35+ Quick & Tasty Instant Pot Family Dinner Recipes for Quick Weeknight Meals

Finding time to prepare family dinners can be challenging, especially when juggling busy schedules and endless activities.

That’s where the Instant Pot becomes a kitchen hero. With its ability to cook meals quickly and bring out deep, delicious flavors, the Instant Pot makes it easy to get dinner on the table without compromising on taste.

In this article, we’ve compiled over 35 incredible Instant Pot family dinner recipes to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs.

From comforting soups and stews to crowd-pleasing pasta and creative one-pot dishes, these recipes will help you whip up satisfying meals with ease.

Whether you’re cooking for kids or looking to impress with a flavorful new dish, these Instant Pot recipes are your ticket to stress-free family dinners.

35+ Quick & Tasty Instant Pot Family Dinner Recipes for Quick Weeknight Meals

With these 35+ Instant Pot family dinner recipes, you’re set to make mealtime easier, tastier, and more enjoyable for everyone.

From classic comfort foods to adventurous new dishes, the Instant Pot allows you to prepare an impressive variety of meals quickly and effortlessly.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or need a versatile option to satisfy a range of tastes, these recipes provide a great mix of options to keep your family dinners fresh and exciting.

Embrace the convenience of your Instant Pot, save time in the kitchen, and watch as these recipes become instant hits with your loved ones!

Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

This classic Chinese-inspired dish of beef and broccoli is easily adapted for the Instant Pot, making it a quick yet flavorful meal that the entire family will enjoy. The tender beef soaks up the savory sauce, while the broccoli provides a fresh, crunchy contrast. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal is ready in under 30 minutes, ensuring you can have a nutritious homemade dinner with minimal fuss.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the sesame oil. Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
2. Add beef slices, and sear them until they start browning. Pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar, stirring well.
3. Seal the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 8 minutes. Once done, do a quick release.
4. Open the lid, add the broccoli, and stir well. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and pour in the cornstarch mixture. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3 minutes.
5. Serve the beef and broccoli over rice, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli is a family favorite that balances savory flavors with healthy veggies. It’s a healthier and faster take on takeout, with all the depth of flavor you’d expect from a restaurant-quality meal. Serve this hearty dish over rice for a complete, satisfying dinner that everyone around the table will love.

Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings is comfort food at its finest. This classic dish features tender chicken, soft dumplings, and a creamy broth, delivering warmth and coziness in each spoonful. Made in the Instant Pot, it reduces the cooking time significantly, making it easy to whip up a bowl of comfort food in under an hour.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup biscuit mix
• 1/3 cup milk

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add a drizzle of oil, then cook the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken, thyme, and parsley, stirring well. Pour in the chicken broth, then secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix the biscuit mix with milk to create the dumpling dough.
4. Once the timer goes off, do a quick release and remove the lid. Stir in the heavy cream and peas.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the pot. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode again and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the dumplings to cook through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.

With tender chunks of chicken and fluffy dumplings in a rich, creamy broth, this Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a family favorite that brings comfort to the table. It’s a one-pot meal that satisfies with every spoonful, making it an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner any night of the week.

Instant Pot Chili Mac

This Instant Pot Chili Mac combines two popular comfort foods into one delicious meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. The combination of hearty chili and cheesy macaroni pasta makes it a satisfying, well-rounded dinner for the whole family. With the Instant Pot, this typically long-cooking dish is done in less than 30 minutes, making it a convenient choice for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, add the ground beef, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until they soften. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and macaroni. Stir well, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged.
4. Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 5 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release.
5. Open the lid, stir, and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

This Instant Pot Chili Mac recipe is a surefire hit for families, combining the best of chili and mac and cheese into a single, satisfying dish. Perfectly spiced and loaded with cheesy goodness, this meal is ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s comforting, filling, and has just the right amount of spice to make everyone at the table happy.

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a savory-sweet delight that’s perfect for family dinners. Tender, juicy chicken thighs are cooked in a flavorful honey garlic sauce that pairs beautifully with rice or steamed veggies. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe provides a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want a quick, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and sear the chicken thighs until lightly browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, and minced garlic.
3. Return the chicken to the Instant Pot and pour the honey garlic sauce over it. Close the lid, set to high pressure, and cook for 8 minutes.
4. Perform a quick release, open the lid, and switch the pot to sauté mode. Add the cornstarch mixture to the pot and cook for 3 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve over rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

This Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is an easy go-to recipe for busy nights, delivering a delicious meal packed with bold flavors in a fraction of the usual cooking time. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with almost any side, making it a versatile dish to keep on your family dinner menu.

Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs

Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a family-friendly meal that brings the taste of Italy to your table without the long prep time. In one pot, the pasta, meatballs, and sauce cook together, infusing each component with rich flavors. This recipe is perfect for nights when you want a classic meal that’s both simple and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz spaghetti, broken in half
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups water
• Grated Parmesan and fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, lightly brown the meatballs, and then set them aside.
3. Place the broken spaghetti in the pot in a crisscross pattern to prevent sticking. Pour the marinara sauce and water over the pasta, then add the meatballs back in.
4. Close the lid, set to high pressure, and cook for 8 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release and stir the contents gently.
5. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan and fresh basil.

With the Instant Pot, you can have perfectly cooked spaghetti and meatballs in a fraction of the time it takes on the stovetop. This recipe makes pasta night easy, allowing you to serve a hearty, home-cooked Italian meal that the entire family will love.

Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a hit for any family meal. Tender, shredded pork shoulder simmered in a smoky barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering filling for sandwiches. This dish is perfect for casual family dinners or weekend gatherings, bringing the taste of a slow-cooked BBQ meal in much less time.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Buns and coleslaw for serving

Instructions:

1. Season the pork shoulder with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, searing the pork on all sides.
2. Add the sliced onion, chicken broth, and 3/4 cup of the BBQ sauce. Stir well, then seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
3. When done, allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release. Remove the pork and shred it with two forks.
4. Return the shredded pork to the pot, stirring in the remaining BBQ sauce. Serve the pulled pork on buns with coleslaw.

Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches bring big flavor to your dinner table in record time. The pork is juicy, tender, and packed with smoky BBQ flavor, creating the perfect filling for sandwiches. It’s a guaranteed family favorite that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a creamy, mildly spiced Indian dish that’s beloved worldwide. This recipe allows you to achieve the rich flavors of traditional butter chicken in a fraction of the time. The Instant Pot brings out the tenderness in the chicken while blending aromatic spices into a luxurious, buttery sauce. This meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner served with basmati rice or naan.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp butter
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, add butter, and cook the onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
2. Add the chicken pieces, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper, stirring to coat the chicken with spices.
3. Pour in the tomato sauce and yogurt, mixing well. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Perform a quick release, then stir in the heavy cream to create a creamy, rich sauce.
5. Serve over basmati rice or with naan, garnished with fresh cilantro.

This Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Indian cuisine at home. It’s creamy, aromatic, and bursting with warmth, making it ideal for a satisfying family meal that transports you to a whole new world of flavors in no time.

Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers

Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers is a quick and hearty meal that brings classic Italian flavors to your dinner table. Made with sausage, bell peppers, and onions in a savory tomato sauce, this meal is both filling and satisfying. Serve it over pasta or in a sandwich for a versatile family dinner option that’s easy to make and always a hit.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow onion, sliced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Rolls or pasta for serving

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, brown the sausage slices, and remove them to a plate.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the pot, cooking until they start to soften. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Return the sausage to the pot, then add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
4. Seal the lid, set to high pressure, and cook for 5 minutes. Perform a quick release when done.
5. Serve over pasta, in rolls, or on its own, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

This Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers recipe is a family-friendly, flavorful meal that brings the taste of Italian comfort food to your home. It’s versatile, allowing you to serve it in sandwiches, over pasta, or as a hearty main dish. This recipe is sure to be a regular on your dinner menu!

Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is a cozy, flavorful take on traditional chili that’s packed with tender chicken, white beans, green chilies, and spices. It’s perfect for cooler evenings when you want a warm, comforting bowl of chili that’s still light and packed with flavor. This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknight family dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• Fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, and avocado for garnish

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, add a drizzle of oil, and cook the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper, stirring to coat the chicken in spices.
3. Add the white beans, green chilies, and chicken broth. Stir well, then seal the lid and set to high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Once the timer goes off, do a quick release. Stir in the sour cream to add creaminess to the chili.
5. Serve with toppings like cilantro, shredded cheese, and avocado for added flavor.

This Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is a lighter, comforting version of classic chili that your family will love. It’s flavorful, creamy, and topped with fresh ingredients that bring brightness to each bowl. Perfect for chilly nights, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff

Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff is a creamy, savory classic that’s made easier and faster with the help of a pressure cooker. This dish combines tender beef, mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce with egg noodles, creating a comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy. Perfect for weeknights, this recipe has all the traditional flavors but can be prepared in less than 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat or sirloin, sliced thinly
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 1 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, add a drizzle of oil, and cook the beef slices until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Add the onions, mushrooms, and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened.
3. Return the beef to the pot and add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Add the egg noodles on top without stirring.
4. Close the lid, set to high pressure, and cook for 8 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release.
5. Stir in the sour cream until the sauce is creamy. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.

This Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff offers all the delicious, comforting flavors of a traditional stroganoff with a fraction of the usual cooking time. With tender beef and rich sauce coating every noodle, this dish is a family favorite that’s perfect for cozy dinners.

Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi

Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi is a quick and delightful seafood meal that’s perfect for family dinners. This recipe features tender shrimp in a buttery garlic and lemon sauce, tossed with pasta for a complete meal. With the Instant Pot, you can prepare this elegant, flavorful dish in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan for garnish

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, add butter, and cook the garlic until fragrant.
2. Add the pasta, chicken broth, white wine (if using), and lemon juice. Place the shrimp on top.
3. Seal the lid, set to high pressure, and cook for 4 minutes. Perform a quick release when done.
4. Stir well, season with salt and pepper, and serve garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan.

Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi is a luxurious yet simple dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your dinner table. This buttery, garlicky pasta with shrimp is easy to make and always impresses, making it a go-to for seafood lovers in your family.

Instant Pot Taco Soup

Instant Pot Taco Soup is a hearty, flavorful soup that combines all the classic taco ingredients in a warm, comforting bowl. With ground beef, beans, corn, and a delicious blend of spices, this soup is perfect for family dinners, especially on chilly nights. Topped with cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips, this meal is easy to customize and enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 3 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and tortilla chips

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, brown the ground beef, and drain any excess fat.
2. Add the onion, taco seasoning, black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
3. Seal the lid, set to high pressure, and cook for 10 minutes. Perform a quick release.
4. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and tortilla chips.

Instant Pot Taco Soup is a satisfying, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family taco nights with a twist. It’s easy to make, packed with protein, and allows everyone to customize their bowl with toppings. This soup will quickly become a family favorite for its rich taste and easy prep.

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a delicious honey-garlic sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy families because it’s quick to make and loaded with flavor. Serve it over rice or with steamed veggies for a wholesome meal that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, chicken broth, and ketchup.
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them in the Instant Pot.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, then close the lid and set to high pressure for 8 minutes.
4. Perform a quick release, then remove the chicken. Set the pot to sauté mode, add the cornstarch slurry, and simmer until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve over rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

This Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that’s bound to become a family favorite. The tender chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with rice, making it a satisfying and balanced meal that’s ready in no time.

Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers

Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers make a colorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for family dinners. These peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and seasonings, then cooked to tender perfection in the Instant Pot. This recipe is great for sneaking in some veggies while keeping the meal hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and brown the ground beef with the diced onion. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture, stirring well.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the filling mixture, then place them in the Instant Pot on the trivet with 1 cup of water at the bottom.
4. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release.
5. Top with shredded cheese if desired and let it melt before serving.

Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers are a wholesome, flavorful meal that the whole family can enjoy. The tender peppers and savory filling make this dish a satisfying way to incorporate vegetables into your dinner routine, and the quick cook time makes it a convenient choice for busy evenings.

Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork

Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork is a smoky, tender, and juicy dish that’s perfect for family meals or gatherings. This recipe combines pork shoulder with a blend of spices and BBQ sauce, creating deliciously shredded pork in a fraction of the usual cooking time. Serve it on buns for sandwiches or alongside coleslaw for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt), cut into large chunks
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Buns for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning all over the pork pieces.
2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, add a bit of oil, and sear the pork chunks until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Add sliced onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the pot.
4. Return the pork to the pot and pour BBQ sauce over the top. Close the lid and set to high pressure for 60 minutes.
5. Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release. Shred the pork and serve on buns or with coleslaw.

This Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork is a crowd-pleaser, offering a smoky, saucy, and tender option for family dinners or gatherings. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve fall-apart pork in a fraction of the traditional cooking time, making this recipe a go-to for hassle-free, flavorful meals.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!