Can You Put Meal Prep Containers in Instant Pot? What to Know Before You Try

Yes, you can put meal prep containers in an Instant Pot, but only if they are made of oven-safe glass or stainless steel and are labeled as pressure-cooker safe. Plastic containers, even those marked microwave-safe, will warp or melt under the high heat and pressure. Silicone molds or trays designed for pressure cookers are also safe. Always check the manufacturer’s temperature and pressure ratings before use.

Quick Answer

Meal prep containers can go in the Instant Pot if they are heat-resistant glass (like Pyrex), stainless steel, or pressure-cooker-safe silicone. Plastic containers are not safe. For pot-in-pot cooking, ensure the container is placed on a trivet and has no airtight lid (use foil or a vented cover).

Glass containers: Oven-safe borosilicate or tempered glass (e.g., Pyrex) is safe up to at least 400°F. Avoid sudden temperature changes.
Stainless steel containers: Any stainless steel container without plastic parts is safe. Ensure it fits on the trivet and is not airtight.
Plastic containers: Do not use plastic meal prep containers. Even high-heat plastics can melt at pressure cooker temperatures (above 250°F).
Silicone containers: Food-grade silicone is safe up to 450°F. Use silicone egg bites molds or collapsible containers designed for pressure cookers.
Lids: Remove airtight lids. Cover with foil or a vented silicone lid to prevent pressure buildup inside the container.

Which Meal Prep Containers Are Safe for Instant Pot?

The safest meal prep containers for the Instant Pot are those made from materials that can withstand high heat and pressure. Oven-safe glass containers, such as Pyrex or Anchor Hocking, are excellent choices because they are non-reactive and can handle temperatures up to 400°F. Stainless steel containers are also ideal, as they are durable and heat-resistant. Avoid any container with plastic lids or components, as these will likely warp or melt. Silicone containers marketed for pressure cookers (like those for egg bites) are also safe, but ensure they are labeled for at least 250°F.

Before using any container, check the bottom for symbols: a microwave-safe symbol does not guarantee pressure cooker safety. Look for explicit statements like “oven-safe” or “pressure cooker safe.” If in doubt, test by placing the empty container in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10 minutes; if it warps or cracks, do not use it in the Instant Pot.

How to Use Meal Prep Containers in the Instant Pot (Pot-in-Pot Method)

To cook or reheat food in meal prep containers inside the Instant Pot, use the pot-in-pot method. Follow these steps:

Add 1 to 2 cups of water to the inner pot (enough to create steam).
Place the trivet that came with your Instant Pot on the bottom.
Set your meal prep container (glass or stainless steel) on the trivet. Ensure it does not touch the sides of the inner pot for even heat circulation.
If your container has a lid, replace it with a piece of foil or a vented silicone cover. Do not snap on an airtight lid, as pressure could cause it to explode.
Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing, and select pressure cook mode. Adjust time as needed (e.g., 10 minutes for reheating leftovers).
After cooking, allow natural pressure release for at least 5 minutes before quick releasing to avoid sudden temperature shock to the glass.

What About Plastic Meal Prep Containers?

Standard plastic meal prep containers, even those labeled BPA-free and microwave-safe, are not safe for the Instant Pot. The Instant Pot reaches temperatures around 240°F to 250°F under pressure, which is above the melting point of most plastics. Plastic containers will warp, leach chemicals, or melt into your food. Even high-heat polypropylene (PP, recycling code 5) may soften and deform.

If you must use a plastic container, look for one specifically rated for pressure cookers, such as those made from PCTG or Tritan that are heat-resistant up to 212°F—but even these are risky. The safest approach is to transfer food to a glass or stainless steel container before cooking in the Instant Pot.

Tips for Reheating Meals in the Instant Pot Without Melting Containers

Reheating meal prep containers in the Instant Pot is faster than a microwave for larger portions. Use these tips for success:

Always use a trivet to lift the container off the bottom, preventing direct heat contact.
Add at least 1 cup of water to create steam; more water may be needed for longer cooking times.
For glass containers, let them come to room temperature before placing in the hot pot to reduce thermal shock.
Cover the container with foil to prevent splatter but allow some steam venting—pierce the foil with a few holes.
Use low pressure for delicate foods like eggs or dairy to avoid overcooking.
If reheating frozen meals, increase pressure cook time by 50% and use natural release to ensure even heating.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Meal Prep Containers in Instant Pot

Even with safe containers, mistakes can ruin your meal or damage your Instant Pot. Avoid these:

Using airtight lids: Pressure can build inside the container and cause it to burst. Always vent the lid or use foil.
Placing a cold glass container directly into a hot pot: Thermal shock can shatter the glass. Let refrigerated containers sit out for 10 minutes first.
Overfilling: Leave at least 1 inch of headspace in the container to allow for food expansion during pressure cooking.
Using containers that are too large: The container must fit on the trivet without touching the sides or lid of the Instant Pot, or steam circulation will be blocked.
Ignoring manufacturer warnings: If your meal prep container says “not for pressure cookers,” believe it. The risk of breaking or leaching is not worth it.

Pro Tips

Always place a folded paper towel under the container on the trivet to absorb condensation and prevent the container from sliding.
For silicone containers, lightly grease the inside before adding food to make removal easier after pressure cooking.
Use a steam diverter or a folded kitchen towel over the vent when quick-releasing to avoid hot steam damaging nearby plastic containers.
If using glass containers with plastic lids, remove the lid and cover with a silicone stretch lid that has a small vent hole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Assuming microwave-safe means pressure-cooker safe: Microwave-safe plastic may still melt at 250°F.
Putting a container with a snap-on lid directly into the Instant Pot: The pressure can cause the lid to pop off violently.
Using a glass container that has chips or cracks: The pressure can cause the glass to shatter.
Not allowing natural pressure release when cooking glass containers: Rapid pressure change can break the glass.

FAQ

Can I use mason jars in the Instant Pot for meal prep?

Yes, wide-mouth mason jars (regular or pint size) are safe for pressure cooking if you use them for pot-in-pot canning or cooking. Always remove the lid and cover with foil or a vented lid. Do not use narrow-mouth jars or tighten the band.

What about aluminum foil containers?

Aluminum foil containers are safe in the Instant Pot, but they are flimsy. Place them on a trivet and avoid acidic foods (like tomatoes) that can react with aluminum. Use a glass or ceramic dish inside the foil container for stability.

Can I stack two meal prep containers in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can stack containers if they are both on trivets or use a steamer basket. Ensure the top container does not block the steam vent. Use a tall trivet or a double-decker steamer insert for best results.

The Bottom Line

In short, glass and stainless steel meal prep containers are your best bet for Instant Pot use. Always remove plastic lids, use a trivet, and avoid thermal shock. With the right container, the Instant Pot can reheat or cook your meal prep quickly and safely. When in doubt, transfer to a container you already know is safe.