Introduction to My Instant Pot Corned Beef Journey
Growing up, a plate of tender corned beef was a rare treat in our house. Every bite felt like a hug from my childhood, but the hours it took to prepare it discouraged me.
Discovering Instant Pot Corned Beef was a game-changer. I could enjoy those same comforting flavors without the day-long waiting. The pressure cooker made the meat juicy, flavorful, and ready in no time.
Now, making Instant Pot Corned Beef has become a weekly ritual. Each time, it fills the house with the warm aroma I loved growing up, bringing the family together instantly.
If you’re curious about other Instant Pot wonders, visit the Instant Pot Recipes Blog for more ideas. Always remember to follow the USDA’s Corned Beef Safety Guidelines when handling meat.
Table of Contents
Why Instant Pot Corned Beef is the Best Comfort Food
Instant Pot Corned Beef Saves Time Without Losing Flavor
Traditional corned beef recipes can take up to eight hours to cook. In an Instant Pot, you enjoy the same rich, deep flavor in just about ninety minutes.
Pressure cooking traps steam inside, helping the brisket stay moist and soak in all the spices fully. It’s tender every single time, without fail.
Instant Pot Corned Beef Guarantees Foolproof Results
You don’t have to be a professional chef to nail this recipe. The Instant Pot controls the temperature perfectly, making it nearly impossible to mess up.
For more tips on handling tougher beef cuts, you might like Beef Cheek Meat, another great Instant Pot project for hearty meat lovers.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Instant Pot Corned Beef
You’ll need a few simple, flavorful ingredients:
- 3–4 lb corned beef brisket (with spice packet included)
- 4 cups water or beef broth
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 lb baby potatoes
- 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 small cabbage, quartered
Always rinse the brisket thoroughly under cold water before cooking to remove excess salt and brine.
Choosing the Best Cut for Instant Pot Corned Beef
For the best results, select a brisket flat cut. It holds shape nicely and slices beautifully. Point cuts are more marbled and juicy if you like extra tenderness.
Both cuts perform wonderfully under pressure cooking, making Instant Pot Corned Beef juicy and flavorful every time.
Spices to Enhance Instant Pot Corned Beef Flavor
Use the seasoning packet that comes with your brisket for a traditional taste. For deeper flavors, add extra peppercorns, bay leaves, mustard seeds, and a few cloves.
Experimenting slightly with spices keeps your Instant Pot Corned Beef exciting and fresh with every batch you prepare.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Instant Pot Corned Beef
Follow these steps carefully for flawless results:
- Prepare the Brisket: Rinse it under cold water and pat dry.
- Set Up the Pot: Place the trivet into your Instant Pot and add the onions and garlic.
- Add the Meat: Set the brisket on the trivet, fat side up, and sprinkle over the spice packet.
- Pour the Broth: Add enough broth to almost cover the brisket, around four cups.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the lid and set to High Pressure for 90 minutes.
- Natural Release: Let the pressure release naturally for about 20 minutes before opening the pot.
- Cook the Vegetables: Remove the beef and add potatoes, carrots, and cabbage. Cook for 3 minutes under High Pressure.
- Slice and Serve: Always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Tips for the Best Instant Pot Corned Beef
Always allow the pot to release pressure naturally. Quick-releasing steam may toughen the meat, leaving you with chewy results rather than tender slices.
Always slice across the grain, not with it. This simple trick dramatically improves the tenderness of your Instant Pot Corned Beef.
Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Instant Pot Corned Beef
Do not add too much liquid; just enough to almost cover the meat is perfect. Also, avoid overpacking the pot with veggies at the beginning.
Cook vegetables separately after the meat finishes. This ensures they remain firm and flavorful, not soggy or overcooked.
Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Corned Beef
Classic Pairings for Instant Pot Corned Beef
Boiled cabbage, buttery baby potatoes, and glazed carrots are timeless partners for Instant Pot Corned Beef. They make every bite taste like home.
Want more options? Check out Side Dishes to Pair with Rich Beef for delicious inspiration that perfectly complements this dish.
Healthy and Fresh Sides for Instant Pot Corned Beef
If you’re aiming for lighter sides, roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed spinach make great alternatives. They balance the richness beautifully.
Don’t forget to explore the Health Benefits of Cabbage if you’re serving it alongside your Instant Pot Corned Beef for an extra nutritional boost.
Instant Pot Corned Beef FAQs
Is corned beef good in the Instant Pot?
Yes, Instant Pot corned beef is incredibly good! Pressure cooking locks in moisture and flavor, making the beef tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned in much less time than traditional methods.
Why is my corned beef not tender enough in the Instant Pot?
If your Instant Pot corned beef isn’t tender, it likely needs more cooking time or a longer natural pressure release. Always let the pressure release naturally to ensure soft, fork-tender results.
Should corned beef be covered in liquid in an Instant Pot?
No, corned beef in the Instant Pot should not be fully submerged. Add enough broth or water to cover about two-thirds of the brisket, which keeps it moist without boiling it.
Is it better to pressure cook or slow cook corned beef?
Pressure cooking corned beef in the Instant Pot is faster and produces just as tender and flavorful results as slow cooking, making it the preferred method for busy kitchens.
Conclusion: Bring Comfort Home with Instant Pot Corned Beef
Making Instant Pot Corned Beef at home brings nostalgic flavors back into our busy lives without the long wait. It’s an easy, satisfying recipe perfect for any day.
Pressure cooking locks in tenderness, flavor, and tradition in every bite. Plus, it leaves you with plenty of time to enjoy your meal with family and friends.
If hearty comfort foods are your style, try my easy Chicken and Dumpling Casserole next — it’s another soul-warming classic you’ll love.
Don’t wait for St. Patrick’s Day. Bring this unforgettable Instant Pot Corned Beef into your kitchen today and create delicious memories!
PrintInstant Pot Corned Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: Serves 6
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Instant Pot Corned Beef recipe delivers perfectly tender brisket packed with rich flavor, using simple ingredients and fast pressure cooking. A hearty, comforting classic made easier for busy cooks.
Ingredients
- 3–4 lb corned beef brisket with spice packet
- 4 cups beef broth or water
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 lb baby potatoes, whole
- 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 small head cabbage, quartered
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
Instructions
- Rinse corned beef brisket under cold water to remove excess salt.
- Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot and add onions and garlic at the bottom.
- Set the corned beef on top of the trivet, sprinkle the included spice packet evenly.
- Pour beef broth into the pot until it almost covers the meat.
- Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on High Pressure for 90 minutes.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally for 20 minutes before opening the lid.
- Remove corned beef and cover loosely with foil to rest.
- Add potatoes, carrots, and cabbage to the Instant Pot liquid.
- Cook vegetables on High Pressure for 3 minutes, then quick release.
- Slice corned beef brisket against the grain and serve with vegetables.
Notes
- Always slice Instant Pot Corned Beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Substitute baby potatoes with sweet potatoes for a fun twist.
- Add extra peppercorns for a spicier Instant Pot Corned Beef flavor.
- Use leftover corned beef to make delicious Reuben sandwiches the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1350mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: instant pot corned beef, pressure cooker corned beef, easy instant pot corned beef, best instant pot corned beef, corned beef brisket recipe, instant pot brisket, instant pot recipes