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Got an Instant Pot, but not quite sure what to do with it? Don’t worry. In this helpful guide I’ll show you how to use this appliance to cut down the amount of time it takes to develop deep, rich flavors in a dish plus tips, and tricks that will give you all the information you need to start cooking confidently with your Instant Pot.

Whether you’re totally new to using the Instant Pot or you’re just trying to learn more about it, I’m here to answer all your questions! This multi-function appliance can make everything from soups and stews to rice and noodles, so let’s talk about it…
What Exactly Does An Instant Pot Do?
The Instant Pot is a countertop appliance that can be used for various cooking methods, including pressure-cooking, slow cooking, steaming, and sautéing. It’s an all-in-one device that uses the pressure created from steam and heat to accelerate the cooking process and concentrate flavor.
What Are The Benefits Of An Instant Pot?
There are countless benefits to cooking with this tool, but here are just a couple of my favorites…
- Since it relies on steam to cook your food, there’s no need for additional oils, making it a very healthy cooking method.
- Because this appliance uses a combination of heat and steam to cook food, it will not only cook your food faster, but also won’t dry out the food.
- It is one machine that serves many different purposes. You can use it as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, steamer, rice cooker, yogurt maker, food warmer, or sauté pan!
- Before cooking, you don’t have to worry about defrosting meat or veggies.
- This kitchen appliance is a countertop device, so it’s ideal for holidays or anytime you’re feeding a crowd. It’ll save you space in your oven, and it’s also ‘hands-off’ so you can make other dishes without worrying about overcooking.
What Is The Difference Between an Instant Pot and A Pressure Cooker?
There are two main differences between the traditional pressure cooker and the Instant Pot…
- The traditional pressure cooker has one function, to pressure-cook. Now with the Instant Pot has multiple functions, including sautéing, steaming, and pressure-cooking.
- The Instant Pot can only reach a PSI, or pressure, of 12. Conversely, the traditional stove top pressure cooker can reach a PSI of 15.
Instant Pot Recipes For Beginners
If you’re wondering how to get started with pressure-cooking, these recipes are guaranteed to help! These dishes are simple to follow, and they walk you through every step of using the appliance. Not to mention, the flavors in these dishes are out of this world delicious!

Instant Pot Pinto Beans
Instant Pot Pinto Beans are so easy to make with just 7 ingredients! This no-soak recipe uses dried beans cooked in the pressure cooker. These pinto beans are full of rich flavor, creamy, and great to serve as a main dish with a fresh salad and cornbread. But don’t stop there! They’re also perfect as a side dish, in tacos, chilies and just the thing when you’re feeding a crowd.

Instant Pot Pepper Jack Mac and Cheese
Thanks to the Instant Pot, this all-time favorite comfort food can be made in less than 5-minutes of cooking time! Instant Pot Mac and Cheese made with Pepper Jack, Mozzarella and Parmesan is creamy and luscious with a spicy kick. This superfast recipe will soon become your go-to when there’s little time to cook.

Instant Pot Garlic and Herb Rice
Garlic and Herb Rice is full of amazing flavor and is a terrific side dish that can be served any time of year.

Instant Pot Ultimate Pulled Pork Nachos
For the ULTIMATE NACHO recipe, THIS, is the only one you’ll ever need! Pulled Pork, cooked in the Instant Pot is tender and juicy.

Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Noodles
Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Noodles, made in less than 20 minutes, is the ultimate one-pot side dish. It’s cheesy, garlicky with just the right amount of butter and seasoning for a family-friendly recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknight meals or when you’re feeding a crowd.

Easy Instant Pot Mexican Rice
Thanks to the Instant Pot, this quick-cooking Mexican Rice is ready in no time! It has authentic flavors of that much-loved dish from your favorite Mexican restaurant with just the right amount of mild spice and a hint of tomatoes. It’s perfect to serve alongside any Mexican dish and will be a hit at your

Instant Pot Rustic Mashed Potatoes
Bust out your Instant Pot and make the easiest mashed potatoes ever! If your family loves potatoes, then this recipe if for you. Buttery, potatoes seasoned perfectly, made in less than 15 minutes are a great dish for a weeknight meal yet special enough for your holiday table. A few months ago, I bought an

BEST Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas
Grab your Instant Pot and make the BEST Black Eyed Peas ever! This no-soak recipe makes tender, flavorful peas that are perfect for any family dinner, Sunday supper and a must-make for New Year’s Day.

Instant Pot Coconut Lime Rice
Make perfect rice every single time in the Instant Pot! Fluffy rice, made with coconut milk, lime zest and juice, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley is an ideal side dish to serve any time of the year.

Instant Pot Bacon & Cheese Egg Bites
Creamy eggs, flavored with bacon and cheese cooked perfectly in your Instant Pot are a great way to start the day. If you love Starbucks sous vide eggs then this recipe is for you! It may have taken a while but I finally jumped on the Instant Pot train. I was not quite sure how
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