How an Instant Pot Can Practically Pay for Itself

Having an Instant Pot is like having more than four appliances in one.
How an Instant Pot Can Practically Pay for Itself
An Instant Pot can save you from stress during the holidays. oasisamuel/Shutterstock
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When the Instant Pot hit the scene back in 2010, it wasn’t just another kitchen gadget—it was like someone had unlocked a secret to faster, easier home-cooked meals. And if you ask the millions who swear by it, it’s become as essential as salt and pepper in the kitchen

When this magic pot made its debut, it introduced a new way of cooking that didn’t just save time but could actually save a pretty penny too. The Instant Pot isn’t just for culinary whizzes or techy home cooks; it’s a smart financial move that can practically pay for itself in savings. Here’s how:

Replace a Bunch of Other Appliances

Think of the Instant Pot as the Swiss Army knife of the kitchen. It’s a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer—the list goes on. If you’re missing any of these, buying an Instant Pot means you won’t have to shell out extra cash for them. And if you already have them, well, there’s your chance to reclaim some storage space (and maybe a few dollars if you sell the old stuff). Either way, you’re looking at instant savings.

Cut Down on Costly Lunches

One of my favorite Instant Pot tricks is cooking a little extra. Those leftovers? They make the perfect no-fuss lunches. Pop them in the microwave, and you’re good to go—without a single lunch-break dash to the nearest cafe. With an Instant Pot, you’re not just making dinner; you’re saving on lunch too.

Make Cheap Meat Taste Like a Million Bucks

Typically, cheaper cuts of meat can be, well, a workout for your jaw. But the Instant Pot transforms these budget-friendly cuts into tender, flavorful meals that could fool even the pickiest eaters. So instead of blowing the budget on premium cuts, grab some inexpensive ones and let the Instant Pot work its magic. Think melt-in-your-mouth pot roast and fall-off-the-bone ribs for a fraction of the cost.

Cook Frozen Food—No Defrosting Drama Required

We all know buying in bulk can save a lot, but freezer space isn’t exactly forgiving. The Instant Pot doesn’t mind, though—it'll cook frozen chicken breasts, ground beef, you name it, straight from the freezer. That giant bag of Costco chicken can actually get used, instead of becoming a freezer fossil.

Make Pantry Staples for Pennies

The Instant Pot is a homemade pantry powerhouse. Instead of buying stock, yogurt, jam, or even vanilla extract, you can whip these up yourself—usually for way less than you'd pay at the store. And bonus: they taste better too! Not only does this save money, but it adds a little homemade magic to your everyday meals.
Mary Hunt
Mary Hunt
Author
Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, “Ask Mary.” This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “Debt-Proof Living.” COPYRIGHT 2022 CREATORS.COM
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