Instant Pot Beef Brisket

Get ready to make the juiciest, most delicious Instant Pot Beef Brisket! In a fraction of the time, you can enjoy this mouthwatering brisket with an incredible garlic barbecue sauce. Perfect for family gatherings, game day, or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe will impress everyone at the table. The combination of spices and sauce makes it incredibly flavorful and tender, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, allowing you to enjoy your meal faster without compromising on flavor.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices and homemade BBQ sauce creates a deep, savory taste that elevates the beef brisket.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve this brisket as a main dish or use it in sandwiches, tacos, or salads for versatile meal ideas.
• Easy Cleanup: With only one pot to clean, you can focus more on enjoying your meal rather than stressing about cleanup.
• Tender Texture: Cooking under pressure ensures that each bite of brisket is succulent and melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools for your Instant Pot Beef Brisket. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker allows for high-pressure cooking, which results in tender meat in less time than traditional methods.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining dry rub ingredients and preparing the sauce without making a mess.
• Tongs: Perfect for safely handling hot meat during searing and transferring it after cooking.
• Ladle: Useful for skimming fat from the sauce and serving it over the sliced brisket.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 4 pound beef brisket
– 2 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon mustard powder
– ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 ½ teaspoon cumin (ground)
– 1 teaspoon black pepper (ground)
– 2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (store bought)
– 1 cup ketchup
– ¼ cup honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 3 cloves garlic (sliced)
– ¼ cup brown sugar (packed)
– 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium)

How to Make Instant Pot Beef Brisket

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Rub

In a small bowl combine all the dry rub ingredients together and whisk well. Rub the dry rub spice mixture all over the brisket until evenly coated.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In another medium-sized bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients together and whisk until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté in Instant Pot

Turn on the Instant Pot to high sauté setting. Once it reaches temperature, add olive oil. When hot enough, add the beef brisket to sear.

Step 4: Sear the Meat

Sear the beef on all sides until browned; this should take about 3 to 5 minutes per side.

Step 5: Add Sauce to Brisket

Pour your prepared sauce over the seared meat ensuring it’s fully covered. Close the lid securely. Set Instant Pot to Manual/High Pressure for 75 minutes.

Step 6: Release Pressure

After cooking, allow for natural release for about 15 minutes before carefully unlocking and removing the lid. Use tongs to remove brisket from pot and cover with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Step 7: Finish Sauce

Switch Instant Pot back to sauté setting without closing lid. Simmer leftover sauce until reduced by half (approximately 15 minutes). Skim off excess fat as needed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 8: Serve

Slice your rested brisket against the grain and serve with remaining BBQ sauce drizzled on top or on the side. Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Beef Brisket!

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Brisket

Serving your Instant Pot Beef Brisket can be as enjoyable as making it! Here are some creative ideas to elevate your meal and impress your guests.

Sandwiches

• Use slices of beef brisket between two slices of crusty bread. Add extra BBQ sauce for a flavorful kick!

Tacos

• Shred the brisket and serve it in soft tortillas. Top with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh taste.

Over Rice

• Serve the sliced brisket over a bed of fluffy rice. Drizzle with the reduced BBQ sauce for an easy and satisfying meal.

Salad Toppers

• Slice the brisket thinly and add it to a mixed greens salad. Pair with a tangy vinaigrette for a hearty yet healthy option.

With Vegetables

• Pair the brisket with roasted or steamed vegetables. Green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts complement the rich flavors well.

As a Platter

• Arrange sliced brisket on a platter alongside various dipping sauces. This makes for an excellent appetizer at gatherings!

How to Perfect Instant Pot Beef Brisket

To achieve the best results with your Instant Pot Beef Brisket, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select a fresh, well-marbled beef brisket for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Use a Dry Rub: Applying a good dry rub not only enhances flavor but also helps form a delicious crust during cooking.
• Sear Well: Take your time when searing the brisket to develop rich flavors. A good sear locks in moisture.
• Allow Natural Release: Letting the Instant Pot naturally release pressure helps keep the meat juicy and tender.
• Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the brisket to rest after cooking lets juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist.
• Taste Your Sauce: Always taste and adjust seasoning in your sauce before serving for the best flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Beef Brisket

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Beef Brisket can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the brisket perfectly.

2. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the beef, providing a delightful contrast in texture.

3. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread is a classic pairing, offering a soft and sweet element that pairs beautifully with savory brisket.

4. Baked Beans
   Hearty baked beans bring their own sweetness and depth of flavor that harmonizes wonderfully with BBQ brisket.

5. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds an elegant touch while maintaining simplicity in flavors alongside the meat.

6. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned to perfection provide an excellent finger food option that everyone will love.

7. Macaroni Salad
   A creamy macaroni salad serves as a cooling counterpart to spicy BBQ sauces, making it ideal for summer meals.

8. Roasted Carrots
   Sweet roasted carrots add color and sweetness to your plate, enhancing both visual appeal and taste!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making beef brisket in an Instant Pot can be easy, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential for the best results.

• Boldly skip the dry rub: Failing to apply the dry rub can lead to bland meat. Always take the time to coat your brisket evenly for maximum flavor.
• Boldly ignore resting time: Cutting into your brisket immediately after cooking can result in dry meat. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
• Boldly overlook sauce reduction: Not reducing the leftover sauce can lead to a watery consistency. Simmer it until thickened, enhancing the flavor and texture.
• Boldly rush the searing: Skipping or hurrying through the searing process may prevent a rich crust from forming. Take your time to sear each side properly for added depth of flavor.
• Boldly pack too much in your Instant Pot: Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for steam to circulate around the brisket.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Beef brisket will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instant Pot Beef Brisket

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Beef brisket can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Beef Brisket

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place brisket covered with foil in a baking dish and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, checking often until hot.
• Stovetop: Add slices with some broth or sauce in a skillet over medium heat. Cover and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Instant Pot Beef Brisket.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Beef Brisket?

Cooking beef brisket in an Instant Pot takes around 75 minutes under high pressure, plus additional time for natural release.

Can I use frozen beef brisket?

Yes, you can use frozen beef brisket! However, increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.

What is the best way to slice beef brisket?

Always slice against the grain using a sharp knife. This helps achieve tender pieces that are easier to chew.

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! This recipe includes instructions for slow cooker and oven methods, allowing you flexibility based on your kitchen tools.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Beef Brisket is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different spices or sauces based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try—it’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner!