I get so many reader questions about how to use an Instant Pot and I understand…it can be overwhelming at first! I’ve compiled some essential tips and tricks that will turn you into an expert in no time!
Don’t miss all of my instant pot recipes, like Instant Pot Beef Gyros, Instant Pot Tomato and Basil Soup, or Instant Pot Spaghetti!
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Unlock the TRUE POTENTIAL of your Instant Pot!
Rest assured, Instant Pots today are nothing like those scary steaming hot pressure cookers of old. Trust me, if you can run a microwave, you can use an Instant Pot!
I make yogurt, Chicken & Rice, and Taco Bowls the most with my Instant Pot, but I have a ton of family favorite Instant Pot Recipes we all love!
Looking to purchase one? I love my Instant Pot Rio. It’s a slimmer design than the original and they updated the release button to make it even easier to use! In my opinion, it’s the best instant pot!
My Best Tips & Tricks
#1 Be willing to experiment. The Instant Pot can be used in so many different ways!
- Slow Cooker
- Rice Cooker
- Sauté Pan
- Steamer
- Yogurt Maker
- The BEST hard boiled eggs
#2 Safety First! While they have multiple built-in safety features, it’s still crucial to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions. It’s almost impossible to injure yourself, but you must ALWAYS release the pressure carefully and away from your face. Never force the lid open if it’s stuck either!
#3 Water Ratios: You need liquid to have it steam up properly. When in doubt, start with 1 cup of liquid, but if you are cooking something that absorbs water, you’ll need more.
#4 The Sauté Function is your buddy! It’s excellent for browning meat and sautéing onions and garlic before pressure cooking. It really helps to kick up the flavor of your recipes!
#5 Natural Release vs Quick Release: I use natural release for dishes with rice as a rule. Veggies and meats can handle the quick release! (You don’t want to overcook them)
#6 Accessories! There are SO many accessories these days! I love my steamer basket, egg molds, and the glass lid for slow cooking.
Instant Pot Recipes:
Easy Instant Pot Stroganoff
Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo
Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Instant Pot Short Ribs
Instant Pot Meatloaf
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Instant Pot Apple Crisp
Instant Pot Ribs
Instant Pot Applesauce
Want more hands on help?
Sign up for my popular 5 email series “Instant Pot: Magic One-Pot Meals!” where I walk you through every step of the process (including the dreaded burn notice and confusing natural release settings)
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I also fight with our allegedly easy insta pot, and steam is everywhere, but I read and watched a few articles and I believe I understand why now.
So thank you. I have tons of gadgets, but my hands can’t always use them. I can still press buttons tho.
Thank you again!
Julie K.
Thank you so much for all of this, site, recipes, and grocery list! Omy goodness I have literally sat here thinking what to make for a super busy family of 5, and I have R/A really bad, that I can’t cook like I used to. You have some lovely short cuts in here, my family is going to be so happy. They were talking about home cooking vs eating out. Big difference in health and wallet.
What awesome person you are for doing this and helping so many, perhaps, more than you can even know.
Blessings and gratitude
Julie K.