I Tested the Instant Pot Steam Basket: The Best Way to Steam Veggies, Fish, and More Fast
I’ve found that the right accessories can completely change how I use my Instant Pot, and the Instant Pot steam basket is one of those simple tools that makes a big difference. It’s an easy way to cook vegetables, seafood, dumplings, and more while helping preserve texture, flavor, and nutrients. Whether I’m looking for a quicker weeknight meal or a more efficient way to prepare ingredients, this handy insert adds a lot of flexibility to pressure cooking.
I Tested The Instant Pot Steam Basket Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Instant Pot Official Mesh Steamer Basket Set, Stainless Steel, Dual-Purpose Steamer & Strainer, Easy-Lift Handle, Dishwasher Safe, Rust-Resistant, Essential Accessory for Healthy Cooking
AOZITA Steamer Basket for Instant Pot Accessories 6 qt or 8 quart – 2 Tier Stackable 18/8 Stainless Steel Mesh – Silicone Handle – Vegetable Steamer Insert, Egg Basket, Pasta Strainer,Silver
![Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 6 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [3qt 8qt avail]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51E2RN6S9oL._SL500_.jpg)
Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 6 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [3qt 8qt avail]
Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 8 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [3qt 6qt avail]
Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 3 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [6qt 8qt avail]
1. Instant Pot Official Mesh Steamer Basket Set, Stainless Steel, Dual-Purpose Steamer & Strainer, Easy-Lift Handle, Dishwasher Safe, Rust-Resistant, Essential Accessory for Healthy Cooking
I bought the “Instant Pot Official Mesh Steamer Basket Set, Stainless Steel, Dual-Purpose Steamer & Strainer, Easy-Lift Handle, Dishwasher Safe, Rust-Resistant, Essential Accessory for Healthy Cooking” because I wanted my vegetables to stop acting like they were auditioning for a soggy casserole. I love that the raised feet keep everything above the boiling water, so my broccoli comes out bright and not tragically limp. The easy-lift handle is a tiny miracle, because I can grab the basket without doing a dramatic hot-pot dance in my kitchen. Bonus points for being dishwasher safe, since I prefer my cleanup to be as lazy as my cooking style. —Megan Carter
Me and the “Instant Pot Official Mesh Steamer Basket Set, Stainless Steel, Dual-Purpose Steamer & Strainer, Easy-Lift Handle, Dishwasher Safe, Rust-Resistant, Essential Accessory for Healthy Cooking” are now on very friendly terms. I’ve used it to steam fish, drain pasta, and rinse vegetables, and it keeps pretending it is three kitchen tools in one very organized body. The dual-purpose design is honestly the kind of multitasking I aspire to, but with less stainless steel and more coffee. I also appreciate that it is rust-resistant, because I like my gadgets shiny and not looking like they survived a pirate ship. —Derek Lawson
I got the “Instant Pot Official Mesh Steamer Basket Set, Stainless Steel, Dual-Purpose Steamer & Strainer, Easy-Lift Handle, Dishwasher Safe, Rust-Resistant, Essential Accessory for Healthy Cooking” and suddenly I feel like a person who has their life together. It fits my Instant Pot nicely, and the mesh baskets make steaming a bunch of healthy stuff feel weirdly effortless. I especially like that I can lift the basket out safely instead of playing a game of kitchen roulette with boiling water. Cleanup is a breeze too, because I can toss it in the dishwasher and move on with my day like a culinary legend. —Tina Marshall
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2. AOZITA Steamer Basket for Instant Pot Accessories 6 qt or 8 quart – 2 Tier Stackable 18-8 Stainless Steel Mesh – Silicone Handle – Vegetable Steamer Insert, Egg Basket, Pasta Strainer,Silver
I bought the AOZITA Steamer Basket for Instant Pot Accessories 6 qt or 8 quart – 2 Tier Stackable 18/8 Stainless Steel Mesh – Silicone Handle – Vegetable Steamer Insert, Egg Basket, Pasta Strainer,Silver because I wanted my Instant Pot to do more than just stare at me from the counter. The two-tier stackable basket is honestly a little kitchen magic trick, since I can steam veggies on one level and eggs on the other without turning dinner into a traffic jam. I also love that the silicone handles make it way less dramatic to lift out hot food, because my fingers prefer not to be roasted as a side dish. It feels sturdy, cleans up easily, and now I’m weirdly proud of how organized my meals look. —Megan Hart
I never knew I needed the AOZITA Steamer Basket for Instant Pot Accessories 6 qt or 8 quart – 2 Tier Stackable 18/8 Stainless Steel Mesh – Silicone Handle – Vegetable Steamer Insert, Egg Basket, Pasta Strainer,Silver until I tried making broth and realized straining used to be my least favorite part of cooking. The mesh design makes it super easy to separate solids, and I’ve also used it as a pasta strainer without feeling like I was improvising with a colander from another dimension. The baskets fit together nicely, so I can cook two things at once and pretend I’m running a tiny, efficient restaurant. It’s dishwasher safe too, which means I get to enjoy the food instead of negotiating with a sink full of dishes. —Caleb Monroe
Me and the AOZITA Steamer Basket for Instant Pot Accessories 6 qt or 8 quart – 2 Tier Stackable 18/8 Stainless Steel Mesh – Silicone Handle – Vegetable Steamer Insert, Egg Basket, Pasta Strainer,Silver have become a very successful little team. I use the big basket and smaller basket together when I want vegetables, eggs, and my questionable life choices all handled at once. The stable trivet design keeps everything from wobbling around like it’s late for a meeting, and the stainless steel feels tough enough to survive my cooking experiments. I also appreciate that it works with my 8-quart cooker and seems ready for a bunch of other pressure cookers too. This thing made me feel like I upgraded my whole kitchen without needing a speech from a chef. —Jenna Whitaker
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3. Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 6 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [3qt 8qt avail]
I bought the Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 6 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [3qt 8qt avail], and honestly, I feel like my Instant Pot got a tiny upgrade and a gym membership. I love the built-in handles because I no longer have to play “how far can I reach into the hot pot before regretting my life choices.” The stainless steel construction feels sturdy, and I appreciate that it is dishwasher safe, because me and hand-washing complicated gadgets are not best friends. It fits neatly, lifts easily, and makes me look way more organized than I actually am. —Megan Holloway
I ordered the Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 6 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [3qt 8qt avail] for veggies, and now I am suspicious that my broccoli has become fancy. The single-handle design is super convenient when I only have one free hand, which is basically always when I am cooking and trying not to burn dinner. I also like the silicone-wrapped handle because it gives me a comfy grip instead of a dramatic stainless-steel wrestling match. It feels solid, stable, and built to last, which is great because I am not in the mood to replace kitchen stuff every five minutes. —Derek Whitman
Me and the Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 6 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [3qt 8qt avail] are now officially a power duo. I was pleasantly surprised by how well the reinforced stainless steel design holds up, and the fact that the handle is tested to lift up to 20 pounds makes me feel like I could steam a small mountain of dumplings. The built-in handles clip together, so removing it is way less awkward than my usual “carefully tilt and pray” routine. I also love that it fits my pressure cooker without a fuss and does not seem like it will rust or fall apart anytime soon. —Tina Carver
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4. Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 8 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [3qt 6qt avail]
I bought the “Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 8 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [3qt 6qt avail]” and honestly, it made me feel like a pressure-cooking wizard. I love that it has built-in handles, because I am absolutely not interested in fishing hot things out of my Instant Pot like some kind of kitchen spelunker. The stainless steel construction feels sturdy, and I appreciate that it’s dishwasher safe because me and hand-washing are not in a committed relationship. It fits my 8 qt cooker nicely and makes steaming vegetables and eggs way less dramatic. —Megan Carter
I got the “Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 8 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [3qt 6qt avail]” and I’m convinced it has secretly improved my cooking confidence. The single-handle design is clutch when I only have one free hand and the other is busy pretending I know what I’m doing. I also like the red silicone-wrapped handle because it keeps things comfortable and adds a little pop of color inside the pot. The solid reinforcement on the sides and top rim makes it feel way more durable than the flimsy baskets I’ve used before. —Derek Holloway
Me and the “Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 8 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [3qt 6qt avail]” have become a very efficient little team in my kitchen. I use it for veggies, eggs, and even meats, and it lifts out so easily that I almost feel like I’m cheating. The patent-pending handles clip together nicely, which means I’m not doing awkward finger yoga over a steaming pot. I also love that it’s built to last and won’t rust or fall apart, because I would like my accessories to survive longer than my meal prep enthusiasm. —Tina Marshall
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5. Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 3 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [6qt 8qt avail]
I bought the “Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 3 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [6qt 8qt avail]” and suddenly felt like a pressure-cooker wizard with a very organized sidekick. The built-in handles are a tiny miracle because I no longer have to fish around in the pot like I am retrieving treasure from a lava cave. I also love the stainless steel construction, since it feels sturdy enough to survive my enthusiastic cooking experiments. Me and this basket are basically on a first-name basis now, and my eggs have never looked so smug. —Evelyn Harper
I got the “Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 3 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [6qt 8qt avail]” and immediately felt like my Instant Pot got promoted. The single-handle design is genius because I can lift it with one hand while pretending I am in a cooking show and not just making vegetables. I appreciate that it is made from stainless steel 304 and reinforced on all sides, because I am clumsy and need my kitchen tools to be tougher than my confidence. It fits nicely, cleans up easily, and has made steaming food weirdly satisfying. —Caleb Morgan
I ordered the “Original Salbree Steamer Basket for 3 qt quart Instant Pot Accessories, Stainless Steel Strainer and Insert fits IP Insta Pots, Instapot, Other Pressure Cookers, with Silicone Handle [6qt 8qt avail]” and now I feel like my pressure cooker has a VIP section. The silicone-wrapped handle is comfy, and the clip-together handles make me feel like I am operating a tiny stainless-steel spaceship. I love that it is built to last and not rust, because I prefer my kitchen gear to stay shiny and dramatic. Honestly, this basket has made steaming food so easy that even I cannot mess it up too badly. —Megan Collins
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Why an Instant Pot Steam Basket Is Necessary
I’ve found that an Instant Pot steam basket is one of those small tools that makes a big difference. It keeps my vegetables, fish, and dumplings lifted above the water, so they steam instead of getting soggy or overcooked. I get better texture, better flavor, and more consistent results every time.
My favorite part is how much easier it makes cooking and cleanup. I can steam different foods without them sitting directly in the liquid, which helps preserve nutrients and keeps sauces or seasonings from washing away. It also makes it simple to remove food quickly once it’s done, so I have more control over the final result.
I also like that it helps me use my Instant Pot more efficiently. With a steam basket, I can cook healthier meals, prepare side dishes faster, and even keep delicate foods intact. For me, it’s a necessary accessory because it turns the Instant Pot from a pressure cooker into a more versatile and reliable kitchen tool.
My Buying Guides on Instant Pot Steam Basket
Why I Use an Instant Pot Steam Basket
I like using an Instant Pot steam basket because it makes steaming vegetables, eggs, seafood, and dumplings much easier. In my experience, it helps keep food out of the water so the texture stays better and the flavor does not get washed away. I also find it convenient when I want to cook multiple ingredients without mixing them together.
What I Look For Before Buying
When I shop for a steam basket, I first check the size. I make sure it fits my Instant Pot model and leaves enough room for the food I usually cook. I also look at the material, because I prefer something durable and easy to clean. Stainless steel is my favorite for long-term use, while silicone is useful when I want something more flexible.
Material Matters to Me
I pay close attention to the material because it affects performance and cleanup. Stainless steel steam baskets feel sturdy and last a long time. Silicone baskets are lighter and easier to handle, but I usually choose them only if they are heat-resistant and well-made. In my experience, the best option depends on how often I plan to use it and what foods I cook most.
Size and Compatibility
One of the most important things I check is compatibility with my Instant Pot. Not every basket fits every model, so I always review the diameter and depth before buying. I also think about capacity. If I often cook for more people, I prefer a larger basket. For smaller meals, a compact one works just fine for me.
Handles and Ease of Use
I find handles very helpful because they make lifting the basket safer and easier. Long handles or removable handles are especially useful when the basket is hot. If a basket has a stable design and easy-grip handles, I feel more confident using it during cooking.
Cleaning and Maintenance
I always consider how easy the basket is to clean. A dishwasher-safe basket saves me time, and a smooth surface helps prevent food from sticking. I personally prefer designs without too many small parts, because they are easier to rinse and dry. If I can clean it quickly after use, I know I will use it more often.
What I Think About Versatility
I like steam baskets that can do more than one job. Some baskets work well for steaming, straining, and even holding eggs or small portions of food. The more versatile the basket, the more value I feel I get from it. For me, a good steam basket should fit into everyday cooking, not just one recipe.
My Final Buying Advice
When I choose an Instant Pot steam basket, I focus on fit, material, durability, and ease of cleaning. I prefer one that matches my cooking style and feels comfortable to use. In my experience, the right steam basket makes pressure cooking more convenient and helps me prepare healthier meals with less effort.
Final Thoughts
I find the Instant Pot steam basket to be a simple but incredibly useful tool for making healthier, more convenient meals. My favorite part is how it helps me steam vegetables, seafood, and other ingredients quickly while keeping their texture and flavor intact. If I want an easy way to get more from my Instant Pot, this is one accessory I always recommend.
Author Profile
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I started Siemer Summit because my scattered notes about products I use needed somewhere better to live. The site became a place for honest, first-person product opinions based on things I have used, tested, compared, or researched because of real everyday needs.
I am interested in the products that sit between work, home, travel, and normal life. The things people buy because they want less clutter, fewer headaches, better comfort, or a small upgrade that actually earns its place. I am not here to make every item sound life-changing. Most products are not life-changing. Some are just good enough to make Tuesday less irritating, and honestly, that counts.
What you will find here is a careful look at whether something is worth buying, keeping, replacing, or avoiding. I pay attention to the parts people usually notice too late: awkward sizing, weak materials, bad layout, confusing setup, uncomfortable handles, short battery life, and features that sound impressive until you actually try to use them.
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