There’s something about the hum of the Instant Pot that signals relief on a chaotic evening. I remember one Tuesday when the clock was ticking past dinnertime, and the usual scramble to pull something together felt like a lost cause. I tossed ground beef into the pot, added the onions and garlic, and somehow the kitchen filled with this warm, inviting aroma that promised comfort and simplicity. The sizzle from the sauté step mixed with the faint clatter of utensils—those little sounds that somehow make you feel a bit more grounded. I didn’t get every step perfect; I think I might’ve added a little too much pepper, but that just made the flavor a bit more interesting. By the time the Instant Pot beeped, signaling the end of cooking, the stress from the day seemed to fade away, replaced by a steaming bowl of savory goodness.
It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients, combined in the right way, can create a meal that feels both hearty and effortless. This isn’t about fancy techniques or hours in the kitchen. It’s about quick, satisfying food that still tastes like it was made with care—even when you’re rushing or distracted by everything else happening around you.
Why You’ll Love It
- Speed meets flavor: ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe fits right into busy nights.
- Versatility at its best: use this ground beef as a base for tacos, sauces, or casseroles that can change up your weekly meals.
- Hands-off pressure cooking means less time stirring and more time doing other things (like ignoring the phone).
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps, just honest cooking.
- While the seasoning is straightforward, you might find yourself tweaking it here and there to match your mood or pantry.
Don’t worry if you haven’t cooked much with an Instant Pot before. This recipe plays well with the device’s functions and doesn’t require precision timing or complicated settings. You’ll get familiar quickly, and soon enough, this ground beef will become your go-to for quick dinners.
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Instant Pot Ground Beef
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A quick and easy Instant Pot ground beef recipe that’s perfect for meal prep or as a base for your favorite dishes. Tender, flavorful, and ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions
Turn the Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ setting and add olive oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 2 minutes until translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
Cook the beef until browned, about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Drain any excess fat from the pot if desired.
Add salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and paprika. Stir to combine.
Pour in the beef broth and stir, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to ‘Sealing’.
Select the ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ setting and set the timer for 5 minutes.
When cooking is complete, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to ‘Venting’.
Open the lid and stir the ground beef mixture.
Serve immediately or use as a base for tacos, pasta sauces, or casseroles.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Kitchen Notes: The Instant Pot really does the heavy lifting here, so no need for fancy equipment—just your trusty pressure cooker. I usually serve this ground beef with a simple side like steamed veggies or toss it into pasta for a quick weeknight meal. If you want to switch things up, try adding a pinch of chili flakes for some heat, or swap the oregano for Italian seasoning for a different twist—though I haven’t tested every variation extensively, so it’s a bit of kitchen experimentation. If you’re in the mood for something milder, leaving out the paprika works just fine too.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, you can swap ground beef for turkey or chicken, but cooking times might vary slightly.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze for longer storage.
Is it necessary to drain the fat?
Not always—depends on how lean your beef is and your preference for richness in the dish.
Can I add other vegetables?
Sure, though cooking times might adjust. Adding diced peppers or mushrooms during sautéing could add some nice texture.
When the evening feels too hectic, this Instant Pot ground beef makes it easier to pause, breathe, and enjoy a meal that’s both quick and satisfying. Try it out and see how it fits into your kitchen rhythm.