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Looking for quick, reliable, and delicious dinner solutions? Cooks Illustrated Instant Pot recipes have you covered. These meals are time-saving and tested by experts at America’s Test Kitchen, making them perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re craving beef stew, mashed potatoes, or healthier vegetarian soups and low-carb options, Cooks Illustrated offers a variety. Their focus on food science, flavor, and technique ensures restaurant-quality results right from your pressure cooker.
In this post, we’ll explore top Cooks Illustrated Instant Pot dinner recipes and helpful cooking tips. You’ll also find tasty variations for every diet and preference. Let’s make dinner easy — and absolutely delicious.
Why Choose Cooks Illustrated Instant Pot Recipes?
Cooks Illustrated Instant Pot recipes are known for their reliability and rich flavor. They’re backed by the high standards of America’s Test Kitchen. Professional chefs and food scientists carefully test each recipe. They consider cooking time, ingredient ratios, pressure release, and equipment size to ensure success.
1. Trusted by Home Cooks and Culinary Experts
Cooks Illustrated is a staple in the kitchens of both beginner and experienced home cooks. Known for its data-driven, no-nonsense approach to cooking, every recipe is designed to work perfectly the first time. Their Instant Pot meals are especially popular because they combine this trusted method with the convenience of pressure cooking — making weeknight dinners fast, flavorful, and frustration-free.
2. Kitchen-Tested and Foolproof
Unlike many online recipes that can be hit or miss, Cooks Illustrated recipes undergo dozens of test rounds to ensure consistency. For Instant Pot cooking, this is particularly important since even small mistakes in timing or layering can affect texture or taste. With Cooks Illustrated, you’re guaranteed clear instructions, precise timing, and results you can count on — every single time.
3. Perfect for Busy Weeknights
Need dinner on the table fast? Cooks Illustrated Instant Pot recipes are designed to save you time without sacrificing flavor. Whether it’s a 15-minute mac and cheese, hearty beef stew, or chicken and rice in under 30 minutes, these meals turn pantry staples into gourmet dishes. Plus, they’re all one-pot meals — meaning less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner.
4. Science-Based Cooking for Better Results
The team at Cooks Illustrated doesn’t just guess what works — they test, retest, and explain why a recipe works. From choosing the best cuts of meat (like boneless chicken thighs or chuck roast) to optimizing pressure release methods (quick release vs. natural release), you’ll not only get a great meal but also learn valuable cooking techniques you can apply beyond the Instant Pot.
Must-Try Cooks Illustrated Instant Pot Dinner Recipes
One of the biggest draws of the Instant Pot is its ability to turn traditional, slow-cooked dishes into quick, one-pot meals. Thanks to Cooks Illustrated, you can recreate your favorite comfort foods, made even easier with the magic of pressure cooking. Here are some must-try Instant Pot dinner recipes that have been perfected through rigorous testing and offer incredible flavor in record time:
1. Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
This classic dinner gets a makeover in the Instant Pot, allowing you to create a delicious and hearty meal in less than 30 minutes. The Cooks Illustrated Instant Pot chicken and rice recipe ensures that both the chicken and rice are perfectly cooked, with the chicken staying juicy and tender, and the rice fluffy and flavorful. Whether you’re using boneless chicken breasts or thighs, this recipe is foolproof and packed with seasoning — think garlic, onion, and fresh herbs.
Key Ingredients:
- Boneless chicken breasts or thighs
- Long-grain white rice
- Chicken broth (or stock)
- Garlic, onion, and thyme
- Optional veggies: carrots, peas, or bell peppers
2. Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes with Garlic
Mashed potatoes are a dinner staple, but cooking them in the Instant Pot speeds up the process while maintaining the rich, creamy texture we all love. Cooks Illustrated’s take on Yukon Gold mashed potatoes incorporates roasted garlic for an added depth of flavor. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function makes them velvety smooth with minimal effort. Pair these potatoes with any main dish for a comforting side everyone will rave about.
Key Ingredients:
- Yukon Gold potatoes
- Roasted garlic
- Butter and heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
3. Beef Stew with Red Wine and Thyme
The Instant Pot transforms a traditionally slow-cooked meal like beef stew into a weeknight-friendly dish without sacrificing flavor. Cooks Illustrated’s recipe for beef stew features rich red wine, aromatic thyme, and tender chuck roast that shreds perfectly after a quick pressure cook. With vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery, this stew is hearty and comforting — a perfect meal for colder months or a cozy dinner at home.
Key Ingredients:
- Chuck roast or stew meat
- Red wine (preferably dry)
- Carrots, onions, celery, and potatoes
- Fresh thyme and bay leaves
- Beef broth
4. Creamy Tuscan White Bean Soup
Looking for a lighter yet satisfying meal? Cooks Illustrated’s creamy Tuscan white bean soup brings together rich, velvety beans, fresh spinach, and garlic-infused broth. Using the Instant Pot, you can develop deep flavors in just a fraction of the time it would take to simmer on the stove. The result is a creamy, hearty, and comforting soup that works perfectly as a stand-alone dinner or paired with some crusty bread.
Key Ingredients:
- Cannellini or Great Northern beans
- Fresh spinach
- Onion, garlic, and rosemary
- Vegetable broth or chicken broth
- Heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
5. Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
A crowd-pleasing favorite, mac and cheese is often a time-consuming dish, but Cooks Illustrated’s Instant Pot mac and cheese recipe makes it a breeze. This version uses a combination of cheddar, cream cheese, and mustard powder to create a rich, creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly. Plus, it’s made in one pot, meaning less mess and more time spent enjoying the meal.
Key Ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni
- Sharp cheddar cheese
- Cream cheese
- Whole milk or heavy cream
- Dijon mustard powder (optional)
These Instant Pot dinner recipes from Cooks Illustrated are designed to save you time while delivering incredible flavor and texture. Whether you’re craving something hearty like beef stew or something lighter like Tuscan white bean soup, these recipes make it easy to enjoy delicious homemade meals with minimal effort. Plus, with the Instant Pot’s one-pot cooking method, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time at the table with your loved ones.
Tips from America’s Test Kitchen for Instant Pot Success
America’s Test Kitchen is known for its science-backed cooking techniques, and when it comes to using the Instant Pot, their insights are invaluable. Cooks Illustrated has tested hundreds of recipes, learning through trial and error how to maximize the potential of this versatile kitchen appliance. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, these expert tips will help you achieve consistently delicious results.
1. Use the Sauté Function to Build Flavor
One of the most powerful features of the Instant Pot is the Sauté function. Cooks Illustrated stresses the importance of using this setting to build layers of flavor before you even begin pressure cooking. By sautéing onions, garlic, and aromatics like ginger or herbs in oil or butter, you allow the flavors to deepen and develop, creating a richer base for your dish.
Tip:
- Always start by browning meat (like chicken thighs or beef stew chunks) in the sauté mode to lock in the juices and caramelize the surface, creating a more flavorful finished dish.
- Use a wooden spoon or spatula to deglaze the pot with a small amount of broth or wine to lift up any browned bits stuck to the bottom — these contribute tons of flavor to your final dish.
2. Choose the Right Cut of Meat
Not all cuts of meat are created equal when cooking under pressure. Cooks Illustrated recommends selecting tougher, more marbled cuts of meat for the Instant Pot to achieve tender, juicy results. These cuts hold up better to the high heat and pressure, and they break down into tender bites after cooking.
Ideal Cuts for the Instant Pot:
- Chicken: Opt for bone-in thighs or bone-in chicken breasts. Bone-in pieces retain more moisture, preventing dryness.
- Beef: Choose chuck roast, brisket, or short ribs for dishes like beef stew or braised beef. These cuts become incredibly tender after pressure cooking.
- Pork: Pork shoulder or pork belly work best, making them ideal for dishes like pulled pork or stews.
Tip:
- For vegetarian or vegan recipes, like a hearty lentil stew or vegetable curry, use ingredients like root vegetables (sweet potatoes, carrots) and legumes (lentils, chickpeas) that hold up well under pressure.
3. Layer Ingredients for Even Cooking
One common mistake when using an Instant Pot is not layering the ingredients properly. Cooks Illustrated highlights that certain ingredients should go into the pot in a specific order to ensure they cook evenly and don’t become mushy.
Tip:
- Always place harder vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or root vegetables at the bottom of the pot, as they require more cooking time.
- Delicate ingredients, such as leafy greens, should be added on top after the pressure cooking phase or near the end to prevent them from turning into mush.
- If cooking a multi-ingredient dish like a chicken and rice recipe, layer the rice above the meat to ensure both cook properly without overcooking one or the other.
4. Adjust Pressure Release for Optimal Results
The Instant Pot offers two types of pressure release methods: quick release and natural release. Cooks Illustrated offers key guidance on when to use each for the best results.
- Quick Release: Ideal for delicate dishes like fish or vegetables, where you want to stop the cooking process immediately to preserve texture.
- Natural Release: Use for meats like roast chicken or beef stew, where the gradual reduction in pressure allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Tip:
- For soups and stews, it’s often best to let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10-15 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam. This helps to thicken the soup and enhances the flavors.
5. Don’t Overfill the Instant Pot
The Instant Pot has a maximum fill line marked inside the pot, and it’s essential not to exceed it. Cooks Illustrated stresses that overfilling the pot can result in uneven cooking, poorly sealed lids, or even the pot not coming to full pressure.
Tip:
- As a general rule, never fill the Instant Pot beyond two-thirds of its total capacity. This allows the steam to circulate properly, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
- For recipes that expand during cooking, such as rice, make sure to leave extra room for the dish to puff up.
With these expert Instant Pot tips from America’s Test Kitchen, you’ll be able to cook like a pro. Whether you’re making a hearty stew, a creamy risotto, or perfectly tender chicken, these guidelines will ensure that your Cooks Illustrated Instant Pot recipes come out perfectly every time.
Instant Pot Recipe Variations for Every Diet
The versatility of the Instant Pot allows you to easily adapt traditional recipes to suit a wide range of dietary needs. Whether you follow a vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, or keto diet, or need a recipe that is dairy-free, the Instant Pot can help you create delicious, healthy meals that still pack a punch of flavor. You can explore models like the Ninja Foodi 8-Quart, which offers even more versatility for making meals to suit various diets. Here are some Instant Pot recipe variations that accommodate different dietary preferences, all while maintaining the high standards of Cooks Illustrated’s kitchen-tested recipes:
1. Vegan and Plant-Based Instant Pot Recipes
Cooking for a vegan or plant-based diet doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Cooks Illustrated has perfected several Instant Pot recipes that are not only plant-based but also rich in taste and texture. By utilizing legumes, grains, and hearty vegetables, these recipes ensure that your meals are full of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
Vegan Instant Pot Recipe Variations:
- Vegan Lentil Stew: Replace meat with protein-rich lentils, along with seasonal vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes. Add a combination of vegetable broth, garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for depth of flavor.
- Vegan Chili: A hearty bean chili made with kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans cooked with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and chili powder. Top it with avocado slices or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy-like flavor without the dairy.
- Vegan Risotto: You can make a creamy risotto using vegetable broth, arborio rice, and a generous amount of mushrooms. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for that rich, cheesy taste.
Tip:
- When cooking vegan Instant Pot recipes, always opt for full-bodied vegetable broths and umami-rich ingredients (such as mushrooms, miso, or soy sauce) to bring out the rich, savory flavors.
2. Gluten-Free Instant Pot Recipes
Gluten-free cooking can sometimes be tricky when it comes to achieving the right texture, but the Instant Pot is perfect for this challenge. Whether you’re avoiding gluten due to celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, you can still enjoy hearty, comforting meals without sacrificing flavor.
Gluten-Free Instant Pot Recipe Variations:
- Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese: Swap traditional pasta for gluten-free elbow macaroni or another gluten-free pasta of your choice. Pair with a blend of sharp cheddar cheese and heavy cream for a creamy, indulgent dinner.
- Quinoa Salad: A nutrient-packed salad made with quinoa, roasted vegetables (such as zucchini and bell peppers), and a tangy lemon dressing. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and makes for a great light dinner or lunch.
- Beef Stew with Potato and Carrots: Ensure your beef stew is gluten-free by using simple, wholesome ingredients like potatoes, carrots, onions, and a rich beef broth. This classic meal is naturally gluten-free and packed with comforting flavors.
Tip:
- Double-check that any seasonings, broths, and condiments used are labeled gluten-free, as some pre-made options (like soy sauce) may contain gluten.
3. Low-Carb and Keto Instant Pot Recipes
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, the Instant Pot is a game-changer. By swapping out high-carb ingredients like pasta or rice, you can enjoy hearty, satisfying meals without exceeding your carb limit. Cooks Illustrated has several low-carb Instant Pot variations that retain all the flavors you love while keeping carbs in check.
Low-Carb & Keto Instant Pot Recipe Variations:
- Keto Beef Stew: Substitute traditional potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb take on classic beef stew. Cauliflower holds up well in the Instant Pot and provides a comforting texture without the extra carbs.
- Chicken Alfredo with Zucchini Noodles: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a delicious keto chicken Alfredo. The Instant Pot helps create a creamy, garlicky sauce made with heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan.
- Keto Pulled Pork: This flavorful pulled pork recipe is made by cooking pork shoulder with a spice rub and then shredding it once cooked. Serve over a bed of sautéed spinach or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.
Tip:
- For a creamy base in keto dishes, use heavy cream or coconut milk instead of milk, which is higher in carbs. Additionally, consider using low-carb vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, and spinach to bulk up meals.
4. Dairy-Free Instant Pot Recipes
Whether you’re lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, the Instant Pot can easily be adapted to make delicious dairy-free meals. Cooks Illustrated offers plenty of recipes where dairy-free swaps, such as coconut milk or almond milk, help create creamy textures without any dairy.
Dairy-Free Instant Pot Recipe Variations:
- Dairy-Free Creamy Tomato Soup: This version of the classic tomato soup uses coconut milk to create a smooth and creamy texture. Pair with a gluten-free grilled cheese for the ultimate dairy-free comfort meal.
- Dairy-Free Chicken Curry: For a fragrant and hearty chicken curry, use coconut milk as the base, along with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, and spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
- Dairy-Free Sweet Potato and Lentil Stew: This nutrient-packed stew features lentils, sweet potatoes, and spinach, all simmered in a rich vegetable broth with a touch of coconut cream for creaminess.
Tip:
- Coconut milk is an excellent dairy-free substitute for cream or milk in many recipes, adding richness and flavor. Use the full-fat version for a creamier result.
5. Paleo Instant Pot Recipes
The Paleo diet focuses on whole, unprocessed foods, excluding grains, legumes, dairy, and refined sugar. The Instant Pot is an excellent tool for making Paleo-friendly meals, as it helps tenderize meats and develop rich flavors without the need for non-Paleo ingredients.
Paleo Instant Pot Recipe Variations:
- Paleo Beef Stew: Just like the classic, but with potatoes and carrots, Paleo beef stew skips the flour or cornstarch thickening and uses cauliflower to thicken the broth naturally.
- Paleo Chicken Soup: A chicken soup made with bone-in chicken and loaded with veggies like celery, carrots, and onions, all simmered in chicken stock. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and Paleo-approved.
- Paleo Pulled Pork: Cook pork shoulder in the Instant Pot with a simple rub of spices, then serve with a tangy apple cider vinegar slaw.
Tip:
- When preparing Paleo Instant Pot recipes, focus on using whole vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats like avocado oil or coconut oil for cooking.
No matter what diet you’re following, Instant Pot recipes can be tailored to meet your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or convenience. These Cooks Illustrated-approved variations allow you to enjoy wholesome, nutritious meals that are perfectly suited to your lifestyle.
FAQs About Cooking with Cooks Illustrated and the Instant Pot
When it comes to cooking with the Instant Pot and utilizing Cooks Illustrated’s expertly crafted recipes, there are often some common questions that arise. Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot user or just starting out, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of both the Instant Pot and how to make the most of Cooks Illustrated’s kitchen-tested recipes. In this section, we’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions to help guide you through your cooking journey with confidence.
1. How Do I Adapt Cooks Illustrated Recipes for the Instant Pot?
One of the most common questions people have when using the Instant Pot for Cooks Illustrated recipes is how to adapt traditional stovetop or oven-based recipes to the Instant Pot. Fortunately, Cooks Illustrated has developed Instant Pot-specific instructions for many of their recipes, but if you’re adapting on your own, here are some general tips:
- Cooking Time: Instant Pot recipes typically have shorter cooking times than traditional methods because of the pressure cooking feature. Generally, you can cut the cooking time by about 60% compared to conventional stovetop or oven recipes. For example, if a soup would take 1 hour on the stovetop, you can expect it to cook in 15-20 minutes under pressure.
- Liquid Adjustment: The Instant Pot requires a minimum amount of liquid to build pressure. When adapting Cooks Illustrated recipes, you’ll need to add at least 1-1.5 cups of liquid, even if the original recipe doesn’t call for it.
- Sauté Function: Many Instant Pot models come with a sauté function, which allows you to brown or cook ingredients like onions, garlic, or meat before pressure cooking. Use this feature to follow the same sautéing steps as you would on the stovetop to preserve flavor.
Tip:
Start with Cooks Illustrated’s Instant Pot recipes to get the hang of cooking times and liquid requirements. As you become more experienced, you’ll feel more confident adapting other recipes.
2. Can I Cook Frozen Meat in the Instant Pot Using Cooks Illustrated Recipes?
Yes! One of the most remarkable features of the Instant Pot is its ability to cook frozen meat, making it incredibly convenient for busy cooks. If a Cooks Illustrated recipe calls for fresh meat but you only have frozen meat on hand, you can still prepare it without compromising flavor.
- For Poultry: You can cook frozen chicken or turkey in the Instant Pot. For example, if a Cooks Illustrated chicken recipe calls for fresh chicken breasts or thighs, you can cook frozen chicken pieces by simply adding 5-10 extra minutes of cooking time (depending on the size of the pieces).
- For Beef and Pork: When using frozen cuts like beef stew cubes or pork shoulder, you’ll need to add about 20-30 minutes of additional cooking time. Always check the internal temperature to ensure the meat reaches a safe level.
Tip:
To avoid any risk of undercooking, always use a meat thermometer to check that your frozen meat has reached the appropriate internal temperature. For chicken, it should be 165°F, while beef and pork should reach at least 145°F.
3. How Do I Know If My Instant Pot is Set to the Correct Pressure?
It’s essential to set the Instant Pot to the correct pressure when following a recipe, especially when using Cooks Illustrated‘s time-tested instructions. Here’s how you can ensure the right setting:
- High Pressure vs. Low Pressure: Most Cooks Illustrated recipes that use the Instant Pot will call for high pressure for cooking. Some recipes, especially those for delicate dishes like eggs or fish, may require low pressure. Always refer to the recipe for the recommended pressure setting.
- Sealing Ring: Make sure the sealing ring is properly in place on your Instant Pot lid. If it’s not seated correctly, the Instant Pot will not come to pressure, and your food won’t cook as expected.
- Pressure Release Method: Most recipes will specify whether to use natural release (letting the pressure release on its own) or quick release (manually releasing the pressure). Following the correct method is key to ensuring your dish is perfectly cooked.
Tip:
Always check the pressure valve and ensure it’s in the correct position (sealed) before starting the cooking process.
4. Why Do My Instant Pot Dishes Sometimes Turn Out Too Wet or Too Dry?
Achieving the perfect texture in your Instant Pot dishes can be tricky. If your dish is too wet or dry, it’s often due to liquid content or cooking time. Here’s how to avoid these issues:
- Too Wet: If your dish turns out too soupy or watery, it’s likely that there was too much liquid or the recipe needed a longer cooking time to allow the liquid to reduce. You can fix this by using the sauté function after cooking to allow the liquid to evaporate and thicken the dish.
- Too Dry: On the flip side, if your food turns out too dry, it’s usually because there wasn’t enough liquid or the cooking time was too long. Ensure that you always have at least 1 cup of liquid in the Instant Pot. For longer cooking recipes, try using the natural release method, which helps keep moisture in the dish.
Tip:
Adjust the liquid levels slightly based on your preferences, and remember that the Instant Pot will often leave more moisture in the dish than conventional cooking methods.
5. Can I Double or Halve a Cooks Illustrated Instant Pot Recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the portion sizes of Cooks Illustrated Instant Pot recipes, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
- Doubling the Recipe: If you double a recipe, the cooking time usually stays the same, but the Instant Pot may take longer to come to pressure due to the increased volume. Make sure not to overfill your Instant Pot (it should not exceed 2/3 of the pot for most recipes).
- Halving the Recipe: If you halve a recipe, the cooking time may not change significantly, but the pressure buildup time will be shorter. Be sure to adjust the liquid ratio accordingly and monitor the recipe’s doneness.
Tip:
If you’re new to modifying recipes, start by adjusting the recipe by small increments and keep an eye on the texture and cooking time. The Instant Pot is fairly forgiving, but it’s better to err on the side of caution when modifying amounts.