Cheap Easy Instant Pot Recipes for Quick Delicious Meals

Looking for delicious meals that won’t break the bank or consume hours in the kitchen? Instant Pot recipes are the perfect solution!

These cheap, easy Instant Pot recipes combine affordability, convenience, and great taste, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student on a budget, or simply want to save time without sacrificing flavor, the Instant Pot is your culinary best friend.

From hearty soups to comforting pasta dishes, these recipes require minimal ingredients and effort but deliver maximum satisfaction.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the best budget-friendly Instant Pot recipes that anyone can whip up quickly. You’ll discover why these meals are so beloved, what you’ll need to get started, and insider tips to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Ready to transform your cooking game? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Instant Pot recipes are a game changer for anyone who wants to eat well without spending hours or lots of money. These recipes maximize flavor with affordable ingredients like beans, rice, pasta, and inexpensive cuts of meat or vegetables.

The pressure cooking technology drastically reduces cooking times, enabling you to prepare meals in under 30 minutes.

These meals are not only budget-friendly but also incredibly versatile. You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

Plus, the Instant Pot locks in nutrients and flavors, making every bite delicious and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, these dishes are crowd-pleasers that won’t empty your wallet.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils (or canned lentils for quicker prep)
• 1 cup rice (white or brown)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• Optional: 1/2 pound ground turkey or chicken

Equipment

• Instant Pot or any electric pressure cooker
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Bowl for rinsing lentils or rice

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Rinse the lentils and rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Sauté aromatics: Press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add protein (optional): If using ground turkey or chicken, add it now and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add spices and liquids: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Then add the lentils, rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), and broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Seal and cook: Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the timer for 10 minutes.
6. Natural pressure release: When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
7. Add vegetables (optional): If using frozen vegetables, stir them in now. Close the lid and let them warm in the residual heat for 5 minutes.
8. Final stir and serve: Open the lid, give the dish a good stir, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“Pressure cooker meals are forgiving! Feel free to swap lentils for beans, or use quinoa instead of rice for a protein boost.”

• Make it vegetarian: Skip the meat and use vegetable broth plus your favorite veggies like spinach or kale for a healthy twist.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for some heat.
• Use canned beans: For an even quicker version, substitute dried lentils with canned lentils, reducing cooking time to 5 minutes.
• Prep ahead: Double the recipe and refrigerate leftovers for an easy lunch or dinner the next day.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This hearty Instant Pot lentil and rice dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. You can also top it with a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of shredded cheese to add creaminess and extra flavor.

For a more filling option, serve alongside warm naan bread or garlic toast. Leftovers reheat well and make for an excellent meal prep option during busy weeks.

Conclusion

Cheap and easy Instant Pot recipes like this one are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy home-cooked meals without the hassle or expense. They combine wholesome, budget-friendly ingredients with the convenience of pressure cooking, saving you time and energy.

Whether you’re new to the Instant Pot or a seasoned pro, these recipes are adaptable and forgiving, making it easy to put a nutritious meal on the table any day of the week.

Give this recipe a try and experiment with your favorite add-ins and spices. For more inspiration, check out our other quick and affordable recipes like One-Pot Chicken and Rice, Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili, and Easy Beef Stew.

Your Instant Pot will quickly become your go-to kitchen appliance for tasty, budget-friendly meals!

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