For years, pressure cookers struggled with limited functions and confusing safety features. That’s why I was excited to get hands-on with the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker, 6 Qt. It’s packed with 9 cooking modes, from pressure cooking to sous vide, all controlled via an intuitive display. I tested it with hearty stews and delicate yogurt, and it handled each task with ease—quick, even heat distribution and simple steam release made everything effortless.
What really stands out is its durable stainless steel inner pot and customizable smart programs—no more guesswork. Plus, extra sealing rings and dishwasher-safe parts mean cleanup’s a breeze. After thorough testing of all options, this model’s combination of versatility, safety features, and family-sized capacity makes it my top pick for creating everything from roasts to cakes. If you want a reliable, all-in-one cooker that performs in every aspect, the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 deserves your attention.
Top Recommendation: Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker, 6 Qt
Why We Recommend It: This model offers the most comprehensive features—9 cooking functions, smart programs, and a durable stainless steel pot—outperforming the others with versatility. Its easy-read display and safety mechanisms ensure worry-free use, while the extra sealing rings add value. Compared to the 7-in-1 options, its wider range of functions makes it the best all-rounder for diverse meals.
Best meals to make in a pressure cooker: Our Top 5 Picks
- Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker, 6 Qt – Best for Weeknight Dinners
- Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 6-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker – Best for Family Dinners
- Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Pressure Cooker, 3 Qt – Best for Beginners
- CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker WiFi and Built-in Scale – – Best Value
- Instant Pot Pro 8 QT 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker – Best for Quick Meals
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker, 6 Qt
- ✓ Versatile 9-in-1 functions
- ✓ Easy-to-use digital display
- ✓ Durable stainless steel pot
- ✕ Bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Slight learning curve
| Capacity | 6-quart (5.7 liters) |
| Power | 1000 watts |
| Voltage | 120 V |
| Cooking Functions | 9 (pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, sous vide, steam, sterilize, keep warm, make rice, make yogurt) |
| Material | 18/8 stainless steel with tri-ply bottom |
| Safety Features | Overheat protection, easy-seal safety lid lock, over 10 safety mechanisms |
Finally got my hands on the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker, and I was eager to see if it truly lives up to its promises. As I unpacked it, I immediately noticed how solid the build feels, with a sleek stainless steel pot and a bright, easy-to-read display.
The first thing I tested was its 9 different functions—pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and more—and I was impressed by how quickly it switched between modes.
The smart programs are a game-changer. With just a tap, I was making everything from hearty stews to fluffy rice, and the intuitive controls made it straightforward.
The customizable options meant I could fine-tune recipes without hassle. The lid’s safety features, like the easy-release steam switch, gave me peace of mind during pressure release—no unexpected gushes or burns.
The Pro-grade stainless steel pot feels sturdy and heats evenly, making searing meat or sautéing vegetables a breeze. I also appreciated the family-sized 6-quart capacity—perfect for meal prepping or feeding a small crowd.
Cleanup is simple, thanks to the dishwasher-safe inner pot and lid, which save me time after cooking.
While I love how versatile and powerful it is, the size might be a bit bulky for very small kitchens. Also, the number of functions can be overwhelming at first, so a quick read of the manual is helpful.
Still, for the price, it’s a fantastic addition to any busy household or meal prep enthusiast’s arsenal.
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 6-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker
- ✓ Versatile 7-in-1 functions
- ✓ Fast cooking times
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Limited to 6-quart capacity
| Capacity | 6-quart (approximately 24 cups), suitable for up to 6 servings |
| Power | 1000 watts, 120 V, 60 Hz |
| Material | Stainless steel (18/8) with tri-ply bottom |
| Cooking Functions | Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, rice, yogurt, warm |
| Safety Features | Overheat protection, easy-seal safety lid lock, over 10 safety mechanisms |
| Control Interface | 13 one-touch customizable smart programs |
Ever try to make a hearty stew or fresh yogurt, only to find yourself juggling multiple pots and appliances? That frustration instantly melts away the moment I fired up the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1.
Its sleek stainless steel exterior feels solid in your hand, and I immediately appreciated the straightforward control panel with its easy-to-read buttons.
The 6-quart capacity is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. I whipped up a batch of beef stew in about an hour, and the meat came out tender, thanks to the pressure cooking function.
The smart programs made it simple—just select the dish type, and the Instant Pot handled the timing and temperature.
Sautéing vegetables directly in the pot saved me extra dishes, and the yogurt function turned out creamy and thick without fuss. The steam release switch is a game changer—no more scary hissing or hot steam splashes.
Plus, the stainless steel pot is heavy-duty, and searing meat directly in it felt just like using a cast-iron skillet.
Cleanup was a breeze—the removable lid and inner pot are dishwasher safe, saving time and effort. The safety features, like overheat protection and a secure lid lock, gave me peace of mind during busy cooking sessions.
Whether I’m making rice, steaming vegetables, or slow-cooking chili, this appliance adapts seamlessly to my needs, making meal prep faster, safer, and more efficient.
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Pressure Cooker, 3 Qt
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✓ Fast cooking times
- ✕ Limited capacity for large meals
- ✕ Basic display screen
| Capacity | 3-quart (2.8 liters) |
| Power | 700 watts |
| Voltage | 120 V |
| Cooking Functions | Pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, rice, yogurt, warm |
| Material | Stainless steel (18/8) with tri-ply bottom |
| Safety Features | Overheat protection, easy seal safety lid lock, over 10 safety mechanisms |
The first time I lifted the lid of the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini, I was surprised by how solid and sleek it felt in my hand. The stainless steel exterior has a nice weight to it, and the lid clicks securely into place with a satisfying seal.
I decided to make a batch of vegetable soup, and within minutes, I was impressed by how quickly it came together.
The 3-quart capacity is perfect for small meals or side dishes, so I didn’t feel overwhelmed by a bulky appliance on my countertop. The controls are straightforward—just press one of the 11 one-touch programs, and it takes care of the rest.
I used the pressure cook setting, and the soup was ready in about 20 minutes, much faster than traditional stovetop methods.
I also tested the sauté feature, which worked great for browning onions before adding other ingredients. The stainless steel pot heats evenly, and I didn’t have to switch pans.
Cleanup was a breeze—just pop out the inner pot and wash it in the dishwasher. Plus, the included steamer rack adds versatility for steaming veggies or seafood.
The safety features like the lid lock and overheat protection gave me peace of mind during cooking. With 700 watts of power, it handles everything from rice to yogurt seamlessly.
Overall, it’s a compact powerhouse that simplifies meal prep and saves time, especially for small households or quick side dishes.
CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker WiFi and Built-in Scale –
- ✓ Easy to use app
- ✓ Accurate built-in scale
- ✓ Automatic steam release
- ✕ Slightly complex initial setup
- ✕ App requires WiFi connection
| Capacity | 6-quart (approximately 5.7 liters) |
| Power | 1200W |
| Connectivity | WiFi and Bluetooth |
| Built-in Scale | Four smart sensors for ingredient measurement |
| Pressure Release Methods | Quick, pulse, and natural |
| Firmware Updates | Wireless via CHEF iQ App |
I was surprised to find that this smart pressure cooker could do so much more than just cook under pressure. I started experimenting with a simple chicken stew, only to realize I hadn’t even touched the app’s guided recipes yet—yet it still knew exactly how long to cook and when to release steam.
The built-in scale immediately caught my attention. No more guesswork with measuring cups—just set your ingredients on the scale, and the cooker adjusts cooking time and liquid requirements perfectly.
It’s a game changer for busy weeknights when you’re juggling multiple prep tasks.
Controlling everything from my phone was smooth, and the app’s step-by-step videos made me feel like I had a personal chef guiding me. Sending precise settings to the cooker is a breeze, making even complex dishes feel approachable.
The auto pressure release is a nice safety feature, and I appreciated the variety of release options depending on what I was cooking.
Making meals like risottos, stews, and even desserts was incredibly straightforward. The presets cover almost every ingredient, so I rarely had to guess.
Plus, wireless updates mean the cooker keeps improving, which is rare for kitchen gadgets.
Overall, this cooker simplifies meal prep, reduces cleanup, and offers a level of control I didn’t expect. It’s like having a high-tech sous chef sitting on your countertop.
Instant Pot Pro 8 QT 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker
- ✓ Versatile 10-in-1 functions
- ✓ Fast cooking and preheat
- ✓ Easy cleanup and safety features
- ✕ Large size may be bulky
- ✕ Slight learning curve for new users
| Capacity | 8 quarts (7.6 liters), suitable for up to 8 servings |
| Power | 1400 watts, 120 V, 60 Hz |
| Cooking Functions | 10 functions including pressure cook, slow cook, sous vide, sauté, sterilize, yogurt, rice, bake, steam, keep warm |
| Smart Programs | 28 one-touch customizable options |
| Material | Stainless steel inner pot and accessories |
| Safety Features | Auto-sealing lid lock, overheat protection, easy grip handles, quiet steam release |
That sleek, 8-quart Instant Pot Pro has been sitting on my wishlist forever, and I finally got my hands on it. The first thing I noticed is how solid and well-made it feels—big enough to cook for the whole family without taking up all my counter space.
Firing it up was a breeze thanks to the intuitive controls. The variety of cooking functions is impressive—pressure cook, slow cook, sous vide, bake, steam—you name it.
I tried making my usual beef stew, and it was ready in less than an hour, with flavors that tasted even better than slow-cooked versions.
The smart programs are a game changer. With 28 one-touch options, I could set it and forget it.
The quick preheat and faster cooking times really do save a lot of time, especially on busy weeknights.
Cleaning up was surprisingly easy. The inner pot and lid are dishwasher safe, and the steam release switch is gentle and quiet—a big plus when you’re trying not to wake the kids.
The extra sealing ring and steamer add convenience, making me feel prepared for anything.
Safety features like the auto-lock lid and overheat protection give me peace of mind. It’s powerful, reliable, and versatile enough to replace multiple appliances.
Honestly, it’s making weeknight dinners way less stressful and more fun.
What Are the Best Meals to Make in a Pressure Cooker?
Some of the best meals to make in a pressure cooker include:
- Beef Stew: A hearty and comforting dish, beef stew in a pressure cooker cooks tender chunks of meat and vegetables in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. The pressure helps to infuse the flavors and tenderize the beef, resulting in a rich and savory broth.
- Chili: Pressure cookers are perfect for making chili, as they allow beans and meat to cook quickly while developing deep flavors. The high pressure helps to meld spices and ingredients, providing a deliciously thick and satisfying meal that can be ready in under an hour.
- Risotto: Making risotto in a pressure cooker is a game-changer, as it eliminates the need for constant stirring. The pressure cooker allows the rice to absorb all the flavors and cook evenly, resulting in a creamy and flavorful dish with minimal effort.
- Chicken Curry: A pressure cooker can transform chicken curry into a quick and easy meal, with the spices and chicken melding beautifully in a short cooking time. The sealed environment traps moisture, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and tender while soaking up all the aromatic flavors.
- Lentil Soup: Pressure cookers excel at cooking lentils quickly without the need for pre-soaking, making hearty lentil soup a breeze. The pressure cooker helps to create a thick and creamy base while allowing the lentils to retain their texture and flavor.
- Pasta Dishes: Cooking pasta in a pressure cooker is efficient and quick, allowing you to prepare one-pot meals like pasta primavera or mac and cheese. The sealed environment cooks the pasta evenly while absorbing the flavors of the sauce, resulting in a deliciously cohesive dish.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: A pressure cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare hard-boiled eggs, producing perfectly cooked eggs that are easy to peel. The steam generated in the pressure cooker ensures even cooking and reduces the risk of cracking during the cooking process.
- Pot Roast: Pressure cooking a pot roast yields a tender and flavorful meal in a fraction of the usual time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The pressure cooker locks in moisture and flavor, resulting in a succulent roast that pairs perfectly with potatoes and carrots.
Which Soups Are Perfect for Pressure Cooking?
Split Pea Soup becomes a rich and creamy dish thanks to the pressure cooker, as it breaks down the peas much faster than traditional methods. This means you can enjoy a nutritious bowl without hours of simmering, and the addition of ham or bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor.
Beef Barley Soup is another great option for pressure cooking. The high heat and steam help to tenderize the beef quickly while allowing the barley to absorb all the savory flavors, resulting in a comforting and filling soup.
Tomato Basil Soup shines in a pressure cooker as it allows the tomatoes to soften and meld with the basil rapidly, creating a fresh and tangy soup. This method also preserves the vibrant flavor of the ingredients, making it an excellent choice for a quick lunch or dinner.
Lentil Soup is perfect for the pressure cooker because lentils require minimal cooking time compared to other legumes. The pressure cooker enhances the flavor profile while ensuring the lentils remain intact yet tender, allowing for a wholesome and hearty meal.
What Meat Dishes Shine in a Pressure Cooker?
The best meals to make in a pressure cooker often include tender cuts of meat that benefit from the appliance’s ability to cook quickly under high pressure.
- Beef Stew: This classic dish is enhanced by the pressure cooker, which breaks down tough cuts of beef, like chuck roast, into tender morsels in a fraction of the time. The high-pressure environment also allows the flavors of vegetables, herbs, and spices to meld beautifully, creating a rich, hearty stew.
- Pork Carnitas: Pressure cooking pork shoulder results in succulent, flavorful carnitas that can be shredded and used in tacos, burritos, or bowls. The cooker traps moisture and infuses the meat with seasonings, making it juicy and perfect for crisping up in a skillet afterward.
- Chicken Tikka Masala: This dish features marinated chicken cooked in a spiced tomato sauce, and using a pressure cooker significantly reduces the preparation time while ensuring the chicken is tender and infused with flavor. The ability to sauté first in the pot gives a depth of flavor that enhances this popular Indian dish.
- Beef Short Ribs: Cooking beef short ribs in a pressure cooker yields incredibly tender meat that falls off the bone, dramatically reducing the typical cooking time. The pressure cooker allows for a rich braise, utilizing the ribs’ natural fats and juices to create a deeply flavorful sauce.
- Lamb Shanks: Lamb shanks become incredibly tender and flavorful when cooked in a pressure cooker, as the high pressure helps breakdown the collagen in the meat. Paired with a savory broth and aromatic vegetables, the result is a dish that is both comforting and impressive.
- Barbecue Ribs: Pressure cooking ribs allows them to become fall-off-the-bone tender in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. After pressure cooking, they can be finished on the grill or under the broiler with barbecue sauce for a caramelized finish that enhances their flavor.
How Can I Make Delicious Vegetarian and Vegan Meals in a Pressure Cooker?
The best meals to make in a pressure cooker include a variety of vegetarian and vegan options that are both delicious and easy to prepare.
- Vegetable Stews: A hearty vegetable stew can be quickly made in a pressure cooker, locking in flavors and nutrients. By combining seasonal vegetables, legumes, and a rich broth, you create a satisfying meal that can be varied with different spices and herbs.
- Chickpea Curry: Chickpeas are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, and in a pressure cooker, they become tender very quickly. You can add coconut milk, tomatoes, and spices like cumin and coriander to make a creamy, flavorful curry that pairs well with rice or quinoa.
- Lentil Soup: Making lentil soup in a pressure cooker is both time-efficient and rewarding. The lentils cook rapidly under pressure, absorbing the flavors of garlic, onions, and any vegetables you choose to include, resulting in a comforting and nutritious dish.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Quinoa is a versatile grain that cooks perfectly in a pressure cooker, allowing you to prepare a light and fluffy pilaf in a matter of minutes. By adding vegetables, herbs, and a splash of lemon juice, you can create a vibrant side dish or a base for a main course.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Pressure cooking stuffed bell peppers ensures that the peppers are tender and the filling is flavorful. You can fill them with a mixture of rice, beans, tomatoes, and spices, then cook them under pressure for a delicious one-pot meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Making creamy mashed potatoes in a pressure cooker significantly reduces cooking time. Simply peel and chop the potatoes, add some garlic for flavor, and cook them with a bit of water, then mash them with plant-based milk and vegan butter for a rich side dish.
- Vegetable Risotto: Traditional risotto can take a long time to cook and requires constant stirring, but a pressure cooker simplifies the process. You can combine arborio rice with broth, vegetables, and herbs, and let the pressure cooker do the work for a creamy, delicious risotto in a fraction of the time.
What Are the Essential Tips for Cooking in a Pressure Cooker?
When cooking in a pressure cooker, several essential tips can enhance your meals and ensure safety.
- Understand Your Pressure Cooker: It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific model of your pressure cooker, as different models have varying settings and features.
- Use Enough Liquid: Pressure cookers require liquid to create steam, so always include an adequate amount to prevent burning and ensure proper pressure buildup.
- Don’t Overfill: Be mindful of the maximum fill line in your pressure cooker; overfilling can lead to dangerous pressure buildup and hinder proper cooking.
- Adjust Cooking Times: Since pressure cooking is much faster than traditional methods, you may need to adjust cooking times for your recipes accordingly, often reducing them by about one-third.
- Consider Natural vs. Quick Release: Depending on the dish, you should choose between natural release (letting the pressure decrease on its own) or quick release (manually releasing the pressure) to achieve the desired texture and doneness.
- Use Seasoning Wisely: Flavors can intensify in a pressure cooker, so start with less seasoning than you normally would and adjust to taste after cooking.
- Layer Ingredients Appropriately: To ensure even cooking, layer ingredients according to cooking time, with denser items at the bottom and quicker-cooking items on top.
- Check Seals and Valves: Regularly inspect the sealing ring and pressure valve to ensure they are clean and functioning, as this is vital for maintaining pressure and preventing leaks.
What Common Mistakes Should I Avoid When Using a Pressure Cooker?
When using a pressure cooker, it’s important to avoid certain common mistakes to ensure safety and achieve the best results.
- Overfilling the Cooker: Filling the pressure cooker beyond the recommended capacity can lead to dangerous situations and poor cooking results.
- Neglecting to Release Pressure Properly: Improperly releasing pressure can cause food to splatter and may lead to burns or injuries.
- Ignoring Liquid Requirements: Not adding enough liquid can prevent the cooker from reaching the pressure needed for cooking, leading to undercooked meals.
- Skipping the Preheating Phase: Not allowing the cooker to preheat properly can result in uneven cooking and longer cooking times.
- Using the Wrong Cooking Time: Overcooking or undercooking food by misjudging the time can ruin your meal and texture.
- Not Checking the Sealing Ring: Failing to inspect the sealing ring for damage or wear can lead to steam leaks and ineffective cooking.
- Forgetting to Adjust for Altitude: Cooking at high altitudes requires adjustments in time and pressure, and ignoring this can affect cooking outcomes.
Overfilling the cooker can lead to food expanding and clogging the steam vent, which can cause the pressure cooker to malfunction. Always adhere to the maximum fill line indicated in your manual to ensure safe operation.
Neglecting to properly release pressure can result in hot steam escaping abruptly, which poses a risk of burns. Familiarize yourself with the two methods of pressure release—quick release and natural release—to choose the appropriate one for your recipe.
Ignoring liquid requirements may prevent the pressure cooker from achieving the necessary steam needed for cooking, which can lead to raw or unevenly cooked food. Always reference your recipe to ensure you have sufficient liquid for successful pressure cooking.
Skipping the preheating phase can leave food undercooked or unevenly cooked, as the cooker needs to reach the right temperature before starting the cooking process. Allow your pressure cooker to preheat for optimal results.
Using the wrong cooking time can result in food that is either mushy or tough, as pressure cooking times are precise. Always refer to cooking charts or recipes tailored for pressure cooking to avoid this common mistake.
Not checking the sealing ring may lead to leaks during cooking, which can compromise the cooking process and create a mess. Regularly inspect and replace the sealing ring as recommended to maintain effectiveness.
Lastly, forgetting to adjust cooking times for altitude can lead to undercooked meals, as pressure cooking times increase with elevation. If you are cooking at a high altitude, make sure to consult guidelines specific to altitude adjustments for pressure cooking.
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