As the leaves turn and the air gets a bit crisper, it’s the perfect time to warm up with some comforting meals. The Instant Pot is your best friend during this season, making it easy to whip up delicious, hearty dishes that are both satisfying and simple to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a cozy night in, these 11 easy fall recipes will surely delight your taste buds. Let’s dive in!
1. Instant Pot Pumpkin Soup
There’s something about fall that calls for pumpkin soup. It’s creamy, savory, and just the right amount of sweet. To make this comforting dish, start by sautéing onions and garlic in your Instant Pot until they’re soft and fragrant. Next, add in some diced pumpkin (fresh or canned), vegetable broth, a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes. Once it’s done, blend the soup until smooth for a velvety texture. Serve it hot, garnished with a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for that extra crunch.
2. Hearty Instant Pot Chili
Nothing says comfort food quite like a big bowl of chili. This version is loaded with beans, ground beef or turkey, and plenty of spices. Start by browning your meat in the Instant Pot, then add chopped onions, bell peppers, garlic, and cook until everything is tender. Toss in your spices (like cumin and chili powder), diced tomatoes, and kidney beans. Pressure cook for about 15 minutes, and you’ll have a flavorful, hearty chili ready to warm you up. Top it with cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for an extra special touch.
3. Instant Pot Butternut Squash Risotto
Risotto can be a labor of love, but not with the Instant Pot. This butternut squash risotto is creamy and rich, perfect for a fall evening. Begin by sautéing onions and garlic in the pot, then add Arborio rice and cook it for a couple of minutes until slightly toasted. Next, pour in chicken or vegetable broth and diced butternut squash. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally. Stir in some Parmesan cheese and butter right before serving for that luxurious finish.
4. Instant Pot Beef Stew
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of beef stew on a chilly day. For this recipe, cut beef into chunks and season with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in your Instant Pot until browned, then add chopped carrots, potatoes, and onions. Pour in beef broth and add bay leaves, thyme, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor. Pressure cook for 35 minutes for tender, flavorful beef and veggies. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
5. Instant Pot Apple Crisp
Dessert can be quick and easy too! This apple crisp is a fantastic way to celebrate the fall apple harvest. Start by peeling and slicing your apples, then toss them with cinnamon, sugar, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Place them in the Instant Pot, then mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter to create the topping. Sprinkle the topping over the apples and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
6. Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are a fun and colorful dish that’s great for fall. Start by preparing a filling of cooked rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and spices. Cut the tops off your bell peppers and remove the seeds. Stuff each pepper with the mixture, then place them in the Instant Pot. Add a bit of water to the bottom of the pot and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. The result is perfectly cooked peppers with a delicious filling that’s both hearty and healthy.
7. Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta
If you’re craving a pasta dish, this creamy mushroom pasta is a must-try. Start by sautéing sliced mushrooms and garlic in your Instant Pot until they’re golden. Add in your pasta of choice, vegetable broth, and a splash of cream. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for about 6 minutes. Once it’s done, stir in some Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like parsley for an aromatic finish. This dish is not only quick but also a great way to bring the flavors of fall to your table.
8. Instant Pot Vegetable Soup
For a lighter option, this vegetable soup is packed with seasonal veggies. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and any other vegetables you have on hand. Add in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and your choice of spices. Pressure cook for 10 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally. This soup is not only comforting but also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables in your fridge. Serve it with crusty bread for a wholesome meal.
9. Instant Pot Maple Glazed Carrots
These maple glazed carrots are the perfect side dish to complement any fall meal. Start by peeling and cutting your carrots into uniform pieces. Add them to the Instant Pot with a bit of water and maple syrup, along with a sprinkle of salt. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, and once it’s done, release the pressure quickly. The result is tender, sweet carrots that are drizzled with a delicious glaze, making them a delightful addition to your fall feast.
10. Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
This chicken and rice dish is a classic, and the Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sauté them until browned. Add in rice, chicken broth, and your choice of vegetables like peas and carrots. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, and you’ll have a one-pot meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
11. Instant Pot Chocolate Lava Cake
End your meal on a sweet note with this chocolate lava cake. Combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and eggs to make a batter. Pour half of the batter into greased ramekins, add a piece of chocolate in the center, then top with the remaining batter. Place the ramekins in the Instant Pot on a trivet with a bit of water at the bottom. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally. Serve it warm, and when you cut into it, the gooey chocolate center will be a delightful surprise!
Conclusion
There you have it—11 easy fall recipes for your Instant Pot that are sure to keep you cozy and satisfied this season. Each dish is designed to make the most of fall flavors while being simple enough to whip up during your busy week. So, grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! With these recipes, you’ll be ready to embrace the fall vibes and enjoy every delicious bite. Happy cooking!