Instant Pot Classic Ground Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Using the Instant Pot makes cooking ground beef incredibly efficient—no need to babysit a skillet or drain off excess fat. This method is hands-off, easy to customize with your favorite seasonings, and perfect for batch cooking. Whether you’re in a rush or planning meals ahead, this is a simple go-to that saves both time and effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (preferably 80/20 or 85/15)
• Onion (chopped, optional)
• Garlic (minced, optional)
• Beef broth or water
• Olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
• Salt
• Pepper
• Optional seasonings: paprika, cumin, chili powder, Italian seasoning, or taco seasoning

Directions

1. Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add a splash of olive oil if desired, then add ground beef.
2. Break up the meat with a spatula and cook for a few minutes until it starts to brown. Add onions and garlic if using.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices.
4. Once the beef is partially browned, press “Cancel.” Add about ½ cup of broth or water to the pot.
5. Lock the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” on high for 5 minutes.
6. Once done, do a quick release of pressure.
7. Open the lid, stir, and use a slotted spoon to serve. Drain if necessary.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings (1 pound of ground beef).
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Taco Beef: Add taco seasoning and a splash of salsa or tomato sauce for a taco-night base.
• Italian Style: Stir in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a bit of marinara sauce for pasta dishes.
• Sloppy Joe Style: Mix in ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce after cooking for a quick sloppy joe mix.
• Spicy Beef: Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for heat.
• Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms while sautéing for added nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooked ground beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Do I need to drain the beef?

If you’re using higher-fat beef, you may want to drain excess grease after cooking. Using lean beef or blotting with a paper towel can reduce fat without draining.

Can I cook frozen ground beef in the Instant Pot?

Yes, use the trivet and add 1 cup of water. Pressure cook for 20 minutes, then break up and sauté to finish.

How do I keep the beef from sticking?

Use a bit of oil during sautéing and stir frequently. Deglaze the pot with broth or water before pressure cooking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and cook for the same time. Make sure not to exceed the Instant Pot’s max fill line.

What’s the best beef-to-fat ratio?

An 80/20 or 85/15 blend offers great flavor and moisture. Leaner beef works well too, especially for lighter meals.

Can I add sauce directly to the beef?

Yes, you can stir in pasta sauce, taco sauce, or other condiments after pressure cooking for a quick meal.

Is it better to brown the beef first?

Yes, browning adds flavor and improves texture, though you can skip it in a pinch and just pressure cook.

What kind of broth should I use?

Beef broth adds flavor, but water works fine too—especially if you’re seasoning heavily afterward.

Can I use ground turkey instead?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works just as well—just be careful not to overcook, as they’re leaner meats.

Can I season the beef after cooking?

Yes, especially if you’re using the beef in multiple recipes. Keep it plain during cooking, then season to match the dish.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Classic Ground Beef is a simple, reliable recipe that makes mealtime easier and faster. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you get juicy, flavorful beef ready for tacos, pasta, casseroles, and more. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a quick dinner, this method will quickly become a kitchen staple.

Instant Pot Classic Ground Beef

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Instant Pot Classic Ground Beef is a quick and reliable way to prepare juicy, flavorful beef with minimal cleanup. Perfect for tacos, pasta, casseroles, or meal prep, this method is efficient and customizable.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Instant Pot
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
• 1/2 cup beef broth or water
• 1 small onion, chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Optional seasonings: 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, or taco seasoning to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Set Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add olive oil (if using) and ground beef.
2. Break up the beef with a spatula and cook until it begins to brown, about 3–5 minutes. Add onion and garlic if using.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
4. Press “Cancel.” Add 1/2 cup of broth or water to the pot.
5. Secure the lid and set to “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” on high for 5 minutes.
6. When finished, do a quick pressure release.
7. Open the lid, stir the beef, and drain excess liquid if needed. Serve or use in desired recipes.

Notes

• Browning first adds flavor, but you can skip it for convenience.
• Double the recipe with the same cook time—don’t exceed max fill line.
• Store cooked beef plain for versatility in other dishes.
• Use beef broth for richer flavor, or water to keep it neutral.
• Add sauces or vegetables after pressure cooking for more variety.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 lb
• Calories: 240
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 330mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 19g
• Cholesterol: 65mg