When you’re craving tender, flavorful BBQ beef but don’t have hours to spend over a smoker or grill, the Instant Pot Pro comes to the rescue. This kitchen appliance can take your BBQ beef recipe to a whole new level, delivering perfectly cooked, melt-in-your-mouth meat in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or prepping for a week of delicious meals, this Instant Pot Pro BBQ Beef recipe is the ultimate solution for a quick and satisfying meal.
In this article, we’ll guide you step by step through the process of making mouthwatering BBQ beef in your Instant Pot Pro. From the ingredients to the tips that will ensure success, this recipe will become one of your go-to meals. So, let’s dive in and explore why cooking BBQ beef in an Instant Pot is a game-changer!
What is the Instant Pot Pro BBQ Beef Recipe?
Before we get into the recipe, it’s worth mentioning the star of the show: the Instant Pot Pro. The Instant Pot is a multi-functional pressure cooker that has gained immense popularity for its ability to drastically cut cooking times without compromising flavor or texture. The Instant Pot Pro BBQ Beef Recipe is an upgraded version of the classic Instant Pot, featuring a more intuitive control panel, more cooking presets, and a larger capacity for families or batch cooking.
This versatile appliance can handle everything from slow cooking to pressure cooking, sautéing, and even air frying. It’s the perfect companion for making rich and tender BBQ beef in no time. Thanks to its pressure cooking function, it locks in moisture and flavor while quickly cooking tough cuts of meat until they are fall-apart tender.
Benefits of Cooking BBQ Beef in the Instant Pot
Using the Instant Pot Pro for BBQ beef comes with a range of benefits. Here’s why you should consider this cooking method:
- Time Efficiency: Traditional BBQ beef recipes can take hours to cook, but the Instant Pot can cut that time down significantly. Pressure cooking ensures that your beef is tender and infused with all the delicious BBQ flavors in a fraction of the time.
- Flavor Infusion: The sealed environment of the Instant Pot locks in all the juices, making sure that the beef absorbs every bit of flavor from the BBQ sauce and spices. This results in incredibly rich and flavorful meat.
- Tender Meat: The Instant Pot works wonders on tougher cuts of beef, such as chuck roast or brisket, turning them into fork-tender deliciousness without the need for constant attention.
- Hands-Off Cooking: After prepping the ingredients, the Instant Pot does all the work for you. There’s no need to constantly check on the beef or monitor the temperature. Just set it, and let the appliance work its magic.
Now that we understand the benefits, let’s dive into the recipe itself.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Pro BBQ Beef Recipe
To make the best Instant Pot BBQ beef, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Beef Chuck Roast (or Brisket) – About 3 pounds of beef, cut into large chunks.
- BBQ Sauce – 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade).
- Beef Broth – 1 cup to help create a savory cooking liquid.
- Onion – 1 large onion, sliced.
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced.
- Brown Sugar – 2 tablespoons to add a touch of sweetness to balance the BBQ sauce.
- Worcestershire Sauce – 1 tablespoon for added umami.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – 1 tablespoon for tang.
- Spices:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Optional Ingredients:
- Red Pepper Flakes – If you like some heat, add a pinch.
- Liquid Smoke – For an extra smoky flavor.
This combination of ingredients creates a robust and rich BBQ beef that can be served with various sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or even in sandwiches. Let’s move on to preparing the beef for cooking.
Preparing the Beef for BBQ Cooking
Before you begin cooking, it’s important to prepare your beef properly. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the Beef: If you’re using a beef chuck roast, cut it into large chunks (around 4–6 pieces). This helps the beef cook more evenly and allows the flavors to penetrate better.
- Season the Beef: Generously season the beef chunks with the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Make sure each piece is coated evenly for the best flavor.
- Marinating (Optional): If you have extra time, you can marinate the beef for 1-2 hours or overnight in the fridge. The spices, along with Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and apple cider vinegar, will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with deep flavors.
Once your beef is ready, it’s time to cook. Let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Searing the Beef
The first step in cooking BBQ beef in the Instant Pot Pro BBQ Beef Recipe is to sear the beef. This step adds extra flavor and texture to the meat.
- Turn your Instant Pot Pro to the “Sauté” function on high heat.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pot.
- Once the oil is hot, add the beef chunks in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Sear each side of the beef for about 3-4 minutes, or until it’s browned. This helps to lock in juices and enhance the beef’s flavor.
- Once all the beef is seared, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Adding Ingredients
After searing the beef, it’s time to add the other ingredients to the Instant Pot.
- In the same pot, add the sliced onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the BBQ sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Return the seared beef to the pot, making sure it’s well coated with the sauce.
Step 3: Pressure Cooking
Now that all the ingredients are in the Instant Pot, it’s time to pressure cook.
- Secure the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the vent is set to “Sealing.”
- Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. This will break down the tough fibers in the beef, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.
- Once the cooking cycle completes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes before switching the vent to “Venting” to release the remaining pressure.
Step 4: Natural Pressure Release
Allowing the pressure to release naturally ensures that the beef remains tender and juicy. This step also allows the BBQ sauce to thicken slightly, which makes for a richer, more flavorful result.
Step 5: Shredding and Serving
After the beef has been pressure-released, carefully remove the beef chunks from the Instant Pot. Using two forks, shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the pot and stir it into the sauce.
Serve the BBQ beef on a bun for sandwiches, with mashed potatoes, or over a bed of rice or coleslaw. The options are endless!
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot BBQ Beef Recipe
To ensure your BBQ beef turns out absolutely perfect, here are some expert tips:
1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef
The cut of beef you use can make a big difference in the final result. For BBQ beef, beef chuck roast is one of the best options because it has enough fat to stay tender during pressure cooking. If you prefer a leaner cut, brisket is also an excellent choice, but make sure to add enough liquid to keep it moist. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin or round, as they can turn out tough and dry.
2. Don’t Skip the Searing Step
Searing the beef before pressure cooking is crucial. This step caramelizes the meat’s surface, which adds rich flavors and a beautiful color to the finished dish. While it might seem like an extra step, it’s well worth the time.
3. Use Enough Liquid
The Instant Pot needs liquid to create steam and build pressure. While the BBQ sauce is a great base, don’t forget to add beef broth or another liquid to ensure the beef doesn’t dry out. The beef broth also adds depth to the flavor of the sauce.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pot
When searing the beef, avoid overcrowding the Instant Pot. This prevents the beef from getting a good sear. It’s better to sear the beef in batches. You’ll get better results, and the meat will retain more flavor.
5. Let the Beef Rest After Pressure Cooking
Once the beef has finished cooking, allow it to rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring the meat stays juicy and tender when shredded.
6. Use the Natural Pressure Release
If you’re short on time, you may be tempted to quick-release the pressure, but we highly recommend using the natural release method. This gives the meat time to continue cooking in the sauce and keeps it tender.
7. Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste
One of the beauties of BBQ beef is that you can adjust the sauce to match your taste preferences. If you like it sweeter, add a little more brown sugar or honey. For tanginess, increase the vinegar. You can even add a little heat by incorporating hot sauce or chili flakes.
Variations of Instant Pot BBQ Beef Recipe
While the classic BBQ flavor is a hit with most, the Instant Pot Pro gives you plenty of room to experiment with different variations of BBQ beef. Here are some ideas to switch things up:
1. Spicy BBQ Beef
If you like a little heat with your BBQ, consider adding some jalapeños, chili powder, or cayenne pepper to your sauce. You can also switch out the regular BBQ sauce for a spicy version to really kick things up.
2. Sweet and Smoky BBQ Beef
For a more complex flavor profile, try adding liquid smoke and a bit of maple syrup or molasses to your BBQ sauce. This gives your beef a sweet, smoky depth that is perfect for cold weather or serving at a barbecue.
3. Tangy BBQ Beef
If you’re a fan of tangier BBQ, you can boost the acidity by adding a bit more apple cider vinegar, or even a splash of lemon juice. The extra tang balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce and gives a zesty flavor to the meat.
4. Asian-Inspired BBQ Beef
Switch up the flavors by using hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and a touch of ginger in place of the traditional BBQ sauce. This gives a fusion twist to the classic recipe, with a sweet and savory umami profile.
5. Herb-Infused BBQ Beef
Try experimenting with fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano. These herbs pair beautifully with beef and can be added directly into the cooking liquid for an herbaceous twist on BBQ.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the Instant Pot, there are some common mistakes that could affect the outcome of your BBQ beef. Here’s how to avoid them:
1. Not Using Enough Liquid
As mentioned earlier, the Instant Pot requires liquid to create the necessary pressure. If you skimp on the beef broth or other liquids, your beef might come out dry, and the sauce might be too thick. Always ensure you have at least one cup of liquid in the pot.
2. Not Letting the Beef Rest
Rushing straight into shredding the beef as soon as the pressure releases can lead to dry, less flavorful meat. Let the beef rest for a few minutes so that the juices can redistribute.
3. Skipping the Searing
Searing the beef may seem optional, but skipping it will lead to a less flavorful dish. The caramelized bits left in the pot after searing will add a rich, savory depth to your BBQ beef.
4. Using Lean Cuts of Meat
Lean cuts like sirloin or round roast don’t have enough fat to stay juicy during pressure cooking. Stick with fatty cuts like chuck roast, which will break down beautifully in the Instant Pot.
5. Overcooking the Beef
Pressure cooking for too long can result in overcooked beef, which may become mushy. Stick to the recommended cooking time of 60 minutes for tender, perfectly cooked BBQ beef.
FAQs About Instant Pot BBQ Beef Recipe
How to cook barbecue beef in Instant Pot?
To cook BBQ beef in the Instant Pot, follow these simple steps:
- Sear the Beef: Begin by searing the beef in the Instant Pot on the sauté mode to develop a rich, brown crust. This enhances the flavor of your beef.
- Add Ingredients: Once the beef is seared, add BBQ sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, spices, and any additional vegetables or aromatics (like onions and garlic).
- Pressure Cook: Seal the Instant Pot, set it to high pressure, and cook the beef for around 60 minutes (depending on the size and cut of the beef).
- Release Pressure: Let the pressure release naturally for 10–15 minutes to ensure the beef remains tender. Then, shred the beef using forks and stir it into the sauce before serving.
Can I put BBQ sauce in my Instant Pot?
Yes, you can put BBQ sauce in your Instant Pot! In fact, it’s a key ingredient when making BBQ beef in the Instant Pot. The sauce adds flavor and moisture during the cooking process. Just be sure to add enough liquid (like beef broth or water) to help create the steam necessary for pressure cooking. The BBQ sauce will thicken as it cooks, resulting in a rich, flavorful coating on your beef.
Why is my beef tough in Instant Pot?
If your beef turns out tough in the Instant Pot, here are a few possible reasons:
- Not Enough Cooking Time: If you don’t cook the beef long enough, the muscle fibers haven’t had enough time to break down, leaving the beef tough. Make sure to cook your beef for the correct amount of time based on the cut you’re using (usually around 60 minutes for cuts like chuck roast).
- Using a Lean Cut: Lean cuts of beef, such as sirloin or round, don’t have enough fat to stay tender under pressure. For the best results, use fatty cuts like chuck roast or brisket that benefit from the long cooking process.
- Incorrect Pressure Release: Make sure to use the natural pressure release method, as a quick release can sometimes result in less tender beef. Letting the beef rest and finish cooking in the sauce helps with tenderness.
What is the best cut of beef to use in an Instant Pot?
The best cuts of beef for Instant Pot BBQ beef are those that have a good amount of fat and marbling. These cuts break down beautifully under pressure, resulting in tender, juicy meat. Some of the top choices include:
- Chuck Roast: This is the go-to cut for BBQ beef. It’s well-marbled with fat, which keeps the meat juicy and tender when pressure cooked.
- Brisket: A classic BBQ choice, brisket works great in the Instant Pot, yielding tender, flavorful slices or shredded beef.
- Short Ribs: These are another excellent choice, as they become fall-off-the-bone tender after cooking in the Instant Pot.
Conclusion
There you have it! This Instant Pot Pro BBQ Beef recipe is the perfect solution when you’re craving tender, flavorful BBQ beef but don’t want to spend all day cooking. The Instant Pot Pro makes the process quick, easy, and practically hands-off while delivering melt-in-your-mouth beef that’s rich with BBQ flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying it as a sandwich or in tacos, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
With a few simple steps—searing the beef, adding your ingredients, and letting the Instant Pot do its magic—you can create a dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. And the best part? You can customize the BBQ beef to your taste, from sweet and smoky to tangy or spicy.
We hope you enjoy making this Instant Pot BBQ beef recipe, and that it becomes a go-to in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to share your own tweaks and variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!