If you’re a fan of cozy, heartwarming meals, you’re going to love this instant pot corned beef recipe. Picture tender, juicy meat infused with savory spices and a burst of rich, comforting flavors that make every bite feel like a warm embrace. Whether you’re whipping up breakfast, lunch, dinner, or planning ahead for snack time, this recipe delivers a delightful experience that fits into any meal of the day.
Why This Dish is a Go-To
Instant pot corned beef has become a beloved staple in my kitchen, offering that perfect balance of hearty comfort and versatile appeal. Its robust flavors and tender texture transform any meal into an indulgent yet satisfying experience. From busy weekday dinners to leisurely weekend brunches, this dish adapts beautifully to a variety of diets and tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets this instant pot corned beef recipe apart is its unique preparation method that harnesses the power of the Instant Pot to lock in all the natural juices and flavors. Unlike traditional slow-cooking methods, this twist gives you a dish that’s ready in a fraction of the time without compromising on that mouth-watering taste and tender fall-off-the-bone texture.
Easy to Customize
One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily tweak the spices, add extra vegetables, or incorporate a zesty glaze when finishing the dish. Some of my favorite variations include adding a touch of Dijon mustard for an extra kick or experimenting with sweet potatoes for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to make this instant pot corned beef your own masterpiece!
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Step 1: Prep Key Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients: quality corned beef, a medley of aromatics like garlic and onions, and a blend of spices including bay leaves, peppercorns, and mustard seeds. Chop any vegetables you plan to add, and if you prefer, marinate your beef briefly to let those flavors seep in before cooking.
Step 2: Core Flavor Builders
Next, let the magic begin by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Toast the spices lightly with a splash of oil and sauté the aromatics until they’re fragrant and slightly caramelized. This step is crucial for building those deep, layered flavors that define an unforgettable instant pot corned beef.
Step 3: Cook or Assemble
Add your prepared corned beef and any additional vegetables to the pot. Pour in beef broth and a hint of your favorite vinegar to enhance the tangy notes. Seal the lid and let the Instant Pot work its magic—pressure-cooking the ingredients until the meat is delectably tender. This typically takes about 90 minutes, but keep an eye on it and adjust the timing based on your Instant Pot model and personal texture preference.
Step 4: Final Touches
Once the cooking cycle is complete, release the pressure slowly and carefully. Open the lid to reveal a dish that looks as inviting as it smells—rich, succulent corned beef nestled among perfectly softened vegetables. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a dash of hot sauce over the top before serving.
Storage & Serving Tips
This instant pot corned beef is not only a treat when freshly made but also a convenient option for meal prep. Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage. When reheating, simply warm it up in a pan on low heat or in the microwave, ensuring it retains its tender texture and lush flavors. It’s perfect for those busy days when you need a quick, comforting meal on-the-go.
Add-Ons & Toppings
Elevate your instant pot corned beef experience with a variety of add-ons. Consider serving it with a tangy horseradish sauce, a dollop of freshly made mustard, or even a sprinkle of crispy fried onions. You can also enjoy it on top of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh, rustic bread that makes every bite a celebration of flavor and texture.
This instant pot corned beef is a celebration of rich, savory flavors and a tender texture that promises to brighten up your mealtime. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a must-try recipe for anyone who loves a hearty, comforting dish with a modern twist. Gather your friends or family, invite them into your warm kitchen, and give this recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite go-to meal!
Instant Pot Corned Beef
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 medium yellow or white onion cut into 5 or 6 chunks
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 11.2 ounce bottle Guinness beer (Guinness Draught)
- 3½ to 4 pounds corned beef brisket or round with pickling spice packet
- 1 pound baby gold or red potatoes fingerling potatoes work well too
- 4 large carrots
- 1 small head green cabbage
- 3 tablespoons butter
- fine ground sea salt to taste
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- ¼ cup whole grain mustard optional for dipping
Instructions
- Add the beef broth, onion, and garlic to the insert of a 6- to 8-quart Instant Pot.
- Place the brisket on top of the mixture, fat side up.
- Pour the beer over the top and sprinkle the corned beef with the pickling spices.
- Close and lock the lid. Select MANUAL or PRESSURE COOK setting, toggle to HIGH, and set the time for 1 hour and 25 minutes.
- When the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to do a natural release for 10 minutes and then manually release any remaining pressure.
- Meanwhile, slice the core end of the cabbage off and place the cabbage cut side down so you have a stable base.
- Slice the cabbage in half and then cut each half in quarters. You should end up with 8 chunks of cabbage.
- Slice the potatoes in half. Peel and cut the carrots into large 3-inch chunks.
- Transfer the corned beef to a cutting board and tent with a piece of foil to keep it warm.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove and discard the onions, leaving the cooking liquid behind in the Instant Pot.
- Add the potatoes and carrots to the Instant Pot and place the cabbage wedges on top.
- Close and lock the lid. Select MANUAL or PRESSURE COOK setting, toggle to HIGH, and set the time for 5 minutes.
- When finished cooking, quick release the pressure.
- Slice the fat layer off the top of the corned beef and then slice the corned beef against the grain and transfer to a serving platter.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the potatoes, carrots, and cabbage to the serving platter with the corned beef or to a separate bowl.
- Toss the veggies with butter, season to taste with salt and pepper, and garnish with parsley.
- Serve with grainy mustard on the side.