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Lentils are one of the easiest ingredients to cook in the Instant Pot. No soaking needed, no constant stirring—just toss in your ingredients, press a button, and walk away. Whether I’m making a quick stew, soup, curry, or even a simple side, the Instant Pot turns lentils tender and flavorful in no time.
This list gathers some of my favorite Instant Pot lentil recipes, from warm comfort meals to lighter plant-based bowls. I’ve included red, green, brown, and black lentil options so you can use what you have on hand.
These recipes are weeknight-friendly, meal-prep ready, and full of feel-good ingredients.
1. Instant Pot Lentil Soup
This one’s a go-to in my house. I combine green lentils with carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and veggie broth. After 15 minutes on high pressure, it’s thick, savory, and incredibly satisfying.
Author’s Note
Add a splash of lemon juice or red wine vinegar before serving—it brightens the whole pot.
Get the Instant Pot Lentil Soup recipe.
2. Instant Pot Red Lentil Curry
Creamy, spiced, and packed with flavor, this curry is made with red lentils, coconut milk, tomatoes, and Indian spices. It’s cozy and pairs perfectly with rice or naan.
Author’s Note
Stir in a handful of spinach after cooking and let it wilt in the residual heat for an easy nutrient boost.
Get the Instant Pot Red Lentil Curry recipe.
3. Instant Pot Lentil Tacos
I cook brown lentils with taco seasoning, onion, garlic, and salsa until they’re tender and well-spiced. They make the perfect meatless taco filling.
Author’s Note
Let the mixture cool slightly before assembling tacos—it thickens up and holds together better.
4. Instant Pot Lentil Chili
This is a hearty, meatless chili that doesn’t skimp on flavor. I use lentils, black beans, tomatoes, and chili spices. It’s rich, thick, and great with cornbread or tortilla chips.
Author’s Note
A touch of cocoa powder or a square of dark chocolate adds surprising depth to the chili.
5. Instant Pot Lentil Bolognese
This sauce is perfect for pasta night. I simmer brown lentils with crushed tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and a splash of balsamic vinegar until thick and saucy.
Author’s Note
Use finely chopped mushrooms for extra meaty texture without the meat.
6. Instant Pot Lentil and Rice Pilaf
This one-pot meal is simple and filling. I combine brown lentils with long-grain rice, onions, garlic, and spices. It’s fluffy, earthy, and works well as a side or a light main.
Author’s Note
Let it sit for 5 minutes after cooking before opening the lid—this keeps the rice from getting mushy.
7. Instant Pot Lentil Stew with Potatoes
Hearty and comforting, this stew is loaded with lentils, diced potatoes, carrots, and herbs. It’s perfect for chilly evenings and tastes even better the next day.
Author’s Note
Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold—they hold their shape better in pressure cooking.
8. Instant Pot Lentil Sloppy Joes
A fun twist on the classic, I cook green lentils with tomato sauce, mustard, garlic, and a hint of brown sugar. Pile it on toasted buns and dinner’s done.
Author’s Note
Author’s Note: Let the sauce reduce using the sauté mode after pressure cooking if it’s too loose for sandwiches.
9. Instant Pot Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry
This recipe combines red lentils, coconut milk, curry spices, and cubes of sweet potato for a naturally sweet and spicy dish. It’s one of my favorite quick meals.
Author’s Note
Dice the sweet potatoes evenly so they cook through without turning to mush.
10. Instant Pot Lentil and Spinach Soup
This is a lighter soup that’s still satisfying. I cook brown lentils with diced tomatoes, garlic, and veggie broth, then stir in fresh spinach at the end.
Author’s Note
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a gentle kick—it works great with the greens.
11. Instant Pot Lentil and Mushroom Stroganoff
This creamy, savory dish is a comfort food win. I use lentils and mushrooms as the base, then stir in sour cream (or coconut cream) after cooking for a rich sauce.
Author’s Note
Cook your noodles separately and mix them in after to avoid overcooking.
12. Instant Pot Lentil Tikka Masala
Inspired by the classic Indian dish, I cook lentils in a tomato-based sauce with garam masala, cumin, garlic, and ginger. Add a splash of cream or coconut milk to finish it off.
Author’s Note
Toast the spices using sauté mode before pressure cooking—it brings out deeper flavor.
13. Instant Pot Lentil and Sausage Soup
For a heartier option, I add sliced chicken or plant-based sausage to lentils, along with veggies and broth. It’s smoky, savory, and makes a full meal in a bowl.
Author’s Note
Brown the sausage first in sauté mode to boost the overall flavor of the soup.
14. Instant Pot Lentil Enchilada Casserole
This layered dish uses lentils in place of meat, combined with black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, and tortillas. It’s saucy, cheesy, and always a hit.
Author’s Note
Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving so it sets up nicely and doesn’t fall apart.
15. Instant Pot Lemon Lentil Soup
Bright and nourishing, I make this with green or brown lentils, carrots, celery, and a generous squeeze of lemon. It’s great when you want something light but still filling.
Author’s Note
Use lemon zest in addition to juice for even more citrus flavor without adding liquid.
16. Instant Pot Lentil Breakfast Bowl
Yes—lentils for breakfast! I cook green lentils with cinnamon, apples, and almond milk for a savory-sweet base, then top with nuts, dried fruit, or a dollop of yogurt.
Author’s Note
Add maple syrup or honey after cooking so you can control the sweetness.
