As the savory aroma of collard greens wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel like I’ve been transported to a cozy Southern porch, where the gentle sound of laughter mingles with the clinking of glasses. My Instant Pot Collard Greens brings that homey warmth to the table, delivering all the hearty goodness of this traditional dish without the endless hours of cooking. This recipe is not only a breeze to whip up but also offers a healthy side that pairs beautifully with your favorite Southern staples. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it an accessible choice for everyone. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, you’re sure to impress with this quick and flavorful dish. Are you ready to dive into a plate of comforting greens?
Why are these greens a game changer?
Simplicity meets flavor: Utilizing the Instant Pot, this recipe transforms collard greens into a quick dish without sacrificing taste.
Savory satisfaction: The addition of smoky salt pork or bacon infuses every bite with rich, savory goodness that will have you coming back for more.
Healthy goodness: Packed with essential vitamins, these gluten-free collard greens offer a nutritious side that enhances any meal while keeping you feeling good.
Versatile delight: Feel free to switch it up with turnip greens or create a vegetarian version; the possibilities are endless!
Crowd pleaser: Serve alongside cornbread or fried chicken for a full Southern experience; your guests will rave about this comforting side dish!
Time-efficient: In just 10 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a tender, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Experience the joy of homemade Southern cooking without the lengthy prep time!
Instant Pot Collard Greens Ingredients
For the Greens
• Collard Greens – Tender and leafy, these greens create the flavorful base of your dish.
• Salt Pork or Bacon – Adds a smoky, savory flavor; substitute with thick-cut bacon if desired.
For the Broth
• Chicken Broth – Enhances moisture and flavor, making your Instant Pot collard greens extra delicious.
For the Aromatics
• Onion – Diced, it brings sweetness and depth to balance the dish.
• White Vinegar – Brightens flavors and cuts bitterness; feel free to swap for apple cider or red wine vinegar.
For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste, these staples elevate the overall flavor of the greens.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Instant Pot Collard Greens
Step 1: Sauté the Pork and Onion
Set your Instant Pot to the SAUTE function on medium heat. Add diced salt pork or bacon to the pot, cooking until it becomes crisp, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, roughly 3–4 minutes. This step builds a savory base for your Instant Pot collard greens.
Step 2: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot, ensuring maximum flavor in your dish. These bits add depth to the broth. Once deglazing is complete, press CANCEL to stop the SAUTE function, and your Instant Pot is ready for the next step.
Step 3: Prepare to Pressure Cook
Add the white vinegar to the pot, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your Instant Pot collard greens. Begin to layer the collard greens in, packing them firmly but not tightly, filling the pot about 2/3 full. This allows the greens to cook evenly under pressure, ensuring a tender texture without overcooking.
Step 4: Seal and Cook
Lock the lid into place on your Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to SEALING. Set the Instant Pot to HIGH PRESSURE and adjust the timer for 10 minutes. As it builds pressure, the rich flavors will meld beautifully, bringing your collard greens to tender perfection.
Step 5: Quick Release the Pressure
When the cooking timer indicates the greens are ready, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to VENTING. Allow steam to escape until the float valve drops down, then remove the lid. The collard greens should look vibrant and succulent, infused with the savory flavors from the previous steps.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Gently stir the collard greens to combine all the hearty ingredients, then taste them for seasoning. Adjust with salt and pepper as necessary, allowing the flavors to balance perfectly. Your Instant Pot collard greens are now ready to be served, providing a deliciously comforting side dish that completes any Southern meal.
Storage Tips for Instant Pot Collard Greens
- Fridge: Store leftover Instant Pot collard greens in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture while preventing spoilage.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze collard greens in a well-sealed freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, and then warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. The flavors may deepen, making them even more delicious!
- Make Ahead: Feel free to make your collard greens a day or two ahead of time; letting them sit allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste when served.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Collard Greens
There’s magic in pairing your collard greens with complementary flavors that create a memorable meal experience.
Cornbread: The slight sweetness of cornbread balances the savory greens, making for a classic Southern combo that feels like a warm hug.
Fried Chicken: Crispy, golden fried chicken adds a delightful crunch and richness that elevate your plate, celebrating the best of Southern cooking.
Black-Eyed Peas: These legumes provide a creamy texture and earthy flavor, offering a fulfilling addition that enhances the meal’s heartiness.
Potato Salad: A cool and creamy potato salad laced with tangy dressing contrasts beautifully with the warm, piquant greens for a delightful bite.
Vinegar-based Coleslaw: This refreshing side packs a zesty punch that cuts through richness, perfectly balancing the savory goodness of collard greens.
Sweet Tea: No Southern meal is complete without a glass of sweet tea, offering a soothing sip that complements the flavors of collard greens.
Peach Cobbler: To round out your meal, serve this warm, fruity dessert—its sweetness pairs beautifully with the smoky earthiness of the greens.
Biscuit: Fluffy biscuits provide a butter-rich vehicle for sopping up any remaining juices on your plate, making for a satisfying ending.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Collard Greens
Loosely Pack Greens: Ensure the collard greens are packed loosely in the pot to allow them to cook evenly. Overpacking can lead to uneven texture.
Smoked Flavor Alternative: If you’re omitting the salt pork or bacon for a vegetarian option, incorporate smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to mimic that rich, savory flavor.
Taste Test: Always taste your greens before serving. Adjust with more salt, pepper, or vinegar to balance the flavor profile of your Instant Pot collard greens.
Quick Release Success: Perform a quick release of pressure to prevent overcooking and to retain the vibrant color of the greens. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
Make Ahead and Store: Feel free to prepare your collard greens in advance. They store well in the fridge, and the flavors enhance after a day, making them even tastier when reheated.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve your Instant Pot collard greens alongside classic Southern dishes like fried chicken, cornbread, or black-eyed peas for a wholesome meal experience.
Instant Pot Collard Greens Variations
Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs while keeping the comforting essence intact.
- Turnip Greens: Substitute collard greens with turnip greens for a slightly sweeter flavor and different nutrient profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the pork and opt for smoked sea salt to keep that delicious savory depth without meat.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes before cooking for a delightful kick that elevates every bite.
- Cajun Twist: Mix in some Cajun seasoning or Andouille sausage for a fun Southern twist that packs a flavor punch.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Swap out white vinegar for balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness and a richer depth of flavor.
- Herbal Notes: Throw in a few sprigs of fresh thyme or oregano while cooking for an aromatic herbal nuance that enhances the dish.
- Smoky Flavor Boost: If you love that smoky taste, use smoked chicken broth instead of regular chicken broth to amplify the flavor experience.
- Nutritional Boost: Mix in some finely chopped kale or spinach just before serving for added nutrition and texture.
If you’re looking to pair your collard greens with something hearty, consider serving them next to my comforting Pot Mulligatawny Soup or One Pot Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese for a fulfilling meal. Enjoy the delightful journey of flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Collard Greens are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can wash and chop the collard greens up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can sauté the bacon and onions, then refrigerate the mixture for 3 days to enhance the flavor. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine the refrigerated mixture with the broth and vinegar, pack in the greens, and pressure cook as directed. This method helps maintain their vibrant color and tender texture, ensuring your dish is just as delicious when you serve it—perfect for busy weeknights!
Instant Pot Collard Greens Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best collard greens?
Absolutely! Look for collard greens that are vibrant in color with no dark spots or signs of wilting. Fresh greens should feel crisp and have firm stems. Typically, I prefer buying from local farmers’ markets for the freshest produce!
How should I store leftover collard greens?
After preparing your Instant Pot collard greens, allow them to cool down completely, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Keeping them sealed will help maintain their flavor and texture!
Can I freeze collard greens?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Instant Pot collard greens, let them cool, then portion them into freezer bags. Squeeze out excess air to prevent freezer burn. These can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
What can I do if my collard greens are tough?
Very good question! If you find your collard greens are tough after cooking, they may need more time to break down. Simply return them to the Instant Pot with a little extra liquid, seal the lid, and cook under high pressure for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Are collard greens safe for dogs?
Yes, collard greens can be safe for dogs in moderation. They are high in vitamins, but too much can cause stomach upset. It’s best to serve them cooked and without any seasoning. Always check with your veterinarian first!
What should I do if I don’t have vinegar?
If you’re out of white vinegar, don’t fret! You can substitute it with apple cider or red wine vinegar – both will add that necessary tanginess. If you prefer, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can also brighten the flavor beautifully!
Instant Pot Collard Greens That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set your Instant Pot to the SAUTE function on medium heat. Add diced salt pork or bacon to the pot, cooking until crisp, about 5–7 minutes. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until translucent, roughly 3–4 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Press CANCEL after deglazing.
- Add the white vinegar, then layer the collard greens in the pot, packing them firmly but not tightly.
- Lock the lid into place and set the valve to SEALING. Set the Instant Pot to HIGH PRESSURE for 10 minutes.
- When the timer indicates the greens are ready, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to VENTING.
- Gently stir the collard greens, taste for seasoning, and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
