Is Instant Pot the Best Pressure Cooker? We Put It to the Test
Updated: Jan. 30, 2021Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links.
To find the best pressure cooker, our Test Kitchen tried the most popular brands on the market—including Instant Pot.
Not too long ago, “pressure cooker” referred to a simple stovetop appliance. But throughout the last decade, programmable electric pressure cookers and multicookers have exploded in popularity, claiming to make favorites like pulled pork and pot roast tastier and quicker than ever.
But with so many different brands on the market, it can be hard to know what’s worth the hype—although our pressure cooker buying guide can help. Our Test Kitchen had to know: Is the Instant Pot really the best pressure cooker, or is there another brand that’s even better?
(Here’s the difference between Instant Pots and stovetop pressure cookers.)
How We Found the Best Pressure Cooker
To get to the bottom of that question, our Test Kitchen put several electric pressure cookers and multicookers to the test. Our experts used each model to make dozens of recipes over the course of several months and evaluated them head-to-head based on the following criteria.
- Pressure-cooking on high: How did the machine do at making a pork shoulder on the high setting?
- Pressure-cooking on low: Using the low setting, how did the pressure cooker do making hard-boiled eggs?
- Slow-cooking and sauteing: How did the pressure cooker perform in searing and then slow-cooking a pot roast?
- Price: Is the product affordable? Was the performance reflected in the price?
(Get a behind-the-scenes look at how our Test Kitchen chooses its favorite products.)
Our Test Kitchen-Preferred Pressure Cookers
After trying out multiple different electric pressure cookers, our Test Kitchen found a clear winner and a few other favorites.
The Best Overall Pressure Cooker: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker was our experts’ overall favorite and the simplest to use among all of the brands we tried. It’s big, has many different functions and passed all of our Test Kitchen’s challenges with flying colors. Plus, the lid and stainless steel insert are both dishwasher-safe, making cleanup is a breeze. (Here’s our guide to how to clean an Instant Pot.)
Once you familiarize yourself with all of the Instant Pot’s buttons and controls, cooking comes easily. And with a devoted following of fans, there are plenty of Instant Pot resources, including troubleshooting tips and online forums. (Check out our Instant Pot cooking guide, too!) There are also tons of Instant Pot accessories that can add even more functions to this mighty appliance.
The Instant Pot earned perfect scores from our kitchen staff. Food stylist Shannon Roum prepared a basic pork shoulder in it, first browning the meat with the saute function and then cooking it using the high-pressure setting. In an hour (plus release time), she had tasty pulled pork that was “falling-apart tender.” The slow-cooker function worked just as well—our cooks used it to make fork-tender beef following this Slow-Cooker Pot Roast recipe (they seared the meat first using the saute mode). Finally, the low pressure-cooking setting proved that the Instant Pot makes perfect hard-boiled eggs in just 5 minutes.
- Size: 6 quarts
- Functions: Pressure-cook, slow-cook, cook rice, steam, saute, make yogurt, warm
- Price: $79.00
Best for Messy Cooking Projects: Crock-Pot Express Multicooker
The Crock-Pot Express Multicooker is similar to the Instant Pot in size and functionality. Also like the Instant Pot, it claims to cook food 70% faster than conventional ovens.
This Crock-Pot multicooker comes with an easy-to-clean nonstick insert, which we loved for our messier cooking projects. The only drawback to this material is that it didn’t brown foods as well as the other multicookers did.
- Size: 6 quarts
- Functions: Pressure-cook, slow-cook, brown/saute, steam, boil, simmer, warm, make yogurt
- Price: $87.94
Most Functions: Black + Decker 11-in-1 Multicooker
Like the other electric multicookers we tested, the Black + Decker 11-in-1 Multicooker has many extra settings beyond pressure-cooking. In addition to its seven pressure-cooker settings, it has four additional modes for slow-cooking, and browning and warming food.
Our Test Kitchen appreciated that this Black + Decker multicooker came with clear directions that were easy to follow. However, our cooks found the handle on the lid to be a bit awkward—especially when avoiding hot steam after pressure-cooking.
- Size: 6 quarts
- Functions: Pressure-cook, slow-cook, brown, steam, warm
- Price: $74.98
What to Make with Your Instant Pot
With settings for rice, meat, beans, soup, yogurt and more, there are few things you can’t make in an Instant Pot. However, our Test Kitchen’s favorite pressure-cooker recipe is this Pressure-Cooker Sauerbraten. The Instant Pot’s pressure-cooker mode cooks the beef, carrots, celery and onion until tender—and after switching to saute mode, we add a secret ingredient: gingersnaps!
If you’re craving something sweet, these Instant Pot desserts are easy to whip up—we especially love this pressure-cooker cheesecake recipe! For more great recipes to make in an Instant Pot, check out our best pressure-cooker recipes.
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Pressure-Cooker Sauerbraten
One of my all-time favorite German dishes is sauerbraten, but I don't love that it normally takes five to 10 days to make. Using an electric pressure cooker, I think I've captured that same distinctive flavor in less than two hours. —James Schend, Deputy Editor, Taste of Home
Pressure-Cooker Chicken with Olives & Artichokes
My grandmother came from the region around Seville, Spain, where olives and red wine are produced. Those ingredients get starring roles in her scrumptious chicken. —Suzette Zara, Scottsdale, Arizona
Pressure Cooker Carolina Shrimp & Cheddar Grits
Instant pot shrimp and grits are a house favorite—if only we could agree on a recipe. I stirred things up with cheddar and Cajun seasoning to find a winner. —Charlotte Price, Raleigh, North Carolina
Maple French Toast Bake
This yummy French toast casserole is a breeze to whip up the night before a busy morning. My family loves the richness it gets from cream cheese and maple syrup. —Cindy Steffen, Cedarburg, Wisconsin
Pressure Cooker Boeuf Bourguignon
I've wanted to make beef Burgundy ever since I got one of Julia Child's cookbooks, but I wanted to find a way to fix it in a pressure cooker. My version of the popular beef stew is still rich, hearty and delicious, but without the need to watch on the stovetop or in the oven.—Crystal Jo Bruns, Iliff, Colorado
Pressure-Cooker Sausage & Waffle Bake
Here's an easy dish guaranteed to create excitement at the breakfast table! Nothing is missing from this sweet and savory combination. It's so wrong, it's right! —Courtney Lentz, Boston, Massachusetts
Pressure-Cooker Sweet 'n' Sour Pork
Even though a co-worker gave me this recipe more than 20 years ago, my family still enjoys it today.—Martha Nickerson, Hancock, Maine
Pressure Cooker Nutty Apple Butter
Being a New England native, I love apple-picking season. Grab some apples and peanut butter to make this creamy PB&J riff. Dunk in sliced fruit or graham crackers, or spread it on a sandwich. —Brandie Cranshaw, Rapid City, SD
Pressure Cooker Savory Mustard Pork Roast
The unique pairing of honey and molasses with diced tomatoes, red wine and stone-ground mustard yields the most delightful mustard sauce with just a hint of sweetness in this pressure cooker pork roast. —Ezra Elkon, Charles Town, West Virginia
Pressure-Cooker Apple-Cranberry Grains
These assorted pressure-cooker grains are perfect together. A hearty breakfast is ready fast in the morning, making this healthy recipe a favorite in my home. —Sherisse Dawe, Black Diamond, Alberta, Canada
Pressure Cooker Hearty Pork & Black Bean Nachos
My husband and I are both graduate students right now, so we don't have a lot of time to cook dinner. Our family loves coming home to this incredible nacho platter, and I love how easy it is to prepare. —Faith Stokes, Chickamauga, Georgia
Pressure-Cooker Turkey with Berry Compote
This delicious dish gives you a way to get all that yummy turkey flavor without heating up the house, and the berries make the perfect summer sauce. For a browner turkey, just broil it for a few minutes before serving. —Margaret Bracher, Robertsdale, Alabama
Pressure-Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
Orzo pasta with chicken, olives and herbes de Provence has the bright flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Here’s a bonus: Leftovers reheat well. —Thomas Faglon, Somerset, New Jersey
Pressure Cooker Herbed Chicken and Shrimp
Tender chicken and shrimp make a flavorful combination that's easy to prepare, yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. While I clean the house, it practically cooks itself. I serve it over hot cooked rice with crusty bread and a green salad. —Diana Knight Reno, Nevada
Pressure Cooker Pork Chili Verde
Pork slowly stews with jalapenos, onion, green enchilada sauce and spices in this flavor-packed Mexican dish. It is fantastic on its own or stuffed in a warm tortilla with sour cream, grated cheese or olives on the side. —Kimberly Burke, Chico, California
Pressure-Cooker Barbecued Beef Ribs
These tender, tangy ribs taste slow-cooked but are a cinch to make. They’re great for picnics as well as a family dinner.—Erin Glass, White Hall, Maryland
Pressure-Cooker Apple Balsamic Chicken
I just love the sweet and tart flavor that balsamic vinegar gives to this easy dish. After cooking in the pressure cooker for just a few minutes, the chicken thighs are tender and flavorful. —Juli Snaer, Enid, Oklahoma
Pressure-Cooker Fabulous Fajitas
When friends call to ask for new recipes to try, suggest these tasty fajitas. Top as you like to add healthy color and extra flavor. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Pressure Cooker Cherry-Almond Oatmeal
If you’re craving a sweet and satisfying breakfast, try my hot cereal. It’s so simple...just place the ingredients in the pressure cooker and then treat yourself to a comforting bowl of goodness.. —Geraldine Saucier, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Pressure-Cooker Chicken Thighs in Wine Sauce
I love this recipe for its incredible flavor—and it seems everyone who tries it does, too. For an easy pairing, try mashed potatoes and peas.—Heike Annucci, Hudson, North Carolina
Pressure-Cooker Cherry & Spice Rice Pudding
I live in Traverse City, which calls itself the cherry capital of the world. What better way to celebrate our wonderful orchards than by using plump, tart dried cherries in my favorite desserts? This pressure-cooked rice pudding recipe always turns out wonderful. —Deb Perry, Traverse City, Michigan
Pressure-Cooker Chicken Bog
Chicken Bog is a South Carolina tradition with lots of variations—think herbs, spices and fresh veggies—but the standard ingredients remain sausage, chicken and rice. This pressure-cooked rendition is a simple take on the classic. — Anna Hanson, Spanish Fork, Utah
Pressure Cooker Apple-Pear Compote
Apples and pears are almost always popular, so this warm, comforting dessert recipe is great for potlucks or other get-togethers. I also like to add raisins or chopped nuts to the compote, and for a more adult flavor I add 1/3 cup brandy or rum.—Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
Pressure-Cooker Buffalo Shrimp Mac & Cheese
For a rich, creamy and slightly spicy shrimp and pasta recipe, you can't beat this crowd-pleasing dish. It's a nice new twist on popular Buffalo chicken dishes.—Robin Haas, Cranston, Rhode Island
Pressure-Cooker Mexican Beef Soup
My family loves this stew, and I'm happy to make it since it's so simple! Serve the dish with cornbread to make the meal even more filling. —Angela Lively, Conroe, Texas
Pressure Cooker Denver Omelet Frittata
Pepper, onion and ham go into this classic breakfast preparation, made simple thanks to the pressure cooker. Here's the perfect brunch dish to serve company after church or another early outing. —Connie Eaton, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pressure-Cooker Tuna Noodle Casserole
We tweaked this family-friendly classic to work for the pressure cooker. Go for easy, wholesome and totally homemade!—Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Pressure Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup
What's the quickest and tastiest way to bring the flavor to your favorite chicken tortilla soup? Instant Pot! This soup delivers a big bowl of fresh comfort—just ask my husband. Toppings like avocado, sour cream and tortilla strips are a must. —Heather Sewell, Harrisonville, Missouri
Pressure-Cooker Risotto with Shrimp and Asparagus
This speedy method of making risotto works every time! —Kim Gray, Davie, Florida
Pressure-Cooker Chinese-Style Ribs
It's nice to walk in after a hard day's work and have dinner ready in a short amount of time. I hope you agree these ribs are quick, easy and delicious. Enjoy! —Paula Marchesi, Lenhartsville, Pennsylvania
Pressure Cooker Celebration Brussels Sprouts
This recipe hits all the flavor points and makes a fantastic Thanksgiving or Christmas side. Plus, you've got to love a dish that requires minimal effort and doesn't take up oven space. You can always omit the bacon if you need a vegetarian option. —Lauren Knoelke, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Pressure Cooker Pork Pozole
When the snow begins falling, I make a heartwarming stew with pork ribs and hominy. This is a fill-you-up recipe of lightly spiced comfort. —Genie Gunn, Asheville, North Carolina
Pressure Cooker Apple Comfort
When the temperature drops and winter rolls in, it's the perfect time for this warm and satisfying dessert. —Awynne Thurstenson, Siloam Springs, Arkansas
Pressure-Cooker Red Clam Sauce
This recipe tastes as if you've been working on it all day. What a classy way to jazz up pasta sauce! —JoAnn Brown, LaTrobe, Pennsylvania
Pressure Cooker Carne Guisada
While living away from Texas for a while, my boyfriend and I grew homesick for the spicy flavors of home. We've made this recipe a few times now, and it goes really well with homemade flour tortillas. We love this pressure cooker carne guisada over rice, too. —Kelly Evans, Denton, Texas
Pressure-Cooker Provencal Ham & Bean Soup
There is nothing quite like the wonderful aroma of this soup. Let your pressure cooker make it easy! —Lyndsay Wells, Ladysmith, British Columbia
Pressure-Cooker Cajun Pork and Rice
I created this recipe after returning home from a trip and finding little food in the house. I used ingredients already available in the refrigerator and pantry. My husband loves this pork dish because it's tasty, and I love it because it's easy. —Allison Gapinski, Cary, North Carolina
Pressure-Cooker Carolina-Style Vinegar BBQ Chicken
I live in Georgia but I appreciate the tangy, sweet and slightly spicy taste of Carolina vinegar chicken. —Ramona Parris, Acworth, Georgia
Pressure-Cooker Beef Carnitas
I came up with this recipe while cleaning out my refrigerator and trying to figure out what I could do with a pot roast that had been in the freezer. I LOVE how easy this is.—Ann Piscitelli, Nokomis, Florida
Pressure-Cooker BBQ Baked Beans
I was under doctor's orders to reduce the amount of sodium I was eating, but I just couldn't part with some of my favorite foods. After many experiments I came up with this potluck favorite—now everyone's happy! —Sherrel Hendrix, Arkadelphia, Arkansas
Pressure-Cooker BBQ Chicken & Smoked Sausage
My party-ready barbecue recipe is perfect on weeknights, too. With just a little prep time, you still get that low-and-slow flavor everybody craves (thanks, pressure cooker!). Throw in minced jalapenos for extra oomph. —Kimberly Young, Mesquite, Texas
Pressure-Cooker Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chuck Roast
My husband and I like well-seasoned foods, so this pressure cooker roast is terrific. You'll also love how flavorful and tender this comforting recipe turns out. —Bette McCumber, Schenectady, New York
Pressure-Cooker Mixed Fruit and Pistachio Cake
This cake is easy to make on a lazy day and a guaranteed-delicious dessert for several days, if you can make it last that long. It's wonderful for the fall and even the holidays. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
Pressure Cooker Peach Salsa
Fresh peaches and tomatoes make my salsa a hands-down winner over store versions. As a treat, I give my co-workers several jars throughout the year. —Peggi Stahnke, Cleveland, Ohio
Pressure-Cooker Chicken Marbella
It's sweet, briny, savory and herbal, and it packs a big punch of garlic. The Mediterranean flavors make me think of dinner on the patio with family or friends. — Beth Jacobson, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Pressure Cooker Mango-Pineapple Chicken Tacos
I lived in the Caribbean when I was a child. Every time I make this yummy chicken, the fresh tropical fruits in it transport me back to those happy times.—Lissa Nelson, Provo, Utah
Pressure-Cooker Italian Shrimp 'n' Pasta
This dish will remind you a bit of classic shrimp Creole, but it has a surprise Italian twist. Pressure cooking gives it hands-off ease—perfect for company. —Karen Edwards, Sanford, Maine
Pressure Cooker Sweet and Sour Brisket
Here’s one dish that never gets old in our house. Tender and juicy, with a great sweet and sour twist. We’d eat it every night if we could! —Jolie Albertazzie, Moreno Valley, California
Pressure-Cooker Black and Blue Cobbler
It never occurred to me that I could bake a cobbler in my pressure cooker until I saw some recipes and decided to try my favorite fruity dessert recipe. It took a bit of experimenting, but the tasty results were "berry" well worth it. -Martha Creveling, Orlando, Florida
Pressure-Cooker Char Siu Pork
I based this juicy pork on Asian influence in Hawaii. It's tasty as is, in a bun or over rice. Use leftovers with fried rice, ramen and salads. —Karen Naihe, Kamuela, Hawaii
Pressure-Cooker Lemon Red Potatoes
Butter, lemon juice, parsley and chives enhance this simple side dish. I usually prepare these potatoes when I'm having company. Since they cook in the pressure cooker, there's plenty of room on the stove for other dishes. —Tara Branham, Austin, Texas
Pressure Cooker Beer-Braised Pulled Ham
To jazz up leftover ham, I cooked it with a beer sauce. Buns loaded with ham, pickles and mustard are irresistible. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, Massachusetts
Pressure Cooker Maple Creme Brulee
The pressure cooker is the perfect cooking vessel for the classic dessert creme brulee. The crunchy brown sugar topping in this recipe is wonderful, and the custard is smooth and creamy.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Pressure-Cooker Ground Beef Stroganoff
My mother gave me this recipe 40 years ago. It's a wonderfully tasty dish to share around the dinner table. —Sue Mims, Macclenny, Florida
Pressure-Cooker Sausage-Stuffed Flank Steak
This rich and hearty entree is perfect for entertaining but easy enough for weeknight meals with the family. —Julie Merriman, Seattle, Washington
Pressure-Cooker Truly Tasty Turnip Greens
These savory greens are a hit at every church dinner. Adjust the seasonings as you please to make the recipe your own. .—Amy Inman, Hiddenite, North Carolina
Pressure-Cooker Cranberry Apple Red Cabbage
When I was looking for something new, I started playing with flavors and came up with this very tasty dish. My German grandmother would be impressed, I think! The colorful side dish is just right with pork. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, Massachusetts
Pressure-Cooker Beef Osso Bucco
Our beef osso bucco boasts a thick, savory sauce complemented by the addition of gremolata, a chopped herb condiment made of lemon zest, garlic and parsley. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Pressure-Cooker Beef Brisket in Beer
One bite of this super tender brisket and your family will be hooked! The rich gravy is perfect for spooning over a side of creamy mashed potatoes. —Eunice Stoen, Decorah, Iowa
Pressure Cooker Molten Mocha Cake
When I first made my decadent chocolate cake, my husband's and daughter's expressions said it all. She says it's one of her "most favorites." Later, I took one of these to our next-door neighbors. Their teenage son, who answered the door, ate the whole thing without telling anyone else about it! —Aimee Fortney, Fairview, Tennessee
Pressure-Cooker Cranberry Hot Wings
Cranberry wings remind me of all the wonderful celebrations and parties we've had through the years. My daughter?s friends can?t get enough of them. —Noreen Danek, Cromwell, CT
Pressure Cooker Cheddar Bacon Ale Dip
My tangy, smoky dip won the top prize at our office party recipe contest. Use whatever beer you like, but steer clear of dark varieties. —Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Pressure Cooker Mini Teriyaki Turkey Sandwiches
Preparing the pulled turkey in a delicious teriyaki sauce for these snack-size sandwiches is a breeze using a pressure cooker. Serving them on lightly-toasted sweet dinner rolls is a finishing touch.—Amanda Hoop, Seaman, Ohio
Pressure-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
My husband and I own and operate a busy farm. There are days when there's just no time left for cooking! It's really nice to be able to come into the house at night and have dinner ready in just a few minutes. —Aggie Arnold-Norman, Liberty, Pennsylvania
Pressure-Cooker Ham & Cheddar Breakfast Casserole
This easy, cheesy casserole has made appearances at holiday breakfasts, potlucks and even my daughter's college apartment to feed her hungry roommates. It's my go-to recipe for action-packed mornings. —Patty Bernhard, Greenville, Ohio
Pressure Cooker Winter Fruit Compote
You can make this colorful and easy fruit relish up to a week in advance. It's an outstanding accompaniment to turkey, chicken or pork throughout the holiday season. —Esther Chesney , Carthage, Missouri
Pressure Cooker Frittata Provencal
This recipe means a delectable dinner is ready shortly after I walk in the door from work. The meatless pressure-cooker meal also makes an elegant brunch for lazy weekend mornings. —Connie Eaton, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pressure-Cooker Pot Roast Hash
I love to cook a "Sunday style" pot roast for weeknights. Make it into pot roast hash for any day of the week. —Gina Jackson, Ogdensburg, New York
Pressure-Cooker Carrot Cake Oatmeal
This warm breakfast cereal made in the pressure cooker is a great way to add some veggies in the morning and keep a healthy diet! For extra crunch, I garnish individual servings with ground walnuts or pecans.—Debbie Kain, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Pressure-Cooker White Bean Chicken Chili
My sister shared this chili recipe with me. The jalapeno adds just enough heat to notice but not too much for my children. —Kristine Bowles, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Pressure-Cooker Short Ribs
These tender short ribs explode with flavor, and they're a quick and easy alternative to traditionally braised short ribs. Serve with egg noodles, rice or polenta. .—Rebekah Beyer, Sabetha, Kansas
Pressure-Cooker Potato Soup
I decided to add some character to a basic potato chowder with roasted red peppers. The extra flavor gives a deliciously unique twist to an otherwise ordinary soup.—Mary Shivers, Ada, Oklahoma
Pressure-Cooker Lentil Pumpkin Soup
Plenty of herbs and spices brighten up my hearty pumpkin soup. It?s just the thing we need on nippy days and nights. —Laura Magee, Houlton, WI
Pressure-Cooker Italian Sausage & Kale Soup
The first time I made this colorful soup, our home smelled wonderful. We knew it was a keeper to see us through cold winter days. —Sarah Stombaugh, Chicago, Illinois
Pressure-Cooker Flan in a Jar
Spoil yourself or the people you love with these delightful portable custards—a cute and fun take on the Mexican dessert classic. Tuck a jar into your lunchbox for a sweet treat. —Megumi Garcia, Madison, Wisconsin
Pressure-Cooker Easy Pork Posole
Looking for a meal in a bowl? Sit down to a Mexican classic full of cubed pork, sliced sausage. hominy and more. It all goes into the pressure cooker, so you can come home at night and dinner is ready in a flash. —Greg Fontenot, The Woodlands, TX
Pressure-Cooked Mesquite Ribs
When we're missing the grill during winter, these tangy ribs give us that same smoky barbecue taste we love. They're so simple, and fall-off-the-bone delicious, too! —Sue Evans, Marquette, Michigan
Pressure Cooker Very Vanilla Cheesecake
Cinnamon and vanilla give this cheesecake so much flavor, and making it in the pressure cooker creates a silky, smooth texture that's hard to resist. —Krista Lanphier, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Pressure-Cooker Orange Spice Carrots
To get my son to eat veggies, I mix and match flavors and spices. My carrots with orange and cinnamon won him over. —Christina Addison, Blanchester, Ohio
Pressure Cooker Hoisin Meatballs
I love the start of fall because that means it's football season! Meatballs are filling and hearty and great for a tailgate. I served this for the first time at my favorite team's home opener. My best friend, who hates meatballs, couldn't get enough of them! I created a meatball convert! Woo-hoo! If you are serving children and prefer not to add the wine, substitute beef broth instead.—Lisa de Perio, Dallas, Texas
Lora's Pressure-Cooker Red Beans & Rice
My dear mother-in-law passed this simple recipe to me. With meats, beans and savory veggies, it's tasty, easy and economical, too! —Carol Simms, Madison, Mississippi
Pressure-Cooker Thai Coconut Beef
My husband and I love Thai food, but going out on weeknights can be challenging with busy schedules. I wanted to create a Thai-inspired dinner that could double as an easy lunch the following day. The beef is fantastic in this dish, but chicken or pork would be equally delicious!—Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Pressure-Cooker Cuban Pulled Pork Sandwiches
I lived in Florida for a while and loved the pork served there, so I went about making it for myself! The flavorful meat makes amazing Cuban sandwiches, but you can use it in traditional pulled pork sandwiches and tacos, too. —Lacie Griffin, Austin, Texas
Pressure-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
The flavors of this Indian-style entree keep me coming back for more. The dish isn’t fancy, and it’s simply spiced—but it’s simply amazing. —Jaclyn Bell, Logan, Utah
Pressure-Cooker Beef Tips
These beef tips remind me of a childhood favorite. I cook them with mushrooms and serve over brown rice, noodles or mashed potatoes. Here's one of the best Instant Pot recipes for a quick and easy dinner. —Amy Lents, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Pressure Cooker Pepper Steak
Pepper steak is one of my favorite dishes but I was always disappointed with beef that was too tough. This recipe solves that problem! I've stored leftovers in one big container and also in individual portions for quick lunches.—Julie Rhine, Zelienople, Pennsylvania
Pressure Cooker Garlic-Dill Deviled Eggs
Easter isn't complete without deviled eggs. I like to experiment with my recipes, and was pleasantly pleased with how the fresh dill really perked up the flavor of these irresistible appetizers. —Kami Horch, Frankfort, Maine
Pressure Cooker Rigatoni with Sausage & Peas
With a tomato-y meat sauce and tangy goat cheese, this weeknight wonder is my version of comfort food. You want to have bowl after bowl. —Lizzie Munro, Brooklyn, New York
Pressure-Cooker Black Bean Chicken Nachos
One of my favorite local restaurants, Zeppelins, has the best chicken nachos. Its famous dish inspired me to create my own, with the added convenience of using the pressure cooker. I recommend fresh cilantro because it makes the dish pop with flavor. —Natalie Hess, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Pressure-Cooker Marinated Mushrooms
Here's a terrific healthy addition to any buffet spread. Mushrooms and pearl onions seasoned with herbs, balsamic and red wine are terrific on their own or alongside a tenderloin roast. —Courtney Wilson, Fresno, California
Pressure-Cooker Sicilian Meat Sauce
People have told me this is better than the gravy their Sicilian grandmothers used to make. But don't tell the older generation that! —Emory Doty, Jasper, Georgia
Pressure-Cooker Pork Picadillo Lettuce Wraps
Warm pork and cool, crisp lettuce are a combination born in culinary heaven. My spin on a lettuce wrap is chock full of scrumptious flavor and spice. —Janice Elder, Charlotte, North Carolina
Pressure-Cooker Caribbean Chipotle Pork Sliders
One of our favorite pulled pork recipes combines the heat of chipotle peppers with cool tropical coleslaw. The robust flavors are always a big hit. —Kadija Bridgewater, Boca Raton, Florida
Pressure-Cooker Chicken Mole
Chocolate with chicken? If you’re not familiar with mole, don’t be afraid of this versatile Mexican sauce. I love sharing this recipe because it’s a great one to experiment with. —Darlene Morris, Franklinton, Louisiana
Pressure Cooker Homemade Chicken Broth
There’s nothing better and more satisfying than making your own chicken broth. You can control the amount of seasoning and salt, so you can customize it for whatever recipes you’re using it in.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Pressure Cooker Mexican Carnitas
Carnitas are small pieces of crisp pork that are very popular in Mexico. The secret to this recipe is the citrus and quick frying. Be sure to drain the meat well before placing it in the oil, though, or it will splatter and pop. —Patricia Collins, Imbler, Oregon
Pressure-Cooker Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal
There's nothing like a bowl of warm oatmeal in the morning, and my spiced version works in a pressure cooker. Store leftovers in the fridge. —Jordan Mason, Brookville, Pennsylvania
Pressure-Cooker Easy Corned Beef and Cabbage
I first tried this fuss-free way to cook traditional corned beef and cabbage for St. Patrick's Day a few years ago. Now it's a regular in my menu planning. This is terrific with Dijon mustard and crusty bread. —Karen Waters, Laurel, Maryland
Pressure Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken
Have a taste for Thai? Throw together this peanutty chicken dish in your kitchen and save the trip to an Asian restaurant.—Blair Lonergan, Rochelle, VirginiaHow to Take Care of an Instant Pot
As our food stylist Shannon put it, “the more you use the Instant Pot, the more uses you find for it.” With all of the use this small appliance gets, it does tend to need a little upkeep. Of course, you can toss the lid and the insert right into the dishwasher for easy cleaning, but a deep clean is welcome periodically. Don’t worry—no special tools or cleaning products needed. Rinsing the insert with vinegar or steaming it with lemon can do the trick.
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Our staff put 10 brands to work in our Test Kitchen. Find out which brand was named the best sheet pan—and be sure to grab this one for yourself. It's a bargain you won't want to miss! Learn More
Knife Sharpener
The secret to success in the kitchen: sharp knives. Keep your knives performing like new with the best knife sharpener brand that's a cut above the rest. Learn MoreThis test was performed by our staff and was not part of a sponsorship. All opinions shared are our own and have not been influenced by advertisers.
Teddy Nykiel, Taste of Home Associate Digital Editor, contributed to this article.
Originally Published: December 12, 2019
