Thanksgiving Recipes For Instant Pot

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, gratitude, and, of course, a magnificent feast. While traditional cooking methods have their charm, the Instant Pot has become a game-changer for holiday meal preparation. It offers incredible speed and convenience.

This versatile appliance can transform your kitchen experience, freeing up oven and stovetop space. It allows you to create many classic dishes with less stress and more flavor. From savory sides to succulent mains, the Instant Pot handles it all.

We’ve curated a list of the best Thanksgiving Recipes For Instant Pot, designed to make your holiday cooking smoother. Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot user or just starting, you’ll find fantastic ideas here. Our selection covers a range of dishes and ingredients, fitting various preferences and budgets.

Discover delicious options that will impress your guests without keeping you chained to the kitchen. These top Thanksgiving Recipes For Instant Pot suggestions will help you enjoy the festivities more. Get ready to elevate your holiday meal with minimal fuss and maximum taste.

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1. Juicy Instant Pot Turkey Breast

Preparing a whole turkey can be daunting, but an Instant Pot makes cooking a flavorful turkey breast incredibly simple. This method yields exceptionally moist and tender meat. It’s perfect for smaller gatherings or as an addition to a larger bird.

The pressure cooker locks in moisture, ensuring a delicious result every time. Consider a mid-range turkey breast from your local butcher or supermarket. You might also find quality turkey rubs on Amazon to enhance its flavor profile. This is one of the best Thanksgiving Recipes For Instant Pot for a stress-free main.

Best for: Smaller families or complementing a roasted whole turkey.
If you want: A moist, tender turkey without oven space.
Price Indicator: Mid-range for the turkey, budget-friendly for seasonings.

2. Creamy Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving staple, and the Instant Pot streamlines their creation. You can cook potatoes to perfection in minutes, then mash them directly in the pot. This saves time and dirty dishes.

Achieve incredibly creamy results by adding butter, milk, and seasonings. For an extra smooth texture, consider a potato ricer, which can be a premium kitchen tool but lasts years. This recipe is a top choice for efficiency.

Perfect for: Anyone seeking fluffy, quick mashed potatoes.
If you want: To free up stovetop space and reduce cooking time.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for ingredients, mid-range for a good ricer.

3. Instant Pot Green Bean Casserole

This classic side dish gets a modern twist in the Instant Pot. You can cook the green beans and even sauté the mushroom mixture right in the appliance. It creates a rich, savory casserole with minimal effort.

Using fresh or frozen green beans works wonderfully, offering flexibility. Top it with crispy fried onions, easily found in grocery stores or in bulk on Amazon. This dish is a fantastic way to utilize your Instant Pot for a favorite.

Best for: Fans of the traditional casserole looking for a simpler method.
If you want: A hearty, comforting side with less fuss.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for ingredients.

4. Flavorful Instant Pot Stuffing/Dressing

Stuffing is a must-have, and the Instant Pot can produce incredibly moist and flavorful results. It’s a great way to ensure your stuffing is cooked through without drying out. You can even sauté your aromatics directly in the pot before adding other ingredients.

Use your favorite bread cubes, broth, and seasonings. Many pre-seasoned bread cube mixes are available on Amazon for convenience. This is a top contender among Thanksgiving Recipes For Instant Pot for its ease and delicious outcome.

Perfect for: Those who love moist, savory stuffing.
If you want: To avoid a dry stuffing and save oven space.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for most ingredients, mid-range for specialty bread.

5. Quick Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce

Forget the canned version; homemade cranberry sauce in the Instant Pot is a revelation. It takes mere minutes to cook fresh cranberries with sugar, water, and citrus zest. The result is a vibrant, flavorful sauce.

This method allows you to customize sweetness and add spices like cinnamon or cloves. Fresh cranberries are often available seasonally, and you can find citrus zesters on Amazon. This is one of the best Thanksgiving Recipes For Instant Pot for a fresh touch.

Best for: Elevating your meal with homemade freshness.
If you want: A quick, customizable, and delicious cranberry sauce.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for fresh cranberries.

6. Decadent Instant Pot Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is another beloved holiday dish that shines in the Instant Pot. The potatoes cook quickly and evenly, making them easy to mash. You can then mix in butter, brown sugar, and spices.

For the iconic topping, add marshmallows and toast them under a broiler after cooking. Pecan pieces, also available on Amazon, make a great crunchy addition. This dish offers a sweet, satisfying counterpoint to savory mains.

Perfect for: Sweet potato lovers seeking an easier preparation.
If you want: A rich, comforting side with less cooking time.
Price Indicator: Budget to mid-range for ingredients.

7. Rich Instant Pot Gravy

Making gravy can be tricky, but the Instant Pot can simplify the process, especially if you have turkey drippings. You can use the sauté function to thicken your gravy right in the pot. This saves on extra pans and clean-up.

Combine drippings with broth, cornstarch slurry, and seasonings for a smooth, lump-free gravy. A good whisk, easily found on Amazon, is essential here. This is a top Instant Pot recipe for ensuring flavorful gravy.

Best for: Ensuring a smooth, delicious gravy with minimal effort.
If you want: To make gravy directly from drippings or broth.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for thickening agents.

8. Smooth Instant Pot Pumpkin Puree

While not a dish itself, perfectly cooked pumpkin puree is essential for many Thanksgiving desserts. The Instant Pot can steam pumpkin or squash halves until they are incredibly tender. This makes scooping and mashing a breeze.

Using fresh pumpkin yields a richer flavor than canned. You can then use this puree for pies, tarts, or even soups. An immersion blender, available in various price points on Amazon, helps achieve a silky smooth texture.

Perfect for: Dessert bakers who prefer homemade puree.
If you want: To make the best pumpkin pie from scratch.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for fresh pumpkin, mid-range for an immersion blender.

9. Easy Instant Pot Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a popular appetizer, and the Instant Pot makes boiling eggs incredibly easy. They come out perfectly cooked and are much simpler to peel. This is a fantastic time-saver for a popular starter.

Once peeled, simply halve, scoop out yolks, mix with mayonnaise and mustard, then refill. An egg steamer rack, a budget-friendly Instant Pot accessory, is highly recommended for cooking multiple eggs at once.

Best for: Appetizer enthusiasts looking for perfectly cooked eggs.
If you want: Quick, easy-to-peel hard-boiled eggs for any occasion.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for eggs and condiments.

10. Tender Instant Pot Corn on the Cob

If you’re serving corn on the cob, the Instant Pot is an excellent tool. It steams ears of corn to tender perfection in just a few minutes. This frees up stovetop burners for other dishes.

Serve with butter, salt, and pepper for a simple, delicious side. Corn holders, available in multi-packs on Amazon, make eating easier. This is a straightforward and effective use of your Instant Pot.

Perfect for: A simple, crowd-pleasing vegetable side.
If you want: Perfectly cooked corn in a flash.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for corn, low-cost for holders.

11. Instant Pot Steamed Assorted Vegetables

Beyond corn, the Instant Pot excels at steaming various vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus. They retain their vibrant color and nutrients when cooked quickly under pressure. This is a healthy and efficient side.

Use a steamer basket, which often comes with Instant Pot accessory kits or can be bought separately on Amazon. Season simply with butter, salt, and herbs. This is a versatile option for any Thanksgiving spread.

Best for: Healthy, quick vegetable preparation.
If you want: To serve fresh, perfectly steamed veggies.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for fresh vegetables, mid-range for a good steamer basket.

12. Creamy Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese

A beloved comfort food, macaroni and cheese is incredibly easy to make in the Instant Pot. The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing flavors and becoming wonderfully creamy. It’s a fantastic dish for all ages.

Use a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Gruyere for the best flavor. Many specialty pasta shapes and cheese blends can be found on Amazon. This is a top Thanksgiving Recipes For Instant Pot side for families.

Perfect for: Families and those who love rich, cheesy pasta.
If you want: A super creamy mac and cheese with minimal fuss.
Price Indicator: Budget to mid-range for pasta and cheese.

13. Soft Instant Pot Dinner Rolls

While baking bread typically uses an oven, the Instant Pot can create a warm, moist environment for proofing dough. You can also steam certain types of rolls for an incredibly soft texture. This is a unique way to prepare bread.

For steamed rolls, consider a recipe specifically designed for the Instant Pot. Serving warm rolls with butter is always a hit. Look for bread mixes or even specialty flours on Amazon for baking.

Best for: Achieving exceptionally soft, tender dinner rolls.
If you want: A unique and moist bread offering.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for flour or mixes.

14. Warming Instant Pot Mulled Apple Cider

For a comforting beverage, the Instant Pot can keep mulled cider warm throughout your gathering. You simply combine apple cider with mulling spices, citrus slices, and a touch of sweetness. It’s a fragrant and inviting drink.

Mulling spice blends are readily available on Amazon and are a budget-friendly way to add festive flavor. This frees up stovetop space and keeps the cider at the perfect temperature for hours.

Perfect for: A cozy, aromatic holiday beverage.
If you want: A warm, inviting drink that stays hot.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for cider and spices.

15. Luscious Instant Pot Cheesecake

Yes, you can make a cheesecake in your Instant Pot! The moist, steamy environment of the pressure cooker helps prevent cracks. It creates an incredibly smooth and creamy texture, perfect for a show-stopping dessert.

You’ll need a springform pan that fits inside your Instant Pot (typically 7-inch or 8-inch, 18 cm or 20 cm). These are easily found on Amazon. This is a top dessert option for those looking to impress.

Best for: Dessert lovers wanting a perfectly smooth cheesecake.
If you want: To bake a premium dessert without heating up your kitchen.
Price Indicator: Mid-range for ingredients, mid-range for a springform pan.

16. Instant Pot Hard-Boiled Eggs (for salads)

Similar to deviled eggs, the Instant Pot excels at making perfect hard-boiled eggs for any purpose. If you’re planning a large salad or need eggs for a side dish, this method is quick and yields easy-to-peel results.

Cook a dozen or more eggs at once with minimal fuss. An Instant Pot egg rack is a budget-friendly accessory that helps keep eggs stable during cooking. This is a practical and efficient use of the appliance.

Perfect for: Meal prep or large quantities of hard-boiled eggs.
If you want: Consistent, easy-to-peel hard-boiled eggs.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for eggs.

17. Hearty Instant Pot Pot Roast (Non-Traditional Main)

For a smaller or non-traditional Thanksgiving, a tender pot roast can be a fantastic main course. The Instant Pot transforms tough cuts of meat into fall-apart perfection in a fraction of the time. It’s a comforting and flavorful alternative.

Pair with root vegetables like carrots and potatoes cooked alongside. Look for quality chuck roast at your butcher. Seasoning packets for pot roast are available on Amazon for ease. This is a top choice for a hearty meal.

Best for: A smaller, alternative Thanksgiving main course.
If you want: Incredibly tender meat with rich gravy.
Price Indicator: Mid-range to premium for chuck roast.

18. Velvety Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup

A creamy soup is a wonderful appetizer to start your Thanksgiving meal. The Instant Pot cooks butternut squash quickly, making it easy to blend into a smooth, velvety soup. It’s a comforting and elegant starter.

Add warming spices like nutmeg or ginger. An immersion blender, available on Amazon, is ideal for achieving a silky texture directly in the pot. Vegetable broth, also available in bulk, is a key ingredient.

Perfect for: A sophisticated and warm appetizer.
If you want: A smooth, flavorful soup with minimal effort.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for squash, mid-range for a blender.

19. Fluffy Instant Pot Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf makes a versatile and elegant side dish that can easily be made in the Instant Pot. The rice cooks perfectly, absorbing the flavors of broth and aromatics. It’s a great alternative to traditional stuffing.

Sauté onions and garlic first, then add rice and broth for a fragrant result. Consider specialty rice blends or high-quality broths, which can be found on Amazon. This is a best option for a simple yet flavorful grain.

Best for: A flavorful grain side dish.
If you want: Perfectly cooked, fluffy rice every time.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for rice and broth.

20. Instant Pot Thanksgiving Feast Cookbook

For those who want a comprehensive guide, an Instant Pot Thanksgiving cookbook is an invaluable resource. These books offer a collection of recipes specifically tailored for the pressure cooker. They provide step-by-step instructions for various holiday dishes.

Many excellent cookbooks, from budget-friendly e-books to premium hardcover editions, are available on Amazon. This is a great investment for expanding your Instant Pot repertoire and finding new Thanksgiving Recipes For Instant Pot.

Perfect for: Beginners and experienced cooks seeking new ideas.
If you want: A curated collection of holiday recipes.
Price Indicator: Budget to premium for cookbooks.

21. Instant Pot Chicken Broth

Making your own chicken or turkey broth in the Instant Pot is incredibly simple and yields a much richer flavor than store-bought. This homemade broth is essential for making the best gravies, stuffings, and soups. It’s a great way to use leftover turkey bones after the main event.

Simply combine bones, vegetables like carrots and celery, and water. Pressure cook for a few hours, then strain. You can find large stockpots or strainers on Amazon to aid in the process.

Best for: Enhancing the flavor of all your Thanksgiving dishes.
If you want: Rich, homemade broth with minimal effort.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly (uses scraps), mid-range for a fine-mesh strainer.

22. Instant Pot Glazed Carrots

Sweet and savory glazed carrots are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. The Instant Pot steams carrots to tender-crisp perfection. You can then easily finish them with a butter and brown sugar glaze.

This method ensures even cooking and frees up stovetop space. Use fresh carrots, which are widely available. A good vegetable peeler, a simple kitchen tool, can be found on Amazon.

Perfect for: A vibrant, sweet, and simple vegetable side.
If you want: Tender carrots with a delicious, easy glaze.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for carrots and glazing ingredients.

23. Instant Pot Baked Apples

For a lighter, yet comforting dessert, consider baked apples in your Instant Pot. Core apples and fill them with a mixture of oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter. The Instant Pot steams them to a tender consistency.

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel. Specialty apple corers are available on Amazon. This is a delightful end to a rich meal and one of the top Thanksgiving Recipes For Instant Pot for dessert.

Best for: A comforting, fruit-based dessert.
If you want: A quick and easy warm apple treat.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for apples and spices.

24. Instant Pot Apple Sauce

Homemade applesauce is far superior to store-bought, and the Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy. Simply chop apples, add a little water, and pressure cook until soft. Then mash or blend to your desired consistency.

Customize with cinnamon, nutmeg, or a squeeze of lemon. You can also find apple varieties specifically good for sauce on Amazon during the season. This is a versatile side or ingredient for other dishes.

Perfect for: A healthy, homemade side dish or ingredient.
If you want: Fresh applesauce with customizable flavors.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for apples.

25. Instant Pot Potato Salad

While perhaps not a traditional Thanksgiving dish for everyone, a good potato salad can be a refreshing side, especially if you’re serving a lighter meal or have guests who prefer it. The Instant Pot cooks potatoes perfectly for salad.

Combine cooked potatoes with mayonnaise, celery, onions, and herbs. Many premium mayonnaise brands are available on Amazon. This is a quick way to prepare a large batch of potatoes.

Best for: A refreshing, creamy side dish.
If you want: Perfectly cooked potatoes for salad in a hurry.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for potatoes, mid-range for specialty mayo.

26. Instant Pot Rice Pudding

If you’re looking for a warm, creamy, and comforting dessert, rice pudding made in the Instant Pot is a fantastic option. The pressure cooker ensures the rice cooks to a perfect texture, absorbing all the milky sweetness.

Combine rice, milk, sugar, and vanilla for a classic version. Top with cinnamon or raisins. Specialty rice varieties and high-quality vanilla extract can be found on Amazon.

Perfect for: A comforting, sweet, and easy-to-make dessert.
If you want: A creamy, satisfying end to your meal.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for basic ingredients.

27. Instant Pot Infused Water

While not a recipe in the traditional sense, using your Instant Pot to quickly infuse water with fruits and herbs is a great way to offer refreshing, flavorful drinks. It’s a healthy and elegant alternative to sugary beverages.

Combine water with sliced cucumbers, lemons, mint, or berries. Pressure cook for a short time, then chill. Large pitchers and infuser bottles are available on Amazon.

Best for: Offering light, refreshing, and healthy drinks.
If you want: Naturally flavored water for your guests.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for fruits and herbs.

28. Instant Pot Hot Chocolate Concentrate

Prepare a rich, decadent hot chocolate concentrate in your Instant Pot. This allows you to have a delicious base ready to go. Simply add hot milk or water for individual servings. It’s perfect for chilly Thanksgiving evenings.

Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips, available on Amazon. This concentrate can be stored in the refrigerator for days, making it convenient.

Perfect for: A warm, indulgent beverage for after dinner.
If you want: Rich, homemade hot chocolate on demand.
Price Indicator: Mid-range for quality chocolate ingredients.

29. Instant Pot Poached Pears

Elegant and delicious, poached pears are a lovely, lighter dessert. The Instant Pot gently poaches pears in spiced wine or cider, infusing them with flavor and making them incredibly tender.

Serve with a drizzle of the poaching liquid or a dollop of whipped cream. Spices like star anise and cloves, found on Amazon, add warmth. This is a sophisticated and easy-to-make sweet treat.

Best for: An elegant, lighter dessert option.
If you want: Tender, flavorful fruit with minimal effort.
Price Indicator: Mid-range for pears and poaching liquid.

30. Instant Pot Candied Yams

Candied yams are a sweet, caramelized side dish that the Instant Pot can manage beautifully. Cook the yams until tender, then finish them with a syrupy brown sugar and butter glaze. This creates a rich and satisfying dish.

Marshmallows can be added for a classic topping, or you can keep it simple. Specialty syrups or extracts, like vanilla bean paste, can be found on Amazon. This is one of the best Thanksgiving Recipes For Instant Pot for a sweet side.

Perfect for: Those who love a sweet, indulgent vegetable side.
If you want: Perfectly tender yams with a delicious, sticky glaze.
Price Indicator: Budget-friendly for yams and sugars.

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Last Words

The Instant Pot truly shines during the busy holiday season, offering unparalleled convenience and efficiency. We hope these Thanksgiving Recipes For Instant Pot have inspired you to explore new possibilities in your kitchen. From the best turkey breast to top creamy mashed potatoes and decadent desserts, there’s an Instant Pot solution for almost every dish.

Remember to consider your specific needs and the size of your gathering when planning your menu. Each of these suggestions offers a unique benefit, whether it’s saving time, freeing up oven space, or simply making a dish easier to perfect. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make these recipes your own.

You can’t go wrong with any of these options for your holiday table. They are designed to simplify your cooking process without compromising on flavor. We encourage you to check current prices and availability for any suggested ingredients or accessories on Amazon. Happy cooking, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!