Feeling overwhelmed by your new Instant Pot? This beginner's Instant Pot guide will walk you through the essentials of using an electric pressure cooker and will leave you feeling confident and ready to conquer using your Instant Pot.
Once you master the basics of using the Instant Pot, check out Instant Pot Recipes. And don't miss signing up for my top Instant Pot Secrets!
If you have recently been gifted or purchased an Instant Pot, chances are you are either feeling excited or completely overwhelmed.
One look at the manual that came with the Instant Pot and you are feeling even more confused than when you first opened the box. It is lacking in information!
I have helped millions of people put aside their fears and tackle cooking in their Instant Pot and I want to help you!
How to Use an Instant Pot
Using an Instant Pot is not hard, but there is a bit of a learning curve.
First, I will walk you through the basic Instant Pot parts and jargon. Then I will show you how to set cooking time and how to release pressure. After that, you will be well on your way to becoming an Instant Pot Master!
And if you learn better through video, be sure to check out my YouTube Video!
The Parts of an Instant Pot
Before we talk about HOW an Instant Pot works, let's break down the standard pieces and parts of the Instant Pot. That way you will know which piece is which.
Inner Pot: The stainless steel pot that fits inside the Instant Pot, is called the inner pot. It is removable for washing. And essential for cooking--do NOT operate your Instant Pot without the inner pot. Some people prefer to have two inner pots or a ceramic insert. Frankly, I think one stainless steel inner pot is sufficient unless you plan to make yogurt frequently. Then an extra inner pot helps out tremendously.
Inner Ring. This is the silicone ring that fits on the lid of the Instant Pot and helps to seal in the pressure. It is removable and should be removed and washed thoroughly any time it gets dirty. I like to have a set of inner rings and use one for savory and one for sweet dishes, that way my cheesecake won't taste like chili!
The inner ring can cause the MOST issues when it comes to pressure cooking. You need to be sure it is always tightly inserted on the lid. If not, pressure will not be reached properly and you may experience a burn warning. If you notice any tears on your inner ring, or it becomes loose over time, be sure to immediately replace it.
Floating Valve and Shield. The shield prevents food from getting trapped in the pressure release valve. The float valve is designed to be pushed up once there is sufficient pressure inside the cooker. Once pushed up, the silicone band seals the instant pot and the pin of the float valve serves as a lock, preventing the lid from being opened before the pressure is released. The float valve will float back down as pressure is released, unlocking the lid from the Instant Pot. (And in case you misplace your Floating Valve, you can get an extra to fit your model on this here.)
Condensation Cup. This plastic cup collects any moisture or condensation that leaks out during the cooking process. It also collects moisture that may drip down from the lid once you open the Instant Pot. Be sure to check it every once in a while to remove it and clean it as needed.
Stainless Steel Trivet. Most Instant Pot models will come with a metal rack, often referred to as a trivet or you can purchase it on Amazon. This is used often for cooking things you do not want to be submerged in liquid, such as Instant Pot Baked Potatoes and Instant Pot Baked Sweet Potatoes It is also used for pot-in-pot cooking.
Cook This First
Now that you know the parts of your Instant Pot, it is time to use it! I always suggest starting by doing a water test. This is a way to get comfortable using the Instant Pot without wasting any actual food. It is quick and easy to do and will have you feeling confident to cook any Instant Pot recipe.
Important Things to Remember When Using an Instant Pot
- Be sure your inner pot is secured into the base of your inner pot.
- Always use thin, cold, liquid (water, broth, beer, juice, etc) to achieve and maintain pressure.
- 3-Quart Instant Pot: ½ cup thin liquid
- 6-Quart Instant Pot: 1 cup thin liquid
- 8-Quart Instant Pot: 1-½ cups thin liquid
- 10-Quart Instant Pot: 2 cups thin liquid
- Don't overfill the Instant Pot. It is best to never fill the Instant Pot more than ⅔ of the way full when pressure cooking and no more than ½ full for starchy things like rice or beans.
- After using the saute function, be sure to scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the inner pot to prevent a burn notice.
- Check to be sure that the sealing ring is attached securely to the lid and place the lid on the inner pot.
- Be sure the vent knob is sealed and or the lid is locked.
- Set the cooking time using the manual or pressure cook button to control the time yourself, don't rely on the other functions, many of the buttons on the Instant Pot are useless.
- Cooking Time is NOT the amount of time the recipe takes. Instead, you need to account for the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure, plus the cooking time, plus the time for the pressure to release. Depending on how full your Instant Pot is, this could add 40 minutes to your cooking time.
- Once the cooking time has started, it will count backward.
- After the cooking time has elapsed the Instant Pot will default to holding the food warm. It will count upward showing how long since the cooking time has elapsed.
- Based on the recipe's instructions, allow the pressure to release naturally or do a quick release of pressure.
- Cooking at high altitude? Use my guide for Instant Pot High Altitude Cooking.
- Want to know how to convert your favorite recipes to Instant Pot recipes? I have worked at length to create a guide that will help you convert your favorite recipes into Instant Pot recipes.
- Have trouble with your Instant Pot Sealing? Check out Reasons Your Instant Pot May Not Be Sealing.
How to Release Pressure Safely on an Instant Pot
While electric pressure cookers are deemed overall much safer to use than stovetop pressure cookers, as the lid will remained locked until the pressure has been released.
But when it comes to releasing pressure you need to know if you should do a natural pressure release or a quick release of pressure.
- Natural Pressure Release (or NPR) is when the pressure is slowly released on its own. This is when you leave your Instant Pot alone and allow the float valve to float down on its own. It is best to use a natural pressure release for meats to keep them tender, recipes with high starch (like rice or grains), and recipes with a high volume of liquid.
- Quick Release (or QR) is when you manually turn the valve to "Vent" and allow the pressure that has been built up to release rapidly. This method is used for things like seafood or delicate vegetables. To do a quick release of pressure, use the long handle of a wooden spoon to manually turn the valve from seal to venting AND STAND BACK to prevent yourself from getting burned by the steam.
Must-Have Instant Pot Accessories
I am often asked what are my favorite Instant Pot Accessories, I try to keep things super simple, but these are my favorite accessories and why you may need them.
- 7 inch springform pan: Great for Instant Pot Cheesecake or Instant Pot Lasagna.
- Clear Lid: this is great for using your Instant Pot as a slow cooker or for making yogurt.
- Cake Pan: I use this for my Instant Pot Breakfast Casserole, but it also works for Instant Pot Lasagna.
- An Egg Tray: Perfect for holding eggs when making Instant Pot Eggs.
- Heat Safe Bowl: An essential for making Instant Pot Oatmeal.
Fan Favorite Instant Pot Recipes
Now you are ready to start using your Instant Pot! Be sure to browse through my Instant Pot Recipes for tested, tried, and true recipes. Below are some fan favorites.
Linzi
Hello Just got my instapot. I feel stupid but the instructions to me aren't clear. Adding liquid must be in the removable pot NOT the instant pot itself correct?
Kristen Chidsey
That is correct Linzi! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Roxanne Cunningham
I am going to use you Corn Beef recipe. I have 2.26# FROZEN Corn Beef. I do not see a seasonings packet in it? Do I need seasonings? I want to Instapot this for tonight's dinner, can it be cooked frozen and for how long? Your recipe says 85 min. so I do not know how much longer. I also plan on using 2 cups of beef broth no beer, no carrots either. I have never cooked anything for this long.
Kristen Chidsey
Hi Roxanne! If it is labeled corned beef, it may already be soaked in heavy seasoning brine. Adding additional pickling spices will add tremendous flavor, but not necessary. Because it is frozen I would cook for 100 minutes. Enjoy!
Lori Patton
I’m making my first meal in Instant Pot, your sweet and sour chicken. I’m not sure about the meaning of put pot on sauté and add cornstarch ... does the lid go back on the pot after it’s added?? When I pushed the sauté button nothing happened but the “stay warm” button is lighted and a new amount of time is now showing? Hope I haven’t ruined my masterpiece!
Kristen Chidsey
Hi Lori! You need to hit cancel to stop the stay warm feature. Then hit saute again and mix in the cornstarch mixture.
Debbie Andrews
I put the top on my Insta pot and it keeps saying off even after I have pushed pressure cook how do I make it cook
Kristen Chidsey
Hi Debbie, can I ask what model you have? For most models, you want to be sure your sealing ring is on and your vent knob is closed. Hit pressure cook and then use the plus/minus button to set the time. It will take a few seconds and then you should see the word "On" I would test with the water test to be sure your pot is working correctly too.
Tina
I have a 5.89lb chicken- can it make it by in my 6 qt?? I didn’t realize it was that big and want to try it, just don’t want a mess.
Kristen Chidsey
Try placing it in the pressure cooker while still in the packaging and see if your lid will fit on it. I have had one that size fit, BUT it depends on how thick the cavity is. If it does not fit, here is my recipe for Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken, and if it does not fit, here is my Oven Rotisserie Chicken.
Pam
I just got my instant pot for christmas. I have been reading recipes. They say to seal the instant pot but the book that came with my pot says it automatically seals is this something new.
Kristen Chidsey
That is the model you have. No worries about having to turn the knob to the sealed position.
Kate
I've had my IP Duo for over a year, and used rarely. Just didn't seem worth all the effort. Resuts varied greatly despite my best efforts. I found YOU today while investigating how to cook dry beans fast so we can have chili tonight. Followed your easy instructions exactly and they came out PERFECTLY. Started your "instruction 101" and everything is starting to click in my brain. Excited to try out more recipes! BTW, your readers may find it helpful to place their IP on a cookie sheet on top of the stove so you can use the hood vent extraction to remove steam from the kitchen and "trap" anything that may unexpectedly escape especially on QR. Just be sure it's level and secure.
Kristen Chidsey
Hi Kate! I am so glad you found ME 🙂 I am so happy to help people learn to use their instant pots and not be fearful of them. I love the tip for a cookie sheet as well--great one! I hope you find many more recipes to enjoy here and reach out with questions anytime.
Ashley
I just got my Instant Pot yesterday and you are correct about being overwhelmed! It’s not even out of the box yet but I knew I needed to do some research on where to start. Thank you for all this information, I had no idea about most of it. I’ve only ever used a crock pot before and see how this is very different and more involved.
Kristen Chidsey
Happy to help Ashley! Reach out with questions anytime!
Anita Patterson
Thank you so much. I just got my IP and I am finding out that I love it. With your help I am sure to enjoy it, understand it and cook great food.
Kristen Chidsey
YAY! I am so excited for you to get started using your Instant Pot! Please reach out anytime with any questions!
Sheila Loew
Thank you for sharing your information and recipes
Kristen Chidsey
You bet Sheila 🙂
Samantha
I just got an IP and went looking for how to make baked potatoes in it and came across your site. Thank you so much- you demystified so many questions I had! Book marking this for sure!!!
Kristen Chidsey
I am so happy to help! Please reach out with questions anytime!
Samantha
Oh-I do have a question- is it supposed to release some steam while heating up or cooking?
Kristen Chidsey
It can release a tiny bit--as long as it does not last more than 1 minute, you should be fine. I find that some models (8 quart models especially) do release a bit more steam.
Diane Stulberg
Just got one. I need to familiarize myself how
to use it.
Kristen Chidsey
Well, reach out with questions any time Diane!