1-Getting started with this Instant Pot baked beans recipe: First, rinse your 16 ounces of dry navy or pinto beans under cold water to remove any debris. This step helps ensure they cook evenly, even if you’re using the pressure cooker for a quick meal.

2-Next: add the beans to the Instant Pot along with 8 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt. Set the pot to high pressure and cook for about 25 minutes to soften them up. Once done, do a quick release and drain any excess liquid before moving on.

3-Now, switch to sauté mode and cook the 8 slices of bacon until crispy, then add the finely chopped yellow onion and bell pepper. Stir until they soften and release their aroma, which takes just a few minutes. This builds a solid flavor base for your beans.

4-Mix in the remaining ingredients: 2/3 cup of barbecue sauce, 1/2 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of spicy brown mustard, 1/4 cup of cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and another 1/2 cup of water. Stir well to combine everything.

5-Secure the lid and set to high pressure for 15-20 minutes, depending on your texture preference. After cooking, allow a natural release for 10 minutes before opening. Give it a good stir and taste; adjust seasoning if needed for that perfect balance. If you enjoy baking, you might try this method with other favorites, like a chocolate chip cookie recipe for a sweet treat afterward.