
With an Instant Pot and about 1 hour, you can make perfectly cooked red beans every time! Let us show you how.

About Red Beans
Red beans look similar to red kidney beans, but they’re smaller and more round. These mild-tasting, creamy beans are most commonly used to make Louisiana Red Beans and Rice. Learn about the history of this dish here.

Instant Pot Red Beans
The Instant Pot is our preferred method for cooking red beans because it’s quick and easy (no soaking required!), and yields perfectly tender beans!
Here’s what you need to know:
- Ratio = 1 part red beans : 3 parts water
- Cook Time = 28-30 minutes
- Release = 15 minute natural release, then release any remaining pressure
Red beans are delicious with rice or Cajun baked fries or added to soups, stews, chili, or salads. They can also be used to make refried beans.

Did you find this helpful? If so, be sure to check out our Instant Pot Cooking Times Guide for perfectly cooked grains and beans every time!
If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo #minimalistbaker on Instagram. Cheers, friends!

Instant Pot Red Beans (Fast, Tender, No Soaking!)
Instructions
- Add red beans and water (or vegetable broth) to the Instant Pot and stir to prevent sticking. Pressure cook on high for 28-30 minutes (28 minutes for more firm, 30 for more tender // it will take about 8 minutes for the Instant Pot to pressurize before cooking begins).
- Once the timer goes off, allow to naturally release for 15 minutes, then release any remaining pressure. Carefully remove lid once steam has fully escaped and strain off any excess cooking liquid.
- Enjoy immediately with rice or Cajun baked fries or added to soups, stews, chili, or salads. They can also be used to make refried beans. Store cooled leftovers in the refrigerator up to 5 days or in the freezer up to 1 month. Reheat in a saucepan on the stovetop, adding a little water, as needed, to prevent sticking.
Notes
*Total time includes active cook time, release time, and the time it takes for the Instant Pot to heat up (~8 minutes).
alperen says
Please consider making a cooking time table for presoaked beans. They are easier to digest for some of us.
Thank you very much,
Thanks for the request, Alperen. We found that most of the beans didn’t need soaking. But a few did, and those were included in this list!
Amrita says
Please consider making a cooking time table for presoaked beans. They are easier to digest for some of us.
Thank you very much,
Amrita
We have that here! It includes the few beans that we believe are best when soaked before the instant pot.