Packed with protein, affordable, and so easy to make (with no soaking required), these Instant Pot black beans are the perfect addition to any dinner!

wooden bowl of instant pot black beans topped with sliced avocados, red onion and cilantro.

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The great thing about making black beans in the Instant Pot is that you don’t have to soak your dried beans first. Plus, the total cook time is about half an hour! It’s so much faster than cooking beans on the stovetop. Plus, you don’t have to deal with standing over a pot and stirring!

(Love using the Instant Pot? Try my Instant Pot Short Ribs, Instant Pot Oatmeal, or Instant Pot Pork Roast next!)

Instant Pot Black Beans Recipe

There are so many delicious ways to use an Instant Pot of black beans! A great source of plant-based protein, you can add them to your favorite Tex-Mex-inspired meals, serve them as a side, or even enjoy them as a main course on their own.

For example, try my black bean and corn salsa recipe with tortilla chips for a quick and easy appetizer. Or, whip up a batch of Chicken enchilada bowls for a fiber-filled main course the whole family will love! And taco soup is wonderful on a cold night.

Ingredients For Instant Pot Black Beans

See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

  • Dried black beans – Look for black beans in a bag, not canned black beans.
  • Water or broth – Chicken or vegetable broth will make the beans more flavorful. Low-sodium varieties are best!

How to Make No-Soak Instant Pot Black Beans

  1. Measure the beans: A good ratio for cooking black beans in the Instant Pot is 1 cup of dried black beans to 3 cups of water. Depending on the size of your Instant Pot, you can make a double or even triple batch of no-soak Instant Pot black beans.
  2. Prepare the beans: Wash the beans, and remove any debris.
  3. Prepare the Instant Pot: Place the beans and water in the Instant Pot. The beans should be covered by about half an inch of water. Secure the lid, making sure the steam valve is in the sealed position. 
  4. Cook the beans: Cook beans on high pressure for 30 to 35 minutes. Then, let the pressure release naturally (about 20 minutes). If the beans aren’t cooked to your liking, you can cook for a few more minutes, until most of the water is absorbed. Stir the beans, and secure the lid again to finish cooking.
wooden bowl full of instant pot black beans.

Quick Tip

Simple ingredients will make your beans more flavorful. You can add seasonings like salt, olive oil, or a bay leaf to your beans before cooking. Swapping broth for water or popping in a piece of ham hock or uncooked bacon along with the beans will add loads of flavor.

How to Store Instant Pot Black Beans

Instant Pot black beans can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

Cooked beans are also perfect to portion out and freeze for later use. Freeze the beans as soon as possible after you cook them to maintain optimal freshness and flavor. To so do, cool the beans completely. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag with their cooking liquid. Make sure to leave some room at the top.

Squeeze out any excess air, and seal the bag. Beans may be stored flat in the freezer for up to three months. Make sure to label and date your freezer bag!

To defrost, place the frozen black beans in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to thaw completely. Beans can be gently reheated on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave.

FAQs

What is the ratio of beans to water in the Instant Pot?

When cooking beans in the Instant Pot, you always want 1 part beans to 3 parts water.

Do you use the vent when cooking Instant Pot beans?

Yes! The vent feature should be used about 30 to 35 minutes after the beans have cooked. Let the beans vent for about 20 minutes to release the pressure naturally.

Why are my black beans still hard after cooking?

If you find your beans are still hard after the full time in the Instant Pot, it may be because of the age of your beans. If you are using older beans, they may need a few more minutes of cooking time.

More Ideas for Serving No-Soak Instant Pot Black Beans

A bowl of black beans topped with red onion, cilantro, and avocado.

Instant Pot Black Beans (No Soak!)

Packed with protein, affordable, and so easy to make (with no soaking required), these Instant Pot black beans are the perfect addition to any dinner!
No ratings yet
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Equipment

  • Instant Pot
  • Measuring cups

Ingredients  

  • 1 cup dried black beans
  • 3 cups water or broth

Instructions 

  • Wash the beans and remove any debris. Place the beans and water or broth in the Instant Pot (make sure the beans are covered by about half an inch of water). Secure the lid, making sure the steam valve is in the sealed position.
    1 cup dried black beans, 3 cups water or broth
  • Cook beans on high pressure for 30 to 35 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally (about 20 minutes). If the beans aren’t cooked enough to your liking, you can cook for a few more minutes, until most of the water is absorbed. Give the beans a stir and secure the lid again to finish cooking. Add salt and seasonings to taste.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 165kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 719mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 8IU | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 2mg
Did you make this recipe?Mention @kasey_allthingsmamma or tag #allthingsmamma!

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About Kasey Schwartz

For over 15 years, Kasey Schwartz, the mastermind behind All Things Mamma, has been the ultimate go-to for mouthwatering family recipes. Her work has been featured on Today.com, Buzz Feed, Better Homes and Gardens, and more, making her your go-to mom next door for all things delicious and family-friendly.

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