41 Healthy Instant Pot Recipes To Cook in 2025

Eating well shouldn’t feel like a full-time job, but that’s exactly how it can seem unless you have access to easy-to-cook meals, such as those covered in this guide to the best healthy Instant Pot recipes.

With the press of a button, you get fresh, home-cooked meals that are good for you without spending hours chopping and stirring. But are you making the best Instant Pot recipes for your health or just throwing in whatever’s easiest?

If your idea of “healthy” means dry chicken and lifeless vegetables, it’s time for an upgrade. This list is packed with easy Instant Pot recipes that bring bold flavors, hearty ingredients and zero kitchen stress.

While the jury is still out on whether using an Instant Pot is the healthiest cooking method, it's definitely not a bad option. This is especially true if you're looking to save time and often put off cooking healthy meals at home due to long-cook times or multi-step recipes. 

So, whether you’re craving protein-packed dinners, fiber-rich soups or healthier comfort food, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get cooking!

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• The 41 Healthiest Instant Pot Recipes
• How We Chose the Healthiest Instant Pot Recipes
• Learn To Cook Quick and Easy Meals

The 41 Healthiest Instant Pot Recipes

1. Instant Pot Pork Roast

A classic comfort food, pork roast is known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Instant Pot pork roast takes this traditional dish and makes it faster and easier without sacrificing tenderness.

Coated in a garlic-herb spice rub and slow-cooked in a savory broth with mushrooms, onions and carrots, it creates a flavorful, well-balanced meal.

You can reduce fat by choosing a lean cut like pork tenderloin and trimming all visible fat, then boost nutritional balance by adding extra vegetables such as parsnips, green beans or Brussels sprouts. Opting for a low-sodium broth is also recommended. 

Overall, this is a versatile dish that fits into a variety of meals, making it a staple among healthy Instant Pot recipes.

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

2.  Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

A true crowd-pleaser, Instant Pot BBQ chicken delivers saucy goodness without the hassle of a grill. This dish features tender and moist chicken, which is the perfect canvas for the sweet and smoky barbecue sauce. 

For the healthiest results, use homemade barbecue sauce with reduced sugar and less sodium, as most store-bought varieties are high in sodium and added sugar, including high fructose corn syrup.

This is one of our go-to healthy Instant Pot recipes because it offers a good amount of protein and feels indulgent yet balanced. It pairs perfectly with sides like cornbread, like sweet potato cornbread, or fresh slaw for a rounded yet still healthy meal.

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

3. Instant Pot Baked Potatoes 

Fluffy on the inside with perfectly tender skin, baked potatoes are a classic side that pairs with nearly any meal. Using steam to lock in moisture, Instant Pot baked potatoes cook faster than traditional methods while delivering that melt-in-your-mouth texture. 

A quicker cooking time isn't a one-off benefit either. Instant Pot cookers prepare food three to 10 times faster than a conventional oven, making healthy Instant Pot recipes true time-savers.

Along with being an easy, healthy Instant Pot recipe, we love that baked potatoes are super versatile. They can be satisfying alone, topped with just butter, cheese or sour cream (including vegan sour cream), but also pair well with a range of healthy dishes, like red chili or vegan chili. 

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes 

Vegan Friendly? Yes

4. Instant Pot Carrots 

A simple way to make vegetables more appealing, Instant Pot carrots turn an everyday ingredient into a flavorful dish with a touch of butter and the best maple syrup you can get at the store.

These sweet and tender carrots deliver vitamins and antioxidants in every bite, including fiber, vitamin A and B vitamins, as further explained by Healthline. This healthy Instant Pot recipe pairs well with many types of main dishes or can even be a quick, nutritious snack. 

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? Yes

5. Instant Pot Baked Beans 

A staple at cookouts, baked beans offer a rich blend of protein and fiber. Simmered in a smoky, sweet sauce, Instant Pot baked beans achieve the same tender texture as traditional slow-cooked versions in a fraction of the time.

The Instant Pot removes the need for pre-soaking of the beans, making this recipe incredibly convenient. This flavorful choice among the best healthy Instant Pot recipes delivers the quality of a long cooking time without the wait. 

While the base recipe includes bacon, this can easily be omitted, and the stock switched with a vegetable or mushroom stock to create a vegetarian and vegan-friendly summer BBQ dish. 

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes, with ingredient adjustments 

Vegan Friendly? Yes, with ingredient adjustments 

6. Instant Pot Potato Ham Chowder 

A long-time classic, Instant Pot potato ham chowder brings warmth and nostalgia to the table with its rich, smoky flavor and satisfying texture. This healthy Instant Pot recipe combines tender potatoes, savory ham, crispy bacon and a touch of cheddar.

Unlike traditional, fat-heavy recipes, this version replaces half the cream with blended cauliflower or puréed beans to significantly reduce saturated fat. It all comes together effortlessly in the Instant Pot, making it a go-to cold-weather recipe for busy nights.

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

7. Instant Pot Rice Pudding

Creamy, comforting and infused with warm spices, rice pudding is a beloved dessert across many cultures. Made with Arborio rice, cinnamon, vanilla bean and a rich milk base, Instant Pot rice pudding has a velvety texture and just the right amount of sweetness.

To make this dessert healthier, replace half the Arborio rice with fiber-rich steel-cut oats or brown rice and reduce the sugar. A favorite among sweet, healthy Instant Pot recipes, this dessert can be enjoyed warm or chilled.

Topped with fresh berries, toasted pecans or plain, healthy Greek yogurt, it’s a cozy treat perfect for any occasion featuring healthy Instant Pot recipes.

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? Yes, with ingredient adjustments

8. Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers 

Colorful, hearty and packed with bold flavors, Instant Pot stuffed peppers offer a satisfying meal in every bite. These sweet peppers are filled with a savory mixture of black beans, rice, salsa and spices, creating a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. 

While the base recipe uses beans, you can make your most stuffed pepper recipes in an Instant Pot, whether that's keto stuffed bell peppers or sausage stuffed peppers. 

Cooking stuffed peppers in the Instant Pot makes the process quick and effortless, locking in the vibrant flavors. This is one of our favorite healthy Instant Pot recipes for a weeknight meal, as this dish offers a simple way to enjoy a well-balanced, flavor-packed meal in almost no time. 

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? Yes

9. Instant Pot Salmon 

Rich in omega-3s and low in calories, salmon ranks high among the healthiest fish to eat. As the Cleveland Clinic explains, it's a nutrient-dense protein that supports heart and brain health.

While there are numerous ways to cook salmon, this healthy Instant Pot meal is one of the tastiest. Infused with butter, lemon and garlic, and paired with green beans, Instant Pot salmon comes out tender and flavorful with minimal effort. The foil-packet method locks in moisture, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

As a top pick among cheap and healthy meals, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. Best of all, this healthy Instant Pot recipe pairs well with various types of additional sides like herb rice or a simple lemon kale salad for a balanced, wholesome dinner. 

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

10. Instant Pot Chicken and Broccoli 

Tender chicken, crisp broccoli and a savory garlic-infused sauce come together in Instant Pot chicken and broccoli, a lighter take on a beloved takeout classic.

This dish blends reduced-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil and a hint of brown sugar to create a rich, umami-packed flavor that can still rank among healthy Instant Pot recipes. 

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

11. Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

Lighter and creamier than traditional chili, Instant Pot white chicken chili replaces beef and tomatoes with shredded chicken, white beans and green chiles in a rich, flavorful broth. This hearty dish delivers just the right amount of heat and creaminess, making it a favorite for meal prep or cozy nights.

Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is a top choice from this guide to the best healthy Instant Pot recipes because it offers a protein-rich meal packed with a fresh, zesty finish. While simple to prepare, the flavor profile is complex and incredibly moreish. 

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

12. Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Wraps 

A fiery twist on a classic wrap, Instant Pot Buffalo chicken wraps deliver bold buffalo flavor with tender shredded chicken in every bite. This dish sets itself apart by balancing heat with a creamy finish while keeping things light and satisfying.

This healthy Instant Pot recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or snack that doesn’t feel heavy but is still nutritious. 

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

13. Instant Pot Lasagna Soup 

All the rich, cheesy goodness of classic lasagna comes together in Instant Pot lasagna soup, a comforting, one-pot meal without the hassle of layering and baking. This is one of the best healthy Instant Pot recipes for a midweek meal on a cold night, thanks to its comfort food ingredients and warming flavor.

Featuring fire-roasted tomatoes, beef and sausage, lasagna noodles and herbs in a savory broth, it's got a great balance of protein, fiber and carbohydrates. To cut saturated fat and/or add extra fiber, replace half the ground beef with lentils or ground turkey.

This healthy pressure cooker recipe is finished with a creamy ricotta-Parmesan topping to incorporate an additional layer of flavor. As one of the most satisfying healthy Instant Pot recipes, lasagna soup is a quick and effortless way to enjoy homemade comfort food with minimal cleanup. 

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

14. Instant Pot Pasta Fagioli 

A hearty bowl of Instant Pot pasta fagioli delivers all the comfort of a classic Italian dish without hours at the stove. This rustic soup blends tender ditalini pasta, creamy cannellini beans and aromatic vegetables in a rich tomato broth, making it both filling and flavorful. 

With a good amount of fiber and protein, it’s one of the best healthy Instant Pot recipes for a quick, nourishing meal that prioritizes plant-based protein. Serve it with crusty bread and a sprinkle of Parmesan for an irresistible finishing touch.

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? Yes

15. Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs 

A kitchen staple, Instant Pot hard boiled eggs make meal prep effortless with easy-to-peel shells and perfectly cooked yolks. Using just eggs and water, the Instant Pot ensures consistent results while eliminating guesswork.

Perfect as a healthy snack, hard-boiled eggs offer a high-protein option for grab-and-go breakfasts, post-workout fuel, or salad toppings. As one of the simplest healthy Instant Pot recipes, it provides a convenient way to keep meals nutritious and satisfying with minimal effort.

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? No

16. Instant Pot Lentil Vegetable Soup

A dish like a vegan lentil soup is one of the healthiest soups to go for during the colder months, offering protein and various other nutrients from the lentils that can be lacking a little in some plant-based soup recipes.

Alongside the lentils, you can add ingredients like spinach, carrot and bell peppers. Paired with tomatoes and a low-sodium vegetable broth, plus spices like ginger and coriander, it's got the perfect balance of warming flavors and healthy ingredients. 

Using the Instant Pot dramatically reduces cooking time, making it an easy way to enjoy this dish without losing out on the flavor that comes from slow cooking. A favorite among easy and healthy Instant Pot recipes, it turns simple ingredients into a soul-warming bowl and finishes with fresh parsley for added color and flavor. 

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? Yes

17. Instant Pot Beets

Beets bring a natural sweetness and earthy depth to meals, making them a nutritious addition to your collection of healthy Instant Pot recipes. Whether served on their own or added to salads and grain bowls, Instant Pot beets offer a hassle-free way to enjoy the vibrant flavor of this healthy vegetable. 

As WebMD explains, beets are packed with antioxidants, fiber and essential vitamins. This popular type of fall produce also supports overall wellness while adding a pop of color to your plate. This simple method turns them into a versatile side dish that has to have a place in your collection of healthy Instant Pot recipes. 

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? Yes

18. Instant Pot Mediterranean Chickpea and Spinach Stew

The perfect comfort food recipe for those who want to reduce meat consumption, this healthy Instant Pot recipe combines plant protein-rich chickpeas with spinach and tomatoes, all of which are elevated by a range of spices like paprika and chile for a little spice. 

It’s a great example of how healthy Instant Pot recipes can be luxurious, flavor-packed and effortless to whip up. 

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? Yes

19. Instant Pot Artichokes

With their delicate texture and rich, earthy taste, Instant Pot artichokes transform a simple vegetable into a flavorful appetizer or snack. Packed with fiber and antioxidants, are a delicious addition to any healthy diet.

As a favorite in healthy Instant Pot recipes, this version keeps things light while pairing beautifully with lemon butter or a creamy dip, which can be easily made vegan.

Whether served as a party food or enjoyed solo, these artichokes are a nutritious addition to your healthy Instant Pot recipe rotation that brings both flavor and elegance to any meal.

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? Yes

20. Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash With Marinara 

Weeknight meals get easier with healthy Instant Pot recipes like this one. Instant Pot spaghetti squash with marinara is a flavorful, low-carb alternative to pasta dishes and is one of the best easy, healthy Instant Pot recipes for those who want something quick and light.

The squash transforms into tender, low-carb pasta that absorbs the rich tomato sauce, creating a hearty yet light dish.

You have lots of choices when it comes to sauce as well. Whether you go for the healthiest pasta sauce from the store, make a homemade spicy marinara sauce or opt for a classic Italian marinara sauce. 

Once you've chosen a sauce, this tasty dish can be served as a main course or eaten alongside a protein. Either way, it's a satisfying choice for anyone looking for hassle-free, healthy Instant Pot recipes.

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? Yes

21. Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup 

Velvety and rich, Instant Pot broccoli cheddar soup transforms simple ingredients into a comforting classic. Fresh broccoli and carrots blend seamlessly with sharp cheddar, creating a satisfying dish that feels indulgent. 

To reduce saturated fat and sodium, use cheddar sparingly, replacing some of the cheese with puréed white beans for heart-healthy creaminess.

This soup fits perfectly into a collection of healthy Instant Pot recipes for fall and winter, offering a cozy meal that pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a light salad. A go-to for quick, nourishing meals, try it once and it will become a staple among your favorite healthy Instant Pot recipes! 

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? No

22. Instant Pot Greek Chicken Bowls 

Inspired by classic Mediterranean flavors, Instant Pot Greek chicken bowls bring the essence of a restaurant-quality meal straight to your kitchen. Juicy, seasoned Greek chicken pairs with fluffy couscous, briny Kalamata olives, fresh cucumbers and creamy Greek yogurt for a balanced, flavorful dish. 

The combination of herbs, spices and citrus makes this a unique top pick among the many healthy Instant Pot recipes available to try, delivering both convenience and vibrant taste. This is ideal for meal prep or an easy weeknight dinner, offering high-impact flavors without any hassle. 

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

23. Instant Pot Potato Soup 

A bowl of Instant Pot potato soup brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Velvety potatoes, crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese create a rich, satisfying bite, while sour cream adds a subtle tang. Like many healthy Instant Pot recipes, it's easy to customize with lighter ingredients. 

You can reduce saturated fat and sodium by using less bacon or swapping it for turkey bacon, reducing the cheese and using puréed cauliflower for creaminess and swapping the sour cream for nonfat Greek yogurt.

It’s easily a standout in any lineup of healthy Instant Pot recipes, working as both a cozy appetizer and a hearty main course for lunch or dinner.

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

24. Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken 

Healthy Instant Pot recipes like this deliver bold, layered flavors while keeping ingredients simple and nourishing. Inspired by traditional Moroccan tagines, this Instant Pot Moroccan chicken recipe layers warm flavors from cinnamon, turmeric, cumin and paprika with the deep sweetness of prunes and apricots.

The addition of preserved lemon and olives brings a tangy balance, setting it apart from other healthy Instant Pot recipes. 

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

25. Instant Pot Chicken Tacos 

A go-to Mexican-inspired meal, chicken tacos bring bold spices and fresh toppings together for a flavorful bite. With smoky seasonings, lime juice and a rich tomato-based sauce, Instant Pot chicken tacos create tender, juicy meat in minutes.

For those searching for healthy appetizers, this dish is a versatile option that’s both satisfying and easy to make. This low-calorie Mexican food dish also works as a great dinner food idea or even works as a tasty lunch.

What's more, there are many ways to use this healthy Instant Pot recipe. Along with serving the chicken in tacos (opt for the healthiest tortillas when doing this, such as whole wheat or corn), it could be added to a salad for a lower-carb option, such as a taco salad bowl. 

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

26. Instant Pot Mini Frittatas 

A quick option for those searching for the healthiest breakfast or meal prep idea, Instant Pot Mini Frittatas deliver big flavor in a convenient, bite-sized form.

These individual egg bites combine crispy bacon (which can be omitted for a vegetarian version), mushrooms and spinach with a creamy, cheesy custard for a rich yet balanced dish. 

Cooking them in an Instant Pot gives them a tender texture without drying out. This is easily one of the best healthy Instant Pot recipes to turn to when you're looking for an easy, nutritious way to start the day.

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? No

27. Instant Pot French Onion Soup

A timeless French food classic, onion soup is known for its deep, savory flavor and indulgent melted cheese topping. With its slow-cooked taste and velvety broth, Instant Pot French onion soup simplifies the traditional process by pressure-cooking caramelized onions with red wine, thyme and beef or vegetable broth in a fraction of the time.

Served with a golden, crispy cheese crouton, this healthy Instant Pot recipe is a perfect addition to brunch, lunch or cozy dinner plans. You can add fiber and reduce saturated fat by swapping the traditional white bread and cheese with whole-grain bread and using less or low-fat cheese.

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? No

28. Instant Pot Indian Dal

A staple in Indian cuisine for centuries, Instant Pot Indian dal tadka is more than just comfort food. It’s a dish deeply rooted in tradition. Made with red lentils, aromatic spices, tomatoes and dried mushrooms, it delivers rich flavors and a velvety texture in every bite.

This variation of the classic Indian food dish stands out for its balance of heat, earthiness and subtle sweetness. It’s perfect for pairing with Indian basmati rice or naan and is a flavorful, satisfying, healthy Instant Pot recipe that brings history to your table.

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? Yes

29. Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup 

Packed with beans, corn and fire-roasted tomatoes, Instant Pot chicken tortilla soup is a lighter take on a classic, offering the same bold flavors without the extra heaviness.

For those looking for healthy chicken breast recipes, this soup is an excellent choice. It's also quite high in protein and has fiber and vitamins from the beans and vegetables, making it a nutrient-rich option that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Topped with avocado, crispy tortilla strips and fresh cilantro, this Instant Pot healthy recipe brings a vibrant, Mexican restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen. 

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

30. Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup

Few healthy Instant Pot recipes bring together elegance and comfort like Instant Pot beef Barley soup. This dish traces its roots back centuries, and is a staple in European and Middle Eastern cuisines, where barley features in many recipes.

The slow-simmered beef, tender vegetables and nutty, chewy pearl barley create a rich, velvety dish that feels both refined and deeply homey. 

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

31. Instant Pot Short Ribs 

Braised in red wine, beef broth and aromatic herbs, Instant Pot short ribs achieve deep, slow-cooked flavor in a fraction of the time. The tender meat falls apart effortlessly, while the rich sauce adds a velvety finish that makes this dish feel truly special and indulgent.

To make this dish healthier, use a low-sodium broth, trim all visible fat from the ribs before cooking and degrease the sauce after braising. Served over polenta, cauliflower mash or another whole grain instead of mashed potatoes or pasta, this healthy Instant Pot recipe brings comforting flavors to your evening meal with ease.

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

32. Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas 

Southern comfort comes to life in this hearty, smoky dish. Simmered with ham (which can be omitted for a vegetarian and vegan-friendly dish), onions, garlic and spices, Instant Pot black-eyed peas turn simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful and nourishing meal. 

A staple among healthy Instant Pot recipes for both lunch and dinner, this classic is steeped in tradition, often being served on New Year’s Day for good luck. Whether paired with cornbread and greens or enjoyed as a standalone dish, it delivers a taste of home-cooked tradition in every bowl.

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? Yes

33. Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup 

Velvety smooth and packed with nutrients, Instant Pot butternut squash soup offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Made with butternut squash, shallots, sage and a hint of apple, it delivers natural sweetness with a comforting richness.

While the base recipe has chicken stock and butter, these can easily be switched for vegetable stock and plant-based butter if needed.

This is undoubtedly one of our favorite healthy Instant Pot recipes for a cold day. The dish is light yet satisfying and warming, making it an ideal choice for cozy meals. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with crusty bread, it’s a flavorful option to add to your collection of healthy Instant Pot recipes for fall. 

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? Yes

34. Instant Pot Egg Loaf

No more struggling with peeling hard-boiled eggs, since Instant Pot Egg Loaf simplifies the process by cooking eggs in one solid piece, ready to chop and use in minutes.

This unique twist on a staple ingredient delivers the same soft, creamy texture without the extra work. This healthy Instant Pot recipe is a protein-packed option that can be added into salads, sandwiches or other quick meals.

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? No

35. Instant Pot Jambalaya 

A staple of Louisiana cuisine, jambalaya is a vibrant, spice-infused rice dish with roots in Creole and Cajun cooking. Instant Pot jambalaya captures its signature flavors by combining andouille sausage, chicken, shrimp and the “holy trinity” of bell pepper, onion and celery with seasoned rice and a kick of Cajun spice.

To improve the sodium and fat balance, reduce the amount of sausage used, and add more vegetables like okra or extra bell peppers. No matter the ingredients you settle on, this healthy Instant Pot recipe pairs well with cornbread or a simple salad, delivering a comforting and filling meal without much extra effort.

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

36. Instant Pot Risotto With Prosciutto, Peas and Herbs

Creamy, indulgent risotto doesn’t have to mean standing over a stove for ages. That’s why Instant Pot risotto with prosciutto, peas and herbs proves that a dish often reserved for fancy restaurants can be effortlessly made at home while still feeling gourmet.

This recipe brings together Arborio rice, sweet peas, and fragrant herbs, using less prosciutto and extra greens to reduce saturated fat and sodium. Even with a minimal amount of prosciutto, this is a delightful, healthy Instant Pot recipe that delivers gourmet flavor without too much hassle.

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

37. Instant Pot Collard Greens

Tender and packed with Southern flavor, Instant Pot collard greens turn a slow-cooked classic into a quick, nutrient-rich dish. These hearty greens absorb bold flavors from smoked turkey, garlic and apple cider vinegar, creating a rich, savory taste.

For anyone exploring how to start eating healthy, adding this dish to your meal plans is a great idea. This comfort food favorite among healthy Instant Pot recipes pairs perfectly with cornbread and lean, barbecue meats for a well-balanced meal.

Vegetarian Friendly? Yes

Vegan Friendly? Yes 

38. Instant Pot Chicken Piccata

Cooking Instant Pot chicken piccata delivers all the classic flavors of the dish with none of the hassle. The pressure cooker keeps the chicken tender while allowing the butter, chicken broth and lemon-based sauce to develop rich depth in minutes.

A spoonful of capers brings everything together, making it a perfect weeknight meal that feels like a restaurant dish. This Instant Pot recipe shows that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or lacking in flavor.

To make this Instant Pot recipe as healthy as possible, use low-sodium broth, only add a little unsalted butter (most chicken piccata recipes require around three tablespoons of butter) and opt for capers without added sodium. If these aren't available, you can rinse the capers before adding them to the Instant Pot. 

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

39. Instant Pot Meatballs 

Rich, saucy and packed with flavor, Instant Pot meatballs are a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed in multiple ways. These juicy meatballs soak up a zesty marinara sauce while cooking, making them irresistibly tender and full of Italian-inspired goodness.

The meatballs and sauce can be paired with your favorite type of pasta, like spaghetti or rigatoni, but try to opt for whole-wheat pasta where possible. If you're looking for low-carb dinner ideas, you could serve this healthy Instant Pot dish with spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles instead. 

Ultimately, this ranks high among our top healthy Instant Pot recipes, as it brings home-cooked comfort in half the time!

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

40. Instant Pot Ginger Ramen Noodles With Beef and Bok Choy

Steeped in Japanese-style flavors and inspired by the comforting bowls found in ramen shops, Instant Pot ginger ramen noodles with beef and bok choy bring a taste of tradition into a modern kitchen. 

The broth, rich with garlic, ginger and soy sauce, mirrors the deep, slow-cooked flavors of classic ramen, while tender beef short ribs and shiitake mushrooms add heartiness. Bok choy provides a crisp contrast, balancing the dish beautifully.

Among healthy Instant Pot recipes, this bowl reflects the time-honored art of ramen-making with a quick and accessible twist. To keep this as healthy as possible, opt for low-sodium broth and soy sauce. 

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

41. Instant Pot Bone Broth

Loaded with collagen, minerals and deep umami flavor, Instant Pot bone broth is a nourishing staple across cultures. This essential in this healthy Instant Pot recipe combines slow-simmered bones, aromatic vegetables and apple cider vinegar to extract maximum nutrients.

Potentially supporting gut health and immunity, among other health benefits, it’s also a comforting, versatile addition to any kitchen and a must-have for homemade soups and other flavorful types of cooking.

Vegetarian Friendly? No

Vegan Friendly? No

How We Chose the Healthiest Instant Pot Recipes

Using an Instant Pot can undoubtedly save time and make cooking meals easier, but not every recipe is healthy. If you want to make healthy meals with an Instant Pot, it can be challenging to find those that meet your needs. But that’s where this guide to the healthiest Instant Pot recipes comes in!

To curate this healthy Instant Pot recipe round-up, we leaned on our years of experience in the culinary industry to gather our favorite Instant Pot dishes. Next, we undertook research, consulting social media, forums like Reddit and blogs to discover what healthy eaters across the U.S. and beyond are cooking up in their Instant Pots.   

Once we had this comprehensive list of healthy Instant Pot dishes, we narrowed it down to our favorite 41 recipes, prioritizing those that are healthiest while ensuring a good mix of meat, vegetarian and vegan options. The recipes on our list provide a good mix of protein, fiber and vitamins while being as low in saturated fat, sodium and added sugar as possible. 

Lastly, we worked with Jessica O'Shea, a Registered Nutritionist (ANutr) with the Association for Nutrition. She conducted a review of the guide to confirm that only the healthiest Instant Pot recipes are included. She also offered a few extra tips to make the dishes even healthier.

Learn To Cook Quick and Easy Meals

While the healthy Instant Pot recipes covered above are a great place to start, joining some healthy online cooking classes can help you refine your skills even further and avoid common mistakes made when cooking healthy dishes. You’ll learn how to prep faster, season better and cook with more confidence so your meals turn out delicious every time.

If you need help nailing Instant Pot recipes that are healthy, these sessions can't be missed. The chefs leading each class may even be able to teach you how to make healthy Instant Pot recipes even quicker and easier!

Prefer hands-on instruction? Check out cooking classes near you for in-person training. 

Forget the myth that pressure cooking means sacrificing flavor! With these healthy Instant Pot recipes, you can whip up healthy meals that are just as delicious as traditional slow-cooked dishes but in a fraction of the time.

Whether it’s easy and healthy Instant Pot recipes for busy weeknights or complex flavors you’d expect from a high-end kitchen, this cooking method delivers. From fall-apart braised meats to perfectly fluffy grains, even the healthiest Instant Pot recipes can be rich, hearty and packed with nutrients.

The best part is that you are in full control of ingredients, allowing you to create the perfect dish for your personal health needs and dietary goals. 

For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.