Name: Instant Pot Ground Beef
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 32 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 2-4 pounds frozen ground beef; 1 cup beef broth

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Whenever I think of comfort food, Instant Pot Ground Beef comes to mind. There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty meal that comes together in a flash. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a hectic weeknight, and I needed something quick yet filling. With my trusty Instant Pot, I could whip up a delicious meal in no time. As the flavors melded together, I could already envision how my family would gather around the table, their faces lighting up at the first bite. Whether it’s for tacos or a savory pasta dish, this recipe has become a staple in my home. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
37 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
32 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
26 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Instant Pot

Why This Instant Pot Ground Beef Stands Out

Convenience at Its Best

One of the main reasons I love Instant Pot Ground Beef is how quick and easy it is to prepare. You can throw in your ingredients and let the pressure cooker do all the work. In just 22 minutes of cooking, you’ll have perfectly cooked beef that’s ready to be used in various recipes.

Versatility

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can use the cooked beef in tacos, chili, casseroles, or even spaghetti sauce. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a fantastic way to use up ingredients in your fridge.

Flavor-Packed

While the recipe is simple, it’s packed with flavor. The beef cooks in a rich broth, absorbing all the deliciousness along the way. You can easily customize the flavor profile by adding seasonings like taco seasoning or garlic. Your taste buds will thank you!

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to simplify your week, this recipe is a meal prep dream. You can easily double or triple the batch and store it for later. Just portion it out and freeze it for quick meals during the week.

Family-Friendly

Kids love this dish, which makes it a winner in my household. The flavors are mild enough for younger palates, and you can always spice it up for adults. It’s a dish that brings everyone together!

What to Gather for Instant Pot Ground Beef

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Instant Pot Ground Beef a success. This dish relies on just a few quality ingredients that work harmoniously together. The star of the show is, of course, the ground beef, which provides protein and heartiness. The beef broth adds depth of flavor, ensuring that your dish is never bland. These ingredients combine to create a meal that’s satisfying, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

2-4 pounds frozen ground beef: This is the main ingredient, providing the protein base for the dish. Using frozen beef is great for convenience, as it allows you to prepare the meal without thawing it first.
1 cup beef broth: This rich liquid infuses flavor into the ground beef, making it juicy and delicious. It helps create a savory sauce that makes every bite delightful.

Cooking Method for Instant Pot Ground Beef

Cooking Instant Pot Ground Beef is not only straightforward but also truly enjoyable. You’ll love how effortlessly everything comes together and the time it saves you in the kitchen! Let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to a perfectly cooked beef dish.

Add the frozen ground beef to the Instant Pot. It may seem strange to add it directly from the freezer, but trust the process!
Pour the beef broth over the top, ensuring that the meat is partially submerged. This will help keep it moist during cooking.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to seal. This is crucial for building pressure. You wouldn’t want to lose all that juicy goodness!
Set the pot to cook at high pressure for 22 minutes. This short cooking time is enough to ensure the beef is thoroughly cooked and tender.
Once the cooking time is up, allow the pot to naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes. This step is vital as it lets the beef rest and ensures a juicier texture.
After the natural release, manually release any remaining pressure by turning the valve. Be careful of the steam!
Open the lid and use a wooden spoon to break the ground beef into smaller pieces. This will create a nice texture and help it absorb more flavors.
Drain any excess liquid if necessary, then store the beef in an airtight container until you’re ready to use it. You can also enjoy it right away!

Things Worth Knowing

Use a quality broth: The flavor of your broth can significantly affect the final dish. Opt for a rich, high-quality beef broth for the best results.
Don’t rush the natural release: Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure helps retain moisture in the beef, preventing it from becoming dry.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add your spices or herbs into the broth before cooking. This is a great way to customize the dish to your taste.
Storing properly: Store any leftover cooked beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or in the freezer for up to four months.

Recipe Variations about Instant Pot Ground Beef

There are numerous ways to enjoy Instant Pot Ground Beef. These tips will help you explore different flavors and styles that will make this dish your own. Here are some exciting variations to consider!

Spicy Beef: Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to the beef before cooking for a spicy kick.
Herbed Beef: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme after cooking for a burst of fresh flavor.
Beef Tacos: Use the cooked beef as a filling for tacos. Top with cheese, salsa, or avocado for a delicious meal.
Ground Beef Chili: Add canned tomatoes, beans, and chili spices for a comforting chili variation.
Beef and Rice: Mix the cooked beef with rice, broth, and veggies for a hearty one-pot meal.
Freezing: Portion cooked beef into containers and freeze for easy meal prep on busy days.
Storage: Store cooked beef in the fridge for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.

Serving This Instant Pot Ground Beef

Serving Instant Pot Ground Beef is as versatile as the recipe itself. Here are some wonderful ideas to accompany this dish, ensuring it’s both satisfying and delightful!

Taco Night: Use the beef as a filling for tacos, adding toppings like cheese, lettuce, and salsa for a fun family meal.
Over Rice: Serve the beef over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, drizzled with extra broth for added flavor.
As a Chili Base: Turn the beef into a hearty chili by adding canned beans, tomatoes, and spices.
Stuffed Peppers: Mix the beef with rice and cheese, then stuff into halved bell peppers and bake.
Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or cornbread for a complete meal.
Meal Prep: Portion out servings into containers for quick heat-and-eat lunches throughout the week.
Seasonal Options: This dish is perfect for cozy winter evenings or quick summer meals, making it a year-round favorite.

FAQ

Yes, you can definitely use fresh ground beef instead of frozen. If you choose to do so, the cooking time will be reduced to approximately 15 minutes at high pressure. Fresh beef cooks faster, so be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. The Instant Pot is versatile, allowing you to adapt this recipe based on your preferences!

The possibilities with cooked ground beef are endless! You can use it in tacos, burritos, chili, pasta sauces, or even casseroles. It’s a very versatile ingredient that works well in a variety of dishes. The best part is that you can prepare larger batches and freeze them for quick meals throughout the week!

Storing leftovers is simple! Allow the cooked ground beef to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it in portion sizes for up to four months. Just make sure to label the containers with the date for reference!

Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as chopped onions, bell peppers, or even zucchini before cooking the ground beef. Just be mindful that adding too many extra ingredients may require adjustments in cooking time. The Instant Pot is great for incorporating vegetables into your meals, making it even more nutritious!

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Ground Beef recipe is a true gem for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful meal option. Its versatility makes it a fantastic choice for family dinners, meal prep, or even a late-night snack. I encourage you to try it today and see how this simple dish can elevate your everyday meals!