Best Beginner Pressure Cooker Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Alright, let’s talk weeknights. That stretch between getting home (or, in my case, closing the laptop in my home office here in Nashville) and actually sitting down to eat. It can feel like a marathon sometimes, right? I remember my pre-pressure cooker days vividly – lots of pasta with jarred sauce, maybe some scrambled eggs, or, more often than I’d like to admit, scrolling through delivery apps while my stomach grumbled impatiently. Nashville has some *killer* food delivery, don’t get me wrong, but my bank account and my desire for something genuinely home-cooked were often at odds. Then came the electric pressure cooker. Game changer? Yeah, I think that term actually fits here, even if it’s overused.

Honestly, I was a bit intimidated at first. All those buttons, the steam, the locking lid… it seemed complicated. Like something only super experienced cooks would use. But I dove in, fueled by the promise of faster meals and maybe, just maybe, making things like risotto without standing over the stove stirring for half an hour. And you know what? It was surprisingly easy to get the hang of. That initial fear quickly turned into fascination, and now, that gentle hiss as it comes to pressure is practically a dinner bell in my apartment (much to the curiosity of Luna, my cat, who probably wonders what magical contraption is producing such delicious smells).

So, if you’re new to the pressure cooking game, or maybe you got one as a gift and it’s still sitting in the box (no judgment!), this is for you. I want to share some of the absolute best beginner pressure cooker recipes for weeknights that I’ve relied on time and time again. These aren’t fancy, complicated affairs. They’re straightforward, mostly use common ingredients, and deliver maximum flavor with minimal active cooking time. We’re talking about reclaiming your weeknights, one delicious, quickly-cooked meal at a time. Ready to make that pressure cooker your best friend?

Unlocking Weeknight Wins: Your Pressure Cooker Recipe Guide

1. Why Pressure Cooking is a Weeknight Superhero

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s just quickly touch on *why* this gadget is so darn effective for busy evenings. It boils down to a few key things for me. First, speed. This is the most obvious one. By cooking under pressure, the boiling point of water (or whatever liquid is inside) is raised significantly. This means food cooks much, much faster – we’re talking beans in under an hour without soaking, tough cuts of meat becoming fork-tender in 45 minutes instead of hours. It feels like bending the rules of time, honestly. Think about making a pot roast after work on a Tuesday – normally unthinkable, but totally doable with a pressure cooker.

Second, flavor infusion. Because the pot is sealed, aromas and flavors don’t escape into your kitchen; they get forced *into* the food. Everything just tastes more intense, more concentrated. Broths become richer, spices penetrate deeper. It’s like hitting the fast-forward button on marinating or slow simmering. You get that depth of flavor that usually takes hours, in a fraction of the time. It’s pretty remarkable how much difference it makes, especially with simpler ingredients. A basic chicken broth made in the pressure cooker tastes leagues better than one simmered conventionally for the same short period.

Third, and this is a big one for me, one-pot convenience. Many electric pressure cookers (like the Instant Pot, though there are other great brands) have sauté, steam, slow cook, and pressure cook functions all in one. You can brown your meat, sauté your aromatics, then add your liquids and other ingredients, seal the lid, and pressure cook – all in the same pot. Fewer dishes to wash? Sign me up. This minimizes cleanup dramatically, which on a tired weeknight, feels like an absolute gift. It simplifies the whole cooking process, less mess, less stress. It’s not just about cooking fast; it’s about making the entire process, from prep to cleanup, more manageable.

2. Getting to Know Your Machine (Just the Basics!)

Okay, I know the goal is recipes, but spending just a minute understanding the tool helps immensely. Don’t worry, we’re not doing a deep dive engineering analysis (though part of me always wants to). Most electric pressure cookers have similar core functions. You’ll have buttons for different food types (like ‘Meat/Stew’, ‘Poultry’, ‘Rice’, ‘Soup’) which are basically preset time/pressure combinations. You’ll almost always have a Manual or Pressure Cook button – this is your best friend, as it lets you set the time and pressure level (usually High or Low) yourself. For beginners, sticking to High pressure is usually fine for most recipes unless specified otherwise.

The key things to understand are the sealing mechanism (make sure that little valve is turned to ‘Sealing’, not ‘Venting’ when you start cooking!) and the pressure release methods. There are two main ways to release the pressure after cooking: Natural Pressure Release (NPR or NR) and Quick Release (QR). Natural Release just means turning the machine off (or letting it switch to ‘Keep Warm’) and letting the pressure drop on its own. This takes time (10-30 minutes) but is great for meats (keeps them tender) and foamy things like beans or grains (prevents spewing). Quick Release means carefully turning the steam release valve to ‘Venting’ to let the steam out rapidly. It’s fast, but can sometimes make meats a bit tougher and isn’t ideal for those foamy foods. Recipes will usually specify which method to use, and it makes a difference!

Don’t forget the minimum liquid requirement! Pressure cookers need liquid (water, broth, sauce) to build steam and pressure. Most 6-quart cookers need at least 1 cup, but check your manual. Too little liquid, and it won’t pressurize (and might give you a burn warning). Too much liquid, and things can get watery. It’s a balance you learn pretty quick. And always, always read your specific model’s manual. They have slight differences, and safety first, right?

3. Recipe: Lightning-Fast Pulled Chicken (or Pork)

This is probably the recipe I make most often. It’s ridiculously easy and so versatile. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, salads, topping baked potatoes… you name it. You barely need a formal recipe, it’s more of a method.

What you need (approximate):

  • ~2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (thighs are more forgiving and flavorful, IMO) OR a similar amount of pork shoulder/butt, cut into large chunks.
  • ~1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (or salsa, or enchilada sauce, or just broth with spices!)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth, water, or even beer
  • Optional flavor boosts: 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, a splash of Worcestershire or liquid smoke.

How to do it:

  1. Place the chicken or pork in the pressure cooker pot.
  2. Pour the BBQ sauce (or other liquid/sauce), broth/water, and any optional spices over the meat. Give it a quick stir just to coat things a bit.
  3. Secure the lid, making sure the steam release valve is set to ‘Sealing’.
  4. Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ and set the time. For chicken breasts, 10-12 minutes on High Pressure is usually perfect. For thighs, maybe 12-15 minutes. For pork chunks, aim for 40-50 minutes on High Pressure to get it really tender.
  5. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes (this is Natural Pressure Release or NPR). If you’re impatient after 10 mins, you can carefully do a Quick Release for the remaining pressure. For pork, I often let it NPR completely.
  6. Open the lid carefully. The meat should be super tender. Use two forks to shred it directly in the pot, mixing it with all those lovely juices and sauce. If it seems too liquidy, you can turn on the ‘Sauté’ function for a few minutes to thicken the sauce (stir constantly!).

Seriously, it’s that simple. The first time I made pulled pork this way, after years of slow-cooking it for 8 hours, I was stunned. The flavor was incredible, the texture perfect. It felt like cheating, but in the best possible way. This is a lifesaver for busy weeks when you want something hearty and satisfying without the long wait. Sometimes I make a big batch on Sunday and use it for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Efficiency, people!

4. Recipe: Actually Easy Risotto (No Constant Stirring!)

Risotto has this reputation for being difficult and labor-intensive. All that standing and stirring… it’s just not practical for a Tuesday night. But the pressure cooker? It turns risotto into a mostly hands-off affair. Is it *exactly* the same texture as the painstakingly stirred version? Maybe not 100%, but it’s darn close and absolutely delicious, creamy, and comforting. This basic version is a great starting point.

What you need:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
  • 1.5 cups Arborio rice (this type of rice is key for creaminess)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds flavor – use more broth if skipping)
  • 4 cups hot chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional additions: sautéed mushrooms, cooked peas, lemon zest, fresh herbs

How to do it:

  1. Set your pressure cooker to the ‘Sauté’ function on medium heat. Add the olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the chopped onion/shallot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add the Arborio rice to the pot. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes, toasting the rice slightly. You want the grains to look slightly translucent around the edges.
  3. If using wine, pour it in and stir until it’s mostly absorbed by the rice. This only takes about a minute.
  4. Turn off the ‘Sauté’ function. Pour in the hot broth. Give it a good stir, making sure no rice is stuck to the bottom of the pot (this helps prevent the dreaded ‘Burn’ notice).
  5. Secure the lid, ensure the valve is set to ‘Sealing’.
  6. Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ and set the time to 5-6 minutes on High Pressure. Yes, that’s it!
  7. When the timer goes off, perform a Quick Release (QR) carefully. Be prepared for steam!
  8. Open the lid. The risotto might look a little loose, but don’t worry. Give it a vigorous stir. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring for a minute or two – this helps release the starches and makes it creamy.
  9. If adding extras like peas or mushrooms, stir them in now. Serve immediately. Risotto is best fresh and hot.

The first time I tried this, I was skeptical. Six minutes? No way. But it worked! Creamy, flavorful risotto with minimal effort. It felt like unlocking a secret level in the game of weeknight cooking. You can customize this endlessly – add saffron, different cheeses, veggies… but master the basic technique first. It’s a game changer for making something that feels a bit special without the usual fuss.

5. Recipe: Speedy & Hearty Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is classic comfort food – nutritious, cheap, and satisfying. But dried lentils can sometimes take a while on the stovetop. In the pressure cooker? They become tender and delicious incredibly fast, making this a perfect weeknight staple.

What you need:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed (no soaking needed!)
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, adds depth)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional finish: a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, fresh parsley

How to do it:

  1. Use the ‘Sauté’ function on medium. Add olive oil. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes (this base is called a mirepoix and builds flavor).
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Turn off ‘Sauté’. Stir in the rinsed lentils, broth, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Season with salt and pepper, but go easy on the salt for now – you can adjust later.
  4. Secure the lid, set valve to ‘Sealing’.
  5. Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ and set to 10 minutes on High Pressure for firm lentils, or 12-15 minutes for softer, creamier lentils.
  6. Once done, let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes (NPR). This helps the lentils stay intact and prevents potential sputtering from the valve if you quick release immediately. Release any remaining pressure carefully.
  7. Open the lid, stir the soup. Taste and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper). If you like, stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice to brighten the flavors, and garnish with fresh parsley.

This soup is so forgiving. You can add other veggies (diced potatoes, spinach stirred in at the end), use different spices, add a bay leaf… it’s hard to mess up. It’s one of those meals that makes you feel good – warm, nourishing, and incredibly easy thanks to the pressure cooker cutting down that cooking time. Plus, leftovers are fantastic for lunch the next day. It’s a recipe that feels both humble and deeply satisfying.

6. Recipe: Quick Weeknight Chili (Beef or Veggie)

Chili is another one of those dishes that usually benefits from a long simmer to develop flavors. But, you guessed it, the pressure cooker speeds things right up, melding the spices and tenderizing everything beautifully in under an hour.

What you need:

  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, or plant-based crumbles for veggie version)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed or diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth, vegetable broth, or water
  • 2-3 tbsp chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream/Greek yogurt, chopped onions, cilantro, avocado

How to do it:

  1. Set pressure cooker to ‘Sauté’ on high. Add oil. Brown the ground meat (if using), breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess fat. If making veggie chili, skip this step or sauté plant-based crumbles briefly.
  2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Turn off ‘Sauté’. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This toasts the spices a bit.
  4. Add the rinsed beans, crushed/diced tomatoes (undrained), and broth/water. Stir everything together well, scraping the bottom of the pot to make sure nothing is stuck. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Secure the lid, set valve to ‘Sealing’.
  6. Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ and set to 15 minutes on High Pressure.
  7. When the time is up, allow for a 10-minute Natural Pressure Release (NPR), then carefully Quick Release any remaining pressure.
  8. Open the lid, give the chili a good stir. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Let it sit for a few minutes; it will thicken slightly as it cools.
  9. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

This chili recipe is a staple in my rotation. It feels substantial and comforting, perfect for a chilly Nashville evening (see what I did there?). The pressure cooker infuses the flavors so well, it tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. And again, cleanup is minimal since it’s all in one pot. You can easily double this recipe if you have a larger pressure cooker, making it great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.

7. Recipe: Perfect Pressure Cooker Rice or Quinoa

Okay, maybe not the most exciting recipe, but mastering basic grains in the pressure cooker is a fundamental skill! It’s faster than a rice cooker sometimes, and completely hands-off. Getting fluffy rice or perfectly cooked quinoa consistently is a weeknight win.

For White Rice (like Jasmine or Basmati):

  • 1 cup white rice, rinsed well (until water runs clear)
  • 1 cup water or broth (1:1 ratio is key for most white rice in PC)
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp butter or oil (optional, helps prevent sticking)

How-to: Combine rinsed rice, water/broth, salt, and butter/oil in the pot. Secure lid, seal valve. Cook on High Pressure for 3-4 minutes. Let pressure release naturally (NPR) for 10 minutes, then Quick Release any remainder. Fluff with a fork.

For Brown Rice:

  • 1 cup brown rice, rinsed
  • 1.25 cups water or broth (brown rice needs a bit more liquid, 1:1.25 ratio)
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

How-to: Combine rinsed rice, water/broth, and salt in the pot. Secure lid, seal valve. Cook on High Pressure for 20-22 minutes. Let pressure release naturally (NPR) for 10 minutes, then Quick Release. Fluff with a fork.

For Quinoa:

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed very well (important to remove bitterness)
  • 1.25 cups water or broth (1:1.25 ratio usually works well)
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

How-to: Combine rinsed quinoa, water/broth, and salt in the pot. Secure lid, seal valve. Cook on High Pressure for just 1 minute. Yes, one minute! Let pressure release naturally (NPR) for 10-12 minutes, then Quick Release. Fluff with a fork.

These timings might need slight adjustments based on your specific cooker model or altitude, but they’re great starting points. The key is usually the ratio of grain to liquid and the natural pressure release time, which allows the grain to finish steaming and absorbing liquid. No more scorched pots or mushy rice! It just… works. It’s become my default way to cook grains now.

8. Recipe: Creamy Pressure Cooker Mac and Cheese

Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? Forget the boxed stuff. You can make incredibly creamy, dreamy mac and cheese right in the pressure cooker, and it’s surprisingly fast. This is pure comfort food, elevated, but still weeknight-friendly.

What you need:

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni (or similar pasta shape)
  • 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder (optional, enhances cheese flavor)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 3 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack – a mix is great!)
  • 2 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)

How to do it:

  1. Combine the dry pasta, water/broth, salt, mustard powder (if using), and pepper in the pressure cooker pot. Stir well. Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged.
  2. Secure the lid, set valve to ‘Sealing’.
  3. Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ and set the time. General rule: take the cooking time on the pasta box, divide by 2, and subtract 1 minute. For most elbows, this is around 4-5 minutes on High Pressure.
  4. When the timer goes off, perform a controlled Quick Release (QR). Do it in short bursts at first, as starchy water can sometimes sputter.
  5. Open the lid. There will likely be some liquid remaining. Don’t drain it! This starchy water helps make the sauce creamy.
  6. Stir in the evaporated milk. Then, gradually stir in the shredded cheese, a handful at a time, until melted and smooth. Keep stirring until it forms a luscious sauce.
  7. Stir in the butter (if using) for extra richness. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
  8. Serve immediately! This mac and cheese is best enjoyed right away while it’s super creamy.

This recipe blew my mind. Cooking pasta *with* the sauce ingredients? It seemed wrong, but it works beautifully. The starch from the pasta water combined with the evaporated milk and cheese creates an incredibly smooth, velvety sauce without needing to make a separate béchamel. It’s dangerously easy and so much better than anything from a box. Total crowd-pleaser, even if the crowd is just you and Luna judging from the couch.

9. Essential Tips & Tricks for Pressure Cooking Newbies

Okay, beyond the recipes, a few hard-won tips can make your pressure cooking journey smoother. First, don’t overfill your cooker. Most have a max fill line, usually about 2/3 full for regular foods and only 1/2 full for foods that expand or foam (like beans, grains, pasta). Overfilling can prevent it from sealing properly or even clog the valve – not good. Respect the line!

Second, understand the power of the Sauté function. Use it! Browning meats and sautéing onions, garlic, and other aromatics before pressure cooking builds a huge amount of flavor. It adds maybe 5-10 minutes of prep, but the payoff in taste is massive. Don’t just dump everything in cold; take the time to build that flavor base. It makes a noticeable difference, trust me on this.

Third, get comfortable with Natural vs. Quick Release. As mentioned, NPR is gentler, better for meats and foamy things. QR is faster, great for veggies or when you need to stop cooking quickly (like with that risotto). Sometimes a recipe calls for a specific NPR time (like 10 minutes) followed by a QR for the rest – follow those instructions! They’re usually there for a reason related to texture or preventing messes.

Fourth, liquid is key. Remember that minimum liquid requirement (usually 1 cup for 6qt, 1.5 cups for 8qt, but check your manual!). Water, broth, thin sauces all count. Thick sauces (like tomato paste or cream soups) shouldn’t be counted as the main liquid and can sometimes cause burn warnings if they’re sitting on the bottom. Layering helps – put thick sauces on top of other ingredients, don’t stir them in until *after* pressure cooking if you’re worried. And if a recipe comes out too watery? Just use the Sauté function after cooking to simmer and reduce the liquid.

10. Common Beginner Pitfalls & How to Fix Them

Even with easy recipes, things can sometimes go sideways. Don’t panic! Most issues are easily fixable. A common one: the dreaded ‘Burn’ notice (or ‘Ovht’, ‘Food Burn’, etc.). This usually means there’s not enough thin liquid, or something thick is stuck to the bottom preventing proper heating. The fix? Cancel the cooking program, carefully release any pressure, open the lid, give everything a good stir (scraping the bottom!), and add a bit more thin liquid (like 1/2 cup broth or water). Then try cooking again. Always make sure to deglaze (scrape up any browned bits) after sautéing before adding liquids.

Another issue: It’s not sealing/coming to pressure. Check the obvious first: Is the lid on correctly? Is the sealing ring inside the lid properly seated (and clean)? Is the steam release valve in the ‘Sealing’ position? Is there enough liquid inside? Sometimes food debris can get stuck around the ring or valve, so keeping those clean is important. A little troubleshooting usually solves it.

What if your food is undercooked? This can happen if ingredients were too cold, cut too large, or maybe the cook time just wasn’t quite enough for your machine. No worries! Just secure the lid again and cook on High Pressure for another few minutes (usually 2-5 minutes is enough to fix it). Then release pressure as appropriate.

And if the food is overcooked or mushy? Unfortunately, you can’t really ‘uncook’ it. This is usually a matter of adjusting the cook time downwards next time. Quick releasing pressure immediately can also sometimes help prevent delicate items like veggies from overcooking compared to letting them sit during a long natural release. Take notes on what works for *your* cooker and preferences!

So, Are You Ready to Embrace the Pressure?

Look, I get it. New kitchen gadgets can seem daunting. But the electric pressure cooker truly is one of the most useful tools I have in my Nashville kitchen, especially on those nights when time and energy are scarce. It bridges the gap between wanting a delicious, home-cooked meal and actually having the bandwidth to produce one after a long day. These beginner recipes are just a starting point – they show you the basic techniques and build confidence.

From pulled pork that tastes like it slow-cooked all day to risotto that doesn’t require chaining yourself to the stove, the possibilities really open up. It’s about reclaiming those weeknights, eating better, and maybe even finding a little bit of joy in the process. I genuinely believe that once you get over that initial hump, you’ll wonder how you managed without one. It’s less about becoming a gourmet chef overnight and more about making everyday cooking significantly more manageable and flavorful.

Is this the ultimate solution to all weeknight dinner woes? Maybe not *all* of them, but it comes pretty close sometimes. My challenge to you, if you’re on the fence or have that cooker gathering dust, is to just try one of these. Pick the one that sounds tastiest or easiest to you and give it a go. What’s the worst that can happen? You might just discover your new favorite way to cook. Let me know how your pressure cooking adventures turn out!

FAQ

Q: Are electric pressure cookers actually safe to use?
A: Yes, modern electric pressure cookers are designed with multiple safety features. They have locking lids that prevent opening under pressure, automatic pressure control, backup pressure release mechanisms, and often temperature controls to prevent overheating or burning. As long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions (like not overfilling and ensuring the valve is clear), they are very safe for home use. Way safer than the old stovetop ‘jiggle top’ cookers people might remember.

Q: What’s the real difference between Natural Pressure Release (NPR) and Quick Release (QR)?
A: Natural Pressure Release (NPR) means you let the cooker cool down on its own until the pressure indicator drops – this can take 10-30 minutes. It results in a gradual release of pressure and continued gentle cooking, which is great for meats (keeps them tender) and prevents foam-overs with beans/grains. Quick Release (QR) involves manually turning the steam release valve to vent the steam rapidly. It stops the cooking process quickly, which is good for vegetables or pasta you don’t want to overcook, but can sometimes make meats slightly tougher and isn’t ideal for foamy foods.

Q: Do I need special ingredients for pressure cooker recipes?
A: Generally, no! Most beginner pressure cooker recipes use standard pantry staples, meats, and vegetables you’d use for regular cooking. The main thing is ensuring you have enough *thin* liquid (like broth, water, or thin sauces) for the cooker to build pressure. You don’t need special ‘pressure cooker approved’ ingredients, just the regular stuff.

Q: Can I convert my favorite slow cooker or stovetop recipes to the pressure cooker?
A: Yes, you often can, but it requires adjustments. The main changes involve reducing liquid (since less evaporates in a sealed pot, often halving the liquid is a starting point, ensuring you still meet the minimum requirement) and significantly reducing cooking time. A rough guide is to cook for about 1/3 of the original stovetop simmer time or 1/4 of the slow cooker time, but this varies greatly. It often takes some experimentation to get it right. Look for similar pressure cooker recipes online to get a better idea of timing and liquid amounts for specific ingredients.

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@article{best-beginner-pressure-cooker-recipes-for-busy-weeknights,
    title   = {Best Beginner Pressure Cooker Recipes for Busy Weeknights},
    author  = {Chef's icon},
    year    = {2025},
    journal = {Chef's Icon},
    url     = {https://chefsicon.com/best-beginner-pressure-cooker-recipes-for-weeknights/}
}

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