The moment the rich, savory aroma of this Instant Pot Beef Brisket fills your kitchen, it’s almost impossible not to smile. I discovered this dish on a rainy Sunday when comfort food was utterly non-negotiable. As the brisket seared in the pot, each sizzle an invitation, I knew I was on the verge of something delicious.
With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and robust flavors from garlic, rosemary, and red wine, this brisket has a way of turning any meal into a special occasion. There’s something truly satisfying about letting the Instant Pot do all the hard work—offering up perfectly tender meat in a fraction of the time a traditional method would require.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a hearty dinner, this recipe will not disappoint. Plus, it’s the kind of dish that allows you to focus on what really matters—sharing a delightful meal with those you love. Let’s dive into the recipe, and I’ll show you just how easy it is to bring this crowd-pleaser to your table!
Why is Instant Pot Beef Brisket a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its Finest: This recipe offers an effortless way to achieve a gourmet meal with minimal fuss.
Mouthwatering Flavor: The harmonious blend of garlic, rosemary, and red wine infuses the brisket with depth and richness that will leave everyone coming back for more.
Time-Saving Excellence: Unlike traditional methods, the Instant Pot drastically reduces cooking time, making it perfect for busy nights without sacrificing taste.
Impressive Presentation: Serve it sliced with the thick gravy drizzled on top, and your dinner table transforms into a feast that will wow your family and friends.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a festive gathering, this beef brisket shines through as a comforting crowd-pleaser.
Discover more comforting dishes like this by checking out my slow cooker recipes!
Instant Pot Beef Brisket Ingredients
• Discover the perfect mix of flavors!
For the Brisket
• Beef brisket – 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 pounds, choose a well-marbled piece for that melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
• Kosher salt – 1 1/2 teaspoons, divided, enhances the natural flavors of the beef.
• Ground black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon, adds a subtle kick.
For Searing
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon, for a beautiful sear and to add richness.
For the Flavor Base
• Yellow onions – 3 medium, sliced; they caramelize beautifully and add sweetness.
• Garlic – 3 large cloves, peeled; the star flavor that complements brisket so well.
For Cooking Liquids
• Water – 1/2 cup, necessary for pressure cooking.
• Dry red wine – 1/2 cup, brings a depth of flavor reminiscent of gourmet meals, or use broth for a non-alcoholic version.
• Ketchup – 1/4 cup, surprisingly enhances sweetness and balances acidity.
For the Seasoning
• Dried rosemary – 1 teaspoon, adds an aromatic touch that’s perfect with beef.
• Dried thyme leaves – 1 teaspoon, another herb that elevates the overall profile of the dish.
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon, gives a lovely warmth and color to your gravy.
With these ingredients at your fingertips, you’re well on your way to crafting an unforgettable Instant Pot Beef Brisket that everyone will adore!
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Brisket
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Prepare the Brisket: Rinse the brisket and pat it dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat over 1/4-inch, seasoning both sides with 1 teaspoon of salt and black pepper.
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Sear the Brisket: Select the “Sauté” program on the Instant Pot, adjusting it to high heat. Add olive oil and sear the brisket for 6 minutes on one side, then flip and sear for another 6 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
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Sauté Vegetables: Switch the pressure cooker to medium “Sauté.” Add sliced onions, garlic, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until onions soften and begin to brown, around 10 minutes.
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Mix Cooking Liquids: Stir in water, dry red wine, ketchup, rosemary, thyme, and paprika into the onion-garlic mixture until well combined.
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Cook the Brisket: Carefully place the seared brisket back into the pot, fat side facing up. Seal the lid and set the pressure regulator to “Sealing.” Select “Manual,” setting the timer for 50 minutes at high pressure.
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Release the Pressure: After the cooking time, release pressure using either a quick release or let it naturally release for about 20 minutes.
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Strain the Liquid: Transfer the brisket to a plate. Strain the cooking liquid into a fat separator, saving the onions and garlic in the strainer.
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Make the Gravy: Return the strained onions and garlic to the pot. Pour back the cooking liquid (discarding excess fat), then blend until a thick gravy forms using an immersion blender or standard blender.
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Slice and Serve: Slice the brisket against the grain into 1/4-inch thick pieces. Drizzle the thick gravy over the brisket and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Beef Brisket?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides that harmonize perfectly with the richness of the brisket.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smooth texture of mashed potatoes balances the robust flavors of the brisket, making every bite a sheer delight.
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Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Their natural sweetness, caramelized to perfection, provides a colorful contrast that brightens your plate and complements the savory brisket beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy and warm, this classic side is perfect for soaking up that thick, delectable gravy drizzled over your brisket.
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Coleslaw: The crunch and acidity of coleslaw offer a refreshing counterpoint to the tender beef, enhancing the meal with a satisfying textural contrast.
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Buttered Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn adds a touch of summer to your dinner, creating a nostalgic pairing that everyone will love.
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Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine not only enhances the flavors but also creates a cohesive dining experience that mirrors the ingredients used in the brisket.
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Apple Pie: For dessert, this warm, spiced classic adds a sweet finish that’s perfect after a hearty meal; it echoes the comfort of home-like cooking.
These delicious pairings will not only enhance your Instant Pot Beef Brisket but create a memorable dining experience that brings loved ones together around the table!
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Beef Brisket preparations are ideal for those busy days when you need to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can season the brisket and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance for a head start. Additionally, the onion and garlic mixture can be sautéed and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply return the brisket to the pot with the prepped mixture, add the remaining ingredients, and cook as directed. For the best results, maintain quality by storing everything airtight to prevent drying out or absorbing odors in the fridge. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll simplify your cooking process and enjoy just as delicious brisket with minimal effort!
Helpful Tricks for Instant Pot Beef Brisket
Trim Wisely: Trim the fat properly to avoid a greasy texture; aim for just a 1/4-inch layer of fat on the brisket.
Searing Matters: Don’t skip the searing! Properly searing the brisket in your Instant Pot enhances flavor and adds a beautiful crust.
Pressure Release: Be mindful of pressure release; a quick release might make the brisket tougher, so allow for natural release for the best tenderness.
Slice Against the Grain: Always slice the brisket against the grain; this ensures each bite is tender and easy to chew.
Gravy Consistency: Blend the gravy until smooth but thick—this adds richness and ensures it nicely coats the brisket, enhancing the eating experience.
Enjoy your flavorful Instant Pot Beef Brisket and share it with loved ones for a memorable meal!
Instant Pot Beef Brisket Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic brisket recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or red pepper flakes for a bold, spicy flavor that enhances the richness of the brisket.
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Honey-Glazed: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of honey into the cooking liquid for a touch of sweetness that beautifully balances the savory notes.
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Herb-Infused: Substitute fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried for an intensified, aromatic flavor that’s sure to elevate the dish.
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Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium beef broth in place of water and wine, reducing the salt content while maintaining delicious flavor depth.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap out the brisket for hearty mushrooms, like portobello or shiitake, absorbing all the rich flavors for a plant-based delight.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a rich, smoky essence that will excite your taste buds and mimic that classic BBQ flavor.
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Citrus Burst: Add the juice and zest of one orange or lemon into the gravy for a fresh, zesty contrast to the savory flavors.
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Sweet and Savory: Mix in 1/4 cup of brown sugar or maple syrup with the ketchup for a sweet-savory dynamic that’s hard to resist.
With these variations, your Instant Pot Beef Brisket can evolve into something exciting and new each time you make it! Enjoy discovering your perfect rendition!
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Beef Brisket
Fridge: Store leftover brisket in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for easy access and reheating.
Freezer: Freeze sliced brisket in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Layer parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep the brisket moist.
Thawing: Thaw frozen brisket overnight in the fridge before reheating. This helps maintain the succulent texture that makes this Instant Pot Beef Brisket so delicious.
Instant Pot Beef Brisket Recipe FAQs
Which type of beef brisket should I choose?
Absolutely! When selecting brisket, look for cuts that are well-marbled with flecks of fat. This marbling adds flavor and tenderness to the meat as it cooks. It’s best to avoid cuts that have a thick layer of fat, as trimming excess fat will help achieve the melt-in-your-mouth texture you desire.
How do I store leftover brisket?
I recommend storing leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re planning on saving individual slices, wrap each slice in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and flavor, making reheating easy and efficient.
Can I freeze Instant Pot Beef Brisket?
Very! To freeze brisket, first slice it into portions and place them in freezer-safe bags. Layer parchment paper between the slices to prevent them from sticking together. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your bags with the date, so you know exactly when you made it!
What’s the best way to reheat the brisket?
For the best results, reheat the brisket slowly. You can use the microwave or put it in a skillet on low heat with a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist. This typically takes around 10-15 minutes. If you’re reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my brisket comes out tough?
If you find your brisket is tough, it might not have cooked long enough or was cut against the grain. Be sure to slice the brisket against the grain for maximum tenderness. If your brisket still seems tough, try simmering it in a little cooked broth with the lid on for additional moisture—this can help tenderize and revive it beautifully.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Indeed! If you have dietary restrictions, ensure you verify the ingredients such as broth and ketchup, which can sometimes contain allergens like gluten or added sugars. Also, keep in mind that some family pets may be sensitive to garlic, so make sure they don’t get any of the leftovers.
Tender Instant Pot Beef Brisket That Melts in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the brisket and pat it dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat over 1/4-inch, seasoning both sides with 1 teaspoon of salt and black pepper.
- Select the 'Sauté' program on the Instant Pot, adjusting it to high heat. Add olive oil and sear the brisket for 6 minutes on one side, then flip and sear for another 6 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
- Switch the pressure cooker to medium 'Sauté.' Add sliced onions, garlic, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until onions soften and begin to brown, around 10 minutes.
- Stir in water, dry red wine, ketchup, rosemary, thyme, and paprika into the onion-garlic mixture until well combined.
- Carefully place the seared brisket back into the pot, fat side facing up. Seal the lid and set the pressure regulator to 'Sealing.' Select 'Manual,' setting the timer for 50 minutes at high pressure.
- After the cooking time, release pressure using either a quick release or let it naturally release for about 20 minutes.
- Transfer the brisket to a plate. Strain the cooking liquid into a fat separator, saving the onions and garlic in the strainer.
- Return the strained onions and garlic to the pot. Pour back the cooking liquid (discarding excess fat), then blend until a thick gravy forms using an immersion blender or standard blender.
- Slice the brisket against the grain into 1/4-inch thick pieces. Drizzle the thick gravy over the brisket and serve hot with your favorite sides.