Instant Pot lentil tacos are a simple, family-friendly meatless taco option that’s full of flavor and ready in minutes. Healthy, easy to customize, and requiring only 14 minutes of high-pressure cooking, these lentil tacos are a reliable weeknight meal that even picky eaters will enjoy.
We make Instant Pot lentil tacos regularly because they’re quick, nutritious, and consistently popular with the whole family. The texture and seasoning mimic classic taco fillings, which makes the switch from ground meat to lentils seamless for many people.
I’ve served these to kids and adults who usually prefer meat, and they often come back for seconds. If you enjoy meatless Mexican dishes, you may also like portobello fajitas, though some family members prefer other vegetables.
For anyone looking to reduce meat in their diet, swapping ground meat for lentils in familiar recipes is one of the easiest and most satisfying approaches. Lentil tacos keep the comfort-food feel of taco night while delivering more fiber and plant-based protein.
The flavor profile is reminiscent of the classic taco kits many of us grew up with, so I like to serve these with simple toppings: shredded greens (I prefer spinach), diced tomato, cheese or a dairy-free alternative, and avocado. Use whatever toppings you and your family enjoy.
How to make instant pot lentil tacos
These lentil tacos are straightforward to prepare in the Instant Pot. Combine the lentils, spices, and water in the pot, stir briefly, then seal and cook on high pressure for 14 minutes.
When the cooking time ends, use a quick release to release the pressure. The result is a well-seasoned lentil filling that works great with hard or soft taco shells, or wrapped in lettuce for a low-carb option.
Dietary Considerations
This recipe fits a variety of dietary needs:
- Vegan and vegetarian
- Clean eating
- Gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and soy-free (depending on toppings)
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More Taco Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoy these Instant Pot lentil tacos, try other meatless taco recipes for variety:
- Jerk black bean tacos with mango salsa
- Scrambled tofu breakfast tacos
- Buffalo shrimp lettuce wraps
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Instant Pot Lentil Tacos
1
14
15
Equipment
Ingredients:
For the taco filling:
- 3⁄4 cup dried green lentils
- 1⁄2 Tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoon coarse sea salt – (or 1 teaspoon fine sea salt)
- 1.5 cups water
Topping Ideas
- Spinach
- Tomato
- Cheese
- Avocado
- Olives
- Onion
- Cilantro
Instructions
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Add the lentils, spices, and water to the Instant Pot and stir briefly.
-
Seal and cook on high pressure for 14 minutes.
-
Quick release the pressure, then prepare tortillas and toppings while the lentils rest briefly.
-
Assemble tacos and serve warm.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 1g
Sodium: 1187mg
Fiber: 12g
*Nutritional information is calculated by online tools and may not be 100% accurate.