35+ Delicious Holiday Diabetic Instant Pot Recipes to Enjoy the Season

The holiday season is a time for celebration, joy, and, of course, indulging in delicious food.

However, for those managing diabetes, the rich and sweet treats that often define this time of year can feel like a challenge.

Thankfully, with the help of the Instant Pot, creating diabetic-friendly holiday meals has never been easier.

From savory roasts to comforting soups, the Instant Pot offers a fast and convenient way to prepare flavorful dishes that are both healthy and festive.

In this blog post, we’ve curated a collection of over 35 holiday-inspired diabetic Instant Pot recipes.

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply looking for healthier meal options to enjoy throughout the season, these recipes will help you stay on track while still enjoying the best of holiday flavors.

Each recipe is crafted with ingredients that are diabetes-friendly, focusing on lower-carb, high-protein, and nutrient-packed options to keep blood sugar levels stable without sacrificing taste.

35+ Delicious Holiday Diabetic Instant Pot Recipes to Enjoy the Season

This holiday season, there’s no need to choose between enjoying a festive meal and managing your diabetes.

With these 35+ diabetic Instant Pot recipes, you can create an array of dishes that are both health-conscious and full of seasonal flavor.

Whether you’re craving hearty soups, tender meats, or sweet treats, the Instant Pot allows you to quickly prepare meals that fit your dietary needs while still bringing everyone to the table in celebration.

By embracing these diabetic-friendly recipes, you’ll be able to enjoy all the joys of the holidays without compromising your health.

So, gather your ingredients, dust off your Instant Pot, and get ready to indulge in delicious, guilt-free meals that will make this holiday season even more special.

Holiday Diabetic-Friendly Cranberry Chicken

This festive cranberry chicken recipe brings together the tangy sweetness of cranberries and the savory flavor of tender chicken. Made in an Instant Pot, it’s a perfect low-carb, sugar-free dish for those managing diabetes during the holidays. It’s quick, easy, and filled with holiday cheer.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup unsweetened orange juice
• 1/4 cup sugar-free maple syrup
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the chicken breasts and season with salt, pepper, rosemary, and cinnamon.
3. Pour in the unsweetened orange juice, sugar-free maple syrup, and cranberries. Stir to combine.
4. Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Remove the chicken and set aside. Switch to sauté mode to thicken the sauce for 3-5 minutes, if desired.
6. Serve the chicken topped with the cranberry sauce.

This cranberry chicken is a vibrant centerpiece for any holiday table. Its balanced flavors and diabetic-friendly ingredients ensure everyone can enjoy the meal. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete festive dish.

Instant Pot Cauliflower and Cheddar Soup

This creamy cauliflower and cheddar soup is a comforting and hearty holiday meal. By using low-fat dairy and skipping heavy cream, it remains diabetes-friendly without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 head of cauliflower, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Add the cauliflower, onion, garlic, chicken broth, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
2. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Quick release the pressure.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches.
4. Stir in the almond milk and shredded cheddar until fully incorporated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

This creamy soup is rich and satisfying, perfect for cold holiday evenings. It’s a guilt-free option that pairs well with a slice of whole-grain bread or a fresh salad, keeping both flavor and nutrition in mind.

Diabetic-Friendly Instant Pot Turkey Chili

This turkey chili is packed with lean protein, fiber, and bold holiday spices. It’s a cozy, one-pot meal that’s ideal for diabetic-friendly gatherings or meal prep during the holiday season.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes, no salt added
• 1 14-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Brown the ground turkey, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
4. Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Serve hot with optional toppings like chopped green onions, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or shredded cheese.

This turkey chili is flavorful, warming, and incredibly satisfying. Its high-protein and high-fiber content make it a diabetes-friendly option for the holidays, ensuring a healthy and filling meal for everyone.

Holiday Diabetic-Friendly Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers

These stuffed bell peppers are packed with lean protein, vegetables, and flavorful spices, making them the perfect diabetic-friendly dish for the holidays. With the convenience of an Instant Pot, they’re ready in no time, offering a healthy yet festive meal option.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 can diced tomatoes, no salt added
• 1/4 cup reduced-fat shredded cheese (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

1. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set aside.
2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook the ground turkey with the diced onion until browned. Add garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in the cooked quinoa and diced tomatoes, then mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey and quinoa mixture, packing it tightly.
5. Pour the chicken broth into the Instant Pot and place the stuffed peppers inside, standing up.
6. Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Quick release the pressure when done.
7. If desired, sprinkle the peppers with shredded cheese and cook for an additional 2 minutes on sauté mode to melt the cheese.

These stuffed peppers are a great way to enjoy a nutritious holiday meal. The quinoa adds fiber, and the lean turkey offers plenty of protein, making them diabetic-friendly without sacrificing taste. They’re both filling and flavorful, making them ideal for a holiday feast.

Instant Pot Diabetic-Friendly Holiday Meatballs

These flavorful turkey meatballs are a great option for a diabetic-friendly holiday appetizer or main dish. Packed with lean protein and holiday spices, they’re an easy and satisfying option to serve at family gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• 1/2 cup almond flour (or whole wheat breadcrumbs for non-low-carb)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup low-sodium marinara sauce
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, almond flour, egg, parmesan, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Form the mixture into 12-14 small meatballs.
3. Add the marinara sauce to the bottom of the Instant Pot and place the meatballs on top.
4. Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before doing a quick release.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

These turkey meatballs are packed with lean protein and healthy fats from the almond flour, making them perfect for anyone watching their blood sugar. They’re a tasty and low-carb alternative to traditional holiday meatballs, and they pair wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad.

Diabetic-Friendly Instant Pot Sweet Potato Casserole

This diabetic-friendly sweet potato casserole offers the deliciously creamy texture of the classic dish without all the sugar and butter. Sweetened naturally with a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s a perfect holiday side dish for those looking to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Ingredients

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the Instant Pot with 1/2 cup of water.
2. Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release.
3. Once the sweet potatoes are soft, drain any excess water. Mash the sweet potatoes with a potato masher or hand mixer.
4. Stir in the almond milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
5. Top with chopped pecans (if desired) and serve warm.

This sweet potato casserole is a healthier version of the traditional holiday favorite, providing all the comfort and flavor without the excess sugar. It’s an ideal choice for diabetic-friendly holiday meals, offering a naturally sweet dish that everyone can enjoy.

Instant Pot Diabetic-Friendly Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

These roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon are a low-carb, diabetic-friendly side dish that’s perfect for the holidays. The savory bacon adds a rich flavor to the Brussels sprouts, making them a crowd-pleasing addition to any festive meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook the turkey bacon until crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside.
2. Add the olive oil to the Instant Pot and sauté the Brussels sprouts for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
3. Sprinkle the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper over the Brussels sprouts.
4. Add the cooked turkey bacon back into the pot and stir.
5. Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. Quick release the pressure.
6. If desired, top with chopped walnuts or pecans before serving.

This dish is a great way to enjoy the holiday flavors while keeping it healthy and low in carbs. The crispy turkey bacon and toasted Brussels sprouts create a perfect combination, making this side dish both delicious and diabetic-friendly.

Diabetic-Friendly Instant Pot Green Bean Almondine

This Instant Pot green bean almondine offers a flavorful and diabetes-friendly twist on a classic holiday side dish. The almond topping adds a satisfying crunch, while the green beans provide a low-calorie, fiber-rich component to balance the meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

1. Add the green beans and chicken broth to the Instant Pot.
2. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 2 minutes. Quick release the pressure.
3. While the beans cook, heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and sauté for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute.
5. Drain the green beans and transfer them to a serving dish. Pour the almond-garlic mixture over the beans, then toss with lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve warm.

This green bean almondine is light, fresh, and filled with heart-healthy fats from the almonds and olive oil. It makes for an elegant yet easy-to-make side dish for diabetic holiday meals, offering a perfect balance of flavors and nutrients without spiking blood sugar levels.

Instant Pot Diabetic-Friendly Apple Cinnamon Pork Tenderloin

This apple cinnamon pork tenderloin is a delightful holiday entrée that combines the savory richness of pork with the natural sweetness of apples and the warm aroma of cinnamon. It’s a perfect diabetic-friendly dish that provides a satisfying balance of protein and flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 pork tenderloins (about 1.5 pounds total)
• 2 apples, cored and sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Season the pork tenderloins with salt and pepper, then brown them on all sides, about 4 minutes in total.
2. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside. Add the sliced onions and apples to the Instant Pot, sautéing for 2 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the cinnamon and nutmeg over the apples and onions, then pour in the chicken broth. Stir to combine.
4. Return the pork tenderloins to the Instant Pot, placing them on top of the apple-onion mixture.
5. Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
6. Slice the pork tenderloin and serve with the apple-cinnamon sauce. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

This flavorful pork tenderloin is a hearty, low-carb main dish that’s perfect for a diabetic-friendly holiday dinner. The combination of apples and cinnamon adds a festive touch while keeping the recipe healthy and satisfying for those watching their blood sugar levels.

Instant Pot Diabetic-Friendly Holiday Beef Stew

This hearty beef stew is full of tender beef, vegetables, and rich flavors. Made in the Instant Pot, it’s a quick and easy option for a diabetic-friendly holiday meal that provides plenty of protein and fiber without extra carbs or sugars.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds lean beef stew meat, trimmed of fat
• 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and brown the beef stew meat in batches, ensuring all sides are nicely seared. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic to the Instant Pot, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits.
4. Return the beef to the Instant Pot along with the carrots and potatoes. Stir to combine.
5. Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
6. Stir the stew before serving.

This beef stew is perfect for a comforting holiday meal without any added sugars or excessive carbs. The lean beef and vegetables provide a satisfying, nutrient-rich dish, while the Instant Pot ensures it’s ready in less than an hour.

Diabetic-Friendly Instant Pot Pomegranate Glazed Salmon

This festive pomegranate glazed salmon is a delicious and diabetes-friendly holiday dish. Rich in omega-3s, it’s a light yet flavorful entrée that complements a holiday spread without raising blood sugar levels.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then sear each fillet for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
2. Remove the salmon fillets and set aside.
3. Add the pomegranate juice, balsamic vinegar, honey (if using), and Dijon mustard to the Instant Pot, stirring to combine.
4. Return the salmon to the pot, placing it on top of the glaze. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
5. Quick release the pressure and remove the salmon fillets.
6. Drizzle the pomegranate glaze over the salmon and garnish with chopped parsley.

This pomegranate glazed salmon is a perfect combination of sweet and savory. The pomegranate juice provides antioxidants, while the salmon delivers heart-healthy fats, making this a fantastic, diabetes-friendly dish for your holiday table.

Instant Pot Diabetic-Friendly Cranberry Orange Chicken

This cranberry orange chicken is a flavorful and festive dish that’s perfect for holiday meals. The combination of tangy cranberries and zesty orange makes for a refreshing, diabetic-friendly recipe that’s both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Add the minced garlic to the Instant Pot and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken broth, orange juice, and cranberries to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the orange zest and rosemary.
4. Return the chicken breasts to the Instant Pot, placing them on top of the cranberry mixture.
5. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
6. Serve the chicken breasts with the cranberry-orange sauce spooned over the top.

This cranberry orange chicken offers a tangy, flavorful twist on traditional holiday dishes. It’s an excellent choice for a diabetic-friendly entrée that provides lean protein and a boost of vitamin C from the orange and cranberries, all without adding excessive sugar.

Instant Pot Diabetic-Friendly Stuffed Bell Peppers

These diabetic-friendly stuffed bell peppers are filled with a delicious mixture of lean ground turkey, cauliflower rice, and vegetables, offering a low-carb and healthy alternative to traditional stuffed peppers. The Instant Pot makes them quick and easy to prepare for a holiday meal.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• 1 cup cauliflower rice
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, no added salt)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded low-fat cheese (optional)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook the ground turkey until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the cauliflower rice, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to combine.
4. Stuff the bell peppers with the turkey and cauliflower rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack them tightly.
5. Add the chicken broth to the Instant Pot, then place the stuffed peppers inside the pot.
6. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Quick release the pressure and remove the peppers.
7. If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheese and return the peppers to the Instant Pot (without the lid) for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.

These stuffed bell peppers are a perfect diabetic-friendly option for a filling holiday meal. They’re packed with protein, fiber, and low-carb cauliflower rice, making them an excellent choice for managing blood sugar levels while still enjoying a comforting, festive dish.

Instant Pot Diabetic-Friendly Pumpkin Soup

This creamy pumpkin soup is a warming, holiday-inspired soup that’s both diabetic-friendly and incredibly easy to make in the Instant Pot. It’s naturally low in carbs, packed with fiber, and full of autumn spices.

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or pumpkin seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat a small amount of oil. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute to toast the spices.
3. Add the pumpkin puree, chicken broth, and coconut milk to the Instant Pot, stirring to combine.
4. Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Quick release the pressure.
5. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth (or transfer to a blender in batches).
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or pumpkin seeds if desired.

This pumpkin soup is creamy, comforting, and perfect for a diabetic-friendly holiday starter. The natural sweetness of pumpkin combined with warm spices makes it an irresistible dish, while the coconut milk keeps it rich and velvety without adding unnecessary carbs.

Instant Pot Diabetic-Friendly Roast Turkey Breast

This Instant Pot roast turkey breast is a succulent, tender, and easy-to-make holiday dish that’s perfect for those looking to keep their blood sugar levels in check. The turkey cooks quickly while still retaining all of its flavor and moisture.

Ingredients

• 2 to 3-pound turkey breast (bone-in or boneless)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

1. Rub the turkey breast with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken broth to the Instant Pot, then place the turkey breast inside the pot.
3. Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes for a bone-in turkey breast (20 minutes for boneless). Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
4. Remove the turkey breast from the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
5. Serve with the pan juices from the Instant Pot for extra flavor.

This roast turkey breast is a lean and flavorful main course for any holiday meal. It’s packed with protein, low in carbs, and easy to make in the Instant Pot, making it an ideal choice for diabetic-friendly holiday feasts.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!