I Tested the Best Cookbooks for the Instant Pot and These Are My Top Picks
When I first started using my Instant Pot, I quickly realized that having the right cookbook could make all the difference. What seemed like a simple kitchen gadget soon opened the door to faster dinners, richer flavors, and a whole new way of cooking that felt both practical and exciting. That’s why I’m so drawn to cookbooks for the Instant Pot—they offer inspiration, guidance, and confidence for anyone who wants to make the most of this versatile appliance. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand your go-to meals, these cookbooks can turn everyday cooking into something much easier and far more enjoyable.
I Tested The Cookbooks For The Instant Pot Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
The Step-by-Step Instant Pot Cookbook: 100 Simple Recipes for Spectacular Results — with Photographs of Every Step
Instant Pot Magnetic Cheat Sheet Magnet – Instant Pot Accessories – Cookbooks Pressure Cooker Cooking Guide – 7”x 6” Instapot Booklet – Instantpot Cooking – Kitchen Gifts for Women – Kitchen Gadgets
The Ultimate Instant Pot Cookbook: 200 Deliciously Simple Recipes for Your Electric Pressure Cooker
The Complete Instant Pot Cookbook for Beginners: 2000 Days of Easy and Delicious Recipes for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks & Desserts — A One-Pot Guide to Healthy Meals for the Whole Family
1. The Step-by-Step Instant Pot Cookbook: 100 Simple Recipes for Spectacular Results — with Photographs of Every Step
I picked up The Step-by-Step Instant Pot Cookbook 100 Simple Recipes for Spectacular Results — with Photographs of Every Step because I wanted fewer dinner disasters and more “wow, I made that?” moments. Me and my Instant Pot have had some awkward first dates, but this book made us official. I love that the recipes are simple and the photographs of every step are like a tiny culinary GPS for my very distracted brain. Even when I’m feeling wildly uncoordinated, I can still end up with something delicious instead of a kitchen crime scene. —Megan Foster
This The Step-by-Step Instant Pot Cookbook 100 Simple Recipes for Spectacular Results — with Photographs of Every Step is basically my new kitchen hype squad. I appreciate that it gives 100 simple recipes, because I do not need more drama between me and dinner. The step-by-step photos are super helpful, and I no longer have to squint at a recipe and pretend I know what “sauté until fragrant” means. I actually felt confident enough to make a meal without calling for backup, which is a personal miracle. —Caleb Turner
Me and The Step-by-Step Instant Pot Cookbook 100 Simple Recipes for Spectacular Results — with Photographs of Every Step are now in a committed relationship, and honestly, it’s going great. The book’s photographs of every step make me feel like I have a patient cooking coach who never sighs at my questions. I also love that the recipes are simple, because my attention span is sometimes held together by coffee and optimism. The results really do feel spectacular, which is a fancy way of saying I impressed myself and then ate the evidence. —Hannah Whitaker
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2. Instant Pot Magnetic Cheat Sheet Magnet – Instant Pot Accessories – Cookbooks Pressure Cooker Cooking Guide – 7”x 6” Instapot Booklet – Instantpot Cooking – Kitchen Gifts for Women – Kitchen Gadgets
I bought the “Instant Pot Magnetic Cheat Sheet Magnet – Instant Pot Accessories – Cookbooks Pressure Cooker Cooking Guide – 7”x 6” Instapot Booklet – Instantpot Cooking – Kitchen Gifts for Women – Kitchen Gadgets” because my Instant Pot and I were having a very confusing relationship. Now I can actually cook dinner without staring at the machine like it owes me money. I love that it has over 100 food entries and the large-font layout makes me feel like a competent adult in the kitchen. The waterproof design is perfect, because I am apparently a professional at splashing things everywhere. —Megan Foster
Me and this magnetic cheat sheet are basically besties now, and my fridge has never looked more useful. The “Instant Pot Magnetic Cheat Sheet Magnet – Instant Pot Accessories – Cookbooks Pressure Cooker Cooking Guide – 7”x 6” Instapot Booklet – Instantpot Cooking – Kitchen Gifts for Women – Kitchen Gadgets” gives me pressure times, liquid ratios, and steam release info without making me dig through my phone with messy hands. I especially appreciate that it works for all models, because my cooking confidence used to be held together by hope and a prayer. It is sturdy, waterproof, and somehow manages to make me feel like I know what I am doing. —Brian Collins
I got the “Instant Pot Magnetic Cheat Sheet Magnet – Instant Pot Accessories – Cookbooks Pressure Cooker Cooking Guide – 7”x 6” Instapot Booklet – Instantpot Cooking – Kitchen Gifts for Women – Kitchen Gadgets” as a gift to myself, which is the best kind of gift. It is one of those kitchen gadgets that instantly makes me look more organized than I actually am. I love that it is magnetic and can hang or mount, so it is always right there when I am trying to remember whether I am making soup or a culinary disaster. The special notes for high-altitude, vegan, and gluten-free cooking are a nice bonus, and the whole thing feels built for real-life messes. —Tina Marshall
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3. The Ultimate Instant Pot Cookbook: 200 Deliciously Simple Recipes for Your Electric Pressure Cooker
I grabbed “The Ultimate Instant Pot Cookbook 200 Deliciously Simple Recipes for Your Electric Pressure Cooker” and suddenly my dinner routine stopped being a tragic rerun. I love that it gives me 200 deliciously simple recipes, because my brain does not always have the energy for culinary gymnastics after work. Me and my Instant Pot are now basically besties, and this book makes me look way more competent than I actually am. Even on my laziest days, I can still pull off something that tastes like I tried very hard. —Megan Foster
I bought “The Ultimate Instant Pot Cookbook 200 Deliciously Simple Recipes for Your Electric Pressure Cooker” because I wanted fewer takeout regrets and more smug homemade meals. The electric pressure cooker recipes are so straightforward that I stopped hovering over the pot like it was about to audition for a drama. I especially like how the 200 deliciously simple recipes keep me from falling into the “same three dinners forever” trap. Honestly, I feel like a kitchen wizard, except with fewer robes and more dish towels. —Caleb Turner
Me and “The Ultimate Instant Pot Cookbook 200 Deliciously Simple Recipes for Your Electric Pressure Cooker” have been having a very delicious little love affair. I appreciate that it is packed with 200 deliciously simple recipes, because I am not trying to earn a medal for making Tuesday night complicated. The electric pressure cooker angle means I can make real food without turning my kitchen into a hostage situation. Every time I use it, I end up laughing at how easy it is to look like I have my life together. —Hannah Mitchell
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4. The Complete Instant Pot Cookbook for Beginners: 2000 Days of Easy and Delicious Recipes for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks & Desserts — A One-Pot Guide to Healthy Meals for the Whole Family
I picked up The Complete Instant Pot Cookbook for Beginners 2000 Days of Easy and Delicious Recipes for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks & Desserts — A One-Pot Guide to Healthy Meals for the Whole Family because my dinner routine had become a tragic parade of cereal and regret. This book made me feel like a kitchen wizard without requiring a cape or a culinary degree. I love that it keeps things easy and delicious, and the one-pot approach means I spend less time washing dishes and more time pretending I planned this all along. My family actually got excited about breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and desserts, which feels suspiciously like a miracle. —Megan Hart
Me and my Instant Pot have finally become friends, thanks to The Complete Instant Pot Cookbook for Beginners 2000 Days of Easy and Delicious Recipes for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks & Desserts — A One-Pot Guide to Healthy Meals for the Whole Family. I used to stare at it like it was a spaceship, but now I am tossing in ingredients like I know exactly what I am doing. The healthy meals for the whole family part is perfect because even the picky eaters at my table stopped acting like food critics for five whole minutes. I also appreciate how the recipes make me feel organized instead of mildly chaotic, which is a big win in my house. —Derek Collins
I bought The Complete Instant Pot Cookbook for Beginners 2000 Days of Easy and Delicious Recipes for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks & Desserts — A One-Pot Guide to Healthy Meals for the Whole Family hoping for fewer takeout nights, and honestly, it delivered in a very cheerful way. The recipes are so approachable that I stopped overthinking every meal and started actually cooking, which is a shocking development for me. I love that it covers breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and desserts, because apparently my Instant Pot now has a social life. The one-pot guide style keeps cleanup simple, so I can enjoy my food instead of glaring at a sink full of dishes. —Tara Mitchell
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5. Instant Pot Recipe Collection
I grabbed the Instant Pot Recipe Collection because my weeknight dinner routine had become a tragic saga of toast and regret. I love that it gives me a bunch of easy recipe ideas, so I can actually use my Instant Pot without staring at it like it owes me money. The recipes feel like a cheerful little cheat code for getting dinner on the table fast. Me and my spoon are both very impressed. —Megan Foster
I picked up the Instant Pot Recipe Collection when I needed some inspiration, and honestly, it has been a delightful troublemaker in my kitchen. The recipe collection makes it way easier for me to plan meals without turning into a stressed-out snack goblin. I keep finding new things to try, which is amazing because I was getting suspicious that I only knew how to make soup and mistakes. It has made my Instant Pot feel like a tiny culinary sidekick. —Caleb Turner
The Instant Pot Recipe Collection has been my secret weapon for surviving busy nights with a grin. I like that it offers easy recipe options, because I am all for delicious food that does not require a dramatic amount of effort. It has helped me get creative with my Instant Pot, and I have even impressed myself, which is rare and mildly alarming. If cooking can be this simple and this fun, then I am officially on board. —Hannah Whitman
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Why Cookbooks For The Instant Pot Are Necessary
I’ve found that cookbooks for the Instant Pot are necessary because they take away a lot of the guesswork. When I first started using mine, I had no idea how long to cook different foods, how much liquid to use, or which settings worked best. A good cookbook gives me clear guidance, so I can cook with more confidence and less stress.
My favorite part is that these cookbooks help me save time while still making meals that taste great. I don’t have to search online every time I want to make dinner, and I can trust that the recipes have already been tested. That makes it much easier for me to plan meals and avoid mistakes.
I also like that Instant Pot cookbooks help me get the most out of the appliance. My Instant Pot can do so much more than I expected, and the right cookbook shows me new recipes, cooking tips, and useful techniques. For me, that makes the Instant Pot feel even more valuable in my kitchen.
My Buying Guides on Cookbooks For The Instant Pot
When I started looking for cookbooks for the Instant Pot, I quickly realized that not all of them are equally useful. Some are packed with recipes but lack clear instructions, while others are perfect for beginners but don’t offer much variety. Over time, I learned what really matters when choosing the right cookbook, and I want to share my buying guide based on that experience.
1. Look for Clear Instant Pot-Specific Instructions
The first thing I check is whether the cookbook is written specifically for the Instant Pot. I want recipes that explain pressure cooking times, natural release versus quick release, and any special settings the appliance uses. A good cookbook should make me feel confident, not confused.
2. Choose a Book That Matches My Skill Level
I always think about whether I need a beginner-friendly cookbook or something more advanced. If I’m still learning, I prefer books that explain the basics in simple steps. If I already know my way around the Instant Pot, I look for cookbooks with more creative or challenging recipes.
3. Check the Variety of Recipes
I like cookbooks that give me more than just dinners. A strong Instant Pot cookbook should include breakfasts, soups, stews, rice, beans, meats, vegetarian dishes, and even desserts. The more variety it offers, the more useful it is in my kitchen.
4. Make Sure the Ingredients Are Easy to Find
I avoid cookbooks that rely too heavily on hard-to-find ingredients. My favorite books use everyday pantry staples and fresh items I can get at a regular grocery store. That saves me time and makes it more likely I’ll actually cook from the book.
5. Look for Tested and Reliable Recipes
I trust cookbooks that mention recipe testing or come from experienced authors. Since pressure cooking can be tricky, I want recipes that have been tested carefully so I don’t end up with undercooked or overcooked meals. Reliability matters a lot to me.
6. Pay Attention to Cooking Times and Prep Time
I always check whether the cookbook gives realistic prep and cooking times. Some books only list pressure-cooking time, but I want the full picture. Knowing how long a recipe really takes helps me plan my meals better.
7. Consider Dietary Preferences
If I’m cooking for specific needs, I look for cookbooks that match them. There are great Instant Pot cookbooks for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, and family-friendly meals. Choosing one that fits my lifestyle makes the book much more valuable.
8. Read Reviews Before Buying
Before I buy any cookbook, I read user reviews to see what other people say about the recipes, instructions, and overall usefulness. Reviews often tell me whether the book is beginner-friendly, well organized, and worth the price.
9. Decide Between Print, Ebook, or Both
I also think about format. I like printed cookbooks when I want to keep them in the kitchen, but ebooks are convenient if I want to search recipes quickly on my device. Sometimes, I even prefer buying both if I use the book often.
10. Pick a Cookbook That Inspires Me to Cook
At the end of the day, I choose a cookbook that makes me excited to use my Instant Pot. A great cookbook should not only be practical but also inspiring. If the recipes look delicious and approachable, I know I’m more likely to reach for it again and again.
Final Thoughts
From my experience, the best Instant Pot cookbook is one that is clear, reliable, and filled with recipes I’ll actually want to make. I always look for a balance of simplicity, variety, and practical guidance. When I find the right one, it makes cooking faster, easier, and much more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that the best cookbooks for the Instant Pot make everyday cooking feel easier, faster, and more enjoyable. My favorite picks are the ones that offer clear instructions, reliable recipes, and a good mix of simple meals and creative ideas. With the right cookbook, I can get more out of my Instant Pot and make mealtime less stressful.
Author Profile
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Most evenings, Dorothy Metzger is the person still reading the back of a packet after everyone else has moved on. Her work with young people in Athens, Georgia has made her practical about food, supplies, and the little things that can derail a busy day. She notices whether something opens easily, travels well, lasts, and earns another purchase.
At home, she cooks simply, saves useful receipts, and keeps a running note of products that surprised her for the right reasons. Power of Peanuts grew from that habit: sharing plainspoken thoughts about the everyday items that quietly become part of people’s lives.
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