Delicious and Affordable: Cheap Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Weeknights
The Instant Pot is a kitchen superhero, simplifying meal prep and delivering delicious results. But what about those on a budget? Don't worry, delicious and affordable meals are still possible with your trusty Instant Pot!
Here are some budget-friendly Instant Pot recipes that won't break the bank:
1. Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
This classic comfort food is a cinch in the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté and brown the chicken on all sides.
- Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the rice, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the valve to seal. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Natural Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before releasing the remaining pressure manually.
- Fluff and Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve immediately.
2. Budget-Friendly Bean Soup
This hearty soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Add Ingredients: Add the tomatoes, beans, broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the valve to seal. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
- Natural Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before releasing the remaining pressure manually.
- Serve: Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt, if desired.
3. Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Who needs expensive boxed mac and cheese when you can make your own for a fraction of the cost?
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Cook Pasta: Add the macaroni and 3 cups of milk to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and set the valve to seal. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
- Prepare Sauce: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the remaining 1 cup of milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Combine and Melt Cheese: Remove the Instant Pot from the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes. Manually release the remaining pressure. Drain the macaroni and return it to the Instant Pot. Add the cheese sauce, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mac and cheese is smooth.
- Serve: Serve hot.
4. Budget-Friendly Instant Pot Pulled Pork
This flavorful pulled pork is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or even just a simple meal with rice.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Add Pork and Seasonings: Add the pork shoulder, diced tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the valve to seal. Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes.
- Natural Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes before releasing the remaining pressure manually.
- Shred and Serve: Use two forks to shred the pork in the Instant Pot. Serve on buns, tortillas, or with rice.
Tips for Saving Money with Instant Pot Cooking:
- Stock Up on Staples: Keep your pantry stocked with affordable staples like beans, rice, pasta, canned tomatoes, and spices.
- Buy in Bulk: When you find deals on items like chicken, beef, or vegetables, buy in bulk and freeze what you don't use right away.
- Use Leftovers: Make a big batch of soup, stew, or chili and use leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.
- Plan Your Meals: Plan your meals ahead of time to avoid impulse purchases and make sure you have all the ingredients you need.
Enjoy exploring the world of affordable Instant Pot cooking! You'll be surprised at how easy and delicious it can be.
