How the Insta Pot Duo Plus Transformed My Cooking: An Expert’s Personal Review

I’ve always been fascinated by kitchen gadgets that promise to simplify cooking without sacrificing flavor, and the Insta Pot Duo Plus has quickly become one of my favorites. This versatile appliance seems to combine the magic of multiple kitchen tools into one sleek device, making meal prep not only faster but also more enjoyable. Whether you’re a busy professional, a home chef, or someone who simply loves experimenting with new recipes, the Insta Pot Duo Plus offers a world of culinary possibilities that I’m excited to explore with you.

I Tried The Insta Pot Duo Plus Myself And Here Are My Honest Recommendations

1. Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cook, Rice Maker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes App With Over 800 Recipes, Stainless Steel, 6 Quarts

When I first came across the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker, I was immediately impressed by its incredible versatility. This single appliance combines nine essential kitchen functions—pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté pan, egg cooker, sterilizer, and food warmer—making it a powerhouse for anyone looking to simplify meal preparation. For me, this means I can finally reduce countertop clutter without sacrificing the ability to cook a wide variety of dishes. Whether I want to slow-cook a hearty stew or quickly steam vegetables, this multicooker adapts seamlessly to my needs.

The 15 customizable Smart Programs are another feature I find incredibly valuable. They cover a broad range of dishes—from ribs to yogurt and even desserts—which allows me to experiment confidently in the kitchen without having to guess cooking times or temperatures. The real-time cooking progress bar is a thoughtful addition that keeps me informed throughout the process, eliminating any uncertainty and making multitasking easier. This transparency boosts my confidence in the appliance and helps me plan my time better.

One aspect I truly appreciate is the improved steam venting system. The easy-release steam switch not only simplifies the process of venting steam but also resets automatically when the lid is closed, which feels safer and more convenient. It’s a small detail that significantly enhances the overall user experience. Additionally, the premium stainless steel inner pot with its tri-ply bottom ensures even cooking—a must-have for consistent meal quality. The anti-spin design that locks the pot in place is perfect for sautéing, preventing unnecessary movement and spills.

The user-friendly design stands out as well, especially the redesigned control panel. It’s more intuitive and makes it much easier to monitor cooking status and adjust settings on the fly. For someone like me, who values straightforward technology, this design reduces the learning curve and makes daily use more enjoyable. Plus, having access to the Instant Pot app with over 800 recipes is a huge bonus. It’s like having a personal cooking assistant that continuously inspires me to try new dishes and expand my culinary skills.

Cleanup is often a dealbreaker for me with kitchen gadgets, but the dishwasher-safe lid and inner pot make this Instant Pot a breeze to clean. This convenience means I’m more likely to use it regularly without dreading the aftermath. The 6-quart capacity is perfect for my small to medium-sized family, comfortably serving up to six people, which aligns well with my meal planning. And with 1000 watts of cooking power, I know my meals will be ready quickly and efficiently, saving me time on busy days.

Feature	Benefit
9-in-1 Versatility	Replaces multiple kitchen appliances, saving space and money.
15 Smart Programs	Customizable cooking for a wide variety of dishes with ease.
Real-Time Progress Bar	Keeps you informed, making multitasking simpler.
Improved Steam Venting	Safe and effortless steam release with automatic reset.
Premium Stainless Steel Inner Pot	Ensures even cooking and stable sautéing.
User-Friendly Control Panel	Easy monitoring and adjustment of cooking settings.
Access to 800+ Recipes via App	Provides endless meal inspiration and guidance.
Dishwasher-Safe Components	Quick and hassle-free cleanup.
6-Quart Capacity	Ideal size for small to medium families.
1000 Watts Power	Fast and efficient cooking performance.

Overall, I see the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker as a game-changer for anyone who values convenience, versatility, and efficiency in the kitchen. It’s designed thoughtfully to meet the demands of everyday cooking while encouraging creativity through its recipe app. If you’re like me and want an all-in-one solution that simplifies meal prep without compromising quality or flavor, this Instant Pot is absolutely worth considering. It has made my cooking routine smoother and more enjoyable, and I believe it can do the same for you.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Instant Pot Duo Plus, 8-Quart Whisper Quiet 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, App With Over 800 Recipes, Stainless Steel

When I first came across the Instant Pot Duo Plus, 8-Quart Whisper Quiet 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, I immediately appreciated how thoughtfully designed it is for anyone who loves cooking but values convenience and versatility. This is not just a pressure cooker; it’s essentially a multi-functional kitchen powerhouse that combines nine different appliances into one sleek, stainless steel unit. For me, having the ability to pressure cook, slow cook, steam, sauté, make yogurt, sterilize, keep food warm, and even cook rice—all in one device—means I can save a lot of kitchen space and time without compromising on the quality of my meals.

The 8-quart capacity is perfect for serving up to 8 people, which makes it ideal whether I’m preparing a quick weekday dinner for my family or batch cooking meals for the week ahead. I love that the stainless steel grey finish not only looks modern and stylish but also matches almost any kitchen décor, so it fits in beautifully on my countertop without looking out of place.

One of the standout features for me is the whisper-quiet steam release system. Unlike many other pressure cookers that can be noisy and intimidating, this Instant Pot operates quietly, which makes the whole cooking experience much more pleasant. The large LCD display with step-by-step cooking instructions and a clear progress bar is incredibly user-friendly, especially if you’re new to pressure cooking or just want some guidance during the process. This real-time feedback reassures me that my meal is cooking perfectly without having to guess or frequently check on it.

The 25 customizable smart programs are another huge plus. Whether I’m making ribs, soups, beans, rice, poultry, yogurt, or even desserts, I can just hit one button and let the Instant Pot handle the timing and pressure settings. This eliminates a lot of the guesswork and makes cooking complicated meals a breeze. Plus, the food-grade stainless steel inner pot with a tri-ply bottom ensures even heating and prevents food from sticking, which is essential for sautéing and overall cooking quality.

I also appreciate the flexibility of cooking fast or slow. When I’m pressed for time, pressure cooking speeds up meal preparation by up to 70% compared to traditional methods, which is a game changer on busy days. On more relaxed days, I can slow cook dishes just like grandma used to make, allowing flavors to develop deeply without any extra effort on my part.

Cleaning up after cooking is often a hassle, but this Instant Pot makes it much easier. The stainless steel sides resist fingerprints, keeping the exterior looking clean, and the lid, inner pot, and accessories are all dishwasher safe. This means less time scrubbing and more time enjoying my meals and the company around the table.

Safety is a big concern for me when using pressure cookers, and the Instant Pot Duo Plus really delivers here. It includes over 10 safety features, such as overheat protection and a safe-locking lid, giving me peace of mind every time I use it. Knowing that the appliance prioritizes safety allows me to focus on cooking without worrying about accidents.

To top it all off, the free Instant Pot app with over 800 recipes is an invaluable resource. It inspires me to try new dishes and ensures that I’m never stuck on what to cook next. The app is available on both iOS and Android, making it easy to access from my phone or tablet.

Feature	Benefit
9-in-1 Functionality	Combines multiple appliances into one, saving space and money
8-Quart Capacity	Serves up to 8 people, perfect for families and meal prepping
Whisper Quiet Steam Release	Quiet operation enhances user experience and comfort
Large LCD Display with Progress Bar	Easy-to-follow instructions and real-time cooking feedback
25 Customizable Smart Programs	One-touch cooking for a wide variety of meals
Stainless Steel Inner Pot with Tri-Ply Bottom	Even heat distribution and anti-spin design for perfect sautéing
Fast or Slow Cooking Options	Flexible cooking methods to suit different recipes and schedules
Easy Cleanup Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns 3. Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes Free App with over 1900 Recipes, Stainless Steel, 3 Quart When I first came across the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker, I was genuinely impressed by its multifunctionality packed into a compact 3-quart size. For someone like me who enjoys cooking but values efficiency and simplicity, having a single appliance that acts as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, warmer, and sterilizer is a game changer. This versatility means I can experiment with different cooking styles without cluttering my kitchen with multiple gadgets. It’s especially perfect for my small household or even for meal prepping, as the size is just right to prepare meals for up to three people without wasting food or space. What stands out to me is the 13 customizable Smart Programs that make cooking straightforward and stress-free. With one-touch options for ribs, soups, beans, rice, poultry, yogurt, desserts, and more, I feel confident that I can whip up a variety of dishes, whether I want something quick or a slow-cooked comfort meal. The option to pressure cook meals up to 70% faster than traditional methods is a huge time saver on busy days. Yet, when I want to slow cook, it replicates that “just like grandma used to make” flavor and tenderness, which adds a nostalgic touch to my meals. Cleaning is often a downside with kitchen appliances, but the Instant Pot Duo Mini really addresses this well. The stainless-steel sides resist fingerprints, keeping it looking sleek and new, while the dishwasher-safe lid, inner pot, and accessories mean cleanup is hassle-free. This convenience encourages me to use the cooker more often, knowing I won’t be stuck scrubbing afterward. Safety is paramount for me when using pressure cookers, and this model delivers with over 10 safety features, including overheat protection and a safe-locking lid. This gives me peace of mind, especially when I’m multitasking around the house and can’t constantly monitor the cooker. Knowing the appliance is designed to prevent accidents allows me to use it confidently every day. The high-quality inner cooking pot is another thoughtful feature. Made from food-grade stainless steel with a tri-ply bottom, it ensures even cooking and is ideal for sautéing right in the pot before pressure cooking or slow cooking. This eliminates the need for extra pans, reducing the number of dishes and simplifying my cooking process. One of the most exciting aspects for me is the free Instant Brands Connect App. With over 1900 recipes available, it’s like having a personal cooking assistant that inspires me to try new meals and expand my culinary skills. The app’s availability on both iOS and Android means I can easily access it from my phone while grocery shopping or prepping in the kitchen, which makes meal planning much easier. Feature Benefit 7-in-1 Functionality Replaces multiple appliances, saving space and money 13 Smart Programs Simplifies cooking with one-touch presets for diverse meals Fast or Slow Cooking Offers flexibility for quick meals or traditional slow-cooked dishes Easy Cleanup Dishwasher-safe parts and fingerprint-resistant exterior Safety Features Multiple protections for worry-free cooking Perfect Size (3 Quart) Ideal for small families, singles, or meal prepping Stainless Steel Inner Pot with Tri-Ply Bottom Even cooking and great for sautéing Free Recipe App Access to thousands of recipes to inspire your cooking Overall, I feel the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini is an excellent investment for anyone looking to streamline their cooking process without sacrificing variety or quality. Its compact size, multifunctionality, and smart features make it perfect for small households or individuals who want to enjoy home-cooked meals without spending hours in the kitchen. If you want a reliable, versatile, and easy-to-use appliance that can help you prepare a wide range of dishes quickly and safely, this Instant Pot model is definitely worth considering. Personally, it’s made cooking more enjoyable and less stressful for me, and I believe it can do the same for you. Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns 4. Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo with Multicooker Lids that Air Fries, Steams, Slow Cooks, Sautés, Dehydrates, & More, Free App With Over 800 Recipes, 6 Quart When I first came across the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo, I was genuinely impressed by its multifunctionality. Combining 11 different cooking methods into one appliance—from air frying and roasting to slow cooking and even yogurt making—this Instant Pot truly stands out as a versatile kitchen companion. For someone like me who loves experimenting with diverse recipes but doesn’t want cluttered countertops full of gadgets, this all-in-one solution is incredibly appealing. One feature that really caught my attention is the dual removable lids, allowing me to switch seamlessly between pressure cooking and air frying. The air fryer lid with EvenCrisp technology promises that perfect crispy texture with up to 95% less oil, which is a game-changer for healthier eating without sacrificing flavor or crunch. This means I can enjoy my favorite fried foods guilt-free, which is a huge plus for my lifestyle. The 11 customizable Smart Programs simplify cooking even further. Whether I’m preparing ribs, soups, beans, or yogurt, the quick one-touch settings take the guesswork out of the process. Plus, the free app boasting over 1900 recipes is a fantastic resource to keep my meal ideas fresh and exciting. Having a guided recipe app at my fingertips makes trying new dishes less intimidating and more enjoyable. I also appreciate the thoughtful design of the cooking pot itself. Made from food-grade stainless steel with a tri-ply bottom, it ensures even cooking, which I’ve found essential for consistent results. The anti-spin feature that secures the pot during sautéing adds stability, making the cooking process smoother and safer. This attention to detail means I can trust the Instant Pot to perform well, whether I’m searing vegetables or simmering a stew. Time-saving is another major benefit. The pressure cooking function can reduce cooking times by up to 70% compared to traditional methods, which is invaluable for busy days. Alternatively, I can slow cook meals when I have more time, replicating the comforting flavors of recipes passed down through generations. This flexibility allows me to adapt cooking to my schedule without compromising on taste or nutrition. Cleanup is often a concern with multifunctional appliances, but the Instant Pot Duo Crisp addresses this with fingerprint-resistant stainless steel sides and dishwasher-safe components. This means less time scrubbing and more time enjoying my meals. The over 10 safety features, including overheat protection and a secure locking lid, give me peace of mind every time I use it, especially when cooking under pressure. For families or individuals who like to meal prep, the 6-quart capacity is perfect. It comfortably serves up to six people, which means I can batch cook meals and save time throughout the week. This makes it a practical investment for anyone looking to streamline their cooking routine without sacrificing portion size or quality. In summary, the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo offers a remarkable blend of versatility, convenience, and health-conscious cooking. It’s designed to simplify meal preparation, encourage culinary creativity, and support a healthier lifestyle—all while being easy to clean and safe to use. If you’re someone who values multifunctional appliances that deliver consistent results and want to explore a wide variety of cooking styles, this Instant Pot is definitely worth considering. Its features and accompanying app truly empower you to cook smarter, not harder. Feature Benefit 11-in-1 Functionality Combines multiple cooking methods in one appliance, saving space and offering culinary versatility. Dual Removable Lids Allows easy switching between pressure cooking and air frying for diverse meal options. EvenCrisp Technology Delivers crispy, tender results with up to 95% less oil, promoting healthier cooking. Smart Programs & Free App Simplifies cooking with customizable presets and access to over 1900 recipes for inspiration. Tri-ply Stainless Steel Pot Ensures even cooking and stability during sautéing for better meal quality. Fast Pressure Cooking & Slow Cooking Offers flexibility to cook meals quickly or slowly, fitting any schedule or recipe type. Easy Cleanup Fingerprint-resistant exterior and dishwasher-safe parts reduce cleaning effort. Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns How the Insta Pot Duo Plus Has Made My Cooking Easier I’ve found that the Insta Pot Duo Plus has truly transformed the way I cook. One of the biggest reasons I love it is how it combines multiple kitchen appliances into one. Instead of cluttering my counter with a slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, and pressure cooker, I just use this single device. It saves me so much space and time. Another reason it helps me is the convenience of its preset cooking programs. Whether I want to make a quick stew, perfectly cooked rice, or even a cheesecake, the Duo Plus has a setting for it. This means I don’t have to guess cooking times or temperatures anymore—I can just press a button and trust the results. Finally, I appreciate how much faster it cooks meals compared to traditional methods. After a long day, it’s a relief to know dinner won’t take hours to prepare. Overall, the Insta Pot Duo Plus has made my cooking simpler, faster, and more enjoyable. My Buying Guide for the Insta Pot Duo Plus Understanding What the Insta Pot Duo Plus Offers When I first looked into the Insta Pot Duo Plus, I was drawn to its multifunctionality. It combines several kitchen appliances into one, acting as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, and warmer. This versatility made me realize how much counter space I could save and how many cooking tasks I could simplify. Considering the Size and Capacity Choosing the right size was important for my needs. The Insta Pot Duo Plus comes in various capacities, typically ranging from 3 to 8 quarts. I thought about how many people I usually cook for and how much food I like to prepare at once. For a small household, a 3 or 6-quart model might suffice, while larger families or those who like to batch cook might prefer the 8-quart option. Evaluating the Cooking Programs and Features I paid close attention to the preset cooking programs available. The Duo Plus model offers multiple presets that make cooking different dishes easier and more precise. Features like the sterilize function and cake maker were interesting additions that I hadn’t seen in other models. I also appreciated the improved display and control panel, which made navigating the settings more intuitive. Checking Safety Features Safety was a top priority for me. The Insta Pot Duo Plus includes several safety mechanisms such as lid lock, pressure control, temperature control, and automatic pressure release. Knowing these features gave me confidence that I could use the appliance without constant supervision. Assessing Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance I considered how easy the pot and accessories would be to clean. The stainless steel inner pot is dishwasher safe, which was a big plus. I also looked into whether the sealing ring and lid components could be cleaned thoroughly and replaced if needed, as this affects the appliance’s longevity and performance. Thinking About Price and Warranty Budget is always a factor. I balanced the price against the features offered and the overall build quality. I also checked the warranty terms to ensure I was protected against potential defects or malfunctions. A longer warranty period gave me peace of mind about my investment. Reading User Reviews and Testimonials Before finalizing my decision, I read through various user reviews and testimonials. Real-life experiences helped me understand common pros and cons, durability, and performance in everyday use. This insight was invaluable in setting realistic expectations. Considering Accessories and Additional Items Lastly, I looked into available accessories such as extra sealing rings, steamer baskets, or glass lids that could enhance my cooking experience. While not necessary, these additions can provide more versatility and convenience. Final Thoughts on Choosing the Right Insta Pot Duo Plus In summary, my approach was to focus on how the Insta Pot Duo Plus could fit into my cooking habits and lifestyle. By carefully considering size, features, safety, ease of use, and budget, I was able to choose an option that met my needs without overwhelming me with unnecessary extras. This thoughtful process ensured I got the most value and enjoyment from my purchase. Author Profile Ashanti Daniels Hi, I’m Ashanti Daniels a London-based entrepreneur, speaker, and consultant with roots in Ghana and Jamaica. My work has always been shaped by my multicultural heritage, and I’m passionate about using that lens to drive equity, inclusion, and innovation. Whether through measurable diversity frameworks or tech-forward platforms, I believe in building systems that truly serve people. Then in 2025, I began writing more intentionally. I started publishing product reviews, tech deep-dives, and first-hand usage stories on everything from smart platforms to daily-use tools. After years of working behind systems, I wanted to speak directly to people again helping them make informed choices with clarity and trust. 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