Hearty, Tender, and Ready in a Fraction of the Time
Introduction: A Taste of Tradition, the Fast Way
Corned beef Instant Pot recipe lovers, rejoice—this quick and flavorful twist on a traditional dish is here to warm your kitchen and heart. Every winter, my home fills with the comforting aroma of corned beef, just like it did in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. Though my roots are Italian, our Irish-American neighbors would always invite us to their annual St. Patrick’s Day dinner—a celebration I came to cherish.
What once required hours of stovetop simmering can now be ready in a fraction of the time with the Instant Pot. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or craving a cozy solo dinner, this recipe delivers the classic, savory goodness with modern-day ease.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes (including pressure buildup and release)
- Total Time: Approx. 1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 to 6
🧾 Ingredients
For the Corned Beef:
- 3 to 4 lb corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
- 4 cups beef broth or water
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
For the Vegetables:
- 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 6 baby potatoes or 3 medium potatoes, halved
- ½ head green cabbage, cut into wedges
🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot
Place the trivet in the bottom of the Instant Pot. Pour in the beef broth (or water) and add onion, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns.
Step 2: Add the Corned Beef
Place the corned beef brisket on top of the trivet. Sprinkle the included spice packet over the top.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to Manual/High Pressure for 85 minutes.
Step 4: Natural Release
Once the cooking time is done, let the pressure naturally release for 15–20 minutes. Then carefully turn the valve to release any remaining pressure.
Step 5: Add Vegetables
Remove the corned beef and wrap it in foil to rest. Add potatoes, carrots, and cabbage to the Instant Pot. Set to Manual/High Pressure for 5 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Slice the rested corned beef against the grain. Serve with vegetables and a bit of the flavorful broth spooned over top.
🥣 Tips & Variations
- For Extra Flavor: Use a mix of beef broth and Guinness stout for deeper taste.
- Make it Low-Carb: Swap potatoes with turnips or cauliflower.
- Add Mustard Glaze: After cooking, brush the beef with Dijon mustard and broil for a crisp finish.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I cook frozen corned beef in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! Just add 20–30 extra minutes to the pressure cooking time. The seasoning packet can go in frozen, but you may want to run warm water over the beef to remove excess ice first.
What cut of corned beef is best for this recipe?
The flat cut is leaner and slices more neatly, making it ideal for presentation. The point cut has more marbling and tends to be juicier. Either works great in the Instant Pot.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Corned beef reheats well and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Store in broth to keep it moist.
Do I need to rinse corned beef before cooking?
It’s optional. Rinsing removes some of the saltiness, so if you’re sensitive to sodium, a quick rinse under cold water is a good idea.
How do I prevent mushy vegetables?
Always cook vegetables after the meat. If cooked together from the start, they’ll become overly soft. A quick 5-minute high-pressure session is all they need.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Pair this corned beef instant pot recipe with warm Irish soda bread, a crisp green salad, or even creamy horseradish sauce. It’s perfect for a casual weeknight or festive holiday table.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Corned beef freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to maintain tenderness.
- Reinvent Leftovers: Use slices in sandwiches or dice for hash.
🥕 Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fat | 33g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 1450mg |
📝 Conclusion
There’s something incredibly satisfying about serving up a meal that’s both comforting and rooted in tradition—especially when it comes together with ease in your Instant Pot. This corned beef instant pot recipe is a delicious nod to Irish-American heritage, with all the hearty flavors and none of the fuss. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply chasing the chill away, this dish delivers on taste, nostalgia, and convenience.
Give it a try, and don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out! Did you add a glaze? Switch up the veggies? Share your tweaks and tips in the comments—I love hearing how these classics live on in your kitchen.
