Name: Instant Pot Beef Brisket Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3½ lbs Beef Brisket; 1½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp ground black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 medium yellow onions; 3 large garlic cloves; ½ cup water; ½ cup Dry red wine; ¼ cup ketchup; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 1 tsp dried thyme leaves; 1 tsp paprika

This Instant Pot beef brisket recipe is the perfect solution for a flavorful and tender meal made in a fraction of the time. By using a pressure cooker, you can achieve a rich, savory brisket that’s melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The combination of spices and aromatic vegetables creates a mouthwatering gravy that complements the beef perfectly.

Photos of Instant Pot Beef Brisket Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe, like dry red wine and dried rosemary, may not be commonly found in every household. When heading to the supermarket, make sure to pick up these items along with yellow onions, which might not be stocked in every pantry.

Ingredients For Instant Pot Beef Brisket Recipe

Beef brisket: A cut of beef from the breast or lower chest, known for its rich flavor and tenderness.

Kosher salt: A coarse salt commonly used in cooking for its pure flavor.

Ground black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and complexity to the dish.

Olive oil: Used for searing the brisket and sautéing the vegetables.

Yellow onions: Provide sweetness and depth to the gravy.

Garlic cloves: Infuse the dish with aromatic flavor.

Water: Helps to deglaze the pot and create the gravy base.

Dry red wine: Adds richness and complexity to the flavor profile.

Ketchup: Contributes a slight tanginess and helps thicken the gravy.

Dried rosemary: Adds an earthy and slightly piney flavor.

Dried thyme leaves: Provides a subtle herbal note.

Paprika: Adds a touch of sweetness and color to the dish.

One reader, Jacob Bryson says:

This instant pot beef brisket recipe is a game-changer! The meat turned out incredibly tender and flavorful, and the gravy was rich and delicious. The step-by-step instructions made it easy to follow. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!

Jacob Bryson

Techniques Required for Making Instant Pot Beef Brisket

How to sear meat: Searing involves cooking the brisket at high heat to develop a rich, dark brown crust. This enhances the flavor and texture of the meat. How to use a pressure cooker: Understanding the settings and functions of a pressure cooker, such as the sauté and manual programs, is essential for this recipe. How to perform a quick pressure release: This involves moving the vent from sealing to venting to release the pressure quickly. How to use a fat separator: A fat separator helps to remove the fat from the cooking liquid, ensuring a smoother gravy. How to blend hot liquids safely: Using an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree hot liquids requires caution to avoid burns from steam.

How To Make Instant Pot Beef Brisket

This Instant Pot Beef Brisket cooked with garlic, onions, and spiced with rosemary, thyme, and paprika turns out tender and flavorful, perfect for dinner!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total: 1 hour 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3½lbsbeef brisket,(certified kosher, if needed)
1½tspkosher salt,divided
½tspground black pepper
1tbspolive oil
3medium yellow onions,sliced
3large garlic cloves,peeled
½cupwater
½cupdry red wine
¼cupketchup
1tspdried rosemary
1tspdried thyme leaves
1tsppaprika

Instructions

Rinse the brisket and pat it dry with paper towels.
If the brisket has more than ¼-inch layer of fat, trim off the excess.
Season it on both sides with 1 teaspoon of salt and ground pepper.
Select the “Sauté” program on the pressure cooker, adjust it to its highest heat setting, and add the oil to the pot. (If using a stovetop pressure cooker, heat the oil over medium-high heat.)
Use a pair of tongs to lower the brisket into the pot with the side with the most fat facing down, and let it sear for 6 minutes.
Turn it over and sear it for 6 more minutes. Both sides should have a rich, dark brown color.
Transfer the seared brisket to a plate.
Adjust the pressure cooker to its medium “Sauté” setting. (If using a stovetop pressure cooker, lower the heat to medium.
There should be plenty of fat left in the pan after searing the brisket. If not, add another 1 to 2 teaspoons of olive oil to cook the onions.
Add the onions, garlic, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt.
Cook, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes until the onions are soft and beginning to brown.
Scrape the bottom of the pot while stirring the onions to help release all of the browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Stir the water, wine, ketchup, and spices into the onions and garlic.
Use a pair of tongs to lower the seared brisket back into the pressure cooker, with the side with the most fat facing up.
Place the lid on the pressure cooker. Make sure that the pressure regulator is set to the “Sealing” position.
Select the “Manual” program, then set the time to 50 minutes at high pressure. (For stovetop pressure cookers, cook for 45 minutes at high pressure.)
It will take about 10 minutes for the pressure cooker to come up to pressure, and then the actual cooking will begin.
The total time from the time the pressure cooker is sealed to the finished dish is about 60 minutes.
Perform a quick pressure release by moving the vent from “Sealing” to “Venting,” or let the pot depressurize naturally (this takes about 20 minutes).
For stovetop pressure cookers, perform a quick pressure release.
Use tongs to transfer the brisket to a plate or carving board.
Strain the cooking liquid into a fat separator, collecting the cooked onions and garlic in the strainer.
To make the gravy, return the drained onions and garlic to the pressure cooker pot.
Pour the cooking liquid from the fat separator back into the pot, discarding the fat that is left behind. (If there’s no fat separator, wait for the fat to rise to the top of the liquid, then skim off as much.)
With an immersion blender, blend the cooking liquid, onions, and garlic into a thick gravy.
Alternatively, transfer the liquid, onions, and garlic to a blender to puree.
Don’t fill the blender more than halfway, and be careful of the steam when opening the blender pitcher.
Slice the brisket against the grain into thin ¼-inch slices.
Pour the gravy over the brisket and serve hot.

Recipe Notes

Oven-cooking Instructions: Using a Dutch oven or other heavy pot with a lid placed over medium-high heat, follow the instructions for searing the brisket, cooking the onions, and mixing in the other ingredients as described in the pressure cooker recipe. Make sure the fat cap is facing up when you add the brisket back to the pan. Cover the pot and transfer to a 325 degrees F oven to cook for 3 hours, until the brisket is tender.
Make-ahead Instructions: Cook the brisket as indicated, allow it to cool, and refrigerate on its own. Refrigerate the strained onions and garlic separately. Transfer the cooking liquid to a storage container and refrigerate it separately. The next day, scrape the solidified fat from the top of the liquid and discard. Warm the cooking liquid, onions, and garlic in the pressure cooker or in a medium saucepan. With an immersion blender or in a blender, blend the cooking liquid, onions, and garlic into a thick gravy. Warm the brisket in the gravy before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 604.01kcal
Fat: 45.89g
Saturated Fat: 18.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 20.12g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.90g
Carbohydrates: 7.33g
Fiber: 1.01g
Sugar: 3.49g
Protein: 36.00g
Cholesterol: 186.54mg
Sodium: 539.43mg
Calcium: 55.18mg
Potassium: 656.28mg
Iron: 3.47mg
Vitamin A: 9.54µg
Vitamin C: 4.10mg

Crucial Technique for Perfecting Instant Pot Beef Brisket

When searing the brisket, ensure the pot is hot enough before adding the meat. This will create a rich, dark brown crust that enhances the flavor of the beef and adds depth to the gravy.

Time-Saving Tips for Instant Pot Beef Brisket

Prepare ingredients ahead: Chop onions and garlic in advance to save time during cooking.

Use pre-made seasoning: Opt for a pre-mixed rosemary and thyme blend to cut down on measuring spices.

Quick sear: Sear the brisket in a separate pan while the pressure cooker heats up to save a few minutes.

Instant pot settings: Familiarize yourself with your Instant Pot settings to quickly adjust between sauté and pressure cooking modes.

Fat separator alternative: If you don't have a fat separator, use a spoon to skim off fat from the cooking liquid to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot Beef Brisket Recipe

beef brisket - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder has a similar texture and fat content, making it a good alternative for slow-cooked dishes.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar flavor profile.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor but can be used in the same quantity for a similar heat.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it a good alternative for searing.
yellow onions - Substitute with white onions: White onions have a similar flavor and texture, making them a suitable replacement.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic as a convenient alternative.
water - Substitute with beef broth: Beef broth adds more depth of flavor compared to plain water.
dry red wine - Substitute with beef broth: Beef broth can provide a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol content.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste: Tomato paste can be used in a smaller quantity and mixed with a bit of vinegar and sugar to mimic the flavor of ketchup.
dried rosemary - Substitute with fresh rosemary: Use about three times the amount of fresh rosemary as dried for a similar flavor.
dried thyme leaves - Substitute with fresh thyme: Use about three times the amount of fresh thyme as dried for a similar flavor.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a similar color and a slightly smoky flavor, enhancing the dish.

Presenting Your Instant Pot Beef Brisket

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the brisket into thin, uniform ¼-inch slices to ensure each piece is tender and flavorful. Arrange 3-4 slices per plate to maintain an elegant presentation.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to add a touch of color and hint at the flavors within the dish.
Create height: Stack the brisket slices slightly overlapping each other to create a sense of height and dimension on the plate.
Add a side: Pair the brisket with a small portion of creamy mashed potatoes or a medley of roasted root vegetables to complement the rich flavors of the meat.
Drizzle the gravy: Use a spoon to drizzle the gravy artistically over the brisket slices, allowing some to pool around the base for added visual appeal.
Use a clean plate: Ensure the plate is spotless before serving. Wipe any stray gravy or oil to maintain a pristine presentation.
Add a pop of color: Include a small portion of bright green vegetables, such as steamed asparagus tips or blanched green beans, to add contrast and vibrancy to the dish.
Finish with a touch of texture: Sprinkle a few crispy fried onions or garlic chips over the top of the brisket for an added layer of texture and flavor.
Balance the flavors: Ensure the gravy is well-seasoned and balanced, with a harmonious blend of onions, garlic, wine, and spices to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Serve hot: Make sure the brisket and gravy are served piping hot to maintain their optimal flavor and texture, ensuring a delightful dining experience for the culinary professionals.

Storing and Freezing Your Instant Pot Beef Brisket

Let the brisket cool completely before storing or freezing.
Slice the cooled brisket against the grain into thin, even pieces.
Place the sliced brisket in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
Pour the gravy over the sliced brisket, ensuring that it's evenly distributed and covering the meat.
If storing in the refrigerator, consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
For freezing, label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Remove as much air as possible from the container or bag before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Freeze the brisket and gravy for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw the frozen brisket and gravy in the refrigerator overnight.
Transfer the thawed brisket and gravy to a baking dish, cover with foil, and reheat in a preheated 325°F (165°C) oven until heated through (about 20-30 minutes).
Alternatively, reheat the brisket and gravy in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Instant Pot Beef Brisket

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the leftover brisket in a baking dish, and pour some of the reserved gravy over the meat. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until the brisket is heated through. This method helps to keep the meat moist and tender.
If you're short on time, you can use the microwave to reheat your leftover brisket. Place the sliced meat in a microwave-safe dish and pour some of the gravy over it. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the brisket is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the meat, as it can quickly become tough and dry in the microwave.
For a quick and easy option, reheat your leftover brisket in a skillet on the stovetop. Place the sliced meat in a skillet over medium heat, and pour some of the gravy over it. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat the brisket for 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent the meat from sticking to the skillet.
If you have a sous vide machine, you can use it to reheat your leftover brisket without losing any of its original flavor or texture. Place the sliced meat and some of the gravy in a vacuum-sealed bag, and set your sous vide machine to 140°F (60°C). Submerge the bag in the water bath and let it heat for about 45 minutes, or until the brisket is heated through. This method ensures that your leftover brisket will be just as juicy and tender as it was when it was first cooked.
For a delicious twist on leftover brisket, try making a brisket sandwich. Reheat the sliced meat in a skillet or in the oven, and serve it on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, or caramelized onions. You can also add some of the leftover gravy to the sandwich for extra flavor and moisture.

Interesting Trivia About Beef Brisket

A fun fact about this Instant Pot beef brisket recipe is that the red wine used in the gravy not only adds depth and richness to the flavor but also helps to tenderize the brisket during the cooking process.

Is Making Beef Brisket in an Instant Pot Cost-Effective?

This beef brisket recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, beef brisket, is relatively affordable, especially when bought in bulk. Onions, garlic, and spices are pantry staples and inexpensive. The use of an Instant Pot reduces cooking time and energy costs. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $25-$30.

Is Instant Pot Beef Brisket Healthy or Unhealthy?

The instant pot beef brisket recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

High fat content: Brisket is a fatty cut of meat, and even after trimming excess fat, it still contains a significant amount of saturated fat.
Sodium: The recipe calls for kosher salt and ketchup, which can contribute to a high sodium content.
Red wine: While red wine can offer some health benefits in moderation, it adds extra calories to the dish.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as onions and garlic, which provide beneficial nutrients and antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Choose a leaner cut of beef, such as round or sirloin, to reduce the overall fat content.
Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe, and opt for low-sodium ketchup to help control sodium intake.
Replace the red wine with a low-sodium beef broth to cut down on calories while still providing depth of flavor.
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish by adding carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the onion mixture. This will boost the nutrient content and provide more fiber.
Serve the brisket with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables and a small portion of whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, to create a balanced meal.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a more nutritious version of this delicious instant pot beef brisket recipe.

Editor's Opinion on This Instant Pot Beef Brisket Recipe

This instant pot beef brisket recipe is a fantastic blend of simplicity and depth of flavor. The searing process ensures a rich, caramelized crust, while the combination of onions, garlic, and spices creates a robust, savory gravy. The use of red wine adds a sophisticated touch, enhancing the overall taste. The pressure cooker significantly reduces cooking time, making it accessible for weeknight dinners without sacrificing tenderness. The final step of blending the gravy ensures a smooth, luxurious finish. Overall, this recipe is well-balanced and perfect for both casual family meals and special occasions.

Enhance Your Instant Pot Beef Brisket Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy, buttery goodness of mashed potatoes elevated with the rich, aromatic flavor of roasted garlic. This side dish will perfectly complement the savory notes of the beef brisket, creating a harmonious balance of flavors on your plate.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with a luscious honey-butter sauce. The natural sweetness of the carrots combined with the rich, sticky glaze will add a delightful contrast to the hearty brisket, making each bite a symphony of flavors.

Herb-Infused Quinoa Salad: Herb-Infused Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing quinoa salad infused with fresh herbs, lemon zest, and a medley of vegetables. This vibrant side dish will add a burst of color and a refreshing crunch to your meal, perfectly balancing the richness of the brisket.

Creamed Spinach with Nutmeg: Creamed Spinach with Nutmeg: Velvety spinach cooked in a creamy sauce with a hint of nutmeg. The subtle warmth of the nutmeg enhances the earthy flavors of the spinach, creating a luxurious side dish that pairs beautifully with the succulent brisket.

Cranberry-Pecan Wild Rice: Cranberry-Pecan Wild Rice: A delightful blend of nutty wild rice mixed with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans. This side dish offers a wonderful mix of textures and flavors, providing a perfect counterpoint to the tender, juicy brisket.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoyed This Beef Brisket

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork: Dive into the world of tender, juicy pork with this slow cooker pulled pork recipe. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or even on its own, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. The slow cooking process ensures the meat is fall-apart tender, and the blend of spices creates a mouthwatering flavor profile. Serve with a side of coleslaw and pickles for a complete meal.

Braised Short Ribs: Experience the rich, deep flavors of braised short ribs. Cooked low and slow, these beef ribs become incredibly tender and are infused with a savory sauce made from red wine, garlic, and herbs. Serve over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.

Beef Bourguignon: Transport yourself to the French countryside with this classic beef bourguignon. This dish features chunks of beef simmered in a rich red wine sauce with mushrooms, carrots, and pearl onions. The slow cooking process melds the flavors together, creating a luxurious and comforting meal. Pair with crusty bread or buttered noodles.

Pot Roast: Nothing says comfort food like a classic pot roast. This recipe involves slow-cooking a beef roast with potatoes, carrots, and onions until everything is melt-in-your-mouth tender. The savory gravy made from the cooking juices is perfect for drizzling over the meat and vegetables. Serve with a side of green beans or cornbread.

Osso Buco: Indulge in the Italian delicacy of osso buco, featuring braised veal shanks cooked with white wine, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables. The slow braising process ensures the meat is incredibly tender and flavorful. Traditionally served with risotto or polenta, this dish is a true culinary delight.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement This Beef Brisket Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine plump cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushroom caps are baked until golden and bubbling, creating a perfect bite-sized treat. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy mushrooms, making each bite a burst of flavor. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Top with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of balsamic vinegar. The combination of the crunchy bread and the juicy, flavorful topping is a match made in culinary heaven. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and a crack of black pepper to enhance the flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten center that oozes out as you cut into a decadent cake. This dessert pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the beef brisket. The warm, gooey chocolate contrasts beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a symphony of textures and temperatures. Garnish with fresh berries and a sprig of mint for an elegant presentation.

Lemon Meringue Pie: A zesty, tangy filling nestled in a buttery crust, topped with pillowy meringue that’s been toasted to perfection. This dessert offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef brisket. The bright lemon flavor cuts through the richness of the meal, leaving your palate cleansed and satisfied. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a twist of lemon zest for an extra touch of sophistication.

Why trust this Instant Pot Beef Brisket Recipe:

This Instant Pot beef brisket recipe is a must-try for any home cook. The combination of dry red wine, ketchup, and spices creates a rich and flavorful gravy. The pressure cooker ensures the brisket is tender and juicy in a fraction of the time. With detailed instructions and common ingredients like onions and garlic, this recipe is both accessible and reliable. Trust in the process and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Want to share your own Instant Pot beef brisket recipe or discuss tips and tricks? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How do I know when the brisket is done?

The brisket is done when it's tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. The pressure cooker helps achieve this tenderness in about 50 minutes of high pressure cooking.

Can I use a different type of meat?

You can substitute beef brisket with other cuts like chuck roast or short ribs, but keep in mind that cooking times might vary. The texture and flavor will also be different.

What can I use instead of dry red wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with beef broth or even grape juice for a similar depth of flavor. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover brisket and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I make this recipe without a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker or in the oven. For a slow cooker, cook on low for 8-10 hours. For the oven, cover the brisket tightly with foil and bake at 325°F for about 3-4 hours, or until tender.