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Easy Instant Pot Green Beans {Electric Pressure Cooker Recipe}

Name: Easy Instant Pot Green Beans
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 6 min
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh green beans (trimmed); 1 cup water or broth; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp butter or olive oil (optional); 1 clove garlic (minced (optional))

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: January 21, 2021

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These Easy Instant Pot Green Beans are the perfect side dish when you need something quick, healthy, and delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cook time, you’ll have perfectly tender green beans on the table in minutes—no boiling or babysitting required!

Steamed green beans cooked in the Instant Pot, served tender and lightly seasoned on a white plate.

Looking for a quick and reliable way to cook green beans? These Easy Instant Pot Green Beans come together in just minutes and deliver perfectly tender, flavorful results every time.

Whether you’re prepping a weeknight dinner or adding a healthy side to your holiday table, this foolproof recipe makes steamed green beans simple and stress-free. With just a few ingredients and no need to watch the stove, it’s a great go-to for busy cooks!

If you are looking for the perfect side dish to go with any of my meals, this is it; they go really well with Instant Pot Chicken Marsala, or Air Fryer Steak.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

Quick & Effortless – Cooks in just minutes with minimal prep and no babysitting required.
Perfect Texture – The Instant Pot delivers tender yet crisp green beans every time.
Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with fiber and vitamins, this side dish is as wholesome as it is tasty.
Versatile Flavor – Easily customizable with your favorite seasonings, herbs, or even a touch of garlic or butter.
Great for Any Meal – Perfect alongside chicken, fish, pasta, or holiday classics—this side goes with everything!

Ingredients Needed

Fresh Green Beans – Crisp, trimmed green beans for perfect pressure cooking.
Water or Broth – Adds moisture and flavor during pressure steaming.
Salt – Enhances the natural flavor of green beans.
Pepper – Adds a subtle kick to each bite.
Butter or Olive Oil (optional) – Adds richness and silky texture after cooking.
Garlic (optional) – Brings bold, aromatic flavor to the dish.

How To Make Easy Instant Pot Green Beans

Fresh green beans being washed and trimmed on a cutting board.

Prepare the Green Beans: Wash and trim the ends off the green beans.

Add to the Instant Pot: Pour water or broth into the Instant Pot. Place the green beans inside, either directly in the pot or in a steamer basket.

Season: Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and add garlic if using.

Pressure Cook: Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to Manual (High Pressure) for 0-2 minutes depending on your desired tenderness (0 for crisp-tender, 2 for softer beans).

Quick Release: Once done, carefully perform a quick release to avoid overcooking.

Finish & Serve: Drain any remaining liquid, then toss the green beans with butter or olive oil if desired. Serve warm!

Perfectly steamed green beans cooked in the Instant Pot, served warm with a touch of seasoning.

Easy Instant Pot Green Beans Recipe Tips

Use Fresh Green Beans – For the best texture and flavor, choose firm, bright green beans with no blemishes.
Trim Evenly – Snip off the stem ends so they cook uniformly.
Don’t Overcook – Start with 0-1 minute on high pressure for crisp-tender beans; you can always cook longer if needed.
Quick Release is Key – Immediately releasing the pressure helps prevent mushy green beans.
Flavor Boosts – Add garlic, butter, lemon zest, or Parmesan after cooking for extra flavor without overcomplicating the recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Storing: Allow the green beans to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes until warmed through. You can also sauté them in a pan with a little butter or oil for added flavor and texture.

Tender, steamed green beans cooked in the Instant Pot, seasoned and served on a plate.

What To Serve With Easy Instant Pot Green Beans

Easy Instant Pot Green Beans are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon for a balanced and hearty meal.

They also complement vegetarian dishes like lentil loaf or a grain bowl, and can be a great side for breakfast, accompanying scrambled eggs or an omelet.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, these green beans will add a delicious, nutritious touch to any plate.

Easy Instant Pot Green Beans Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen green beans? Yes, you can use frozen green beans. They may need an extra minute or two to cook, but the Instant Pot makes them tender and flavorful just like fresh.

How long should I cook green beans in the Instant Pot? For crisp-tender beans, cook on high pressure for 0-1 minute. If you prefer softer beans, cook for 2-3 minutes.

Do I need to add water or broth? Yes, you’ll need at least 1 cup of water or broth to create the steam necessary for cooking the green beans in the Instant Pot.

Can I add seasonings to the green beans? Absolutely! Garlic, onion powder, lemon zest, or a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to enhance the flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the green beans ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or sauté them to bring back the flavor.

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