Okay, to be honest… I’m one of those people that always gets excited when I see new kitchen appliances, even though I know (from experience, ouch!) that most of those fancy new appliances often end up on the shelves, collecting dust. So, I would be the first to tell you to be honest with yourself before spending money on any new addition to your kitchen if you’re not sure whether you are even going to use it. That is why I’m excited to at least share some of the appliances on here with you that have been around for a while and are still not added to my basement shelves!
If you’ve ever wished for a way to cook delicious meals faster, with less mess, and without juggling multiple pans, a multicooker might just become your new best friend. This all-in-one appliance can pressure cook, slow cook, steam, sauté, and even make yogurt—making it one of the most versatile tools in the modern kitchen.
But what really makes a multicooker shine is the variety of recipes you can create with it.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prep enthusiast, or someone who simply loves exploring new dishes, a multicooker can handle it all. Here are just a few examples:
1. Comforting Soups & Stews 🍜
Nothing beats a hearty soup on a chilly evening. With the multicooker’s pressure cook function, you can enjoy slow-simmered flavor in a fraction of the time.
- Chicken Noodle Soup – Ready in under 30 minutes, with tender chicken and flavorful broth.
- Vegetarian Lentil Stew – Protein-packed and perfect for meal prep.
👉 Best for soups & stews: Instant Pot Duo Plus – easy to use, reliable, and perfect for beginners.
2. Quick Weeknight Dinners 🍽️
Busy nights call for simple yet delicious meals. The sauté function lets you brown meats or aromatics before pressure cooking—so you can do everything in one pot.
- Beef Stroganoff – Creamy, savory, and ready much faster than traditional stovetop cooking.
- Teriyaki Chicken – Juicy chicken with homemade sauce that tastes better than takeout.
👉 Best for busy families: Ninja Foodi 9-in-1 – pressure cooks, air fries, and crisps for quick weeknight meals.
3. Healthy Grains & Sides 🌾
Skip the rice cooker—your multicooker makes perfectly fluffy grains every time.
- Brown Rice – Cooked evenly without babysitting the stove.
- Steamed Vegetables – Lock in nutrients with gentle steaming.
👉 Best for healthy meal prep: Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer – perfect for making rice, veggies, and light crispy sides.
4. Breakfast Made Easy 🥞
Yes, your multicooker can handle mornings, too!
- Banana Overnight Oats – Prep ahead and cook in batches.
- Egg Bites – Just like the coffee shop version, but customizable at home.
👉 Best for grab-and-go mornings: Instant Pot Mini 3-Quart – compact and perfect for smaller meals or quick breakfasts.
5. Indulgent Treats 🍮
Don’t forget dessert!
- Cheesecake – Silky smooth, thanks to the consistent steam environment.
- Rice Pudding – Comfort in a bowl, with minimal effort.
👉 Best for desserts: Breville Fast Slow Pro – precise pressure control makes cheesecakes and puddings turn out perfect every time.
Why Choose a Multicooker?
- Time-Saving: Meals cook up to 70% faster with pressure cooking.
- Energy Efficient: Uses less energy than the oven or stovetop.
- One-Pot Cooking: Less mess and fewer dishes to wash.
- Versatile: From yogurt to curries to cakes, it can do it all.
👉 Ready to simplify your cooking routine? A multicooker isn’t just a gadget—it’s an investment in easier, healthier, and more creative meals. If you’re new to them, start with the Instant Pot Duo Plus—it’s user-friendly, budget-friendly, and has all the core functions you’ll ever need.