Instant Pot 6 Quart Vortex Plus 6
Courtesy Best Buy
Normally $130, Now $100 at Wayfair
Instant Pot doesnt just make slow cookers and pressure cookers. This multi-function air fryer delivers a whole world of lower-fat flavor at the touch of a button. Pre-set smart buttons allow you to air fry, roast, broil, bake re-heat or dehydrate anything from chicken wings or fries, to carrots and apples. In addition to 9 built in smart programs, you can create custom settings, all in a small, easy-to-clean package.
$90 is the lowest price we’ve seen on this item.
Normally $105, Now $70 at Amazon and Best Buy
Ideal for apartments, or cooking just a few meals, this full-function 3-quart pressure cooker also functions as a slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, yogurt maker, warmer and sauté pot.
The lowest price we’ve seen on this item is $59.
Just Like The Name These Deals Move Quickly
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the bestproductslearn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
Chloe Jeong / The Spruce Eats
Instant Pot has done an excellent job of taking the humble pressure cooker and turning it into a worldwide phenomenon. The electric cookers are all about getting more done in the kitchen in less time. With seven or more preset cooking features, you can make everything from rice to yogurt to chilis and stews in this tabletop appliance. Cleanup is quick and painlesssimply remove the metal bowl and place that, plus the lid, in the dishwasher.
Winter is a perfect time time to cook up stews, chilis, soups and large-format meals using Instant Pot. When shopping for an Instant Pot, youll want to consider two main things: which features youll use most often, and what size fits your family, cooking preferences, and, realistically, kitchen counter or storage space. Remember, also, that this simple device may replace two or three other appliances, actually clearing up space on your countertop or in your cabinet.
To help you find the best fit, we rounded up the best deals on Instant Pots right now.
We update these sales weekly, but products go fast! If something is out of stock or not on sale, check back next week for a batch of new deals.
How To Do The Water Test
In a short time, the cooker should issue a series of 3 beeps indicating the heating is starting and the display shows On. It takes about 10 minutes for the Instant Pot to pressurize. During this time, youll see the cooker release a bit of steam and hear the water boiling inside. When the appropriate pressure level is achieved, the float valve will pop-up so its flush with the lid. At this time, the cooker is up to pressure and the cooking time starts with the display showing 2 minutes. The display counts down the cooking time and when completed issues a series of beeps indicating completion.
Turn the release handle to the Venting position to release the pressure. Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a pair of tongs to turn the steam release handle. Dont use your hands as you may get burned. After all the steam is released, the float valve lowers indicating pressure is released from the cooker and its safe to remove the lid. The water inside should be boiling.
Congrats! Youve completed the Initial Test Run with the Water Test which means your Instant Pot is ready to go. Now lets get cooking!
Here are some yummy Instant Pot recipes to make:
Don’t Miss: How To Steam Fish In Instant Pot
Instant Pot Duo 6 Quart Multi
Courtesy Walmart
Normally $99, Now $89
If your Instant Pot stays on the countertop, its okay to want it pop just a bit. Featuring all the functionality of 7-in-1s – pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan and more, the regal red stainless steel finish is easy to clean and provides a modern look in any kitchen. Thirteen customizable programs accommodate a variety of one-touch meal options.
The lowest price we’ve seen is $87.
Instant Pot Silicone Cover
Normally $20, Now $17 at Walmart
This cover creates an air- and water-tight seal on an Instant Pot stainless steel inner potso you can just pop the pot out of the Instant Pot and put it in the fridge without needing to transfer anything or dirty another vessel. When youre done with it, throw it in the dishwasher for quick cleaning.
You May Like: How To Cook Corned Beef Brisket In Instant Pot
Instant Pot Pro Plus Smart
The defining feature of the new Instant Pot Pro Plus Smart is that you can pair it with your iPhone or Android to automatically engage the cooking functions from more than 800 smart recipes on the Instant Brands Connect app. This doesnt mean you can press Start while youre at the office and come home to your Instant Pot braising ribs , but you can control almost everything through the appincluding the steam release! The Pro Plus Smart also features a premium inner pot with easy-grab handles and comes with NutriBoost, a function that mimics the motion of boiling by moving food in the pot to enhance the flavor and texture.
Built-in smart programs: Access 800+ smart recipes via the appFunctions: Pressure-cooking, rice-cooking, slow-cooking, yogurt-making, steaming, sautéing, food-warming, sous videcooking, baking, sterilizing, NutriBoostSizes available: 6-quart Instant Pot
An Overview On Instant Pots Nova
Instant Pots are currently all the rage in the world of home cooking. However, there are many models to choose from, each with a number of unique features, and each model also comes in multiple sizes, so it can be hard to know which model to pick.
These multi-cooking machines are a great way to downsize if you have several different appliances crowding your kitchen. For most people, the Instant Pot can easily replace the pressure cooker and slow cooker because it can do both those jobs. Its also excellent for other things, like steaming, roasting and sautéing.
There are several different Instant Pot models available. One of the most popular is the Instant Pot Duo Nova. This model is ideal for beginners because its simple to use, especially if youre new to the world of Instant Pots. The Duo Nova model combines seven different appliance functions: pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, food warmer and yogurt maker.
Plus, it has an easy-seal lid and an LED display panel. It also has a cooking progress indicator so you have an idea of when your meal will be ready. One of the main reasons this model is best for beginners is because it has so many safety features. You can just turn on the setting you need and go about your other tasks without having to constantly check on it or fiddle with it. Plus, cleanup is a breeze because the cooking pot is dishwasher-safe and highly durable.
You May Like: Pulled Pork Instant Pot
Our Honest Review Of The Instant Pot Duo 6 Quart
Before you buy the Instant Pot Duo 6 Quart pressure cooker, read our familys honest review. We share its pros, cons and exactly how we use it at home.
Our Final Verdict$79.99
Product Name: Instant Pot Duo 6 Quart
Product Description: The Instant Pot Duo 6 quart 7-In-1 multi-use electric pressure cooker does a little bit of everything and prepares dishes up to 70% faster to support your busy lifestyle.
Brand: Instant Pot
Summary
Theres a reason the Instant Pot Duo is a bestseller. With a short learning curve its easy to use, versatile and saves you time in the kitchen. With functionality to satisfy everyone from the beginner to the advanced chef, youll wonder how you ever lived without one!
Overall
- Takes up storage or counter space
- Slow cooker function isnt great
- Not always as fast as you think
After 3+ years of use, we can confidently say that the Instant Pot Duo is our favorite kitchen appliance.
We were late to jump on the Instant Pot bandwagon because we didnt really want another appliance taking up space in our kitchen and it seemed a little scary to use a pressure cooker.
Although we initially found it daunting and a little hard to use, we quickly came to appreciate the functionality and versatility it added to our kitchen. We fell in love with the sauté function, rice cooking ability and how quickly we could make tender, fall-apart pulled pork.
What Instant Pot Accessories Do I Need
Since each Instant Pot model is a little different, its important to read the manual and learn about the various features and settings of your Instant Pot. Generally, every model will include an outer body with a display panel and buttons, a lid, a pressure valve, a steam release valve, a plastic collector cup to catch any condensation released during slow-cooking, a stainless-steel or nonstick inner pot, a sealing ring that surrounds the lid and helps absorb odors, and a steam rack or basket to elevate food inside the inner pot.
Any Instant Pot accessories or gadgets you may choose to buy to bulk up your cookers functionality are just a bonus. Depending on what you plan to make with your Instant Pot, extras range from practical and essential to plain old fun. Some people buy extra sealing rings so they can use one for meat and one for baked goods. Some invest in egg trivets if they cook a lot of hard-boiled eggs. Some look into springform pans to make cheesecake and quiche.
Recommended Reading: How To Close Instant Pot Vent
Instant Pot Duo80 8 Qt 7
Courtesy Walmart
Normally $130, Now $100
If you dont need every bell or whistle and are looking to simplify your kitchen life, the Duo80 is a great option. Primarily a pressure cooker and slow cooker, this version also cooks rice and makes yogurt, steams vegetables and sautés meat or vegetables. Ten presets aid in cooking, along with programmable warming and reheating functions.
The lowest price we’ve seen is $81.
What Size Instant Pot Should I Get
The Instant Pot comes in three sizes: 3 quarts, 6 quarts, and 8 quarts, making it a versatile countertop appliance for small kitchens and large families alike. The 6-quart Instant Pot is the most popular option for home cooks, as most recipes are written for that size. Generally, a meal cooked in a 6-quart model feeds three to six people. The 8-quart models, on the other hand, are ideal when youre feeding a large family, cooking for a party, or doing weekly meal prep. Last but not least is the 3-quart Instant Pot , which is perfect for cooking for one or two people or keeping in a small kitchen. While every model is available in the 6-quart size, not all models are available in the 3- and 8-quart sizes.
Recommended Reading: How To Put Instant Pot Lid On
Instant Pot Duo Plus 60 Features
The Instant Pot DUO Plus 60 is an upgrade from the Instant Pot DUO 60, their best-selling model. The Instant Pot DUO Plus 6 Quart offers 9-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable 1) Pressure Cooker, 2) Slow Cooker, 3) Rice Cooker, 4) Yogurt Maker, 5) Egg Cooker, 6) Sauté, 7) Steamer, 8) Warmer, and 9) Sterilizer
The newer programs intriguing me most are the Cake and Sterilize. Ill test out these functions and be sure to share my findings.
Instant Pot Duo Gourmet
Exclusively available at Costco since its introduction in 2020, the Instant Pot Duo Gourmet is very similar to the Instant Pot Duo Plus. The Duo Gourmet has a slightly different control panel that includes a sous vide button and comes with more accessories . Oh, and theres that sweet Costco member pricing too. Unlike the Duo Plus which is available in three sizes, the Duo Gourmet is only available in the 6-quart size.
Built-in smart programs: 15Functions: Pressure-cooking, slow-cooking, steaming, sautéing, rice-cooking, yogurt-making, sous videcooking, food-warming, sterilizingSizes available: 6-quart Instant Pot
Recommended Reading: How To Cook Meatballs In Instant Pot
Unboxing The Instant Pot Duo Plus 60
Everyone loves unboxing things, me especially, even if I already know whats inside LOL. This is my third Instant Pot but the idea of opening a brand-new one was still thrilling. I have the Instant Pot Duo in both the 6 quart and 8 quart sizes. The Duo 60 is the most popular Instant Pot with 7-in-1 multi-cooker functions.
I purchased the Instant Pot DUO Plus 60 from during a day when it was on sale for $79.99 from its typical price of $99.99. You probably already know this but tries to match competitor prices and so the price of the Instant Pots goes up and down weekly. If youre not in a rush, wait until it goes on sale. Also check local stores like Target, Bed, Bath and Beyond and Williams Sonoma. They often match Amazons price.
Nowonto the unboxing pics!
The kit comes with the following items: cooker base, power cord, pressure cooking lid, stainless steel inner pot, trivet/steamer rack, measuring cup, condensation cup, paddle spoon and ladle. The booklets included are: User Manual, Quick Reference Guide, Recipe Booklet and a Cooking Time Tables.
I really like the stainless steel pot. Its solid and weighty. From my experience with prior Instant Pots, its easy to keep clean.
After unpacking the new Instant Pot DUO Plus 60, I wiped down the interior and exterior of the cooking base with a damp cloth. I washed the lid, inner pot and accessories with soap and hot water.
Instant Pot Smart Programs Vs Functions
Instant Pots are beloved because of their ability to cook foods quickly using pressure. But theyre also wildly popular, in part, because theyre true multi-cookers that can be used to braise, sauté, steam, and so much more. But all Instant Pots are not created equaler, not every model can perform every function, and theyre billed accordingly . All Instant Pots can pressure-cook, slow-cook, sauté, and keep warm, and fancier models tack on additional cooking methods like yogurt-making, sous vide cooking, broiling, and air-frying. The functions are customizable, and while you cant air-fry or broil in a model that doesnt have an air-frying lid, people still manage to bake cake in models that dont offer mini oven functionality and make yogurt in models that arent officially marketed for yogurt-making.
The Instant Pot Smart Programs allow you to engage each cookers listed functionality with the touch of a button. Many models also have additional Smart Programs that take the guesswork out of specific items like cake, yogurt, eggs, brown rice, and more. The buying guide below details which and how many functions and Smart Programs are available with each model.
Recommended Reading: How Long To Cook Potatoes And Carrots In Instant Pot
Recently Discontinued Instant Pots
As its product line has grown and evolved, Instant Brands has retired some of its older models.Instant Pot Viva: Discontinued in the U.S.The Instant Pot Viva began as a QVC exclusive and was later sold through other retailers. The Viva has since been discontinued in the United States but this 6-quart model is still available in Canada.
Duo Nova Instant Pot: 10-quart Size DiscontinuedWhile you can still get a Duo Nova Instant Pot in 3-, 6-, and 8-quart sizes, the 10-quart Instant Pot Duo Nova has been discontinued.
Instant Pot Nova Plus: Discontinued
The Nova Plus was a Costco Instant Pot exclusive that is no longer available. The Nova Plus was similar to the Duo but had the blue LED screen of the Duo Plus.
Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus: Discontinued
The Duo Evo Plus was an upgrade on the standard Duo and has been discontinued by Instant Pot. It had an upgraded blue LED display panel like the Duo Plus and a sleeker interface.
Instant Pot Lux: Discontinued
This early Instant Pot lacked many of the features you can get in even the most basic models available in 2022. The Lux has been discontinued by the brand, though you can sometimes still .
Instant Pot Smart Wi-Fi: DiscontinuedThis Wi-Fi-enabled 6-quart Instant Pot has been discontinued and replaced by the Instant Pot Pro Plus 6-quart Smart Multi-Cooker.
Instant Pot just got delivered? Put it to use with one of these Instant Pot recipes:
Instant Pot Duo Plus 6 Quart Unboxing And The Essential Water Test
I bought a new kitchen appliance and in this post Ill share the unboxing of my new Instant Pot DUO Plus 60, 6 Quart multi-cooker. Ill also talk about the Water Test and why its important to do this test before you start cooking with your new Instant Pot. Of course, along the way, Ill share lots of pictures of the shiny new kitchen appliances and included accessories. In upcoming posts, Ill share my tips and tricks to help clean and care for your Instant Pot. Please stay tuned!
You May Like: Instant Pot Air Fryer Best Buy
What Is An Instant Pot
The short answer: The Instant Pot is a convenient multi-cooking machine that lets you cook fast or slow.
The longer answer: Because the Instant Pot is a countertop electric pressure cooker and slow cooker wrapped up in one , its designed to help you remove the guesswork of figuring out the ideal amount of heat, pressure, and time your food needs. Its great for beginner cooking and simple meals, like stews and oatmeal. But once you get more comfortable with the machine, its excellent for tougher cuts of meat like baby back ribs or proteins that usually require a long cook time. With a willingness for some trial and error, many recipes can be adapted for the Instant Pot. Generally speaking, when adapting for pressure cooking, the liquid and cook time will need to be cut and adjusted from those of a manual pressure cooker. For slow-cooking, youll need to adjust for less liquid and more time.