If you’re looking for a dish that’s hearty, wholesome, and packed with Southern comfort, Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas are about to become your new go-to favorite. This is the kind of recipe that’s effortless enough for busy weeknights but special enough to share with friends and family. Black eyed peas get cozy with savory aromatics and a smoky backbone, swirling together in a rich, velvety broth—no soaking required! Whether you’re a meal prepper, a plant-based foodie, or just love a taste of down-home cooking, these beans come out perfectly tender every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas recipe brings its own flair to the table. We’re working with real, everyday staples you probably already have on hand. Here’s how every element builds flavor, texture, and that gorgeous finish to make this pot of beans seriously memorable.

Dried black eyed peas: The star of the show, these cook up beautifully in the Instant Pot, offering earthy flavor and creamy texture.
Yellow onion: Provides sweetness and a savory backbone, helping the beans develop rich undertones.
Garlic: Adds aromatic depth—you’ll notice the difference in every bite.
Smoked paprika: Lends a subtle smokiness, transforming the broth into something truly special.
Bay leaves: Infuse the whole pot with gentle herbal notes; just remember to fish them out before serving.
Sea salt: Brings all the flavors into harmony and is essential for seasoning the beans properly.
Black pepper: Adds a little warmth without overpowering the gentle flavors of the peas.
Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch wakes up the dish with occasional pops of heat—use more or less to suit your taste.
Water: Provides enough liquid for the beans to cook and soak up all the savory flavors.
Baby spinach or greens (optional): Stirred in at the end, these add color, nutrition, and a fresh finish—use your favorite leafy greens.

How to Make Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Before you get started, give your dried black eyed peas a good rinse and pick out any little stones or debris. Dice your onion, crush those garlic cloves, and set out your spices so they’re ready to go. Prepping your ingredients ahead makes the process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Layer Everything Into the Instant Pot

Add the rinsed black eyed peas directly into the Instant Pot, followed by the diced onion, crushed garlic, smoked paprika, bay leaves, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and water. This layering helps the flavors infuse perfectly as they cook together.

Step 3: Pressure Cook to Perfection

Seal the lid, set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 12 minutes, and let this magical gadget do the rest! During this time, the peas get luxuriously creamy while absorbing all the lovely smoky, aromatic notes from the rest of the ingredients.

Step 4: Natural Release Is Key

Once the cooking cycle finishes, give the Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas a 15-minute natural pressure release. This step allows the beans to finish cooking gently (no burst skins or mushy textures), then quick-release any remaining pressure for safety.

Step 5: Mash for Creamy Broth

Open the lid and, using a potato masher or hand blender, mash about a quarter of the beans right in the pot. This isn’t about creating a puree—just a quick mash will thicken up the broth, giving your Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas that signature soul food creaminess.

Step 6: Stir in the Greens (Optional)

If you’re using spinach or any tender greens, toss them into the hot beans and stir until they’re just wilted. This adds a bright pop of color and a nutritional boost, tying the dish together beautifully.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon generous helpings into bowls and serve with crusty bread, fluffy rice, or even over baked sweet potatoes. No matter how you enjoy them, these Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas bring warmth and comfort to any meal.

How to Serve Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, top your Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas with fresh chopped herbs like parsley or scallions, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of extra black pepper. If you love a little tang, a few dashes of hot sauce work wonders!

Side Dishes

This dish is perfectly cozy with warm, crusty bread (cornbread is a classic), but it’s just as lovely ladled over a bed of steamed rice. For a Southern feast, serve alongside sautéed greens, coleslaw, or even a slice of sweet potato pie.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn leftover Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas into a grain bowl with brown rice, roasted veggies, and avocado, or use them as a hearty filling for tacos and wraps. You can also spoon them atop baked potatoes for a protein-packed twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftover Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh, flavorful, and ready for quick meals for up to 4 days.

Freezing

These beans freeze beautifully! Portion cooled Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas into freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to include plenty of the delicious broth. Label and freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat whenever you need a quick, nourishing meal.

Reheating

Gently reheat your black eyed peas on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if they seem a bit thick. Give them an occasional stir as they warm to revive that creamy texture.

FAQs

Do I need to soak black eyed peas before cooking in the Instant Pot?

Nope! One of the best perks of Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas is you can go straight from dried to perfectly tender in about an hour with no soaking required. Just rinse and pick through before cooking.

Can I add meat or sausage?

Absolutely! If you’d like to add extra smoky depth, sauté some diced smoked sausage, bacon, or a ham hock in the Instant Pot before adding the rest of the ingredients. Cook as directed for a deliciously meaty version.

Can I use canned black eyed peas instead of dried?

For this recipe, dried peas are preferred—they develop a rich, creamy texture in the Instant Pot that canned beans can’t quite match. If you must use canned, reduce the cooking liquid and time, and note that flavors may be less developed.

How can I make Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas spicier or milder?

The red pepper flakes add gentle heat, but you can dial this up or down to taste. Consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a chopped jalapeño if you crave extra spice, or skip the pepper flakes for a more kid-friendly pot.

Are Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas vegan?

As written, this recipe is completely vegan! It’s creamy and rich without any animal products, but you can always add sausage or ham for a classic Southern variation if desired.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and soul-satisfying about a bowl of Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas, and I hope you feel inspired to try them yourself. This effortless recipe might just find its way into your regular dinner rotation—it’s nourishing, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 7 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes (including natural release time)
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and flavorful Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas recipe that is easy to make and perfect for a comforting meal. This dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying option for vegetarians and vegans.

Instructions

Instant Pot Instructions: Add all ingredients to your Instant Pot, except for the optional greens.
Seal the lid, and set to 12 minutes, high pressure.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 15 minutes, and then quick-release the remaining pressure.
Using a potato masher or a hand blender, mash or purée a small amount of the beans, then stir well.
Add the greens, if using, and stir until wilted.
Serve with crusty bread or over rice.
Stovetop Instructions: Combine all ingredients, except for the greens, in a large pot and simmer until the beans are tender.
Use a potato masher or hand blender to mash a portion of the beans, then stir well.
Add the greens, if using, and stir until wilted.
Serve with crusty bread or over rice.

Notes

You can customize this recipe by adding diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or smoked sausage for extra flavor.
Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes (Instant Pot) or 60-90 minutes (Stovetop)
Category: Main Dish
Method: Pressure Cooking, Simmering
Cuisine: American