how long to cook frozen green beans in instant pot

How Long to Cook Frozen Green Beans to Perfection in Your Instant Pot

Green beans are a healthy, delicious vegetable that can be cooked to tender perfection in an instant pot When using frozen green beans, the cooking time in an instant pot needs to be adjusted compared to using fresh With the right timing, your frozen green beans will become fork-tender without turning mushy. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to cook frozen green beans in an instant pot, from prep to cook time to flavor ideas.

Choosing and Prepping the Frozen Green Beans

When selecting frozen green beans, opt for a 16-ounce bag of whole or cut green beans without any seasoning or sauce. This will give you the most versatility for adding your own flavors. Stay away from frozen green bean casseroles or seasoned bean medleys.

You do not need to thaw the beans before cooking. One of the beauties of the instant pot is that it can cook frozen foods without defrosting first. Give the bag a good shake before adding to the instant pot to break up any large frozen chunks.

If you want to add extra flavor, toss the frozen beans with minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, or other seasoning before pressure cooking The beans will absorb those flavors as they cook

How Long to Cook Frozen Green Beans on High Pressure

Cooking times can vary slightly based on the model and size of your instant pot. For frozen green beans, the ideal high pressure cook time is:

• 1 to 2 minutes

Frozen beans have a shorter cook time than fresh since they are already partially cooked during processing. The high heat and pressure of the instant pot quickly thaws and warms them without overcooking.

Release the pressure immediately after the cook time is up. You want to stop the cooking process so the beans stay tender but not mushy.

Tips for Cooking Frozen Green Beans in an Instant Pot

Follow these tips for perfect frozen green beans every time:

• Add 1/2 cup water to the pot to create steam and prevent burning.

• Stir beans once initially before securing the lid.

• Use quick release method to prevent beans from overcooking.

• Check doneness early and add extra minutes if needed.

• Season again after cooking for maximum flavor.

Flavorful Additions for Instant Pot Frozen Green Beans

Elevate your basic frozen green beans with these easy additions:

• Minced garlic or garlic powder

• Crumbled bacon pieces

• Grated parmesan cheese

• Lemon juice and zest

• Cajun seasoning

• Soy sauce or teriyaki

• Dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, oregano

Get creative with spices, sauces, cheeses and more to customize the beans to your taste.

Instant Pot Frozen Green Bean Recipes

Take your instant pot green beans up a notch with these delicious recipes:

1. Cheesy Bacon Instant Pot Green Beans

Ingredients:

• 16 oz frozen green beans
• 3 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add beans, bacon, cheese and seasonings to instant pot with 1/2 cup water.

2. Pressure cook on high for 1 minute.

3. Quick release, then gently stir before serving.

4. Lemon Garlic Instant Pot Green Beans

Ingredients:

• 16 oz bag frozen green beans
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss frozen beans with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper in instant pot.

2. Pressure cook on high for 2 minutes.

3. Quick release and stir before serving.

4. Teriyaki Instant Pot Green Beans

Ingredients:

• 16 oz frozen green beans
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp ginger

Instructions:

1. Mix sauce ingredients in a bowl. Toss frozen beans with sauce.
2. Pressure cook on high for 1 minute.
3. Quick release and stir before serving.

The Takeaway

Cooking frozen green beans in an instant pot takes just 1 to 2 minutes on high pressure. Thaw, prep, and season the beans first for best results. Quick release the pressure immediately after cooking. Add fun flavors like lemon, bacon, or teriyaki to jazz up basic frozen beans. In no time, you’ll be enjoying tender green beans cooked to perfection in your instant pot.