The Best Instant Pot Steamer Baskets

Using an Instant Pot steamer basket is a game-changer for cooking. These handy accessories let you steam vegetables, seafood, eggs, and more in just minutes, maintaining their nutrients and texture. They also make it easier to lift food out of the pot, especially if you’re making multiple dishes or meal prepping. With so many choices out there, here’s a look at some of the best Instant Pot steamer baskets for 2024 to help you pick the one that best suits your needs.

Why Use a Steamer Basket with Your Instant Pot?

Steamer baskets are designed to make cooking in an Instant Pot even more versatile. Here are some key benefits:

• Preserves Nutrients: Steaming is a gentle cooking method that helps retain the nutrients and flavors in food, making it a healthier choice.
• Reduces Cleanup: Steamer baskets keep food from touching the pot directly, making cleanup a breeze.
• Multi-Level Cooking: Many steamer baskets come with dividers or stackable trays, allowing you to cook multiple types of food at once.

Top Picks for the Best Instant Pot Steamer Baskets

1. OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Steamer Basket

• Material: Stainless steel
• Features: Extendable handle, foldable design
• Best For: Multi-purpose steaming, particularly if you want a durable, long-lasting option

The OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Steamer Basket is designed with durability in mind. It’s made from high-quality stainless steel and has foldable legs that keep it above the water. Its extendable handle makes it easy to lift, even from deep Instant Pots, and it folds up for convenient storage. The basket’s perforations allow for even steaming, making it ideal for veggies, fish, and even dumplings.

2. Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket

• Material: BPA-free silicone
• Features: Flexible, non-stick, heat-resistant up to 450°F
• Best For: Families with young children, as it’s safe and free from harmful chemicals

Made from 100% BPA-free silicone, the Avokado Silicone Steamer Basket is soft yet sturdy. Unlike metal steamer baskets, it won’t scratch your Instant Pot’s inner pot, and it’s heat-resistant up to 450°F. This basket is dishwasher-safe, making it super easy to clean. Its non-stick properties are ideal for steaming eggs, seafood, and delicate vegetables.

3. Hatrigo Steamer Basket with Divider

• Material: Stainless steel with silicone-coated handles
• Features: Removable divider, rust-proof, dishwasher-safe
• Best For: Cooking multiple items at once

The Hatrigo Steamer Basket is popular for its high-quality build and versatility. It comes with a removable divider that lets you cook different foods without mixing flavors. The silicone-coated handles make it easy to lift from the pot, even when hot, and the sturdy construction ensures longevity. This basket is perfect for meal preppers who want to steam vegetables, potatoes, or fish at the same time.

4. Aozita Stackable Steamer Insert Pans

• Material: Stainless steel
• Features: Two-tier design, airtight lids, multifunctional use
• Best For: Multi-level cooking, such as steaming rice and vegetables simultaneously

This set of stackable pans from Aozita is a unique alternative to traditional steamer baskets. The two-tiered design allows you to cook different foods in separate containers, and each tier has an airtight lid to keep flavors separate. It’s also great for making cheesecake, casseroles, and even lasagna in the Instant Pot. A versatile option for anyone who likes to get creative with their Instant Pot!

5. Instant Pot Official Mesh Steamer Basket Set

• Material: Stainless steel mesh
• Features: Set of two baskets (small and large), designed specifically for Instant Pot
• Best For: Instant Pot enthusiasts looking for a custom-fit solution

The Instant Pot Official Mesh Steamer Basket Set comes with two mesh baskets that fit perfectly in 6-quart and 8-quart Instant Pots. The baskets have easy-lift handles and are great for steaming anything from vegetables to shellfish. Since they’re designed by Instant Pot, they provide a precise fit that maximizes the space inside your pot, making steaming efficient and effective.

How to Choose the Right Instant Pot Steamer Basket

Here are some things to consider when choosing the best steamer basket for your needs:

• Material: Stainless steel baskets are durable and long-lasting, but silicone options are soft, flexible, and gentle on the inner pot.
• Size: Ensure the steamer basket fits your Instant Pot model (usually 6-quart or 8-quart).
• Handle Type: Look for easy-lift handles to make it safe and convenient to remove the basket when hot.
• Dividers: If you like to cook multiple types of food at once, a steamer basket with a divider or multi-level design is ideal.

Tips for Using an Instant Pot Steamer Basket

1. Add Water: Always add at least 1 cup of water to your Instant Pot when steaming to prevent burning.
2. Use the “Steam” Function: Set the Instant Pot to “Steam” for optimal results.
3. Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange food in a single layer in the basket, if possible, for even cooking.
4. Quick Release: When steaming delicate foods, use the quick-release function to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use any steamer basket with an Instant Pot?
A: Yes, as long as it fits in your Instant Pot model. However, some baskets designed specifically for Instant Pots may provide a better fit and ease of use.

Q: How much water should I use for steaming in the Instant Pot?
A: Generally, 1–1.5 cups of water is sufficient to create the steam needed for most foods.

Q: Are silicone steamer baskets safe for high-pressure cooking?
A: Yes, silicone steamer baskets made for pressure cooking are heat-resistant and safe for use in the Instant Pot.

Final Thoughts

An Instant Pot steamer basket is a must-have accessory for anyone looking to maximize the functionality of their Instant Pot. Whether you’re looking to meal prep, cook multiple foods at once, or simply enjoy perfectly steamed veggies, there’s a basket out there that’s perfect for you. Give one of these top picks a try, and take your Instant Pot cooking to the next level!

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