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Frozen Ground Beef in the Instant Pot

Frozen Ground Beef in the Instant Pot

The ultimate convenience food, Frozen Ground Beef in the Instant Pot is a quick and tasty solution for a busy weeknight dinner. Enjoy perfectly cooked, flavorful beef ready in no time, making it the perfect go-to for tacos or a hearty chili!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup water
  • Salt and Pepper
  • Taco seasoning optional

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Instant Pot

Method
 

  1. Start by placing a trivet or steam basket inside your Instant Pot. This will elevate the ground beef and ensure it cooks evenly.
  2. Add one cup of water or the required minimum liquid for your pressure cooker. I typically use a 6-quart pot, and it works perfectly.
  3. Next, lay the frozen ground beef on top of the trivet. There’s no need to break it down; just place it in as is. If it’s a longer piece that doesn't fit, break it into halves.
  4. Secure the lid and lock it in place, making sure to close the sealing valve tightly.
  5. Now, you’re ready to pressure cook! Set it to high pressure for 20 minutes for 1 pound or 23 minutes for 2 pounds of meat.
  6. Once the timer goes off, allow for a 5-minute natural pressure release. After that, carefully open the valve to release any remaining pressure.
  7. Check the meat's temperature using an instant-read kitchen thermometer; it should register between 160°F and 165°F.
  8. If it’s still pink in the center, transfer it to a bowl and discard any liquid from the pot.
  9. Switch to sauté mode. Once the pot is hot, add a tablespoon of oil and the beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon, browning it until fully cooked.
  10. Season with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning if you're using it. If the mixture seems dry, adding a tablespoon of warm beef broth helps keep it moist.
  11. Once everything is cooked and seasoned to your liking, you can serve the ground beef or use it in your favorite recipes. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Tip 1: I recommend using a frozen slab of 1 or 2 pounds of meat. If it is bigger, the center will not cook properly and may remain frozen.
  • Tip 2: Don’t forget to add at least one cup of water to the bottom of the pot to keep the meat from drying out.
  • Tip 3: This recipe is for at least one pound. If using less than a pound, cook it for 15 minutes. It can always be further cooked by sautéing.
  • Tip 4: The internal temperature of the ground beef when done should be no less than 160-165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Tip 5: If the meat is still pink afterward, sauté it. Do not try to put it back in the Instant Pot again; crumble it and use the saute function to continue to cook it.