Instant Pot Vortex Plus Recipes: 5 Fast, Crispy Meals (Under $3.25/Serving)
By Rossi Voss | May 9, 2025 | Prep: 5–10 mins | Cook: 20–25 mins | Servings: 4 | Cost: $2.75–$3.20/serving
Difficulty: Easy | Appliance: Instant Pot Vortex Plus | Author: Rossi Voss
As someone who wrote 142 Instant Pot Vortex Plus Cookbook (only $0.99!), I know few appliances blend pressure cooking and air frying as seamlessly as the Instant Pot Vortex Plus.
These 5 Vortex Plus Recipes show you how to use both functions together — no transferring pans, no extra dishes. All meals are one-pot wonders, freezer-friendly, and cost under $3.25 per serving.
Readers love how fast and clean these meals are!
Why This Works
- No double cooking: Use pressure + air fry in one pot.
- Freezer-smart: Make ahead and reheat from frozen.
- Budget-conscious: Uses pantry staples and affordable proteins.
- Family-approved: Picky eaters love the crispy textures and bold flavors.
1. Crispy Chicken Thighs (No Transfer Needed)
Servings: 4 | Protein: 28g | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Cost: $3.00/serving | Total Cost: $12.00
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pat chicken dry. Rub with oil and spices.
- Place skin-side up in inner pot.
- Close with crisping lid → Air Fry 20 mins at 400°F.
- Flip, air fry 5–7 mins more until crispy.
- Rest 5 mins before serving.
TIP: Double the batch and freeze half for future weeknights.
2. Vortex Plus Lemon Herb Risotto
Servings: 4 | Protein: 8g | Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Cost: $2.75/serving | Total Cost: $11.00
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- ½ cup white wine (optional)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 2 tbsp butter
- Sauté onion and garlic in butter 3 mins.
- Add rice, toast 2 mins.
- Pour in wine (if using), stir until absorbed.
- Add broth gradually using 'Slow Cook' function 15 mins.
- Stir in lemon zest, juice, and cheese.
- Serve warm.
3. Turkey & Wild Rice Soup (One-Pot)
Servings: 4 | Protein: 26g | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Cost: $3.10/serving | Total Cost: $12.40
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- ½ cup wild rice blend
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Brown turkey with onion and carrots.
- Add rice, broth, thyme. Seal → Manual 15 mins → Natural release 10 mins.
- Fluff rice and serve.
4. Black Garlic Ramen Upgrade
Servings: 4 | Protein: 18g | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Cost: $2.90/serving | Total Cost: $11.60
- 4 packs ramen noodles (discard seasoning)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp black garlic paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 soft-boiled eggs
- Green onions, sliced
- Bean sprouts (optional)
- Add broth, black garlic, and soy sauce to pot.
- Seal → Manual 5 mins → Quick release.
- Add noodles, simmer 3 mins.
- Top with eggs, green onions, and sprouts.
5. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal (Overnight Style)
Servings: 4 | Protein: 6g | Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Cost: $1.80/serving | Total Cost: $7.20
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 apples, diced
- 2 cups milk or oat milk
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Add all ingredients to pot.
- Seal → Slow Cook 15 mins.
- Stir and serve warm with extra syrup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Vortex Plus lid on my original Instant Pot?
No, the Vortex Plus is a standalone unit with integrated pressure cooking and air frying. It’s not a lid for older models.
Do I need to preheat the Vortex Plus?
For best crispiness, yes — use the 'Air Fry' function for 3 mins before adding food.
Are these recipes freezer-friendly?
Yes! Cool completely, portion into 1–2 cup containers, and freeze up to 3 months. Reheat using 'Reheat' function.
Related Recipes
Cookbook Pick: Want 140+ more ways to use your Vortex Plus? Get 142 Instant Pot Vortex Plus Cookbook for just $0.99 on Kindle!
Free Printable: Download your Free 4-Week High-Protein Meal Plan PDF — includes grocery lists and appliance guides.