Somewhere along the way, Brussels sprouts got a bad reputation. Maybe it was the mushy, overcooked versions from childhood dinners, or the lingering smell that filled the house.
But trust me—this Instant Pot Brussels Sprouts recipe will change everything you thought you knew about these little green gems.
With just a handful of simple ingredients and the magic of pressure cooking, you’ll have perfectly tender, flavorful Brussels sprouts in minutes—no bitterness, no fuss.
The Instant Pot locks in the natural sweetness of the sprouts while infusing them with garlic, salt, and a touch of broth for depth. The result? A side dish that’s rich in flavor, slightly crisp, and ready to steal the spotlight on your dinner table.
And here’s the best part: Brussels sprouts are packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C, making them a powerhouse for digestion and immunity. They’re a trendy favorite in the health-food world right now, and for good reason!
What Makes This Recipe a Must-Try?

- Game-Changer for Brussels Sprouts Haters – If you’ve had bad Brussels sprouts in the past, this recipe will convert you. The Instant Pot eliminates bitterness, leaving only rich, savory goodness.
- Ridiculously Easy & Fast – No roasting, no waiting—just set it and forget it. In under 10 minutes, you have a delicious, nutrient-packed side dish.
- Customizable to Your Taste – Add a squeeze of lemon, a sprinkle of parmesan, or even crispy bacon bits to make it your own.
- Packed with Nutrients – Brussels sprouts are high in fiber and vitamins, making this a health-conscious choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Pairs Well with Everything – Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, these sprouts complement any meal.

Instant Pot Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Equipment
- Instant Pot (or any pressure cooker)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or tongs
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cracked pepper
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts, cutting larger ones in half for even cooking.
- Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and cook the minced garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add Brussels sprouts, salt, pepper, and broth. Stir to coat evenly.
- Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
- Quick-release the pressure, carefully open the lid, and give the sprouts a quick stir.
- Drain any excess liquid and serve immediately for a perfectly tender texture.
- For extra flavor, toss with a drizzle of olive oil, parmesan, or a squeeze of lemon.
- Enjoy as a side dish or pair with your favorite protein!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition | Value |
Calories | 122kcal |
Carbohydrates | 8g |
Protein | 11g |
Fat | 5g |
Sugars | 2g |
Sodium | 744mg |
Essential Tips for this Recipe!
- Sauté for Extra Depth – Before pressure cooking, let the Brussels sprouts get a little color by sautéing them in the Instant Pot for 1-2 minutes. It adds a richer, caramelized flavor.
- Avoid Overcooking – The difference between perfectly tender and mushy Brussels sprouts is just a few seconds. If you prefer a slight bite, do a quick release immediately after the 3-minute pressure cook.
- Broth Matters – Use a good-quality vegetable or chicken broth instead of water. It infuses the sprouts with more depth and umami, making them extra delicious.
- Finish with Texture – A final drizzle of balsamic glaze, crispy bacon, toasted nuts, or even a sprinkle of parmesan will elevate the dish from simple to gourmet.
- Adjust for Crispier Sprouts – If you love crispy edges, transfer the cooked Brussels sprouts to a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes after pressure cooking. Game changer!
- Balance the Bitterness – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of honey right before serving can balance any natural bitterness, making them even more irresistible.

John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.