16 Delicious Instant Pot Lentil Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Got a busy week ahead and dreading the dinner dilemma? Fear not! Our roundup of 16 Delicious Instant Pot Lentil Recipes is here to save your weeknights with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. From hearty stews to creamy curries, these quick, nutritious meals are perfect for anyone looking to whip up something satisfying in no time. Let’s dive into these lentil-loving dishes that’ll keep everyone at the table happy!

Instant Pot Lentil Soup

You’ll love how this Instant Pot Lentil Soup comes together in minutes, offering a hearty, nutritious meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Onion – 1, diced
• Carrots – 2, diced
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Lentils – 1 cup
• Vegetable broth – 4 cups
• Cumin – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat olive oil for 1 minute.
2. Add diced onion and carrots. Sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Secure the lid. Set to ‘Manual’ high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Once done, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
7. Open the lid. Stir the soup. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Unbelievably creamy yet packed with texture, this soup shines with a squeeze of lemon or a dollop of yogurt. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Spicy Instant Pot Lentil Curry

Lentils pack a punch in this Spicy Instant Pot Lentil Curry, a dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• Red lentils – 1 cup
• Coconut milk – 1 can (13.5 oz)
• Vegetable broth – 2 cups
• Curry powder – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Ginger – 1 tbsp, grated
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat olive oil for 1 minute.
2. Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in curry powder. Cook for another 30 seconds to toast the spices.
4. Add red lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Secure the lid. Set to ‘Manual’ high pressure for 8 minutes.
6. Once done, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Then, quick release any remaining pressure.
7. Open the lid. Stir the curry. If too thick, add water ¼ cup at a time until desired consistency.

Creamy and rich, this curry has a deep, spicy flavor that’s balanced by the sweetness of coconut milk. Serve over rice or with naan for a complete meal.

Instant Pot Lentil and Rice Pilaf

Make this Instant Pot Lentil and Rice Pilaf for a quick, nutritious meal. It’s simple, flavorful, and ready in minutes.

Ingredients

• Lentils – 1 cup
• Basmati rice – 1 cup
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Onion – 1, diced
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Vegetable broth – 2 cups
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Cumin – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Turn the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat olive oil for 2 minutes.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
3. Tip: Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
4. Add lentils, rice, vegetable broth, salt, and cumin. Stir to combine.
5. Secure the lid. Set to ‘Manual’ high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Tip: Ensure the valve is set to ‘Sealing’.
7. After cooking, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
8. Quick release any remaining pressure. Open the lid carefully.
9. Tip: Fluff the pilaf with a fork before serving to separate grains.

Velvety lentils and fluffy rice create a comforting texture. Serve with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Creamy Instant Pot Lentil Dal

Easy to make and packed with flavor, this Creamy Instant Pot Lentil Dal is a weeknight savior. Just dump, cook, and enjoy.

Ingredients

• Red lentils – 1 cup
• Water – 3 cups
• Coconut milk – 1 cup
• Turmeric – 1 tsp
• Cumin – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Rinse 1 cup red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Add the rinsed lentils, 3 cups water, 1 cup coconut milk, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp cumin, and ½ tsp salt to the Instant Pot.
3. Secure the lid and set the valve to ‘Sealing.’
4. Press ‘Manual’ and set the timer for 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
6. Stir the dal well to combine all ingredients. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender for a few seconds.
7. Tip: For extra flavor, toast the cumin in a dry pan before adding it to the Instant Pot.
8. Tip: If the dal is too thick, add water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
9. Tip: Serve with a dollop of yogurt on top for a cool contrast to the warm spices.

Absolutely creamy with a hint of spice, this dal is perfect over rice or with naan. The coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness that balances the earthy lentils.

Instant Pot Lentil Stew with Vegetables

Perfect for a busy weeknight, this Instant Pot Lentil Stew with Vegetables is hearty, nutritious, and ready in minutes.

Ingredients

• Lentils – 1 cup
• Vegetable broth – 4 cups
• Carrots – 2, diced
• Celery – 2 stalks, diced
• Onion – 1, diced
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Cumin – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat olive oil for 2 minutes.
2. Add diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes until onions are translucent.
3. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add lentils, vegetable broth, salt, and cumin. Stir to combine.
5. Secure the lid. Set to ‘Manual’ high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Tip: Ensure the valve is set to ‘Sealing.’
7. After cooking, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.
8. Tip: For thicker stew, let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Now the stew is ready. The lentils should be tender but not mushy, with a rich, savory flavor. Serve with a dollop of yogurt or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Instant Pot Lentil Tacos

These Instant Pot Lentil Tacos are a game-changer for busy weeknights. They’re packed with flavor and ready in no time.

Ingredients

• Lentils – 1 cup
• Water – 2 cups
• Taco seasoning – 2 tbsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Tortillas – 8

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat olive oil for 1 minute.
2. Add lentils and taco seasoning. Stir for 30 seconds to coat.
3. Pour in water. Secure the lid and set to ‘Manual’ for 10 minutes.
4. Once done, let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick release.
5. Open lid and stir lentils. If too watery, sauté for 2 more minutes.
6. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side.
7. Fill tortillas with lentil mixture. Serve immediately.

Key to perfect lentils is not overcooking; they should be tender but hold shape. For a smoky twist, add a pinch of chipotle powder with taco seasoning. Keep tortillas warm in a towel until serving. Kick up your taco night with these hearty, flavorful lentil tacos. They’re surprisingly meaty and perfect for piling high with your favorite toppings.

Instant Pot Lentil and Spinach Soup

Great for busy weeknights, this Instant Pot Lentil and Spinach Soup is hearty and nutritious. Get it ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Onion – 1, diced
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Lentils – 1 cup
• Vegetable broth – 4 cups
• Spinach – 2 cups
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat olive oil.
2. Add diced onion. Cook for 3 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add lentils, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Secure the lid. Set to ‘Manual’ mode for 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Once done, allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes. Then quick release.
7. Open the lid. Stir in spinach until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Zesty and comforting, this soup has a velvety texture with a slight bite from the lentils. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for an extra tang.

Instant Pot Lentil Bolognese

Forget spending hours over the stove. This Instant Pot Lentil Bolognese is hearty, flavorful, and ready in a fraction of the time.

Ingredients

• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Onion – 1, diced
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Carrot – 1, diced
• Celery – 1 stalk, diced
• Lentils – 1 cup, dried
• Tomato paste – 2 tbsp
• Crushed tomatoes – 1 can (28 oz)
• Vegetable broth – 2 cups
• Italian seasoning – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Set Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat olive oil.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in lentils and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Secure the lid. Set to ‘Manual’ high pressure for 15 minutes.
6. Once done, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
7. Stir the Bolognese. If too thick, add a splash of broth.

This Bolognese is thick, rich, and packed with umami. Serve over spaghetti or stuff into bell peppers for a twist.

Instant Pot Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry

Craving a hearty, flavorful dish that’s both nutritious and easy to make? This Instant Pot Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry is your answer.

Ingredients

• Sweet potatoes – 2 cups, cubed
• Red lentils – 1 cup
• Coconut milk – 1 can (13.5 oz)
• Curry powder – 2 tbsp
• Vegetable broth – 2 cups
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Ginger – 1 tbsp, grated

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add sweet potatoes, lentils, curry powder, vegetable broth, and coconut milk to the pot. Stir well.
3. Secure the lid. Set to ‘Manual’ high pressure for 10 minutes. Tip: Ensure the valve is set to ‘Sealing’.
4. Once done, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Then, quick release any remaining pressure. Tip: Natural release helps lentils cook evenly.
5. Open the lid. Stir the curry. If too thick, add water, ¼ cup at a time, until desired consistency. Tip: The curry thickens upon standing.

This curry boasts a creamy texture with a perfect balance of sweetness from the potatoes and earthiness from the lentils. Serve over quinoa or with naan for a complete meal.

Instant Pot Lentil Chili

Zesty and hearty, this Instant Pot Lentil Chili is a no-fuss meal that packs flavor and nutrition. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Onion – 1, diced
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Red bell pepper – 1, diced
• Lentils – 1 cup, rinsed
• Crushed tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 oz)
• Vegetable broth – 2 cups
• Chili powder – 2 tbsp
• Cumin – 1 tsp
• Salt – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat olive oil.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, and salt.
4. Secure the lid. Set to ‘Manual’ high pressure for 15 minutes.
5. Once done, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Then quick release remaining pressure.
6. Tip: For thicker chili, let it sit on ‘Keep Warm’ for 10 minutes after cooking.
7. Tip: Garnish with avocado or cilantro for extra flavor.
8. Tip: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Rich and comforting, this chili has a perfect balance of spices and texture. Serve with cornbread or over baked potatoes for a satisfying meal.

Instant Pot Lentil and Mushroom Stroganoff

Whip up a comforting bowl of Instant Pot Lentil and Mushroom Stroganoff in no time. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Onion – 1, diced
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Mushrooms – 8 oz, sliced
• Lentils – 1 cup, rinsed
• Vegetable broth – 2 cups
• Sour cream – 1/2 cup
• Dijon mustard – 1 tbsp
• Paprika – 1 tsp
• Salt – 1/2 tsp
• Black pepper – 1/4 tsp
• Egg noodles – 8 oz, cooked

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat olive oil.
2. Add onion and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add mushrooms. Cook for 3 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in lentils, vegetable broth, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Secure the lid. Set to ‘Manual’ high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Quick release pressure. Stir in sour cream until smooth.
7. Serve over cooked egg noodles.

Creamy and rich, this stroganoff pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad. The lentils add a satisfying texture, while the mushrooms bring an earthy depth. Try topping with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Instant Pot Lentil and Quinoa Salad

Ready for a quick, nutritious meal? This Instant Pot Lentil and Quinoa Salad is packed with protein and ready in minutes. Perfect for meal prep or a fast dinner.

Ingredients

– Lentils – 1 cup
– Quinoa – 1 cup
– Water – 2 cups
– Olive oil – 1 tbsp
– Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
– Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Rinse lentils and quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Add lentils, quinoa, and water to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid.
3. Set the Instant Pot to Manual High Pressure for 8 minutes. Tip: For firmer lentils, reduce time to 6 minutes.
4. Once done, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid and fluff the mixture with a fork. Tip: Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb any excess water.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Add salt and mix well. Tip: For extra flavor, add chopped herbs or garlic while mixing.
7. Serve warm or chill for a refreshing salad. You’ll love the fluffy quinoa paired with tender lentils. Try topping with avocado or feta for a creamy twist.

Instant Pot Lentil and Kale Soup

Rustling up a hearty meal doesn’t have to be complicated. This Instant Pot Lentil and Kale Soup is a no-fuss, nutrient-packed dish ready in minutes.

Ingredients

– Olive oil – 1 tbsp
– Onion – 1, diced
– Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
– Lentils – 1 cup
– Kale – 2 cups, chopped
– Vegetable broth – 4 cups
– Salt – 1 tsp
– Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat olive oil.
2. Add diced onion. Cook for 3 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add lentils, kale, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Secure the lid. Set to ‘Manual’ high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Once done, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
7. Quick release any remaining pressure. Open the lid carefully.
8. Stir the soup. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Tip: For a creamier texture, blend half the soup before serving.
Tip: Add a splash of lemon juice before serving for a fresh twist.
Tip: Ensure lentils are fully submerged in broth to cook evenly.
Yielding a rich, velvety texture, this soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread. The kale adds a slight bitterness, balanced by the earthy lentils.

Instant Pot Lentil and Chickpea Curry

Just when you need a hearty meal without the hassle, this Instant Pot Lentil and Chickpea Curry delivers. Packed with protein and flavor, it’s a weeknight savior.

Ingredients

• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Onion – 1, diced
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Ginger – 1 tbsp, grated
• Curry powder – 2 tbsp
• Cumin – 1 tsp
• Lentils – 1 cup, rinsed
• Chickpeas – 1 can, drained
• Tomato sauce – 1 cup
• Coconut milk – 1 cup
• Vegetable broth – 2 cups
• Salt – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Set Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’. Heat olive oil.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 3 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in curry powder and cumin. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add lentils, chickpeas, tomato sauce, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
5. Secure lid. Set to ‘Manual’ high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Once done, allow natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
7. Stir in salt. Serve hot.

Hearty and creamy, this curry pairs perfectly with rice or naan. The lentils and chickpeas offer a satisfying bite, while the coconut milk adds a silky richness. Try topping with fresh cilantro for a bright finish.

Instant Pot Lentil and Tomato Soup

Vegan comfort food doesn’t get easier than this Instant Pot Lentil and Tomato Soup. Packed with protein and flavor, it’s a weeknight lifesaver.

Ingredients

• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Onion – 1, diced
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Lentils – 1 cup
• Canned tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 oz)
• Vegetable broth – 4 cups
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Set Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat olive oil for 2 minutes.
2. Add diced onion. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add lentils, canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Secure the lid. Set to ‘Manual’ high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Once done, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
7. Stir the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Expect a hearty, slightly chunky texture with a rich tomato base. Serve with a dollop of vegan yogurt or crusty bread for dipping.

Instant Pot Lentil and Coconut Curry

Just when you need a quick, hearty meal, this Instant Pot Lentil and Coconut Curry delivers. Packed with flavor and ready in minutes, it’s a weeknight savior.

Ingredients

• Red lentils – 1 cup
• Coconut milk – 1 can (13.5 oz)
• Vegetable broth – 2 cups
• Curry powder – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Onion – 1, diced

Instructions

1. Set Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat for 2 minutes.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3 minutes, until translucent.
3. Stir in curry powder. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
4. Add red lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
5. Secure the lid. Set to ‘Manual’ high pressure for 8 minutes.
6. Once done, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
7. Quick release any remaining pressure. Stir the curry.
8. Tip: For a thicker curry, let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
9. Tip: Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
10. Tip: Serve over rice for a complete meal.

Perfectly creamy with a hint of spice, this curry is a comforting bowl of goodness. Try it with a squeeze of lime for an extra zing.

Conclusion

Great news for busy home cooks! This roundup of 16 Delicious Instant Pot Lentil Recipes is your ticket to easy, nutritious meals any night of the week. Whether you’re a lentil lover or just looking to mix things up, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try your favorites, leave a comment sharing which ones you loved, and pin this article to your Pinterest board for later!