Finding the perfect rice can be a challenge, but the right appliance makes it simple. Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking, and their multi-functional cookers are renowned for producing consistently fluffy rice with minimal effort. Whether you need a dedicated rice cooker or a versatile kitchen workhorse that also excels at pressure cooking, there’s an Instant Pot model designed for your kitchen.
This roundup cuts through the clutter to highlight the best Instant Pot models for cooking rice and grains. We’ve compared features, capacities, and specialized technologies to help you find the ideal match for your cooking style and family size. From smart Wi-Fi enabled pots to specialized rice cookers with unique health benefits, these top picks ensure perfect results every time.
Our Top Picks for Instant Pot Rice Cookers
- Instant Pot Pro Plus Wi-Fi Smart 10-in-1
- Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
- Instant Pot Zest 8 Cup One Touch Rice Cooker
- Instant Pot 8-Quart Whisper Quiet 9-in-1
- Instant Pot 20-Cup Rice Cooker with Carb Reducing
- Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
- Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
- Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus 10-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
Instant Pot Pro Plus Wi-Fi Smart 10-in-1
For the tech-savvy home chef, the Instant Pot Pro Plus offers the ultimate in connected convenience. With 10 cooking functions including pressure cooking, slow cooking, and a dedicated rice setting, it handles virtually any meal. The intuitive touchscreen controls make operation straightforward, while the included app provides access to over 2,000 interactive recipes with step-by-step guidance.
What sets this model apart for rice cooking is the innovative NutriBoost technology. This feature gently pulses while cooking to mix ingredients, which enhances the texture and flavor of rice, soups, and risotto. You can monitor your cooking progress, adjust settings, or switch functions directly from your smartphone, giving you complete control from anywhere in your home.
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
As one of the most popular and trusted models, the Instant Pot Duo provides exceptional value with its 7 core cooking functions. It reliably handles rice cooking, pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, and more. With 13 one-touch smart programs, preparing everything from perfect rice to hearty soups is simplified, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
The 8-quart capacity is ideal for larger families or meal prepping. A standout safety feature is the easy-release steam switch, which allows for fast and simple steam release after cooking. Its straightforward design and proven performance have made this model a kitchen staple for millions of users seeking a dependable multi-cooker.
Instant Pot Zest 8 Cup One Touch Rice Cooker
If your primary need is a dedicated rice and grain cooker, the Instant Pot Zest offers a focused and efficient solution. With four smart programs, it expertly cooks rice, oatmeal, and other grains to fluffy perfection with a single touch. Its compact design is perfect for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or as a supplementary appliance for those who cook rice frequently.
Beyond cooking grains, it also functions as a steamer for vegetables and fish, and includes a warming function to keep food at the ideal temperature for serving. Since it doesn’t have pressure cooking functionality, it’s exceptionally simple to operate, making it a great entry-level appliance from the Instant Pot brand.
Instant Pot 8-Quart Whisper Quiet 9-in-1
The Duo Plus model with Whisper Quiet technology is designed for those who appreciate a peaceful kitchen environment. It consolidates nine cooking functions, including rice cooking, steaming, and even sous vide, into one versatile appliance. The angled control panel with a clear display and progress bar improves readability and makes the cooking process more intuitive.
With 25 recipe presets and guided cooking, this model takes the guesswork out of meal preparation. The one-touch steam release button is perfectly placed for safe and easy operation, and the quiet steam release mechanism minimizes noise, which is a significant advantage over traditional pressure cookers.
Instant Pot 20-Cup Rice Cooker with Carb Reducing
This specialized rice cooker is a game-changer for health-conscious individuals and families. Its standout feature is the innovative CarbReduce technology, which can reduce carbs and sugar in rice by up to 40% while maintaining the familiar taste and texture. With a large 20-cup cooked capacity, it’s perfectly suited for big families or entertaining.
It includes eight smart cooking programs for rice, grains, quinoa, and even slow-cooked or sautéed dishes. The appliance also functions as a steamer and can keep food warm for up to 10 hours. This model represents a unique offering in the Instant Pot lineup, combining the convenience of a multi-cooker with specific health-focused technology.
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
The Duo Plus is a step up from the classic Duo, offering two additional cooking functions for greater versatility in the kitchen. This 6-quart model is an ideal size for most households, efficiently handling rice cooking, pressure cooking, slow cooking, and steaming. Its balanced feature set provides advanced capabilities without overwhelming complexity.
It includes helpful guided cooking features and multiple preset options to simplify meal preparation. As a reliable all-rounder from a trusted line, the Duo Plus delivers consistent results for rice and a wide variety of other dishes, making it a solid centerpiece for any kitchen.
Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
The Instant Pot Pro model brings professional-level features to the home kitchen with its 10-in-1 functionality. It is engineered for precision and control, offering excellent results for rice and grain cooking. The interface is designed for clarity and ease of use, with options for both automatic programs and custom manual settings.
This 6-quart model includes enhanced safety features and a streamlined design for easier cleaning and maintenance. For cooks who want more hands-on control over their cooking process without the smart features of the Pro Plus, the Instant Pot Pro represents a powerful and capable choice.
Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus 10-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
The Duo Evo Plus is a feature-rich model that builds upon the success of the Duo series. With 10 cooking functions, it offers extensive versatility for preparing rice, grains, and complete meals. The 8-quart capacity provides ample space for larger batches, which is perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.
It incorporates several user-friendly design improvements, including an intuitive control system and enhanced cooking algorithms for even better results. This model is an excellent option for those seeking a high-capacity, multi-functional cooker that can reliably handle a wide range of cooking tasks beyond just rice.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Instant Pot Rice Cooker
When you’re looking at the best Instant Pot rice cooker models, it can feel a bit overwhelming. I know because I’ve been there. They all seem to promise perfectly cooked rice, but the features and sizes vary quite a bit. The key is to figure out which model fits your specific kitchen and lifestyle. Let me walk you through the main things I consider before making a purchase.
First, think about capacity. How many people are you typically cooking for? If it’s just you or one other person, a smaller 6-quart model is probably perfect. It makes enough for a couple of meals and doesn’t take up much counter space. For families or anyone who likes to meal-prep large batches of rice for the week, an 8-quart model is the way to go. It gives you that extra room to cook bigger portions without any hassle.
Next, look at the functions. While all these appliances cook rice, some do a whole lot more. Basic models will handle white and brown rice just fine. But if you enjoy other grains like quinoa, steel-cut oats, or even making yogurt, you’ll want a model with specific settings for those. I always check for a “Keep Warm” function because it’s a game-changer for having rice ready exactly when you need it. Some of the more advanced models even have cake-making settings, which is a fun bonus.
The inner pot material is another big one. Non-stick pots are super easy to clean, and that’s a major plus for me on a busy weeknight. However, they can scratch over time if you’re not careful with your utensils. Stainless steel pots are incredibly durable and won’t scratch, but rice can sometimes stick a little more. It’s a trade-off between convenience and longevity.
Finally, consider the control panel. Do you prefer the simplicity of a few one-touch buttons, or do you want the customizability of a digital display where you can adjust time and pressure? If you’re new to pressure cooking, a simpler model is less intimidating. If you’re a seasoned pro who loves to tweak settings, a more advanced panel will be worth it. Thinking about these points—capacity, functions, pot material, and controls—will help you find the right one from the list of the best Instant Pot rice cooker models for your home.
FAQ
Can I really use an Instant Pot as a dedicated rice cooker?
Absolutely. While an Instant Pot is a multi-cooker, its rice function is very effective. Many people, including myself, use it primarily for cooking rice. It consistently produces fluffy rice, and the “Keep Warm” feature holds it at the perfect temperature until you’re ready to eat. It works so well that you might not feel the need for a separate, single-use appliance.
What is the rice-to-water ratio in an Instant Pot?
This is a common question because it can differ from stovetop cooking. A good starting point is a 1:1 ratio for white rice. So, for one cup of white rice, you use one cup of water. For brown rice, which absorbs more water, I use a 1:1.25 ratio (one cup rice to one and a quarter cups water). It’s always best to check the manual for your specific model, as some may have slight variations, but these ratios have never failed me.
How long does it take to cook rice in an Instant Pot?
The actual cooking time is very fast, usually between 3 to 12 minutes depending on the type and quantity of rice. However, you need to account for the time the pot takes to come up to pressure and then for the pressure to release naturally for a few minutes. From start to finish, for a simple pot of white rice, you’re looking at about 15-20 minutes total. It’s faster than stovetop for brown rice, in my experience.
Why is my rice mushy or undercooked?
This usually comes down to the water ratio or the release method. Too much water leads to mush, and too little leaves rice hard. Make sure you’re using the correct measuring cup that came with the unit, not a standard kitchen cup. Also, a full natural pressure release (just letting the pot sit until the pin drops on its own) is crucial for rice. A quick release can cause the starches to foam and the texture to turn out gummy.
Is it worth getting a specific model from the best Instant Pot rice cooker models list if I already have a slow cooker?
I think so, yes. An Instant Pot replaces several appliances, not just a slow cooker. It works as a pressure cooker, rice cooker, steamer, and often a yogurt maker. If you cook rice frequently, the dedicated function and perfect results are more reliable than a slow cooker. It also cooks much faster. So, it consolidates your gadgets and performs each task exceptionally well, freeing up cabinet space.