If you're craving a hearty, tender, and flavor-packed beef brisket but don’t want to spend all day waiting for it to cook, your Instant Pot is about to be your best friend. Brisket, a cut of beef known for its rich flavor, typically takes hours of slow cooking to soften. However, the Instant Pot makes tender, savory brisket achievable in a fraction of the time without compromising on taste or texture. Whether you're planning a family dinner, a casual barbecue, or a comforting meal at home, this Instant Pot beef brisket recipe delivers every time.
Why the Instant Pot Works Wonders for Brisket
Brisket needs both moisture and time to break down its tough fibers and achieve that melt-in-your-mouth effect. The Instant Pot excels here, utilizing its pressure-cooking powers to lock in steam, flavor, and tenderness in under two hours. Plus, it drastically reduces your prep-and-cook time, letting you enjoy brisket whenever the craving strikes.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy and flavorful Instant Pot beef brisket:
- 3–4 lbs beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 cup beef broth
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce, divided (plus more for serving, if desired)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Brisket
Pat the brisket dry with paper towels. Combine the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin in a small bowl. Rub the spice mixture generously all over the brisket to coat it in a flavorful crust.
Step 2: Sear the Brisket
Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function and heat the olive oil. When hot, place the brisket in the pot fat-side down, and sear for 4–5 minutes on each side until browned. This step locks in the flavors. Once browned, remove the brisket and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pot, stirring for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Use their moisture to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—this adds a ton of flavor.
Step 4: Build the Cooking Liquid
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, and stir to combine. Add ½ cup of barbecue sauce, whisking it into the liquid for a smoky-sweet base.
Step 5: Pressure Cook the Brisket
Place the brisket back into the Instant Pot, nestling it into the liquid, and cover with onions. Lock the lid in place and set the valve to "Sealing." Pressure cook on HIGH for 90 minutes. Once the time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, followed by a quick release of any remaining pressure.
Step 6: Add Barbecue Sauce and Broil (Optional)
If you want a caramelized crust, preheat your oven to broil. Remove the brisket from the Instant Pot and place it on a baking sheet. Brush it with the remaining barbecue sauce and broil for 3–5 minutes until the top gets beautifully glazed and slightly crispy.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Transfer the brisket to a cutting board and slice it against the grain into thin strips. Pour a bit of the cooking liquid over the top for extra moisture and flavor.
Key Tips for Success
- Trim Wisely: Leave a thin layer of fat on the brisket for flavor, but remove any thick, excess fatty parts to avoid a greasy texture.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing locks in the flavors and adds depth to the dish. It’s worth the extra few minutes.
- Natural Release is King: Giving the Instant Pot time to release pressure naturally helps ensure tender meat.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allow the brisket to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute for a juicier bite.
Serving Suggestions
This beef brisket pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a warm side of cornbread. For a barbecue-style meal, serve it with coleslaw, baked beans, and extra barbecue sauce on the side. Feeling creative? Use the leftovers in sliders, tacos, or even over a baked potato.
Wrap-Up
Making tender and flavorful beef brisket at home has never been easier, thanks to the Instant Pot. You’ll love how this recipe combines the smokiness of barbecue with the juicy richness of slow-cooked brisket—all in a fraction of the time. Perfect for dinner parties, lazy Sundays, or anytime you want comforting flavors with minimal effort. Give it a try, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
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