When it comes to cooking, many of us are looking for ways to make mealtime easier and faster without sacrificing flavor. That’s where the microwave pressure cooker comes in – a game-changing kitchen appliance that can cook a wide variety of dishes quickly and efficiently. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 quick and easy recipes you can make using your microwave pressure cooker.
From hearty stews to comforting soups, and from creamy desserts to savory main courses, the possibilities are endless with this versatile cooking tool. Whether you’re a busy professional or a stay-at-home parent looking for a way to get dinner on the table quickly, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
In the following pages, we’ll be sharing our top 20 quick and easy microwave pressure cooker recipes, each one designed to showcase the convenience and versatility of this amazing kitchen appliance. So grab your microwave pressure cooker and let’s get started!
Microwave Pressure Cooker Beef Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew cooked quickly and efficiently using a microwave pressure cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced potatoes
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the beef, onion, garlic, potatoes, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the microwave pressure cooker.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Microwave Pressure Cooker Chicken Curry
This recipe is a twist on traditional chicken curry, using the convenience of a microwave pressure cooker to cook the dish in under 30 minutes. With its rich and creamy flavor, this curry is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup curry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the microwave pressure cooker, combine chicken, onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in coconut milk and curry sauce.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
4. Cook on high for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Microwave Pressure Cooker Vegetable Soup
This recipe makes a delicious and nutritious vegetable soup using your microwave pressure cooker. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a healthy and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, green beans, and potatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in the microwave pressure cooker on high for 30 seconds.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 15 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Close the microwave pressure cooker lid and cook on high for 10-12 minutes.
6. Let the soup stand for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Microwave Pressure Cooker Rice Pudding
Transform regular rice into a creamy pudding using your microwave pressure cooker! This recipe is perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (cooled)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine cooled rice, milk, sugar, and salt in the microwave pressure cooker.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
4. Cook on high for 6 minutes, followed by a natural release of 5 minutes.
5. Carefully open the lid, and stir the pudding until it’s smooth and creamy.
6. Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Cooking Time: 11 minutes (including natural release)
Enjoy your delicious Microwave Pressure Cooker Rice Pudding!
Microwave Pressure Cooker Mac and Cheese
In just a few minutes, you can have a comforting bowl of macaroni and cheese using your microwave pressure cooker. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and butter. Microwave on high for 30 seconds.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the macaroni mixture into your microwave pressure cooker. Cook on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the macaroni is heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Microwave Pressure Cooker Lentil Dal
This recipe is a twist on traditional Indian lentil curry, cooked to perfection in just minutes using your microwave pressure cooker. The result is a flavorful and nutritious dal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, water, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric to the microwave pressure cooker.
2. Cook on high for 6-8 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
5. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Microwave Pressure Cooker Mashed Potatoes
A convenient and delicious way to cook mashed potatoes using your microwave pressure cooker! This recipe yields creamy, fluffy, and perfectly cooked mashed potatoes with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper in the microwave pressure cooker.
2. Cook on high for 10 minutes.
3. Release any remaining pressure according to your pressure cooker’s instructions.
4. Mash the potatoes with a fork or potato masher until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time:
– Cooking time: 10 minutes
– Total preparation time: approximately 15 minutes
Microwave Pressure Cooker Chili Con Carne
Quick and Hearty Microwave Pressure Cooker Chili Con Carne Recipe
This recipe is a twist on the classic chili con carne dish, cooked to perfection using your microwave pressure cooker. Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. In the microwave pressure cooker, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add 1/4 cup water to the cooker and stir to combine.
5. Cook on high for 12-15 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
6. Open the cooker and serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 17-20 minutes
Microwave Pressure Cooker Quinoa Salad
A quick and nutritious quinoa salad recipe that’s perfect for a busy day. This microwave pressure cooker recipe cooks quinoa, vegetables, and seasonings to perfection in under 10 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Add quinoa, water, olive oil, onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the microwave pressure cooker.
2. Cook on high for 5 minutes.
3. Quick-release the pressure.
4. Stir in parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the top.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes + quick-release
Microwave Pressure Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese
This recipe is a twist on the classic Italian dish, using a microwave pressure cooker to cook the spaghetti and bolognese sauce simultaneously. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a separate bowl, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper to the bowl and stir well.
4. Place the cooked spaghetti in the microwave pressure cooker, followed by the bolognese sauce.
5. Cook on high for 8-10 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the spaghetti is al dente.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Microwave Pressure Cooker Pulled Pork
Transform your pork shoulder into tender, juicy pulled pork with minimal effort using this simple and speedy microwave pressure cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
3. Place the pork shoulder in the microwave-safe pressure cooker.
4. Add the chicken broth to the cooker.
5. Cook on high for 30 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and serve.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Microwave Pressure Cooker Sweet Potato Mash
Quick and Easy Microwave Pressure Cooker Sweet Potato Mash
Get creamy and delicious mashed sweet potatoes with minimal effort using your microwave pressure cooker! This recipe is perfect for busy days or when you need a quick side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, brown sugar, or cinnamon for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Place the sweet potato cubes in the microwave-safe bowl.
2. Cook on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute until tender.
3. Add milk, butter, and salt to the bowl. Stir until smooth.
4. If desired, add a pinch of garlic powder, brown sugar, or cinnamon for extra flavor.
5. Return the bowl to the microwave and cook on high for an additional 30-60 seconds, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Cooking Time:
– Total cooking time: 6-8 minutes
– Standby time: 0 minutes (no need to monitor)
Enjoy your creamy and delicious Microwave Pressure Cooker Sweet Potato Mash!
Microwave Pressure Cooker Ratatouille
This recipe transforms classic ratatouille into a speedy and tender dish, perfect for busy nights. With the help of your microwave pressure cooker, you’ll have a rich and aromatic vegetable stew ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, bell peppers, zucchinis, cherry tomatoes, and canned diced tomatoes to your microwave pressure cooker.
2. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a quick release.
4. Stir in any accumulated liquid and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (plus 10 minutes natural release)
Microwave Pressure Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
This Microwave Pressure Cooker recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day when you need a warm, comforting bowl of soup in no time. With just 10 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, chicken broth, onion, garlic, noodles, thyme, salt, and pepper to the microwave pressure cooker.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high for 10 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Stir well and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + 5-minute natural release
Microwave Pressure Cooker Apple Crisp
This recipe combines the convenience of a microwave pressure cooker with the warmth and comfort of a classic apple crisp. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, this sweet treat is ready in just 10 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 large apple, peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Place the sliced apple in a microwave-safe bowl and cook on high for 3 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, rolled oats, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter to the dry mixture and stir until combined.
4. Pour the crumb topping over the cooked apples and microwave on high for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Remove from the microwave and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Microwave Pressure Cooker Garlic Butter Shrimp
In just a few minutes, you can have succulent shrimp cooked to perfection with the richness of garlic butter. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the shrimp, butter, garlic, and salt to the microwave-safe pressure cooker.
2. Cook on high for 3-4 minutes.
3. Quick-release any remaining pressure.
4. If using white wine, add it to the pot and stir to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Microwave Pressure Cooker Black Bean Soup
Enjoy a hearty and nutritious black bean soup with minimal effort using your microwave pressure cooker! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add black beans, water, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the microwave pressure cooker.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Microwave Pressure Cooker Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe is a twist on the classic comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or weekends when you need a hearty meal in no time. With the help of your microwave pressure cooker, you can have a deliciously tender shepherd’s pie on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a pan, then add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
2. Add the mixture to the microwave pressure cooker and cook on high for 10 minutes.
3. Top with mashed potatoes and shredded cheese (if using). Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
4. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Microwave Pressure Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
This recipe is a flavorful and moist chicken dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The microwave pressure cooker helps to cook the chicken quickly and evenly, while the lemon and garlic add a bright and savory flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the microwave pressure cooker, combine chicken, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and thyme.
2. Cook on high for 3-4 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes total
Microwave Pressure Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake
Impress your friends and family with this indulgent dessert that’s ready in just a few minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together flour and cocoa powder.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until smooth.
4. Pour the batter into a microwave-safe ramekin or mug.
5. Cook on high in the pressure cooker for 1 minute and 15 seconds.
6. Let stand for 2 minutes before serving.
Tips:
– Make sure to use a microwave-safe ramekin or mug.
– If you prefer a gooier center, cook for an additional 30 seconds.
– Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as whipped cream, ice cream, or chocolate shavings!
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these 20 quick and easy recipes for your microwave pressure cooker! From hearty stews and soups, to creamy sides and sweet treats, this collection has something for everyone. Try Microwave Pressure Cooker Beef Stew, Microwave Pressure Cooker Chicken Curry, or Microwave Pressure Cooker Vegetable Soup for a healthy and satisfying meal. Or, indulge in Microwave Pressure Cooker Mac and Cheese, Microwave Pressure Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake, or Microwave Pressure Cooker Apple Crisp for a sweet treat. With these recipes, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
