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1-Minute Instant Pot Quinoa (Perfectly Fluffy!!)

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Posted by:

Erin Lynch

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Updated:

February 25, 2025

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5 from 149 votes

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Instant pot quinoa pinterest image.
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This recipe for Instant Pot Quinoa require minimal measuring and is super simple. The result is fluffy and flavorful quinoa that’s perfect every time with just 1-minute cook time!

Overhead shot of instant pot quinoa in white bowl with spoon.

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Table of Contents

  • 🛒 Ingredients Needed
  • 📋 How to Make It
  • ✔️ Tips for Making PERFECT Instant Pot Quinoa
  • 🌟 Adding Flavor to Instant Pot Quinoa
  • ❄️ Freezing Quinoa
  • 🕕 Reheating Frozen Quinoa
  • ℹ️ Recipe FAQs
  • 🥣 How to Use It
  • 🍴 More Instant Pot Staples
  • Full Recipe

In the past, I’ve shared with you my method for making perfect rice in the Instant Pot, but today I thought I’d let you know how I’ve adapted those same principles for making Instant Pot quinoa.

I love this fool-proof method because it’s super quick and easy.

You only need 1-minute of cook time to make this these fluffy grains. So it’s perfect for putting together last minute meals and for meal prep!

Plus, it freezes and reheats well. I’ve got the method for that below.

So, let’s get started!

Cooked quinoa in instant pot liner.

Check out my Rice Cooker Quinoa recipe if you’re looking for more easy and hands-off ways of cooking your favorite grain.

🛒 Ingredients Needed

  • Quinoa – White quinoa, black quinoa, brown, red quinoa, or tri-color quinoa.
  • Water
  • Spray Cooking Oil – Or, use a drizzle of olive oil or vegetable oil.
  • Salt
Salt, water and quinoa on counter.

📋 How to Make It

  1. Rinse the quinoa. It gets rid of any bitterness.
  2. Spray the pressure cooker liner with oil. It cuts down on foaming and prevents sticking.
  3. Use less water. There’s less evaporation with the Instant Pot, so we need to account for this.
  4. Add a pinch of salt to flavor your quinoa right from the get go.
Rinsed quinoa in strainer.
Uncooked quinoa in instant pot liner.
Cooked quinoa in instant pot liner.

✔️ Tips for Making PERFECT Instant Pot Quinoa

This recipe is simple, but there are a couple changes from how you would make quinoa on the stovetop:

Water Ratio

While I generally use 1 cup quinoa to 2 cups water for stove top quinoa, in the Instant Pot, that ratio drops down to only 1 ½ cups of water for every cup of quinoa.

The reason for the reduced water is that the Instant Pot is more “sealed” than a traditional cooking pot, meaning less evaporation of water during the cooking process.

Rinsing the Quinoa

One step that may seem trivial, but that you definitely should not skip is rinsing your quinoa before placing it into the Instant Pot.

This gets rid of the quinoa’s natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter. And although boxed quinoa is generally pre-rinsed, it doesn’t hurt to give the seeds an additional rinse. Just place it in a fine mesh strainer and run it under water until the water is clear.

Cooking Spray

Before adding the rinsed quinoa to the Instant Pot, I like to spray the liner with a bit of cooking spray. This not only prevents the quinoa from sticking to the pot, but it also cuts down on the foaming a bit so that your Instant Pot doesn’t sputter and spit.

Salt

Just like with my Instant Pot perfect rice, I always add in a pinch of salt for each cup of quinoa that I’m cooking, to flavor it right from the get-go.

Total Cook Time

This quinoa takes just 1 minute to cook in the Instant Pot on high pressure.

However, you also need to account for the time it takes for the pressure to build (about 5 minutes) and release (10 minutes).

In total, you’re looking at about 20 minutes from start to finish. 

Cooked quinoa grains in serving bowl.

🌟 Adding Flavor to Instant Pot Quinoa

If you’d like to add even more flavor and nutrition to your quinoa, you could cook it in bone broth instead of water. I love to make bone broth in either my slow cooker or instant pot. All you need is some leftover meat bones and veggie scraps.

The result is perfect quinoa that’s never mushy, and always flavorful.  

You can make as little or as much as you’d like. I’ll often double or triple the recipe. There is no need to adjust the cook time. Cooked quinoa will keep in the refrigerator for up to five days. Or, you can make big batch and freeze some for later.

❄️ Freezing Quinoa

Once it’s finished, I like to portion the quinoa into freezer bags or an airtight container to have on hand for when I’m needing some cooked quinoa – especially handy when I get a craving for these Quinoa Burrito Bowls or Blueberry & White Chocolate Quinoa Breakfast Cookies.

🕕 Reheating Frozen Quinoa

Just thaw the quinoa in the fridge overnight, or reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a tablespoon of water and covering the bowl or pan. It will take about a minute in the microwave. On the stove, heat on low until heated through. 

Side view of cooked quinoa in instant pot.

ℹ️ Recipe FAQs

Do I need to wash quinoa?

You definitely should not skip is rinsing your quinoa. This gets rid of the quinoa’s natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter. And although boxed quinoa is generally pre-rinsed, it doesn’t hurt to give the seeds an additional rinse. Just place it in a fine mesh strainer and run it under water until the water is clear.

What is the trick to cooking quinoa?

There are a few key tips. First, rinse your quinoa to get rid of any bitterness.
Second, use the proper amount of water. Too much can mean mushy quinoa. Too little can result in your quinoa not fully cooking. Third, add a pinch of salt to flavor your quinoa right from the get go.

Is quinoa healthier than rice?

Compared to white rice, quinoa has 2x the amount of protein and 5g more fiber. It also has less calories and carbohydrates than white rice.

How much cooked quinoa does 1 cup of dry quinoa make?

1 cup of dry quinoa will yield about 3 cups of cooked quinoa.

How much water do I use for 1 cup of quinoa?

While I generally use 1 cup quinoa to 2 cups water for stove top quinoa, in the Instant Pot, that ratio drops down to only 1 ½ cups of water for every cup of quinoa.
The reason for the reduced water is that the Instant Pot is more “sealed” than a traditional cooking pot, meaning less evaporation of water during the cooking process.

🥣 How to Use It

You can stir your cooked quinoa into soups or stews, or use it in one of these yummy recipes:

  • 30+ Vegetarian Quinoa Recipes
  • 35+ Quinoa Recipes
  • Thai Quinoa Salad
  • Chicken Quinoa Salad
  • Quinoa Salad with Cauliflower & Chickpeas
  • Quinoa Chicken Gyro Bowls
  • Harissa Chicken Bowls
  • Power Bowls
  • Quinoa Burrito Bowls
  • Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
  • Jennifer Aniston Salad
  • Roasted Squash Salad
  • Quinoa Breakfast Cookies with Blueberries & White Chocolate
Cooked quinoa in serving bowl.

🍴 More Instant Pot Staples

  • Instant Pot Rice
  • Instant Pot Black Beans
  • Instant Pot Chickpeas
  • Instant Pot Lentils
  • Instant Pot Refried Beans

Did you try this instant pot recipe?

If you loved this instant pot quinoa I would appreciate it so much if you would give this recipe a star review! Also, be sure to snap a picture of your finished dish and share it with me on Instagram using the hashtag #platingsandpairings and tagging me @platingsandpairings.

For more great Platings and Pairings recipes, be sure to follow me on  Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest and Facebook.

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Overhead shot of instant pot quinoa in white bowl with spoon.

Full Recipe

Instant Pot Quinoa Recipe

With these easy tips, you’ll see it’s simple to cook perfect quinoa in the Instant Pot with minimal measuring. The result is fluffy and flavorful quinoa that’s super simple to prepare.
5 from 149 votes
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Serves 4 people
Created by Platings and Pairings
Prep Time: 1 minute min
Cook Time: 1 minute min
Pressure build and release time: 15 minutes mins
Total Time: 20 minutes mins

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • Spray cooking oil
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions

  • Rinse quinoa under cold running water until the water runs clear.
  • Spray the Instant Pot liner with cooking oil and add the rinsed quinoa (still damp), water and salt.
  • Lock the lid and set the steam valve to its “sealing” position. 
  • Select the “MANUAL” button and cook for 1 minute on high pressure. It will take about 5 minutes for the pressure to build, then the countdown timer will start. 
  • Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes and then release any remaining pressure.
  • Fluff quinoa with a fork and serve.

Notes

Leftover quinoa keeps well, refrigerated, for 4 to 5 days. Make sure it has cooled to room temperature before covering and chilling. You can also portion the quinoa into freezer bags and freeze the quinoa until you’re ready for it.

Nutrition

Calories: 156kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 2g | Sodium: 16mg | Potassium: 239mg | Fiber: 2g | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 1.9mg
Did you make this recipe?Mention @platingsandpairings or tag #platingsandpairings!

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Overhead shot of instant pot quinoa in white bowl with spoon.
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5 from 149 votes (97 ratings without comment)

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146 responses

  1. Marlynn | UrbanBlissLife
    March 19, 2018

    5 stars
    I love cooking quinoa in my Instant Pot, and have plans to do so a couple of times this week! So quick and easy! Love your reminder tip about the salt – so true!

    Reply
    1. Melissa
      January 29, 2019

      5 stars
      Turned out just right! I’m still getting use to my instapot so this made it so easy! I have a question…ssometimes when I make quinoa I like to heat up this Palak paner (Indian creamed spinach) to put on top. I get it frozen from trader joes. This time I heated it up in the oven. Would there be a way to incorporate it into the instapot on top of the quinoa?

      Reply
    2. Karen Garrity
      July 21, 2019

      5 stars
      Came out absolutely perfect – I added a teaspoon of kosher salt 🙂

      Reply
    3. Rachel Proctor
      October 10, 2019

      5 stars
      I was skeptical that this would work as often instant pot recipes have disappointed me. This one worked! The quinoa is fluffy and done! Thank you!

      Reply
    4. Lynne
      March 20, 2020

      5 stars
      I have used this recipe to make quinoa many times. Always turns out good. I use vegetable broth rather than water and freeze the excess in small packages.

      Reply
      1. Erin
        March 20, 2020

        I’m so glad you enjoy it Lynne! Love the idea to add in veggie broth!

        Reply
    5. Nadine Dutkiewicz
      May 18, 2020

      Tried this and it was still had water left. What did I do wrong.

      Reply
      1. Debbie Mueller
        July 29, 2020

        5 stars
        Hi Nadine D.,
        I made the recipe exactly as directed, doubling from one cup to two cups of quinoa and doubling from 1 1/2 to 3 cups of liquid. The only adjustment I made was to double the cooking time from 1 minute to 2 minutes, NOT because I doubled the ingredients, but because I live at 5700 feet above sea level. The quinoa had absorbed all the liquid after the 2 minutes of cooking, I let it sit in the pot for 10 minutes before carefully releasing the pressure valve. Came out perfectly. Perhaps you live at a high altitude?

        Reply
        1. Conner
          April 9, 2022

          You may have solved my problem. We live at 6200 ft above sea level. Trying out your recommendation now. Thank you!

          Reply
        2. Megan G.
          September 1, 2024

          5 stars
          Thanks for this tip. I live at a high altitude so I am following your directions. Fingers crossed it turns out well.

          Reply
      2. Jay
        December 9, 2021

        Hi Nadine –
        Once this happened to me when I was new to the Instant Pot, but it wasn’t quinoa – I can’t remember what it was exactly, some kind of mixed grains I think. I followed the recipe EXACTLY and the final product was so watery and the grains weren’t fully cooked. You know what happened? I forgot to put the sealing silicone ring in the lid of the IP!

        Reply
    6. June
      September 10, 2020

      Put a slice of beet in cooking water and the quinoa will turn a beautiful shade of pink. Yellow onion skins make a nice color too. Both add nutritional value too. For some fun, add some dried blue butterfly flowers for blue quinoa.

      Reply
      1. Nikie Bone
        July 10, 2024

        Fun! Going to have to try this.

        Reply
    7. Sophia
      October 29, 2020

      5 stars
      Perfection!

      This is the first time I ever cooked quinoa. I’ve had other people make it for me… this didn’t even compare (in a good way). This recipe is perfect. I just got my instant pot and this is the second thing I cooked (first was carrots). Wow. I’ll be doing this all the time!

      Reply
    8. Katie
      November 20, 2020

      5 stars
      Perfect! Fluffy and simple. Exactly what we need!

      Reply
    9. ALEA
      February 4, 2021

      I tried it but it came out all mushy! What did I do wrong??

      Reply
    10. Melinda
      May 3, 2021

      Forgot the salt and used the nonstick inner pot and this recipe turned out PERFECT quinoa, thank you!

      Reply
  2. melissa slate
    March 19, 2018

    we love making a big pot of grains at the beginning of the week to add to salads or for quick & easy sides at dinner! i never would have thought about the cooking spray, that will make for MUCH easier cleaning! thanks for the tip!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      March 21, 2018

      So glad I could help Melissa!

      Reply
    2. Donna
      April 25, 2021

      Mine had too much liquid after releasing pressure. It always happens. Even cooking on stovetop. I think I will stop using quinoa. I don’t like it mushy. 😐

      Reply
  3. Catherine @ Ten Thousand Hour Mama
    March 19, 2018

    You’re right that rinsing is clutch for good-tasting quinoa, though I’ve found almost all brands now pre-rinse for you. I like to cook mine with a teaspoon of Better than Bouillon, which gives it a delicious flavor!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      March 21, 2018

      I definitely need to test out cooking in stock instead of just plain water next time!

      Reply
    2. Robin
      May 18, 2019

      5 stars
      Thank you for the Better than Bouillon tip. Tasty, perfect, Instant Pot quinoa!

      Reply
  4. Breona
    March 20, 2018

    5 stars
    Two of my favorite things…instant gratification and quinoa. I love this. Not eating meat, I eat a lot of quinoa. This is a great convenient way to whip it up quick. Thank you for sharing!
    -Bre

    Reply
    1. Erin
      March 21, 2018

      Of course – I hope you enjoy the recipe Breona! This is definitely my new favorite way to prepare Quinoa… By far!

      Reply
    2. Sandy Hawver
      October 29, 2019

      I need to go on a high protein, no carbs or sugar program for a medical test. I thought quinoa would fit the bill but it appears there’s a tremendous amount of carbs. Am I reading this right?

      Reply
  5. CJ
    June 17, 2018

    I’ve almost always cooked my quinoa in my rice cooker, so when I traded up for an instant pot, I found this protocol. I’m cooking it right now. I do something called jeweled quinoa, where I put in some craisins/dried cherries, walnuts, saffron and cook in broth. Hopefully this will work with my additions.

    Reply
    1. Erin
      June 19, 2018

      That sounds delicious CJ – How did it turn out?

      Reply
  6. Kim
    June 26, 2018

    5 stars
    I loved the quinoa and I used to live in the Portland area as well. Now I am in Southeastern WA about an hour from Walla Walla and near some good wine :). Thanks for the recipe.

    Reply
    1. Erin
      June 27, 2018

      So jealous Kim! I absolutely LOVE Walla Walla! We visit at least a couple times a year and are definitely due for a trip up that way soon!

      Reply
      1. Dee
        February 14, 2021

        5 stars
        Oh my goodness! The quinoa came out perfect! Do you have instructions for rice and steel cut oats??

        Reply
        1. Erin
          February 15, 2021

          Hi Dee – I do! Instant Pot Rice and Instant Pot Oatmeal. Enjoy!

          Reply
  7. Alex
    August 3, 2018

    5 stars
    So glad I found this instant pot recipe. I’ve been using the Trader Joe’s fully cooked quinoa that you throw in the microwave, which is great, but I got a HUGE bag of quinoa from Amazon awhile back and want to use that up, especially so I won’t have to keep buying from TJ . I’ll be adding broth to my quinoa and maybe some turmeric 🤔. Anyways, thanks again for this post

    Reply
    1. Erin
      August 4, 2018

      So happy I could help Alex!

      Reply
  8. Jacquie
    August 23, 2018

    I love the freezer tip. Could you tell me the best way to warm it up again?

    Reply
    1. Erin
      August 24, 2018

      Hi Jacquie – I like to reheat in the microwave or stovetop. Just add a tablespoon of water and cover the bowl or pan. Microwave for a minute, or heat on low until warmed through. No need to thaw first, but you can if you’d like. Just put the quinoa in the fridge overnight. This is great when you’re making salads. You can also add the frozen quinoa right to soups or skillet meals. Hope that helps!

      Reply
  9. Sarah Wood
    August 30, 2018

    Ours turned out mushy and awful. It was closer to mortar consistency.

    Reply
    1. Erin
      August 30, 2018

      Hmmm… I’m not sure what could have happened Sarah 🙁

      Reply
      1. Laura
        November 16, 2018

        I wonder, Sarah, if your quinoa was the golden Canadian variety like is now sold at Costco. I am having trouble with that type.

        Reply
        1. Ally
          July 17, 2019

          Looks like am having that same problem, mine is the Costco brand. That makes sense

          Reply
  10. D
    September 6, 2018

    When doing the natural pressure release, do you turn off the instant pot and wait 10 min? As as soon as its done, it goes onto the warm function as you know, so, would you turn it off, or keep it on the warm function and wait the 10 minutes? thanks

    Reply
    1. Erin
      September 19, 2018

      Hi David – You can do either, but I believe that by turning it off completely, it will release its pressure a bit quicker.

      Reply
    2. Nina
      February 17, 2019

      No it’s not the same. The kind you get from Costco you cook like pasta: boil 4 cups water, put in 1 cup quinoa and cook for 12-15 mins. Then drain.

      Reply
    3. Emily
      March 19, 2019

      I find when doing rice or other starches it’s better to turn off he keep warm feature. If you forget about it the rice starts to cook to the bottom of the pot because of the heat.

      Reply
    4. Maureen
      November 17, 2019

      5 stars
      I use the Costco organic brand and tried cooking it in the instant pot for the first time last night. It turned out great! I used 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 1/2 cups of quinoa. I also added green onions, sundried tomatoes, and some spices. I’m a newbie to the instant pot and absolutely love it!!!

      Reply
      1. Laney
        March 4, 2020

        How long did you cook it for? High pressure? I haven’t had success with Costco brand

        Reply
    5. James
      March 29, 2020

      Ours also came out awful and mushy. I used slightly less water because we prefer quinoa on the aldente side so I was very surprised.

      Reply
    6. Xanthi
      April 2, 2020

      Mine also turned out mushy! I was very disappointed as I waisted all that quinoa!

      Reply
    7. Nita
      January 8, 2021

      Has anyone figured out why this recipe for Costco quinoa failed? Mine came out awful. It was all dried up and hard. Very disappointing. 🙂

      Reply
  11. Pam
    October 28, 2018

    5 stars
    It worked great – thanks very much!

    Reply
  12. BJ
    October 29, 2018

    5 stars
    This is a perfect recipe for cooking Quinoa, thanks! I tripled the recipe and it was awesome!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      October 29, 2018

      I’m so glad you liked it BJ!

      Reply
  13. Emily
    December 18, 2018

    5 stars
    Such an easy go to recipe.
    I work 45+ hours a week an have no time/energy to cook daily. I meal prep this once or twice a week. I make various dishes with it. It is so versatile. Instead of water I use low sodium chicken broth for more flavor .

    Reply
    1. Erin
      December 18, 2018

      I love that idea to add in some broth Emily!

      Reply
  14. Angel
    December 30, 2018

    5 stars
    Delicious! I’m at high altitude, and it needed two minutes to be done. Thanks for the recipe!

    Reply
  15. Kayla
    January 4, 2019

    Used Canadian Quinoa and it turned out mushy 🙁

    Reply
  16. Alison
    January 5, 2019

    5 stars
    Just made this to use tomorrow in Quinoa Breakfast Bowls and it turned out PERFECT! So much easier than making on the stovetop and less mess/sticking. Thank You!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      January 6, 2019

      I’m glad you liked it Alison! This is definitely my favorite way to make quinoa!

      Reply
  17. DRoo
    January 9, 2019

    5 stars
    This was perfect! I followed your Instant Pot instructions, using 1 cup quinoa with 1.25 cup hot stock (didn’t need more salt). Delicious, fluffy & tasty. Thanks so much! I’ll be prepping my quinoa this way from now on!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      January 10, 2019

      I’m glad you liked it!

      Reply
  18. WP
    January 11, 2019

    5 stars
    Recipe worked well – confusing that your nutritional breakdown table does not show serving size?

    Reply
    1. Erin
      January 15, 2019

      Hi – The nutritional information is for one serving. There are four servings total for this recipe.

      Reply
  19. Liz Brodfuehrer
    January 14, 2019

    5 stars
    This was the very first recipe that I ever made in my new instant pot, and it turned out perfectly! I had to put the baby to bed after 8 minutes of natural pressure release, so I vented it and there was just a tiny bit of water in it, but it was cooked so well! I unplugged it and closed the lid, and when I came back an hour later to eat dinner it was perfect. Thanks for my first hit recipe!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      January 15, 2019

      I’m so glad it worked out for you Liz!

      Reply
  20. Cyn
    January 25, 2019

    5 stars
    Worked great with a quinoa, amaranth, millet blend I bought @ Costco. Thanks!

    Reply
  21. Kylie
    February 1, 2019

    5 stars
    Perfect every time! I substitute chicken broth for the water and add a bit of Galic or rosemary depending on what I’m making with it. Thank you!

    Reply
  22. Sascha
    February 1, 2019

    5 stars
    I didn’t have spray so I poured in about a teaspoon of olive oil instead and it turned out perfectly. Thank you for this recipe. So much quicker than the traditional over the stove method, which is so necessary for me with 3 kids aged 4 and under. ☺️☺️☺️

    Reply
  23. Charley
    February 5, 2019

    5 stars
    Turned out perfect. Very simple.

    Reply
    1. Erin
      February 6, 2019

      I’m so glad it worked for you Charley!

      Reply
  24. Tricia T-B
    February 10, 2019

    If I double the recipe is it still one minute of pressure cooking?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      February 11, 2019

      Hi Tricia – Yep, cook time is still the same!

      Reply
  25. Jessica Wilkin
    February 18, 2019

    5 stars
    Thank you! My quinoa came out perfect!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      February 18, 2019

      I’m so happy to hear that. Thanks for the feedback!

      Reply
  26. Olga
    February 24, 2019

    I also toast my quinoa directly in IP with some butter or oil to.give it an extra layer of flavor

    Reply
    1. Erin
      February 26, 2019

      I love that tip Olga!

      Reply
  27. Johannah Ridley
    March 3, 2019

    5 stars
    PERFECTION!!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      March 5, 2019

      Yay! I’m so happy it worked perfectly for you!

      Reply
  28. Patricia Esparza
    March 10, 2019

    5 stars
    Perfect quinoa, thank you for the recipe

    Reply
    1. Erin
      March 11, 2019

      I’m so glad you liked it Patricia!

      Reply
  29. Lisa Leonard
    March 11, 2019

    5 stars
    I’ve made this recipe multiple times now and it has been perfect each time! Thank you! Now I’m off to check out your other IP recipes 🙂

    Reply
    1. Erin
      March 11, 2019

      I’m so happy to hear that Lisa! Thank you for stopping by!!!

      Reply
  30. Andreea
    March 27, 2019

    5 stars
    Absolutely brilliant 😊 I did not know the little tricks with rincing, salt, oil 😊 I used about 1 cup quinoa and only a bit over 1 cup water. Delicious and fluffy 🤗 Thank you

    Reply
    1. Erin
      March 28, 2019

      You are so welcome!

      Reply
  31. Erin
    March 31, 2019

    Do you need to adjust the time at all if you’re making more than 1 cup of quinoa? Thanks!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      March 31, 2019

      Hi Erin – Nope. Cooking time remains the same.

      Reply
  32. Morgen
    May 6, 2019

    5 stars
    Tried it twice because the first time was a super flop! My fault though! The first time I apparently used Canadian golden whole grain quinoa. This is very different from the white quinoa. It made a sticky mess. Once I figured out that I was using a different kind of quinoa I went to Whole Foods and got the white kind. World of difference! It’s perfect!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      May 6, 2019

      I’m so glad it worked out for you Morgen!

      Reply
  33. Amber
    May 11, 2019

    5 stars
    Yummy, turned out perfect! I forgot the oil and threw in two garlic cloves. Perfect ratios, and super easy.

    Reply
    1. Erin
      May 14, 2019

      Love that Amber! Did you mince the garlic or leave it whole?

      Reply
  34. Hector
    May 17, 2019

    Awesome recipe for the instant pot. Here are a few things I changed when I made it, i used he sauté feature and some butter or olive oil and brown the quinoa a bit before adding the water and such, it also helps with the bitterness and gives it a nice nutty flavor. For those looking for a bit more, add some tomato sauce and chicken stock or base and its just like spanish rice. Thank you again for the recipe, I loved it!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      May 17, 2019

      I love your suggestions – Thanks Hector!

      Reply
  35. Shannon
    May 21, 2019

    5 stars
    Turned out perfectly! Finished with a splash of olive oil and a bit of lemon juice and some crumbled feta. Everyone loved it! New family favorite. Thank you!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      May 21, 2019

      Those add ins sound amazing Shannon – Thanks for sharing!

      Reply
  36. Peter Farrell
    August 6, 2019

    5 stars
    Man that is some easy, perfect quinoa. Thanks for posting this!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      August 7, 2019

      I’m so glad you enjoyed Peter!

      Reply
  37. Pam
    August 9, 2019

    Would this work with a mini Instant pot? I got one on sale and want to start small, without the big investment. I wanted to be able to make rice, quinoa and other grains quick and easy.

    Thanks for the great article!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      August 19, 2019

      Hi Pam – It will definitely work with a mini instant pot!

      Reply
  38. Lissa Merchant
    August 9, 2019

    I need to make 6 cups of quinoa for a party. How do I set instant pot to cook that amount?

    Reply
    1. Erin
      August 19, 2019

      Hi Lisa – It will be the same cook time, you’ll just need to adjust the amount of liquid you’ll be using.

      Reply
  39. Bridgett May
    August 31, 2019

    5 stars
    Thank you for these great precise instructions. I only just got my Instant Pot and wanted to try my quinoa with some bone broth. It was delicious!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      September 4, 2019

      You’re welcome Bridgett – I’m glad it was helpful!

      Reply
  40. Amy
    October 2, 2019

    5 stars
    Perfect proportions, super easy and great tips about rinsing and adding pinch of salt. Came out just as pictured and so fluffy and tasty.

    Reply
  41. Christine
    October 4, 2019

    If you double the recipe do you also need to double or add to the cook time? Thanks

    Reply
    1. Erin
      October 11, 2019

      Hi Christine – No need to adjust the cook time. It will stay the same. It may just take a bit more time for the pot to come to pressure. Hope that helps!

      Reply
  42. Jan
    November 11, 2019

    5 stars
    Awesome, came out perfectly!

    Reply
  43. Trudy
    November 14, 2019

    5 stars
    Am just making this….but it was so easy and nice to find this info as we just bought the Instant Pot and it didn’t have a recipe book. Quinoa is our go-to meal all week. Thanks

    Reply
  44. Alli
    November 17, 2019

    5 stars
    This was excellent, so easy! Thanks!!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      November 18, 2019

      I’m so glad you liked it Alli!

      Reply
  45. Stephan
    December 3, 2019

    I got a burn notice from my Instant Pot. Any ideas? 🙁

    Reply
    1. Erin
      December 4, 2019

      So sorry that happened! It could be that the pot wasn’t sealed completely?

      Reply
  46. Kimberly
    December 20, 2019

    5 stars
    My husband and I are Vegan. I used your recipe for making the perfect Quinoa for our grain bowl dinners. It comes out awesome every time. Thanks for the tip about freezing it.

    Reply
    1. Erin
      December 23, 2019

      I’m so happy it’s useful for you Kimberly!

      Reply
  47. Kimberly M
    December 20, 2019

    5 stars
    My husband and I are Vegan. I used your recipe for making the perfect Quinoa for our grain bowl dinners. It comes out awesome every time. Thanks for the tip about freezing it.

    Reply
  48. Joyce
    December 28, 2019

    how much water for half the quinoa?? (1/2 c)

    Reply
    1. Erin
      December 31, 2019

      Hi Joyce – I would probably go with the full recipe and freeze some. With cooking with that little liquid, the pot may not come up to full pressure.

      Reply
  49. Marilyn
    January 15, 2020

    How much can I make at one time with the 8 quart instant pot?? I’d like to make as much as possible at one time . . . I see people have doubled it, can I do more?

    Reply
    1. Erin
      January 16, 2020

      Hi Marilyn – You should be ok to make as much as you’d like as long as you don’t go over the MAX fill line. Hope that helps!

      Reply
  50. Rhoda
    January 23, 2020

    Hi, Are there any changes to time and water quantity if using 1 cup quinoa in an 8 quart pot?

    Reply
    1. Erin
      January 26, 2020

      Hi Rhoda – Time and quantities will remain the same. 🙂

      Reply
  51. Anastacia H.
    April 5, 2020

    5 stars
    Thank you for this recipe I have a Instant Pot 8QT and made Quinoa Rice the first time today, I didn’t use water instead I used organic chicken broth and a pinch of pink Himalayan salt. Delicious!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      April 6, 2020

      Yay! I love your delicious add-ins Anastacia!

      Reply
  52. Sakala Rutherford
    April 12, 2020

    5 stars
    I just made this recipe tonight! Instead of water, I cooked the quinoa in seafood stock and added some herbs. Easily the best quinoa I’ve had! It was perfectly cooked and fluffy. I also find that quinoa bloats me, but this recipe didn’t! Definitely a keeper.

    Reply
    1. Erin
      April 13, 2020

      So happy you liked it! Love your idea to cook it in seafood stock!

      Reply
  53. bbyrno
    April 19, 2020

    hey there! wondering how you would cook – or if you wouldn’t, for that matter – a combo of quinoa and millet, or quinoa and rice..? i usually enjoy the combos as they are more balanced with each other. thanks for the detailed instructions, very cool. xox

    Reply
  54. bbyrno
    April 19, 2020

    shoot! i forgot to ask – i don’t use spray oils – what should i use instead..? should i wipe it down with oil..?
    thanks!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      April 20, 2020

      Yep! You can just swirl some oil around the pot.

      Reply
  55. Zoila
    May 27, 2020

    5 stars
    You’re a lifesaver! I was in a hurry, remembered my instant pot, searched the internet, found your instructions. I had already poured water in, didn’t know to pre-oil the pot, so I just poured in some olive oil; it came out perfect! Even with a double recipe! Thank you so much.

    Reply
  56. Ashley
    June 29, 2020

    5 stars
    Highly recommend to anyone who needs a quick, simple, and great recipe! Google led me here, and the comments helped me decide to try it out – so glad I tried this recipe. I will be using this quite often from here on out! 🙂

    Reply
    1. Erin
      July 4, 2020

      I’m so happy to hear that Ashley!

      Reply
  57. Laurie L.
    July 1, 2020

    5 stars
    I just tried this recipe. I use a can of vegetable soup as part of my “broth”. and cooked it for 2 mins, on high.
    Natural release.
    No warming.
    Opened lid, fluff with fork.
    Perfect!
    Thank you!

    Reply
    1. Erin
      July 4, 2020

      You are so welcome Laurie!

      Reply
  58. Carly Sayre
    October 4, 2020

    I followed the directions for 2 cups and it burned on the bottom! IP gave me the “burn” message- what did I do wrong?? I did just fluff it when I opened it up and it’s fine otherwise, just curious if anyone knows how I can make it without burning it to the bottom of my pot?

    **to note- I don’t even think it got to pressure, it still said “on” and the timer never started and the pin was still all the way down.

    Reply
    1. Erin
      October 5, 2020

      Hi Carly – It could have been that the seal wasn’t on properly. Normally if the pressure doesn’t come up, that’s the issue for me. I hope that helps!

      Reply
  59. John
    October 20, 2020

    “You can make as little or as much Instant Pot quinoa as you’d like. I’ll often double or triple the recipe. There is no need to adjust the cook time.”

    This is incorrect and not to be rude but you should really stop misleading readers making false claims like this, you’re making people waste their hard earned money. I just wasted $20 in quinoa because of your false claims in this article. I took your word for it when you said “you can make as little or as much as you’d like” and “there is no need to adjust the cook time” so I tried making 6 cups with 6.5 cups of water (you say to do 1.5 cups water to every 1 cup quinoa) and 1 minute wasn’t enough yet you claim there is no need to adjust cook time. I then tried cooking for 6 minutes for the 6 cups of quinoa and it just came out mushy. I’ll have to look elsewhere for a proper Instant Pot quinoa recipe. But first I have to go out and spend more money on quinoa since I wasted all that I had left following your inaccurate instructions here.

    Reply
    1. Erin
      October 20, 2020

      Hi John – Unfortunately it sounds like your math was off. You should have used 9 cups of water with 6 cups of quinoa. Hope that helps for next time!

      Reply
  60. Evelyn R
    January 19, 2021

    5 stars
    Turned out perfectly fluffy. I made just half a cup of dry quinoa, rather than one cup, as it’s only me.

    Reply
  61. Jaya
    February 3, 2021

    It turned out just perfect.. thanks so much !

    Reply
  62. Christine
    February 19, 2021

    For some reason, some instant pots take longer than others. For me, when I cooked it for one minute, the quinoa wasn’t done. I put it on for another minute and it was perfect. Thanks

    Reply
  63. Casandra
    March 23, 2021

    1.5 cups of water is way too much. I followed the recipe and the quinoa was mushy and there was water that was not absorbed. I think 1:1 is the correct ratio of water to quinoa.

    Reply
  64. Joyce
    April 28, 2021

    5 stars
    Perfect, as promised! Second time using Instant Pot and 3rd cooking quinoa. I will be looking at more recipes from you. Thank you.

    Reply
    1. Erin
      May 5, 2021

      Thank you Joyce!

      Reply
  65. Anna
    May 14, 2021

    I followed this recipe exactly and it turned out very mushy :/ What do you think went wrong?

    Reply
  66. Claudia
    August 8, 2021

    5 stars
    Took a gamble and used my whole bag of quinoa on my first try.
    The recipe did not disappoint, it came out perfect!
    (I’m not good at remembering to do the manual steam release on time so I set a timer. I imagine if this went took long it could be mushy. I also removed the insert from the cooker at this point to be sure it didn’t overcook from carryover heat) Thank you for sharing, I’ll make this again and again 🙂

    Reply
    1. Erin
      August 10, 2021

      I’m so glad it was helpful Claudia!

      Reply
  67. Diane
    August 9, 2022

    5 stars
    Thank you! The timing and proportions were perfect. I ended up making it pilaf-style with sautéed celery and onions, some garlic and fresh thyme, and walnuts and dried cranberries and of course salt and pepper. It was a hit with DH and I’ll absolutely make this again. I used 3/4c each red and white quinoa and increased the water accordingly. Can’t wait to check out more of your recipes, so glad I found your site.

    Reply
    1. Erin
      August 11, 2022

      I’m so glad you found me – Thanks Diane!

      Reply

Hi, I’m Erin!

Can I pour you a glass of wine? Let’s have some fun in the kitchen! Maybe some pasta? A juicy steak? I’ve got loads of yummy, easy recipes for you! Because cooking should feel as comfy as your favorite yoga pants. ♥

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