quick, no-fuss dinners.
Don’t be afraid to experiment—this recipe is as flexible as your creativity allows.
FAQ: Common Questions About Cheap Instant Pot Recipes
What are some easy Instant Pot recipes?
Many Instant Pot recipes are beginner-friendly, including soups, stews, pasta, and rice dishes. Start with simple options like chicken and rice, vegetable chili, or creamy mac and cheese. These recipes require few ingredients, minimal prep, and deliver consistent results.
Can I use frozen ingredients in an Instant Pot?
Yes! One of the greatest benefits of the Instant Pot is its ability to cook frozen ingredients safely and efficiently. For example, you can cook frozen chicken breasts directly in an Instant Pot by adding a little extra time to the recipe’s pressure cooking duration. However, be mindful not to overcrowd the pot, which can impact cooking times.
How do you make meals for under $10?