Instant Pot Corned Beef Recipe – Tender & Flavorful
Table of Contents
Instant Pot Corned Beef Recipe
Introduction
There’s something deeply comforting about a plate of tender, juicy corned beef, especially when paired with hearty vegetables. The problem? Traditional stovetop or slow-cooker methods can take hours to deliver that fall-apart tenderness. Enter the Instant Pot—your time-saving solution for a flavor-packed, melt-in-your-mouth corned beef that’s ready in a fraction of the time.
If you’ve ever wondered how to cook corned beef in an Instant Pot, or worried about how long to cook corned beef in Instant Pot, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through a foolproof recipe that guarantees perfect results every time.
Why Cook Corned Beef in an Instant Pot?
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s explore why the Instant Pot is the best way to cook corned beef:
✅ Fast & Efficient: Instead of simmering for 3-4 hours on the stovetop, you can enjoy tender corned beef in under 2 hours.
✅ Incredible Flavor: The pressure cooking process infuses the meat with deep, rich flavors.
✅ One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal.
Now, let’s gather our ingredients!
Ingredients for Instant Pot Corned Beef
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Corned beef brisket | 3-4 lbs |
| Water or beef broth | 4 cups |
| Garlic cloves | 3, minced |
| Onion | 1, quartered |
| Carrots | 3, chopped |
| Potatoes | 4, halved |
| Cabbage | 1/2 head, wedged |
| Pickling spices | 1 tbsp (or included spice packet) |
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Corned Beef in Instant Pot
Step 1 – Prepping the Corned Beef
- Remove the corned beef brisket from its packaging and rinse it under cold water. This helps remove excess salt.
- Pat it dry with a paper towel and trim any excess fat if desired.
- Place the brisket into the Instant Pot, fat side up, and sprinkle with the included spice packet or pickling spices.
Step 2 – Cooking the Corned Beef
- Pour in 4 cups of water or beef broth for extra flavor.
- Add onions and garlic to infuse the meat.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid, set to Sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 90 minutes.
- After cooking, allow a Natural Pressure Release (NPR) for 15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Step 3 – Cooking the Vegetables
- Remove the cooked corned beef and let it rest on a cutting board (covered loosely with foil).
- Add carrots, potatoes, and cabbage to the cooking broth in the Instant Pot.
- Set to High Pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a quick release.
Step 4 – Slicing & Serving
- Slice the corned beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Serve with vegetables and spoon some broth over the top for extra moisture.
Tips for the Best Instant Pot Corned Beef
✔ Use broth instead of water for a deeper, more robust flavor.
✔ Let the meat rest before slicing to retain juiciness.
✔ Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for an extra layer of flavor.
✔ Don’t skip the spice packet! It gives that classic corned beef taste.
Variations of Instant Pot Corned Beef Recipe
Want to change things up? Try these fun variations:
🥩 Beer-Braised Corned Beef – Swap out 1 cup of water for dark beer to add a malty, complex flavor.
🌿 Garlic & Herb Corned Beef – Add fresh thyme, rosemary, and extra garlic for a more aromatic dish.
🔥 Spicy Corned Beef – Mix in red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a little kick!
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm slices in a pan with a bit of broth to keep them moist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long to cook corned beef in an Instant Pot?
For a 3-4 lb brisket, set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 90 minutes, then let it naturally release for 15 minutes.
Can I cook frozen corned beef in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Just increase the cook time to 120 minutes on high pressure.
Should I rinse corned beef before cooking?
Rinsing removes some of the excess salt. If you prefer a milder taste, rinse it.
Why is my corned beef tough?
If it’s tough, it needs more cooking time—try pressure cooking for another 10-15 minutes.
Can I make this keto-friendly?
Yes! Skip the potatoes and use cauliflower or turnips instead.
Conclusion
Making corned beef in an Instant Pot is the easiest way to get a tender, juicy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With the right timing, seasonings, and cooking techniques, you’ll have a melt-in-your-mouth dish every time.
Try this Instant Pot corned beef recipe, and let me know how it turned out! Leave a comment, share your tips, or tag us on social media with your delicious creation.
