40+ Delicious Holiday Paleo Instant Pot Recipes for Stress-Free Season

The holiday season is synonymous with family, festive gatherings, and indulgent meals.

But let’s be honest—between the bustling shopping lists, decorating, and the never-ending holiday parties, spending hours in the kitchen can feel overwhelming.

This is where the Instant Pot comes to the rescue, especially for those who prefer to keep their holiday meals paleo.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, prepping dishes for a potluck, or simply want to make your weeknight dinners more festive, having a collection of holiday-inspired, paleo-friendly Instant Pot recipes is a game changer.

Paleo eating, which focuses on whole foods free from grains, dairy, and processed sugars, doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor, comfort, or festivity.

In fact, it’s possible to create hearty, satisfying dishes that everyone at your holiday table will love—regardless of dietary preferences.

From tender meat dishes and hearty stews to vibrant side dishes and decadent desserts, the Instant Pot makes preparing these meals simpler and faster than ever.

To help you navigate your holiday menu with ease, we’ve put together 40+ holiday paleo Instant Pot recipes.

These recipes are curated to make your holiday cooking stress-free, delicious, and aligned with your health-focused goals.

40+ Delicious Holiday Paleo Instant Pot Recipes for Stress-Free Season

The holiday season should be about more than just scrumptious food—it should be about creating memories, sharing moments with loved ones, and enjoying a bit of peace amid the festivities.

With these 40+ holiday paleo Instant Pot recipes, you can save time in the kitchen without compromising on flavor or quality. Each recipe is designed to be simple, nutritious, and bursting with holiday cheer.

So, whether you’re craving a hearty main course, a side dish that steals the show, or a sweet treat to end the meal, these recipes will have you covered.

Spend less time cooking and more time celebrating.

Embrace the magic of the holidays with delicious, stress-free meals that everyone will rave about.

Instant Pot Paleo Cranberry-Orange Pork Roast

A delicious centerpiece for your holiday table, this paleo cranberry-orange pork roast combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Using the Instant Pot ensures the pork stays tender while infusing it with seasonal spices and fruits.

Ingredients:

• 2.5 lbs pork loin
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• Zest and juice of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat the coconut oil and sear the pork loin on all sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. Add cranberries, orange juice, zest, honey, chicken broth, cinnamon, and ginger to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. Return the pork to the pot, spooning some of the mixture over the top.
4. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 40 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick releasing the remaining pressure.
6. Slice the pork and serve with the cranberry-orange sauce drizzled on top.

This dish beautifully highlights holiday flavors with a paleo-friendly twist. The combination of tender pork and vibrant cranberry-orange glaze is a showstopper for family gatherings or festive feasts.

Instant Pot Paleo Sweet Potato and Kale Stew

This hearty and nutritious sweet potato and kale stew is packed with warming spices and seasonal ingredients. Perfect for a comforting holiday meal, it’s a breeze to make in the Instant Pot and is entirely paleo-friendly.

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chopped kale
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the coconut oil. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Stir in the sweet potatoes, kale, diced tomatoes, and broth. Add smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
4. Quick release the pressure and stir the stew well. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve warm with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, if desired.

This stew is a holiday comfort food at its best, balancing earthy vegetables and bold spices. It’s a cozy, paleo-friendly option that’s ideal for cold winter evenings.

Instant Pot Paleo Spiced Apple Cider Chicken

This spiced apple cider chicken is a festive dish perfect for the holidays. The apples and cider bring a touch of sweetness, while cinnamon and cloves provide warming holiday spices.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 cups unsweetened apple cider
• 2 apples, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 tbsp arrowroot powder
• 2 tbsp water
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat the coconut oil and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden. Remove and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
3. Pour in the apple cider, stirring to deglaze the pot. Add apples, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs back into the pot, skin-side up.
5. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
6. Quick release the pressure. Remove the chicken and set aside.
7. In a small bowl, mix the arrowroot powder with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the liquid in the pot, and simmer on sauté mode until the sauce thickens.
8. Serve the chicken topped with the apple cider sauce.

This recipe brings festive cheer with its blend of savory chicken and warm spiced apple flavors. It’s a wholesome and elegant addition to any paleo holiday menu.

Instant Pot Paleo Garlic Herb Turkey Breast

This garlic herb turkey breast is a paleo twist on a holiday classic, perfect for small gatherings or when you need a quick and flavorful centerpiece. The Instant Pot keeps the turkey moist while infusing it with aromatic herbs.

Ingredients:

• 2-3 lbs boneless turkey breast
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper to form a paste. Rub this mixture all over the turkey breast.
2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Sear the turkey breast on both sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Pour chicken broth into the pot, scraping the bottom to deglaze. Place the turkey breast on a trivet and lower it into the pot.
4. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick releasing the rest.
6. Remove the turkey, let it rest for 5 minutes, and slice to serve.

This dish is the epitome of simplicity and elegance, combining classic holiday flavors with paleo-friendly ingredients. The garlic herb rub elevates the turkey to a standout holiday main course.

Instant Pot Paleo Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto

Creamy and flavorful, this butternut squash and sage risotto is a paleo-friendly alternative to traditional risotto. Made with cauliflower rice and infused with fresh sage, it’s a delightful side dish for your holiday table.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 head cauliflower, riced (or 4 cups pre-riced cauliflower)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat olive oil, then add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Add the butternut squash and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the cauliflower rice, broth, sage, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Quick release the pressure, then stir in the coconut milk. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm, garnished with extra sage if desired.

This paleo risotto is creamy and comforting, with the sweetness of butternut squash and the earthy aroma of sage creating a perfect harmony. It’s a crowd-pleasing holiday side.

Instant Pot Paleo Gingerbread Spiced Beef Stew

Bring a festive twist to a classic beef stew with warm gingerbread spices. This paleo-friendly dish combines tender beef, hearty vegetables, and the holiday flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks
• 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup unsweetened apple cider
• 1 tbsp coconut aminos
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat coconut oil, then brown the beef in batches. Remove and set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until fragrant. Deglaze with beef broth and coconut aminos, scraping the bottom.
3. Return the beef to the pot and add sweet potato, carrots, apple cider, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release the rest. Stir well before serving.

This gingerbread-spiced beef stew offers a unique holiday experience with its rich, aromatic flavors and tender meat. It’s a hearty and festive paleo main dish that your guests will adore.

Instant Pot Paleo Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs

These balsamic glazed chicken thighs are a perfect main course for any holiday meal, balancing sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The Instant Pot ensures the chicken stays tender while absorbing the rich, caramelized sauce.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey or pure maple syrup
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat olive oil and sear the chicken thighs, skin-side down, until golden. Flip and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Add garlic and rosemary to the pot, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the balsamic vinegar, honey, and chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pot.
4. Place the chicken thighs back into the pot, skin-side up, and spoon some of the sauce over them.
5. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick release the rest.
7. Remove the chicken and set it aside. Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode again and simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes until it thickens. Serve the chicken with the balsamic glaze drizzled on top.

This dish is full of bold flavors that pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a simple salad. The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze adds a holiday-worthy touch to a classic protein.

Instant Pot Paleo Pumpkin and Sage Soup

Rich and velvety, this pumpkin and sage soup is a comforting paleo option for holiday gatherings or cozy winter evenings. The combination of pumpkin, sage, and warming spices creates an irresistible bowl of soup.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, broth, coconut milk, sage, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Quick release the pressure and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Serve warm with a drizzle of coconut milk and a sprinkle of extra sage if desired.

This soup is both hearty and elegant, with a depth of flavor that makes it perfect for special holiday dinners or casual weeknight meals.

Instant Pot Paleo Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

This honey garlic glazed salmon is a quick, easy, and festive dish ideal for holiday meals, offering a touch of elegance without any fuss. The Instant Pot ensures the salmon is perfectly cooked and infused with a sticky, flavorful glaze.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup
• 3 tbsp coconut aminos or tamari
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon slices and chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix honey, coconut aminos, garlic, lemon juice, and ginger to create the glaze. Set aside.
2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down, and sear for 1-2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Pour the glaze mixture into the pot, stirring to deglaze and coat the bottom.
4. Place a trivet in the Instant Pot and arrange the salmon fillets on top.
5. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
6. Quick release the pressure and carefully remove the salmon. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top and garnish with lemon slices and parsley.

This dish is a beautiful way to celebrate the holidays with a light yet flavorful main course. The honey garlic glaze adds a sweet and savory touch that pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables or a light salad.

Instant Pot Paleo Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin

This cranberry glazed pork tenderloin is a deliciously festive and paleo-friendly main dish that will impress your guests at any holiday meal. The tangy, slightly sweet glaze pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy pork.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork tenderloin
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. Add garlic and rosemary to the pot, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in cranberries, orange juice, and honey. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cranberries to release their juices.
4. Place the seared pork tenderloin into the pot, spooning some of the cranberry mixture over the top.
5. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick release the rest.
7. Remove the pork tenderloin and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with the cranberry glaze spooned over the top.

This dish is perfect for holiday celebrations, with its rich, festive flavors and the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The cranberry glaze adds a beautiful color and taste, making it a standout at any gathering.

Instant Pot Paleo Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops

These apple cinnamon pork chops are a holiday-inspired dish that’s both comforting and paleo-friendly. The Instant Pot ensures the pork chops stay tender and juicy while the apples and cinnamon provide a seasonal twist.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless pork chops
• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1/2 cup apple cider or unsweetened apple juice
• 2 tbsp honey or pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and brown the pork chops on both sides, then remove them from the pot.
2. Add the apple slices, apple cider, honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the pot. Stir to combine and deglaze the bottom.
3. Return the pork chops to the pot and spoon some of the apple mixture over the top.
4. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Quick release the pressure and carefully remove the pork chops. Serve with the apples and sauce spooned over the top.

This dish is perfect for a cozy holiday dinner, bringing together the sweetness of apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and the savory taste of pork. It’s both nourishing and satisfying, making it a family favorite.

Instant Pot Paleo Holiday Spiced Carrots and Green Beans

This side dish is perfect for the holiday season, featuring tender carrots and green beans infused with festive spices. The Instant Pot makes it easy to create a flavorful, quick side that pairs well with any main dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups baby carrots
• 2 cups green beans, trimmed
• 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp ghee or olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add ghee or olive oil. Add the baby carrots and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the green beans, vegetable broth, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
3. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 2 minutes.
4. Quick release the pressure and open the lid. Stir the vegetables, adding salt, pepper, and chopped parsley for garnish.

These spiced carrots and green beans offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with warm spices that evoke holiday cheer. The combination of carrots and green beans ensures a colorful and satisfying side dish that complements any main course.

Instant Pot Paleo Garlic Lemon Herb Shrimp

This garlic lemon herb shrimp is a quick and elegant dish, perfect for holiday gatherings or special dinners. Packed with fresh flavors, the shrimp are tender and infused with a zesty, garlic herb sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and garlic, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Add the shrimp to the pot, tossing to coat them evenly in the sauce.
4. Close the lid and set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute.
5. Quick release the pressure and open the lid. Serve the shrimp with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and additional lemon wedges on the side.

This shrimp dish is fresh, flavorful, and perfect for any holiday spread. It pairs wonderfully with a simple salad, cauliflower rice, or roasted vegetables, making it a light but satisfying option for any celebration.

Instant Pot Paleo Sweet Potato and Kale Stew

This hearty and nutritious sweet potato and kale stew is a comforting option for holiday meals or chilly winter nights. The Instant Pot makes it easy to bring out the rich flavors in this paleo-friendly, plant-based dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 bunch of kale, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) coconut milk
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until they are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the sweet potatoes, vegetable broth, coconut milk, turmeric, cumin, and paprika. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
4. Quick release the pressure, then stir in the kale and let it wilt in the warm stew for 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Serve the stew hot, garnished with a sprinkle of extra smoked paprika if desired.

This sweet potato and kale stew is rich in flavor and nutrients, perfect for a holiday meal that’s both filling and healthy. The combination of sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and kale provides a satisfying texture and depth that will warm anyone up.

Instant Pot Paleo Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

The cranberry orange glaze on this chicken gives it a festive touch that’s perfect for holiday dining. It’s both sweet and tangy, with a rich depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then brown them on both sides for 2-3 minutes each. Remove and set aside.
2. Add garlic to the pot and sauté for 1 minute. Add cranberries, orange juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir to combine and deglaze the bottom of the pot.
3. Return the chicken to the pot and spoon some of the sauce over each piece.
4. Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick release the rest. Serve the chicken with the cranberry orange glaze poured over the top.

This dish is a showstopper with its rich, tangy glaze and succulent chicken. It’s an easy way to add a special, holiday-worthy dish to your menu that everyone will love. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a complete holiday meal.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!