Instant Pot Beef Brisket

This easy brisket recipe practically cooks itself, making it the ideal weekday meal!

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Instant pot beef brisket is a favorite in our household. It’s easy to make and tastes like you spent hours laboring away at the stove. Traditionally, beef brisket is slow cooked over a low heat which does indeed take hours. But with the invention of the Instant Pot, this typically time-intensive meal has been transformed into a weekday favorite, all without sacrificing flavor.

This recipe takes advantage of the pressure-cooking power of the Instant Pot to tenderize the brisket in a fraction of the traditional cooking time. If you’re new to the Instant Pot, rest assured that this innovative appliance is more than capable of tenderizing the meat. The combination of a robust spice rub and beef broth ensures a moist and flavorful cooking environment. I promise you—each slice of brisket will be savory and succulent. If you’re a fan of hearty, meaty dishes, like this beef brisket, check out our other instant pot recipes like our lamb stew or buffalo chicken.

Is Instant Pot Beef Brisket Healthy?

While this dish isn’t low calorie, beef brisket is a protein-rich food. You’ll find all the essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, all of which are vital for energy production and immune function. Aside from the tablespoon of olive oil, there isn’t any added fat. Beef brisket is also low-carb, so it’s paleo and keto friendly. As far as modifications go, you can use a low-sodium beef broth if you’re limiting your salt intake.

The Benefits of Pressure Cooking

I love slow cookers, but pressure cookers like the Instant Pot are even more versatile. For example, you can use an Instant Pot for both slow cooking and pressure cooking. That means, you essentially get two appliances in one. What’s more, pressure cooking is simply faster. Instant Pots have a knack for tenderizing tough cuts of meat quickly and efficiently. And since the meat is cooked in a sealed environment, there’s minimal loss of moisture and nutrients, ensuring that the brisket is both tasty and nourishing!

INGREDIENTS

3–4 pounds beef brisket, trimmed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup beef broth
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

Season

Prepare and apply dry rub to the brisket.

Sear

Brown brisket in Instant Pot using ‘Sauté’ mode.

Pressure Cook

Cook brisket on high pressure and let it rest.

Devour!

FAQs & Tips

How to Make Ahead and Store?

This beef brisket can be made ahead and stored in your fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the brisket and freeze it. I’d also freeze the sauce but in a separate container or freezer-safe bag. It’ll be good for two to three months.

Do I have to use beef broth for this recipe?

Personally, I think the beef broth offers more depth, but you can also use chicken broth or vegetable broth. Heck, you can even pour in a dark beer for additional flavors!

What can I do if the brisket isn’t tender enough after the initial cooking time?

If your brisket isn’t as tender as you’d like, continue to cook the meat in the Instant Pot for an additional 10–20 minutes under high pressure. This should help further break down the tough fibers in the meat. I’d also use the natural release method after this additional cooking to ensure the meat remains juicy and tender. Keep in mind that adjustments may be needed depending on the size and thickness of your brisket cut.

Serving Suggestions

Instant Pot beef brisket pairs beautifully with traditional sides such as garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a healthy Mediterranean couscous salad for a lighter touch. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside our baked sweet potatoes and easy cheesy baked asparagus. Whether for a special dinner or just a weekly meal, I’d wager that this brisket recipe is going to be a sure-fire hit.