If you’re craving that deep, soulful flavor of Southern-style collard greens but don’t have hours to spare, then the Instant Pot is your new best friend! These Instant Pot Collard Greens are tender, full of flavor, and ready in a fraction of the time. Trust me, this is the easiest way to get that melt-in-your-mouth, comfort food vibe in no time.
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Imagine the smoky aroma filling your kitchen as the greens cook down in a savory, seasoned broth. You won’t believe how quickly these collard greens go from raw to tender perfection. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for a big family dinner or enjoying them as a snack, this dish is about to become your new favorite. Get ready for a comforting bite that’ll make you feel like you’ve been cooking all day—even though you haven’t!
Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Collard Greens
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about the experience. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner, Sunday family meal, or holiday gathering, this dish fits any occasion. Here’s why it’s a go-to:
Quick and Easy: Gone are the days of simmering collard greens for hours! With the Instant Pot, you can enjoy all the deep, flavorful goodness in just under an hour.
Flavorful: The smoky, savory broth combined with the earthy collard greens creates a taste explosion in every bite. You won’t miss that long cooking time because the Instant Pot brings out all the flavor in a fraction of the time.
Budget-Friendly: Collard greens are inexpensive, and using the Instant Pot helps you stretch those ingredients while still creating a satisfying dish.
Versatile: Whether you’re serving them as a side for fried chicken, BBQ, or any Southern-inspired dish, or mixing them into a hearty stew or soup, these collard greens fit perfectly into many meals.
Customizable: Not a fan of a certain spice? Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Want them a little sweeter? A touch of sugar or honey works wonders!
Ingredients in Instant Pot Collard Greens
Collard greens are naturally hearty and full of flavor, and the ingredients for this recipe keep it simple yet packed with taste. Here’s what you’ll need:
Collard Greens: The star of the dish! Fresh collard greens, washed and chopped, provide the perfect texture and flavor for this recipe.
Smoked Ham Hocks or Bacon: These add that signature smoky flavor that really makes the collard greens shine. You can also use smoked turkey for a leaner option.
Onion: Chopped onion adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Garlic: A few cloves of garlic bring a wonderful aroma and additional savory notes to the greens.
Chicken Broth: The base for the broth, adding richness and depth to the greens. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a little tang and balances out the richness, giving the dish a fresh lift.
Sugar (Optional): Just a touch of sugar can help mellow the bitterness of the greens, but feel free to skip this if you prefer the natural flavor of the greens.
Salt and Pepper: For seasoning, of course!
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s get to cooking! Here’s how to make these Instant Pot Collard Greens:
Prepare the Greens: Start by washing your collard greens thoroughly to remove any grit. Trim the stems and cut the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the Aromatics: Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add a splash of oil, then sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened and fragrant—about 3 minutes.
Add the Smoky Flavor: Toss in the smoked ham hocks (or bacon) and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the fat to release and add richness to the dish.
Season the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and sugar (if using). Stir to combine and bring it to a light simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the Collard Greens: Carefully add your washed and chopped collard greens to the Instant Pot. You can pack them in—don’t worry, they’ll cook down!
Cook: Lock the lid on the Instant Pot, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure naturally release for about 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Finishing Touches: Open the Instant Pot, remove the ham hocks (if using), and shred the meat off the bones. Stir the greens well to mix the flavors, and taste for seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or vinegar if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Instant Pot collard greens hot, alongside your favorite Southern main dish. These collard greens are perfect with cornbread, fried chicken, or a plate of ribs!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 160
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
How to Serve Instant Pot Collard Greens
These collard greens are a classic side that pairs well with so many dishes. Here are a few ideas for how to serve them:
Fried Chicken: You can’t go wrong with Southern fried chicken and collard greens. The crispy chicken complements the tender, smoky greens perfectly.
Cornbread: A slice of moist, buttery cornbread is ideal for scooping up the delicious greens and soaking up the savory broth.
BBQ Ribs: If you’re in the mood for some smoky, meaty goodness, collard greens make the perfect side to a rack of fall-off-the-bone BBQ ribs.
Mashed Potatoes: For a hearty meal, serve the collard greens with creamy mashed potatoes to balance out the savory flavors.
Additional Tips
Make It Ahead: Collard greens only get better as they sit and absorb the flavors. Make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Adjust the Seasoning: If you like your greens a little sweeter, add a touch more sugar. If you prefer a tangier flavor, increase the vinegar just a little.
Add Spice: If you like a little heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Double the Batch: You can easily double this recipe to serve a crowd! The Instant Pot can handle it, and the leftovers are even more delicious the next day.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use turkey instead of ham hocks?
A1: Yes! Smoked turkey is a great alternative and will give the greens a slightly different flavor while still maintaining that smoky goodness.
Q2: Can I use frozen collard greens?
A2: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them first, then follow the same cooking instructions.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to eat.
Q4: Can I freeze these collard greens?
A4: Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove.
Q5: Can I skip the sugar?
A5: Of course! The sugar is optional and helps cut the bitterness of the greens, but if you prefer the natural flavor, feel free to leave it out.
Q6: How can I make these collard greens spicier?
A6: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to give the greens a spicy kick.
Q7: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A7: Absolutely! Try adding some chopped carrots or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Q8: How do I reheat these greens?
A8: Reheat gently on the stove with a little bit of water or broth to keep them moist. You can also reheat in the microwave.
Q9: Can I make these in a slow cooker instead of the Instant Pot?
A9: Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours for a slow-cooked version.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes, just make sure your Instant Pot has enough room to accommodate the extra greens and liquid. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
Instant Pot Collard Greens are the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort. They’re smoky, flavorful, and will have your taste buds dancing in no time. Give them a try, and watch them become a new favorite at your table!
Print
Instant Pot Collard Greens
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
Description
These Instant Pot Collard Greens are packed with rich, savory flavors and come together in no time with the help of your Instant Pot! A perfect blend of bacon, sausage, and spices, these greens are a must-try side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
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1 large pre-packaged bag of cut and cleaned collard greens
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1 medium white onion, chopped
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1/2 package of bacon, chopped
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2 links of andouille sausage, chopped into half moons
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1 small red bell pepper, chopped
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1 small yellow bell pepper, chopped
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1 bay leaf
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1 tablespoon garlic paste
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1 tablespoon smoked paprika
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1 tablespoon onion powder
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1 tablespoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 tablespoon light brown sugar
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2 bouillon cubes
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1/3 cup sweet Riesling white wine
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Salt & pepper to taste
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2 cups hot water
Instructions
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Brown the Bacon and Sausage: Heat a large braising pot to medium heat. Brown the bacon and sausage for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
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Sauté the Vegetables: To the rendered fat, add onions and bell peppers. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
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Season the Vegetables: Add the garlic paste, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning. Mix well to combine.
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Deglaze the Pan: Add the hot water to the pot and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
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Cook the Greens: Add the collard greens, garlic, and bay leaf to the pan. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and cook for about 3 minutes.
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Add Liquids and Seasoning: After 3 minutes, remove the lid and add the white wine, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then turn off the stove.
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Transfer to Instant Pot: Transfer the greens and liquid to the Instant Pot. Set to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes and allow for a natural release.
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Reduce the Broth: After the natural release, remove the greens and allow the broth to reduce on sauté mode for about 5-7 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of light brown sugar to enhance the flavor (optional).
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Serve and Enjoy: Pour the reduced broth back over the greens, stir, and serve warm. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg