Must-Have Instant Pot Accessories

If you want to level up your Instant Pot use, then you’ll want to start cooking with accessories. That is, there is way more that you can do with an Instapot pressure cooker than just make rice or soup–once you know which add ons to, well, add on to your appliance.

The Instant Pot has revolutionized how we cook, becoming a staple of countertop appliances worldwide. This versatile electric pressure cooker has gained a loyal following due to its convenience and ability to cook a wide range of dishes quickly and easily, from poached eggs to delicious mini cheesecakes.

However, one of the secrets to unlocking the full potential of your Instant Pot is investing in the right accessories.

This guide will explore the top must-have Instant Pot accessories, discuss choosing the right ones for your specific model, and share tips on using them effectively.

So, if you’re looking for creative chicken recipes or just trying to speed up dinner on worknights, the pressure cooker is perfect for whipping up unique flavors.

This is especially true if you’re using your Instapot for a dinner party. You can set it and forget it, giving you more time to figure out how to set the table for your guests.

Top Instant Pot Accessories Every Kitchen Needs

Right now, I use my pressure cooker to make homemade food for my dogs (yeah, I know, they’re spoiled) or easily turn fresh butternut squash into a delicious soup.

However, I was shocked to learn how much more I could do with my Instant Pot once I had accessories on hand. My friend Michelle, who writes the Honey and Truly blog, confirmed this for me.

“If you’re anything like me, your Instant Pot will quickly become indispensable in the kitchen. It can cook so many things without needing to be babysat, and the Instant Pot accessories help make so many more dishes possible,” she says.

Here are some of the most common accessories for Instant Pot that you might want to add to your kitchen collection.

Steamer Basket

An Instant Pot steamer basket is perfect for steaming vegetables, fish or other delicate ingredients. What makes it so valuable is that it helps keep food separate from the liquid below so they don’t end up mushy.

You can find these steamer baskets in various materials, including stainless steel and silicone.

Silicone Lid

Why do you want a silicone lid to use with your Instapot? There are a couple of reasons.

One, it seals in freshness. Two, it is ideal for storing leftovers or meal prepping without having to dirty other containers. And, three, like the Instant Pot insert and lid, it is dishwasher safe and easy to clean.

Egg Rack

Did you know you could cook eggs in an Instant Pot? Yeah, neither did I. But you can and that’s why you’ll want to invest in an egg rack.

This accessory is designed to hold eggs securely during cooking, making it easier to cook hard-boiled or soft-boiled eggs. Also, it is stackable so you can cook large batches all at once.

Glass Lid

You’re probably used to using the twist on Instant Pot top with the steam valve on it. This is necessary for pressure cooking.

However, if you’re using your Instant Pot for regular slow cooking or sautéing, then you’ll want this transparent, heat-resistant lid for easy monitoring.

Stackable Insert Pans

Talk about multitasking. With these stackable insert pans for your Instant Pot, you can cook multiple dishes simultaneously.

These are a great, must-have accessory for pot-in-pot cooking.

Springform Pan or Tiny Bundt Pan

Bet you didn’t know that you can make a cake in an Instant Pot. But that’s exactly what these accessory pans are designed to do.

You can use the springform pan for making cheesecakes or the bundt pans for cooking other baked goods. Also, these kinds of pans make great gifts for bakers.

Note: these are compatible with various Instant Pot sizes. However, be sure to measure accurately before buying.

Yogurt Cups

Another marvel of this modern pressure cooker: you can make homemade yogurt in your Instant Pot. That’s why you’ll need these yogurt cups.

They are reusable cups for portion control. Plus, you can store your newly made yogurt in them.

Finally, when using your Instant Pot, don’t forget to invest in extra silicone rings if you’re cooking sweet and savory dishes one right after the other.

“This way,” says Michelle from Honey and Truly, “smells don’t pass from one dish to the next.”

How to Choose the Right Accessories for Your Instant Pot Model

When it comes to selecting your new favorite Instant Pot accessories, compatibility is crucial. With various Instant Pot models and sizes available, you must ensure that the gadgets you purchase are designed to work with your specific appliance.

Here are some tips on how to choose the right accessories for your Instant Pot model.

Know your Instant Pot model and size

Instant Pots come in different sizes, typically ranging from 3-quart to 8-quart models. Popular models include the Instant Pot Duo, Duo Plus, Lux, Ultra, and Max.

Before purchasing any accessory, check your Instant Pot’s user manual or the label on the appliance to determine the exact model and size.

Look for compatibility information

When browsing for accessories, carefully read the product descriptions to confirm their compatibility with your exact Instant Pot model and size. Many manufacturers list compatible Instant Pot models in their product listings or packaging.

For example, with some of the accessories I’ve shared above, you’ll notice that the description says if they work with a six-quart or eight-quart Instant Pot. This is key information to keep in mind so you’ll know that things will work together.

Consider multi-functional accessories

Some accessories are designed to work with multiple Instant Pot models or serve various purposes. That makes it more versatile and cost-effective.

Watch for these options and Instant Pot accessories sets when browsing accessories. For example, if you visit the official Instant Pot store on Amazon, you’ll see lots of different accessories sold in bundles.

Tips for Using Instant Pot Accessories Effectively

To get the most out of your Instant Pot accessories and ensure they last, it’s essential to use and maintain them properly.

Here are some tips to help you maximize the effectiveness of each accessory and keep them in top condition.

Read the instructions

Before using any accessory, read the manufacturer’s instructions or guidelines provided with the product. This will help you understand how to use your new accessory correctly, avoid damage and ensure optimal performance.

Plus, always use accessories for their intended purpose only. Each addition has a specific function, so use them accordingly.

Adjust cooking times accordingly

Some accessories, like stackable insert pans or BPA-free silicone baking cups, may require adjustments to your cooking times or settings.

Again, refer to instructions that come with these pressure cooker-compatible accessories.

Clean accessories after each use

To maintain your accessories and extend their lifespan, clean them thoroughly. Many accessories are dishwasher safe but double-check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific cleaning instructions.

Soak the accessories in warm, soapy water before scrubbing gently with a non-abrasive sponge or brush for stuck-on food.

Here is my article on how to clean an Instant Pot.

Inspect accessories for wear and tear

Accessories may show signs of wear and tear over time, especially the sealing rings. Regularly inspect your accessories for damage, such as cracks or warping.

If you see any of this, then replace them to maintain optimal performance and safety.

Store accessories properly

Keep your accessories organized and stored in a cool, dry place when not in use. Some accessories, like silicone gloves or baking cups, may need to be completely dry before storage to prevent mold or mildew.

We always store our smaller accessories inside the inner pot for easy access.

Creative Instant Pot Recipes Using Your New Accessories

If you’re new to pressure cooker recipes, start with simple recipes. I would recommend mastering instant pot rice and steaming vegetables before moving onto more “advanced” recipes, such as Instant Pot Birria or Asian noodles.

From steaming delicate vegetables to baking perfect cheesecakes, the possibilities are endless with your Instant Pot when you have the right tools.

This article first appeared on Food Drink Life.