Wondering how to use your new Instant Pot? In this Instant Pot Guide, I’ll walk you through what you need to know to start cooking with your Instant Pot today. Safety features, how to do an Instant Pot water test, what’s the difference between a natural pressure release and a quick release, and what will happen step by step through the cooking process.
I’ll be honest – the first time I used my Instant Pot, I was overwhelmed and a bit scared. An Instant Pot can be intimidating for a new user. There are so many buttons and safety warnings.
However, I guarantee that once you get started, you’ll wonder what you ever did without your Instant Pot. I love mine so much that I now own two Instant Pots!
I’m going to help you get started with all of the tips and tricks that I have learned through trial, error and research. This Instant Pot manual will tell you everything you need to know to use your Instant Pot for the first time.
What is an Instant Pot?
An Instant Pot is an electric pressure cooker. It is a multi-use appliance that can cook foods quickly at high pressure. Steam pressure builds up inside the pot, which creates a higher temperature environment that cooks foods faster. Unlike old fashioned pressure cookers, the Instant Pot has many safety features that make it safe and easy to use.
An Instant Pot is a pressure cooker, sauté pot, slow cooker, steamer, rice cooker, yogurt maker and warmer all in one. I’ve been amazed at the versatility of my Instant Pot and the flavor and texture of the foods that I am able to cook in it. The high pressure inside the Instant Pot can tenderize even tough cuts of meat. It creates rich, complex flavors – seriously, I’ve never had better chili than Instant Pot chili!
If you are not sure which Instant Pot to buy, check out my guide to the Best Instant Pots. I’ve also tested out many Instant Pot accessories so that I can share my favorites with you.
Unpacking your Instant Pot box
If you haven’t taken your Instant Pot out of the box, now would be a good time to do so. To open your Instant Pot, turn the lid counter clockwise and lift. To close turn clockwise. Remove any plastic wrap from the inner pot and the accessories.
Instant Pot Parts and Accessories
- Base Unit – this contains the heating element.
- Stainless Steel Inner Pot – fits into the base unit.
- Lid – the look of the lid varies between Instant Pot models.
- Steam Release Valve (also called Steam Release Handle) – this fits on the top of the lid and may already be attached.
- Condensation Collector – attach this to the back of your Instant Pot. (LUX models do not have a condensation collector.)
- Trivet – be sure to keep this, as you will use it often.
- Power Cord – removable in some Instant Pot models.
- Measuring Cup & Utensils – These come with the Instant Pot. I use my own measuring cups and utensils instead of these.
The first thing you’ll want to do is wash the parts of your Instant Pot. The Instant Pot lid, steam release valve and stainless steel inner pot are dishwasher safe; however, I wash mine by hand. The base unit is not dishwasher safe – never immerse the base unit in water.
The TWO most important safety instructions for your Instant Pot
The Instant Pot manual is filled with safety instructions, but these two are the critical ones to remember:
First, never put your face near the steam release valve or float valve while the Instant Pot is on. When I toggle the steam release valve, I use a long handled wooden spoon so my hand and arm are not near the valve opening. Any kitchen utensil with a long handle will do. Alternatively, you can use an oven mitt to carefully turn the steam release valve to the “venting” position when you are ready to release the pressure in your Instant Pot.
Second, never open the Instant Pot lid until the pressure has been released through the steam release valve. You will know that all the pressure has been released when the float valve (pin) drops down.
Depending on which Instant Pot model you have, the float valve may be red or silver. It may pop up above the level of the lid when the pot is pressurized, or it may pop up to be flush with the level of the lid. In my 6 quart LUX, the silver float valve is below lid level normally and pops up to be flush with the level of the lid when pressurized. You will get to know how your Instant Pot model works.
These photos show my 8 quart DUO and you see that the float valve is above the lid level in the left photo, which shows a pressurized pot.
If a recipe calls for a natural release, wait for the natural release time specified in the recipe and then move the steam release valve to the “venting” position to make sure all of the steam and pressure have released. Make sure the float valve has dropped down and then it is safe to open the Instant Pot lid. Open the lid slowly, tilting it so any hot steam will not blow towards your face.
Never attempt to open the lid of your Instant Pot while it is pressurized.
Inspecting your Instant Pot before each use
1. Remove the stainless steel inner pot and look inside the instant pot base. You will see the heating element. The heating element should always be free of debris and dry before you use you the Instant Pot. After washing, I always dry my stainless steel inner pot thoroughly before returning it to the base unit.
2. Check that the silicone sealing ring is fitted properly onto the lid and is clean and free of tears.
3. Remove the steam release valve from the Instant Pot lid by gently pulling it straight up. Make sure it is clean and free of debris. Some foods, such as applesauce, pasta and oatmeal may froth and foam when you cook them and can clog the steam release valve. Check the steam release valve each time you use your Instant Pot. If it is dirty clean it under running water and then put it back on the Instant Pot lid.
4. Check the float valve to ensure it is clean and free of debris. Clean it with warm water as needed. You may place the lid under running water as needed to wash it.
Making sure that all parts of your Instant Pot are clean and in good working condition can help you to have the best success with pressure cooking. My post about the Instant Pot burn message tells you both how to prevent getting this warning and what to do if you do get a burn message.
Instant Pot Water Test
Before you use your Instant Pot for the first time, you should perform a water test. The Instant Pot water test is like an initial test run for your Instant Pot.
The water test will both ensure that your Instant Pot is working properly and will familiarize you with using your Instant Pot.
One of the Instant Pots that I purchased was defective. A water test helped me to determine that the Instant Pot wasn’t working properly. I was able to contact Instant Pot support and get a replacement.
Note: If you have the Instant Pot Ultra, you will use the dial to select cooking programs and change the cook time and then press “start.” Instead of a steam release valve that you turn, the Instant Pot Ultra has a steam release button that you will press if you want to manually release the pressure. The steam release valve will seal automatically on the Ultra, whereas on other models you turn the valve between a venting and a sealing position.
How to do an Instant Pot water test
- Make sure that the power cord is firmly connected to your Instant Pot. Plug it into a power outlet in your wall.
- Place the stainless steel inner pot in the base unit. Add 3 cups of cool water to the inner pot.
- Check that the silicone sealing ring is fitted properly into the Instant Pot lid. Place the lid on the Instant Pot and turn it clockwise until it is in the closed position. Your Instant Pot will chime each time you close and open the lid (if the Instant Pot is plugged in).
- Turn the steam release valve to the “sealing” position. (If you have an Instant Pot Ultra it will automatically set the steam release to “sealing” when you close the lid.)
- Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button. (Some Instant Pot models have a button that says “Manual” and others have a “Pressure Cook” button. They do exactly the same thing.)
- Use the +/- buttons to set the time to 5 minutes. Wait for 10 seconds and the Instant Pot display will say “On” and the cycle will begin.
- The Instant Pot will take anywhere from 5-15 minutes to reach pressure. Once it reaches pressure the float valve will pop up, the Instant Pot will beep once, and the cook time will begin to count down from 5 minutes. You might notice hissing sounds and some steam escaping from the steam release valve or float valve hole while the pressure builds – this is normal. You may also notice a plastic smell the first time you use your Instant Pot. This is also normal and shouldn’t happen again.
- Once the 5 minute cook time ends, the Instant Pot will beep a few times. It will switch to the keep warm mode and the display will begin to count up minutes instead of down. During this time, you will know that the cook cycle has ended and the numbers are now counting up because there will be an “L” displayed before the numbers. The count-up timer is handy if you want to do a certain number of minutes of natural release.
- For the water test, you will do a quick release (QR) to release the pressure in the Instant Pot. I will tell you more about a quick release vs. a natural pressure release (NPR) below. To do a quick release, carefully turn the steam release valve to the “venting” position. Use the handle of a long spoon to toggle the valve to keep your hand safe from the hot steam that will escape from the valve.
- When the float valve drops down remove the Instant Pot lid.
If the water test does not go as planned (and your Instant Pot does not reach pressure), be sure that you turned the steam release valve to the “sealing” position during the test. Also check that the sealing ring is fitted properly onto the lid. If neither of these was the problem, you may want to contact Instant Pot customer service for further assistance.
Now that you have completed the water test, you are ready to cook in your Instant Pot!
How to use an Instant Pot: What you need to know to get started with Instant Pot cooking
There are a few basic things that you need to know when using an Instant Pot electric pressure cooker. Once you use yours a few times, these will be like second nature. Depending on which Instant Pot model you own, the buttons may be labeled slightly differently. Consult the manual that came with your Instant Pot.
Minimum Liquid Required: As a general rule, you want to use at least 1 cup of liquid in your Instant Pot every time you cook with it. The Instant Pot uses steam and pressure to cook food, and you need liquid to create the steam and pressure. Some recipes may call for more or less liquid. I recommend following recipes from a trusted source while you are learning to use your Instant Pot.
Fill Level: Inside the Instant Pot inner pot, you will see a 1/2 and a 2/3 line marked. Never fill the Instant Pot higher than the 2/3 line with food or liquid (before cooking). If you are cooking food that will expand during the cook time such as rice, quinoa or beans, do not fill the Instant Pot higher than the 1/2 line.
“Pressure Cook” or “Manual” Button: Depending on which Instant Pot model you own, the Pressure Cook button is sometimes labeled “Manual” and sometimes “Pressure Cook.” This is the button that you will press to start a pressure cooking cycle. It’s your basic pressure cooking button.
+/- Buttons: Use these buttons to adjust the cook time.
“Keep Warm/Cancel” Button: Use this button to end a cooking program or turn on/off the keep warm function. (After a cooking cycle ends the Instant Pot automatically switches to keep warm.)
“Sauté” Button: Pressing this button allows you to sauté foods in your Instant Pot. This is convenient because you don’t have to use another pot on the stove. You can sauté and brown foods right in your Instant Pot. (Never place your Instant Pot base unit or inner pot on the stove top.) You can also use sauté mode to thicken sauces after pressure cooking. Never sauté with the lid on. When you press the sauté button the time will default to 30 minutes, but you can turn it off at any time by pressing the cancel button.
“Adjust” Button: The Adjust key switches between Less, Normal and More cooking modes. These are useful if you are using sauté mode, as they control the amount of heat.
“Pressure” Button: The Pressure (sometimes labeled “Pressure Level”) button toggles between high and low pressure settings. Pretty much every Instant Pot recipe you will find will direct you to cook at high pressure. If you own the LUX series, you will not have this button since the Instant Pot LUX only has a high pressure setting.
Program Buttons: Depending on your Instant Pot model, the program options might include Soup/Broth, Bean/Chili, Meat/Stew, Cake, Egg, Rice, Multigrain, Porridge, Yogurt, Steam and Slow Cook. These programs have pre-set cook times. Honestly, I never use these buttons because I prefer to control the cook times myself.
Using the Trivet: Use the metal trivet that came with your Instant Pot when you want to raise food up so that it does not come in contact with the bottom of the pot. You might use the trivet if you want to keep certain foods out of the liquid in the base of the pot, or away from the direct heat on the bottom of the pot. If you cook hard boiled eggs or baked potatoes, for example, you will set them on the trivet.
Closing the Lid: You will see a track on the back upper edge of your Instant Pot base. Hold the lid handle and fit the lid on using the track as a guide, turning the lid clockwise to close it. The arrow on the front of the Instant Pot lid should line up with the arrow next to a locked symbol on the base unit. If your Instant Pot is plugged in, you will hear a chime when the lid closes.
Sealing the Instant Pot: Turn the steam release valve to the “sealing” position to seal the Instant Pot. The steam release valve is meant to be a bit wobbly and will fit loosely. You will need to turn the valve to the sealing position every time you pressure cook in your Instant Pot.
Cooking Time vs. Total Time: The cooking cycle will take longer than the actual cook time of a recipe. Before the cook time starts, your Instant Pot will take some time to reach cooking pressure. This usually takes about 10 minutes and varies with the size of your Instant Pot, type and amount of food, and the temperature of the food and liquid in the pot. You also need to account for the time needed to release the pressure after the cooking cycle.
Natural Pressure Release (NPR): A natural pressure release is when you let the pressure release naturally by letting the Instant Pot sit after the cook cycle ends. This usually takes between 10 and 20 minutes. Use a natural release for foamy foods or when your Instant Pot is full to avoid hot foam coming out of the steam release valve or float valve.
Quick Release (QR): A quick release is when you manually force the pressure to begin releasing from the Instant Pot by turning the steam release valve to the “venting” position. You need to be careful when you turn the valve as hot steam will immediately begin to escape. I use the handle of a long spoon to slowly move the steam release valve so that my hand is not near the valve. You also want to keep your face away from the valve. Use a quick release when you want to stop the cooking process quickly to avoid over-cooked food, and for tender cuts of meat.
Safely Removing the Lid: Never attempt to remove the Instant Pot lid while the pot is pressurized. Wait until the float valve (pin) on the lid drops down to let you know that all of the pressure has been released. Then, hold the lid handle, turn the lid counterclockwise and carefully lift.
Do you need to double the cook time for a double recipe?
If you would like to double an Instant Pot recipe, you may double the ingredients (so long as you don’t exceed the max fill line). You do not need to double the cook time.
However, you may need to adjust the cook time based on the size/width of meat and vegetables. For example, a small 8 ounce chicken breast will cook faster than a large 12 ounce chicken breast and a small sweet potato will cook faster than a large sweet potato. Read all recipes and directions carefully to determine how long to cook your food.
Instant Pot Recipes for Beginners
- For your first time cooking in your Instant Pot, I recommend making some Instant Pot hard boiled eggs.
- This Instant Pot Shredded Chicken is a recipe that I make often for meal prep. You can also cook frozen chicken in an Instant Pot.
- Instant Pot Brown Rice is a hands-off, easy recipe.
- Try out the sauté setting on your pot with my Instant Pot chicken noodle soup.
- These Honey Garlic Instant Pot Chicken Breasts are one of my most popular pressure cooker recipes. Also try my delicious Instant Pot Orange Chicken.
- Instant Pot Beef Stew is a quicker way to make this classic comfort food meal.
- Find new family favorites with these 29 Healthy Instant Pot Recipes.
- 20+ Vegetarian Instant Pot Recipes
- More Instant Pot Recipes
If you have questions about how to use an Instant Pot that were not answered in this Instant Pot guide, leave them in the comments below.
Thank you for this information! Received an InstaPot as a gift from my son a few years ago and you’re right, it’s very intimidating which is the reason I haven’t used it yet. Getting out my old very familiar crock pot is so much easier and old habits are hard to break. Do you have a printable version of this information? Would help me immensely and I would like to keep it handy for future use as well. I’m not someone who can remember things like this without doing it over and over again. Appreciate your help and again thank you!
TJohn
Hi Toni,
I’m glad this is helpful. I don’t have a printable version, but you can refer back to this post as needed. I hope you enjoy your Instant Pot!
I tried to cook two potatoes they were in the pot for 15 mins they came out half cooked, what did I do wrong? How do you set the heat higher, thanks.
Hi Al,
It depends on the model but usually the manual or pressure cook button will put the Instant Pot into high pressure mode which is also the default. Some models have a light above where it says high pressure to indicate the mode others will show it on the display. See my Instant Pot Baked Potatoes recipe for how to cook potatoes in the Instant Pot.
All recipes sound awesome
Thank you for teaching me how it works
Thank you for your detailed information. You have provided so much more important info that I need to properly use my new Instant Pot.
Good easy to follow directions
There is a small loop at the bottom of the Insta pot. What’s it for?
Great question! It’s a spoon holder. 🙂 Older Instant Pot models have it, but I believe it has been phased out in newer models.
Very Helpful Thank you
Thank you Kristine! This was very helpful.
Thank you so much! This helped me tons. I’ve always been scared to use mine but getting this knowledge made me more confident.
How can I get a printed copy of the manual to my Instant Pot? I’ve lost mine and don’t remember what to do.
Hi Pam,
Try contacting Instant Pot Customer Service at 800-828-7280
How do you put insta pot on high
High pressure should be the default pressure setting unless you last used low pressure. The buttons and displays vary on Instant Pot models so you will need to check your manual for how to toggle between the two settings if needed.
I just finished making your vegetable soup recipe, and my family loved it!
Thank you! ❤
First time using instantpot, I was making broth and after 2 hours, I get a “burn” message. I had cooked (used broth setting) on “Normal” at Low pressure. Bone dry.
Hi Michael, it sounds like the pot wasn’t sealed or the steam release valve was left open if it was dry inside after two hours.
Still haven’t told me how to turn it on… it just stills at 8 minutes.. does absolutely nothing
Hi Mohr,
Check the manual for your model, different models start the cooking process differently. If you model has a start button press the start button after setting the cooking time. If you model does not have a start button it should beep and start the cooking cycle around 10 seconds after you set the cook time.
I am not sure I can set the time correctly on my InstaPot. Does the toggle (+/-) switch count seconds or minutes? I need to set my pot for 1 1/2 hours for my 3 lb. frozen chuck roast.
The (+/-) buttons set the cook time minutes, it should go to 90 for 1.5 hours.
I just inherited an instant with no instructions. Thank you so much for these clear instructions with pictures. Can’t wait to start cooking!
I’m trying pinto beans for the first time I have the 6 qt Lux model my question is can I use side meat in my beans or will it make them too salty I love that you are willing to help us with these insta pots I love cooking with mine and thank you for the recipe
I have not tried that, but I think it will work fine. You may want to skip any other added salt in the recipe, or salt to taste after cooking.
I have been using old-fashioned pressure cookers and I love the reduced cooking time, I do not like having to watch the pot so I can reduce the heat level when the cooker achieves pressure (otherwise bottom will burn). Does the Instant Pot have an automatic pressure sensor that reduces heat level so I can start it and forget about watching the pot ?
The Instant Pot does it all automatically. Once you set it to pressure cook, you do not need to do anything until it is time to release the pressure after cooking.
Do I use pressure for slow cook?
No, the slow cook function does not use pressure.
Thank you!
Thank you so helpful!
we have a 6 quart instant pot.
We followed your recipe, used 1 quart of water.
food burn was message, so we need to use more water.
1.5 or 2 quarts?
Which recipe were you making? I can’t offer suggestions without knowing the recipe.
Thank you Kristine for such thorough instructions. I finally opened my IP and had a frustrating weekend trying to research instructions. I can’t believe such an appliance comes with so little information. Sounds stupid but I couldn’t figure out why I didn’t have a ‘manual’ button! I look forward to trying your recipes.
Some models have the Manual button and others say “Pressure Cook” instead. Good luck with your new Instant Pot! I think you’re going to love it once you get the hang of it!
You Instant Pot primer is the inspiration I’ve needed to buy an Instant Pot and try some new recipes. Your recipes sound delicious and I can’t wait to try them. Thanks for the confidence booster!
You’re so welcome! I think you’ll love using your new Instant Pot!
I just bought an 8 quart Duo Plus whisper quiet 9 in 1 instant pot. Is there a general rule on how to adapt/adjust 6 quart recipes for the 8 quart? Thx.
Hi Karin,
My Instant Pot recipes should all work the same in an 8 quart pot as a 6 quart. In a few cases, the recipe may note that you add a little more liquid for the 8 quart. Generally, you’re supposed to have a minimum of 1 cup of liquid in the 6 quart and 1.5 cups in the 8 quart, but I’ve found that, depending on the recipe, you can sometimes get away with less. I hope you enjoy your new Instant Pot!
What does it mean when all of a sudden all lights are flashing and it is beeping?
I unplugged it and waited for the valve to go down
I have not encountered that in my experience using multiple instant pots. It sounds as if something may be wrong. I recommend contacting Instant Pot customer support.
I just received my Instant Pot 8 quart Duo yesterday. I made rice in it last night using the rice cycle and it came out beautifully.
I was a little disappointed and dismayed at how little instruction came with it and how few recipes… Only one recipe for ribs. That’s the recipe that came with it – And it did not mention anything about the pressuring time or how to use the buttons.
I’m so glad I found your website because it answered all of my questions perfectly, and I am now sitting and watching it countdown until my ribs are ready!!
What does the message Burn food mean?
Hi Rebecca,
I have a post all about the Instant Pot burn message. I hope it helps!
at end of cooking my pot shows the word “end” I cannot figure out how to get the screen to show the minutes for the natural release I have the 6qst size for half the recipe do i reduce the time?
It sounds like the Keep Warm function is turned off. Turn it on and the display should count up the minutes after the cook time ends.
Great instructions on how to use a insta pot . I have never used mine , and I lost the manual. But these were easy & safe introductions.
Thank You !
Dede from Texas
This post so helpful, thank you!❤️
First time using an Instant Pot for this youngish 60 yr old and this recipe was so easy and delicious! Your detailed instructions made me very comfortable and were simple to follow. Look forward to learning more about this new kitchen tool with your help and great recipes. Thanks Kristen!
Why do I get food burn flashing
Hi! I have a post all about the Instant Pot Burn Message that has lots of information about why that might happen.
I love my instant pot but have to admit it took a bit of getting used to, the instructions seemed a bit confusing but your blog answered a lot of questions. The more I used it the easier it becomes.
Thanks for the help, looking forward to trying these recipes for kids
I was cooking a roast and it said 60 min. I wasn’t sure how to set the time
You should be able to set the cook time by first pressing the Pressure Cook button and then using the + and – buttons to set the cook time to your desired amount.