Name: Instant Pot Spanish Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups jasmine rice, or basmati rice; 2 Tablespoons refined coconut oil; 2 ¼ cups water (use 1 ¾ cups for drier rice); 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 ¼ teaspoon Himalayan pink salt; 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried cilantro; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon paprika

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 11 reviews

If you’ve been searching for a vibrant, flavorful side that’s quick to make and wonderfully comforting, this Instant Pot Spanish Rice Recipe is about to become your new weeknight favorite. Bursting with a mix of warm spices and a rich tomato base, it delivers restaurant-quality taste with no chopping hassles. Whether you’re pairing it with tacos, grilled chicken, or just craving a satisfying standalone dish, this recipe blends simplicity and taste in the most delightful way that only the Instant Pot can achieve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an inner pot of a pressure cooker filled with cooked rice mixed with tomato sauce, giving the rice an orange and red color. The rice looks soft and evenly spread inside the pot, with some darker bits of herbs or seasoning scattered around the edges. The pot is black on the outside, and it sits on a white marbled surface. Near the bottom right corner, there is a corner of a striped cloth and a wooden spoon visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients may be straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and perfect texture for this Instant Pot Spanish Rice Recipe. From the aromatic jasmine rice to the perfect blend of spices, every component is essential for achieving that signature savory and slightly smoky taste.

1 ½ cups jasmine rice or basmati rice: Choose jasmine for its fragrant aroma or basmati for a fluffy, nutty texture.
2 Tablespoons refined coconut oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps toast the rice beautifully.
2 ¼ cups water (use 1 ¾ cups for drier rice): Adjust the liquid for your preferred rice firmness.
1 8-ounce can tomato sauce: Infuses the rice with a deep, smoky tang and gorgeous color.
1 teaspoon onion powder: A no-chop flavor booster for that mild onion undertone.
1 ¼ teaspoon Himalayan pink salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors perfectly.
1 ½ teaspoons onion powder: Added again in the seasoning mix for consistent savory notes.
1 teaspoon dried cilantro: Imparts a fresh, herbaceous touch to brighten the dish.
1 teaspoon cumin: Brings earthy warmth and depth that makes Spanish rice so addictive.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers a subtle garlicky punch without overpowering.
½ teaspoon paprika: Adds mild smokiness and a lovely reddish hue.

How to Make Instant Pot Spanish Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Seasonings

Mix all the seasonings together in a small bowl—this blend is the heart of your dish, bringing bold flavor with every bite. Having everything ready and within reach makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free, especially when working with an Instant Pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Rice

Turn your Instant Pot to sauté mode and warm the coconut oil until it shimmers. Add the rice and stir frequently, letting it toast until it becomes pleasantly golden brown. This step isn’t just about color; it deepens the flavor and helps keep the rice fluffy after cooking. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of onion powder right here for a subtle aromatic start.

Step 3: Combine the Remaining Ingredients

Carefully add in the seasoning mixture, the entire can of tomato sauce, and the water. Stir everything together gently to distribute the spices and liquids evenly throughout the rice. This ensures every grain absorbs that robust, smoky richness during cooking.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Rice

Seal your Instant Pot lid, set it to manual pressure on high for 10 minutes, and let the magic happen. Once the cooking cycle finishes, allow the pot to naturally release pressure—that slow release helps prevent mushy rice and keeps every grain perfectly tender.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

Open the lid carefully and fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and release the inviting aromas. Your Instant Pot Spanish Rice Recipe is now ready to be the star or the perfect supporting actor of your meal.

How to Serve Instant Pot Spanish Rice Recipe

A large white bowl is filled with orange-red rice mixed with small green onion pieces scattered on top. Two lime wedges are placed on the left side of the rice inside the bowl. Around the bowl, there are green cilantro leaves and lime wedges on a white marbled surface, with a red and beige striped cloth partially visible in the top left corner. The rice texture looks slightly fluffy and well cooked. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or green onions adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal and flavor profile. For some extra zest, a squeeze of lime juice right before serving can brighten up those hearty flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Spanish rice shines as an ideal partner to grilled meats, fajitas, or black beans. Pair it with sautéed peppers and onions or a crisp salad for a balanced, satisfying meal that feels just right any night of the week.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Spanish rice stuffed inside roasted bell peppers, topped with melted cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Or use it as a colorful base alongside shrimp or chicken with a drizzle of smoky chipotle sauce for a fiesta on your plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the rice completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it stays fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it great for meal prep or quick reheating during busy weekdays.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover Instant Pot Spanish Rice Recipe in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Just portion it out to avoid thawing more than you need. When ready, move it to the refrigerator the night before to defrost gently.

Reheating

To revive the rice’s fluffy texture, reheat in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel or in a skillet with a splash of water over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through and enjoy as if freshly cooked.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

Absolutely! While jasmine or basmati rice works best for fluffiness and aroma, you can experiment with long-grain white rice. Just adjust the water ratio and cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe spicy?

This Instant Pot Spanish Rice Recipe features warm, smoky spices but is not spicy hot. You can easily add chili powder or cayenne if you prefer a kick.

Can I make this recipe on the stove instead of an Instant Pot?

Yes! Saute the rice and spices in a skillet, then simmer covered until the liquid is absorbed. It takes a bit longer but still delivers delicious flavor.

What can I serve with Spanish rice?

Spanish rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, beans, roasted vegetables, or as a filling side for Mexican-inspired dishes like tacos and enchiladas.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Diced bell peppers, peas, or corn can be stirred in before cooking for extra color, texture, and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Making this Instant Pot Spanish Rice Recipe is like unlocking a treasure trove of flavor with minimal effort. Its simplicity, combined with that incredible taste, makes it a perfect side to elevate any meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it one of your go-to recipes for easy homemade dinners!