30 Easy Christmas Recipes for the Instant Pot to Wow Guests

Christmas is just around the corner, and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably already stressing out about the holiday meal. Fortunately, the Instant Pot makes it easy to whip up delicious dishes without breaking a sweat. That’s why I’ve put together this list of 30 easy Christmas recipes for the Instant Pot to wow guests and make your holiday prep as smooth as possible.

From savory starters to satisfying mains and delectable desserts, these recipes will ensure you have a festive feast that your friends and family will love. So, dust off that Instant Pot and let’s dive into some holiday magic!

1. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Nothing says Christmas comfort like mashed potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 5 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place diced potatoes and garlic into the Instant Pot, adding chicken broth.
2. Seal the lid and set to pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
3. Quick-release the pressure and remove the lid.
4. Mash potatoes with butter and heavy cream.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

2. Honey-Glazed Carrots

Sweet, tender, and just a little buttery, these carrots are a hit.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs baby carrots
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add baby carrots and 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot.
2. Pressure cook on high for 3 minutes.
3. Quick-release the pressure, drain water, and add butter and honey.
4. Stir until carrots are evenly coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then serve.

3. Herb-Infused Turkey Breast

Forget the whole bird, this turkey breast is perfectly juicy and easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 4 lbs turkey breast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary
• 1 tablespoon chopped thyme
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Rub turkey breast with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Sear turkey breast in the Instant Pot on sauté mode for 5 minutes per side.
3. Add chicken broth, seal the lid, and pressure cook on high for 35 minutes.
4. Natural release for 10 minutes, then quick-release remaining pressure.
5. Slice and serve.

4. Instant Pot Stuffing

Get that classic stuffing taste without taking up oven space.

Ingredients:

• 10 cups cubed bread, toasted
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced celery
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons sage
• 2 teaspoons thyme
• Salt and pepper
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion and celery in the Instant Pot until softened.
2. Stir in bread cubes, broth, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Press mixture firmly into the pot and cover with foil.
4. Pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
5. Quick-release pressure and fluff with a fork before serving.

5. Cranberry Sauce

An easy and tangy side that pairs perfectly with turkey.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup sugar
• Zest of 1 orange

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in the Instant Pot.
2. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 4 minutes.
3. Quick-release pressure, then mash to desired consistency.
4. Let cool before serving.

6. Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

A cheesy, creamy, and vegetable-packed favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1.5 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Add rice, broccoli, and chicken broth to the Instant Pot.
2. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 4 minutes.
3. Quick-release pressure and stir in cheddar cheese and heavy cream.
4. Serve warm.

7. Beef Bourguignon

This French classic becomes even easier in the Instant Pot.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Sear beef in the Instant Pot on sauté mode until browned.
2. Add all other ingredients, seal the lid, and pressure cook on high for 35 minutes.
3. Quick-release pressure and serve over mashed potatoes or noodles.

8. Sweet Potato Casserole

This sweet and savory casserole is a holiday staple.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup mini marshmallows

Instructions:

1. Add sweet potatoes and 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot.
2. Pressure cook on high for 12 minutes.
3. Quick-release pressure, drain, and mash with brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon.
4. Top with mini marshmallows and serve.

9. Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake

A dessert twist that combines two holiday favorites.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tablespoons melted butter
• 3 packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup canned pumpkin
• 3 eggs
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice

Instructions:

1. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into a springform pan.
2. Beat cream cheese, sugar, pumpkin, eggs, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
3. Pour mixture over crust, cover with foil, and place on a trivet in the Instant Pot with 1 cup of water.
4. Pressure cook on high for 35 minutes and natural release for 10 minutes.
5. Let cool before serving.

10. Green Bean Casserole

A modern take on a holiday classic without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup fried onions
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Add green beans and 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot, pressure cook on high for 2 minutes.
2. Quick-release pressure, drain water, and mix with soup, milk, salt, and pepper in the Instant Pot.
3. Top with fried onions and keep warm until serving.

11. Waldorf Salad

Add a fresh, fruity touch to your holiday spread.

Ingredients:

• 4 apples, chopped
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until apples and celery are coated.
2. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.

12. Glazed Ham

Tender, flavorful, and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 3 lb ham
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 cup orange juice

Instructions:

1. Mix brown sugar, honey, mustard, and orange juice in the Instant Pot.
2. Place ham in the pot and coat with the mixture.
3. Pressure cook on high for 20 minutes.
4. Quick-release pressure and serve sliced.

13. Clam Chowder

Creamy, hearty, and perfect for a cold Christmas evening.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans chopped clams
• 2 cups diced potatoes
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced celery
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion and celery in the Instant Pot until soft.
2. Add potatoes, broth, and clams.
3. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
4. Quick-release pressure and stir in heavy cream.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

14. Root Vegetable Medley

A healthy and colorful side dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups diced carrots
• 2 cups diced parsnips
• 2 cups diced turnips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot along with the seasoned vegetables.
3. Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.
4. Quick-release pressure and serve.

15. Spiced Apple Cider

Warm up with this festive drink.

Ingredients:

• 8 cups apple cider
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot.
2. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.
3. Quick-release pressure and serve warm.

16. Gingerbread Pudding

This rich dessert captures the flavors of the season.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup molasses
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon cloves

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
2. Pour into a greased pudding mold and cover with foil.
3. Add 2 cups of water to the Instant Pot and place the mold on a trivet.
4. Pressure cook on high for 25 minutes.
5. Quick-release pressure and let cool before serving.

17. Spinach Artichoke Dip

Perfect for appetizers or snacking.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1 cup chopped artichokes
• 1 cup cream cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in the Instant Pot on sauté mode until melted and combined.
2. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 3 minutes.
3. Quick-release pressure, stir, and serve with crackers or bread.

18. Eggnog Cheesecake

A creamy, dreamy holiday dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tablespoons melted butter
• 3 packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup eggnog
• 3 eggs
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Mix graham cracker crumbs with butter and press into a springform pan.
2. Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggnog, eggs, and nutmeg until smooth.
3. Pour mixture over crust, cover with foil, and place on a trivet in the Instant Pot with 1 cup of water.
4. Pressure cook on high for 35 minutes and natural release for 10 minutes.
5. Let cool before serving.

19. Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

A sophisticated side dish that’s easy to love.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Add Brussels sprouts and 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot, pressure cook on high for 2 minutes.
2. Quick-release pressure, drain water, and sauté with olive oil and balsamic vinegar until caramelized.
3. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

20. Corn Chowder

A creamy and hearty soup that’s perfect for the season.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups frozen corn kernels
• 2 cups diced potatoes
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion in the Instant Pot until soft.
2. Add corn, potatoes, and broth.
3. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
4. Quick-release pressure and stir in heavy cream.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

21. Eggnog French Toast Casserole

Start Christmas morning right with this delicious breakfast treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf challah bread, cubed
• 2 cups eggnog
• 6 eggs
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Mix eggnog, eggs, nutmeg, and cinnamon in a large bowl.
2. Add cubed bread and stir until coated.
3. Pour mixture into a greased Instant Pot insert.
4. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 25 minutes.
5. Quick-release pressure and let cool before serving with maple syrup.

22. Cranberry Meatballs

Sweet, tangy, and perfectly poppable.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs meatballs (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 can cranberry sauce
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions:

1. Combine cranberry sauce and BBQ sauce in the Instant Pot.
2. Add meatballs and stir to coat.
3. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 8 minutes.
4. Quick-release pressure, stir, and serve.

23. Sausage and Potato Soup

Hearty and warming, great for a Christmas Eve supper.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sausage, sliced
• 2 cups diced potatoes
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Sauté sausage and onion in the Instant Pot until browned.
2. Add potatoes and broth.
3. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 12 minutes.
4. Quick-release pressure and stir in heavy cream.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

24. Apple Crisp

A simple and satisfying holiday dessert.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups sliced apples
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
2. Add butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Place apples in the Instant Pot, top with oat mixture.
4. Cover with foil and pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
5. Quick-release pressure and serve.

25. Garlic Parmesan Risotto

Creamy and indulgent, perfect for any holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Sauté garlic in the Instant Pot until fragrant.
2. Add rice and wine, cooking until wine is absorbed.
3. Add chicken broth, seal the lid, and pressure cook on high for 6 minutes.
4. Quick-release pressure and stir in Parmesan.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

26. Pasta Primavera

A light and fresh dish to contrast the heavy holiday fare.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup sliced zucchini
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Add pasta, vegetables, and broth to the Instant Pot.
2. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 4 minutes.
3. Quick-release pressure and stir in Parmesan.
4. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

27. Salmon with Dill

An elegant main dish that’s surprisingly simple.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped dill
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Brush mixture over salmon fillets.
3. Place salmon on a trivet in the Instant Pot with 1 cup of water.
4. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.
5. Quick-release pressure and serve.

28. Chocolate Lava Cakes

An indulgent ending to a holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 whole eggs
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup flour

Instructions:

1. Melt chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, whole eggs, yolks, and flour, mixing well.
3. Pour batter into greased ramekins and cover with foil.
4. Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot and place ramekins on a trivet.
5. Pressure cook on high for 9 minutes.
6. Quick-release pressure and serve while warm.

29. Mulled Wine

Warm, spiced, and fragrant, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle red wine
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot.
2. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 1 minute.
3. Quick-release pressure and let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

30. Eggnog Bread Pudding

A festive dessert that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf French bread, cubed
• 2 cups eggnog
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Mix eggnog, eggs, sugar, and nutmeg in a large bowl.
2. Add cubed bread and stir until coated.
3. Pour mixture into a greased Instant Pot insert.
4. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 25 minutes.
5. Quick-release pressure and let cool before serving.

Conclusion

These 30 Instant Pot Christmas recipes are sure to make your holiday meal stress-free and delicious. With everything from savory sides to sweet treats, your guests will be wowed. Enjoy the time saved and the joy of serving mouth-watering dishes that everyone will love. Happy cooking and happy holidays!