As the saying goes, “time is money” – and when it comes to cooking dinner after a long day, every minute counts. But what if you could have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes? That’s where Instant Pot and air fryer recipes come in! These two kitchen appliances have revolutionized the way we cook, making it possible to whip up a variety of tasty dishes in no time.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 quick and easy recipes that combine the best of both worlds – the convenience of the Instant Pot with the crispy, golden results of the air fryer. From comfort foods like mac and cheese and pulled pork to healthy options like cauliflower bites and Brussels sprouts, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your Instant Pot and air fryer, and let’s get started on cooking up a storm!
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe for crispy air fryer chicken wings that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken wings and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
5. Load the chicken wings into the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
6. Cook for 20-22 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
7. Increase the temperature to 420°F (220°C) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 22-25 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Stew with Air Fryer Topping
This recipe combines the tenderizing power of Instant Pot cooking with the crispy, caramelized flavor of an air fryer. The result is a comforting and satisfying beef stew topped with crunchy, savory goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1-2 potatoes, peeled and cubed (depending on size)
– Air fryer seasonings (e.g., paprika, garlic powder, salt)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and brown the beef in batches. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
2. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return the browned beef to the Instant Pot and add the potatoes. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
5. Cook on “Meat/Stew” mode for 30-40 minutes or until the beef is tender.
6. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
7. Remove the stew from the Instant Pot and top with your desired air fryer seasonings.
8. Place the stew in the air fryer basket and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the topping is crispy.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this simple recipe that yields crispy, flavorful results with minimal effort. Perfect as a side dish or snack!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch thick wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together garlic and Parmesan cheese.
3. Add potato wedges to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the garlic-Parmesan mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes and sprinkle with salt.
5. Load the potatoes into the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to cook them in batches).
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Remove when golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Instant Pot Pulled Pork with Air Fryer Crispy Skin
Elevate your pulled pork game by combining the tender, fall-apart texture of Instant Pot cooking with the crispy, caramelized skin achieved through air frying. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray for air frying
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the sliced onion until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Place the pork shoulder in the Instant Pot and add barbecue sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
5. Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
6. Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and let it rest for 10 minutes.
7. Air fry the pork skin at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time:
– Instant Pot: 100 minutes
– Air frying: 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Spice up your snack game with these addictive Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites! Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bold buffalo flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: blue cheese crumbles for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with buffalo wing sauce until evenly coated.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cauliflower mixture; toss to coat.
5. Load the cauliflower bites into the Air Fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot with blue cheese crumbles on top (if using). Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Air Fryer Breadcrumb Topping
Elevate your comfort food game with this indulgent Instant Pot macaroni and cheese, topped with crispy air fryer breadcrumbs. This recipe combines the creaminess of mac and cheese with a satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Air fryer breadcrumbs (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In the Instant Pot, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Add cooked macaroni to the Instant Pot and stir well.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick-release.
5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Toss breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Air-fry breadcrumbs for 2-3 minutes or until crispy. Sprinkle over mac and cheese.
Cooking Time: 7 minutes (Instant Pot) + 2-3 minutes (air fryer)
Air Fryer Honey Sriracha Salmon
Get ready to elevate your salmon game with this sweet and spicy Air Fryer recipe! By combining the rich flavor of honey with the bold kick of Sriracha, you’ll be hooked on this dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line the Air Fryer basket with parchment paper or a non-stick mat.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the basket, leaving some space between each piece.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Sriracha sauce until well combined.
5. Brush the honey-Sriracha mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook the salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Remove from the Air Fryer and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Instant Pot BBQ Ribs with Air Fryer Finish
Elevate your barbecue game with this easy and tender Instant Pot recipe, finished with a crispy air fryer touch. Perfect for a weekend dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef or pork ribs
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Season the ribs with salt, pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Add the ribs, BBQ sauce, and water to the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
4. Remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and place them in the air fryer basket at 375°F (190°C).
5. Air fry the ribs for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and caramelized.
6. Serve hot with additional BBQ sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Air Fryer Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Get ready to elevate your veggie game with this simple and delicious Air Fryer recipe! Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, these crispy Brussels sprouts are a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Load the sprouts into the Air Fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each sprout.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through. Sprouts should be tender and caramelized.
5. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top of sprouts during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Pot Chili with Air Fryer Cornbread
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting combination of tender chili and crispy cornbread, all made possible with the help of your Instant Pot and air fryer. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Chili:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
For the Cornbread:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Honey or maple syrup, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the chili in the Instant Pot according to package instructions.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the cornbread by mixing dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then combining.
3. Air fry the cornbread mixture for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Serve the warm chili with crispy cornbread and enjoy!
Cooking Time:
– Instant Pot Chili: 20-25 minutes
– Air Fryer Cornbread: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your mealtime with these zesty and flavorful air-fried chicken thighs, infused with the warmth of lemon pepper.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and the lemon pepper mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Cook for 20-22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes with Air Fryer Garlic Croutons
Elevate your mashed potato game with this Instant Pot recipe featuring crispy Air Fryer garlic croutons!
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes with Air Fryer Garlic Croutons Recipe
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For the croutons:
+ 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon olive oil
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
2. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
3. Meanwhile, preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C). Toss baguette cubes with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook croutons in the Air Fryer for 5-7 minutes or until crispy and golden.
5. Mash potatoes with a fork or potato masher. Serve hot topped with croutons.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer Teriyaki Tofu Bowls
Transform your mealtime with this simple and flavorful Air Fryer Teriyaki Tofu Bowl recipe. Crispy, savory tofu meets sweet and sticky teriyaki sauce in a nutritious bowl filled with fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh veggies (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, etc.)
– Cooked brown rice or quinoa for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, ginger, and garlic powder.
3. Add the tofu to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 10 minutes.
4. Cook the marinated tofu in the Air Fryer for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Serve the crispy tofu over cooked brown rice or quinoa with your favorite fresh veggies.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Lentil Soup with Air Fryer Croutons
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple and satisfying Instant Pot Lentil Soup recipe, paired with crispy Air Fryer Croutons. This soup is a perfect blend of tender lentils, aromatic spices, and rich flavors.
Ingredients:
For the soup:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the croutons:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until tender.
2. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing.” Cook at high pressure for 20 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Preheat Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
6. Toss bread cubes with olive oil and salt. Cook in Air Fryer for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time:
– Instant Pot: 20 minutes + 10 minutes natural release
– Air Fryer: 5-7 minutes
Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Skewers
Get ready to savor the bold flavors of the Bayou with these quick and easy Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Skewers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with the pungent punch of cayenne pepper and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Thread 3-4 shrimp onto each skewer.
5. Place the skewers in the Air Fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C), shaking halfway through.
7. Remove from the Air Fryer and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Curry with Air Fryer Naan
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, creamy curry sauce, and crispy naan bread, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot and air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup curry sauce mix
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pieces of naan bread
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the onions, garlic, and ginger until softened (3 minutes).
2. Add the chicken, curry sauce mix, coconut milk, cumin powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing”, and pressure cook for 10-12 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Meanwhile, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
6. Cook the naan bread in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: Instant Pot: 15-17 minutes; Air Fryer: 6-8 minutes
Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Enjoy a healthier take on traditional french fries with this simple recipe that yields crispy and flavorful zucchini fries using your air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis into long, thin strips, similar to traditional french fries.
3. In a bowl, toss the zucchini strips with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until they are evenly coated.
4. Load the zucchini fries into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each fry for even cooking.
5. Cook the zucchini fries for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Remove the fries from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Tacos with Air Fryer Shells
Get ready for a flavorful and convenient taco night with this recipe that combines the tender beef of the Instant Pot with the crispy shells of the air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 cup beef broth
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for brushing tortillas
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and taco seasoning to the Instant Pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the beef broth to the Instant Pot and stir to combine. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush both sides of the corn tortillas with vegetable oil.
5. Place 2-3 tortillas in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto the cooked shells and serving with your favorite toppings.
Cook Time: Instant Pot: 10-12 minutes, Air Fryer: 3-4 minutes per batch.
Air Fryer Apple Cinnamon Donuts
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these delicious and easy-to-make air fryer donuts, infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of apples.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yeast, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk, eggs, melted butter, diced apples, and cinnamon.
4. Gradually pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until smooth batter forms.
5. Pipe or spoon the batter into donut shapes in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 4-5 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Instant Pot Vegetable Stew with Air Fryer Herb Croutons
This hearty vegetable stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, made even more appealing with crispy air fryer croutons infused with fresh herbs. It’s an easy and nutritious meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
For the stew:
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, corn, bell peppers)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the air fryer croutons:
– 1/2 cup whole wheat bread, cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the onion until softened.
2. Add the garlic, carrots, potatoes, frozen vegetables, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
4. Meanwhile, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Toss the bread cubes with olive oil, garlic, parsley, thyme, and salt.
5. Air fry the croutons for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
6. Serve the stew hot, topped with the air fryer herb croutons.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (Instant Pot) + 5-7 minutes (air fryer)
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your busy weeknights with these 20 quick and delicious recipes that combine the power of Instant Pots and air fryers! From crispy chicken wings and pulled pork to mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, and even donuts, this collection has something for everyone. With minimal prep time and easy cleanup, you’ll be enjoying a stress-free dinner in no time. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, international flavors, or healthy snacks, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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