Easy Instant Pot Ground Beef Recipes for Weeknight Dinners
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Looking for a quick way to make tasty dinners? An Instant Pot is a great choice for busy families. It cooks many dishes fast, making it ideal for easy and flavorful meals.

Using an Instant Pot for ground beef recipes saves time and effort. You can make everything from hearty chili to savory pasta sauces easily.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the convenience of cooking ground beef recipes in an Instant Pot.
- Explore a variety of easy and delicious meal ideas.
- Learn how to save time and effort in the kitchen.
- Find inspiration for new weeknight dinner recipes.
- Understand the benefits of using an Instant Pot for meal prep.
The Benefits of Using Your Instant Pot for Weeknight Ground Beef Meals
Using your Instant Pot for weeknight meals is a big help for busy families. It makes cooking quick and easy, so you don’t spend hours in the kitchen.
Time-Saving Advantages of Pressure Cooking
The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking cuts down cooking time a lot. You can make ground beef recipes up to 70% faster than usual. This means you can have a healthy meal ready in under 30 minutes, great for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Convenience for Easy Cleanup
Cooking with the Instant Pot means less cleanup. It’s both a cooking pot and a serving dish. This one-pot convenience makes meal prep and cleanup a breeze, perfect for when you’re short on time.
Budget-Friendly Meal Solutions
Instant Pot ground beef recipes are quick, easy, and budget-friendly. Ground beef is cheap, and mixing it with other ingredients makes a filling meal. You can make many dishes, like chili or meatballs, that are great for families on a budget.
Essential Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Ground Beef Recipes
To make perfect Instant Pot ground beef recipes, follow some key tips. These tips ensure your meals are tasty and satisfying. They are helpful whether you’re experienced or new to cooking.
Selecting the Right Ground Beef
Choosing the right ground beef is key to your Instant Pot recipes’ success. Go for lean ground beef (about 90% lean) for a healthier choice. Or, pick regular ground beef (around 80% lean) for more flavor. The fat content impacts both taste and texture.
Proper Sautéing Techniques
Proper sautéing is vital in many Instant Pot ground beef recipes. Use the “Saute” function to brown the beef well. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. This step boosts flavor and texture.
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Avoiding the “Burn” Notice
A common problem with Instant Pot cooking is the “Burn” notice. It happens when food sticks to the bottom. To prevent this, deglaze the pot with a bit of liquid (like broth or water). Scrape up any browned bits before starting your recipe.
Safe Storage and Reheating Practices
After cooking, it’s important to store and reheat your dishes safely. Cool the food to room temperature in two hours, then refrigerate or freeze. When reheating, ensure the food reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid illness.
- Refrigerate cooked ground beef within two hours.
- Reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Use airtight containers for storage.
Hearty Instant Pot Chili with Ground Beef
Make Instant Pot chili with ground beef for a filling dinner. It’s easy and tastes great. It’s perfect for weeknights and can be made to your liking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need for delicious Instant Pot chili:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Ground Beef | 1 lb |
Diced Onion | 1 |
Garlic | 3 cloves |
Diced Tomatoes | 1 can |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Here’s how to make your Instant Pot chili:
- Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot. Cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up.
- Add the diced onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is clear.
- Stir in chili powder and cumin. Cook for 1-2 minutes until it smells good.
- Add diced tomatoes, beans, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then release for 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Serve your chili hot with cheese, sour cream, onions, or jalapeños. You can also add bell peppers or sausage to make it your own.
Classic Instant Pot Sloppy Joes
Instant Pot Sloppy Joes are a quick and tasty solution for weeknight dinners. You can easily make this classic comfort food with your Instant Pot. Enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Instant Pot Sloppy Joes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Instant Pot Sloppy Joes:
- Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, ketchup, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.” Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
- Serve the Sloppy Joe mixture on hamburger buns.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
You can customize your Sloppy Joes by adding different toppings. Try shredded cheese, diced onions, or sliced pickles. Serve with coleslaw or baked beans for a complete meal. Adjust the spiciness by adding more chili powder or using hot sauce.
Flavorful Instant Pot Meatballs
With your Instant Pot, making tender and flavorful meatballs is easy. You can serve them as an appetizer, add to pasta, or use in subs. The Instant Pot makes sure your meatballs are always delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Instant Pot meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to make perfect Instant Pot meatballs:
- Mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl until just combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
- Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT.”
- Add a small amount of oil to the pot, then brown the meatballs on all sides.
- Add the marinara sauce and beef broth to the pot.
- Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING.”
- Cook on “MEAT/STEW” mode for 10 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Serve your Instant Pot meatballs with pasta, in subs, or as an appetizer. You can also customize the recipe by using different types of meat or adding various spices. Consider serving with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
Creamy Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff
Make your weeknight dinner special with Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff. This classic dish is quick and easy to make in your Instant Pot. It always turns out creamy and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Creamy Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz egg noodles
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to cook your Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff:
- Press the “Saute” button and cook the ground beef until browned.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
- Add beef broth, tomato paste, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and close the lid. Cook on “Manual” mode for 5 minutes.
- Quick-release the pressure and stir in the sour cream.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
- Serve the beef mixture over the noodles.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
You can make your Beef Stroganoff your own by adding different veggies or using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Serve it hot, topped with parsley or chives.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Ground Beef | 1 lb |
Onion | 1 |
Garlic | 2 cloves |

Comforting Instant Pot Goulash
Warm up with a bowl of Instant Pot goulash, a simple yet satisfying meal. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a quick, nourishing meal. Goulash is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Instant Pot goulash, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup macaroni
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to make delicious Instant Pot goulash:
- Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the macaroni to the pot and stir to combine.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.” Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Serve the goulash hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream if desired. You can also customize the recipe by adding other ingredients, such as diced bell peppers or sliced mushrooms, to suit your taste.
Family-Friendly Instant Pot Taco Pasta
For a meal that’s both comforting and exciting, try Instant Pot Taco Pasta. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. This dish combines taco flavors with pasta’s heartiness, all made easy in your Instant Pot.

Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious Instant Pot Taco Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 packet of taco seasoning
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup of pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, diced avocado, cilantro
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Instant Pot Taco Pasta:
- Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and cook until it’s translucent.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, pasta, and beef broth. Close the lid of the Instant Pot.
- Set the valve to “Sealing” and press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button. Set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for a few minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Serve your Instant Pot Taco Pasta hot, topped with your choice of optional toppings like sour cream, diced avocado, or cilantro. Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your family’s tastes. Add other ingredients, such as diced bell peppers or jalapeños, to the pot during cooking.
More Delicious Instant Pot Ground Beef Recipes to Try
Explore new flavors and meal ideas with these Instant Pot ground beef recipes. Your Instant Pot can make a variety of tasty meals. From hearty comfort foods to international dishes, there’s something for everyone.
Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are a classic dish that’s easy to make in your Instant Pot. It combines ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and spices inside bell peppers.
Ingredients and Instructions
You’ll need ground beef, bell peppers, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and spices. Brown the ground beef first. Then, add the rest of the ingredients except the peppers. Stuff the peppers with the meat mix and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Tips for Perfect Results
Make sure the peppers are covered by liquid. You can adjust the seasoning to your liking. Adding chopped vegetables or different cheeses can enhance the dish.
Instant Pot Lasagna
Lasagna is a comfort food classic that the Instant Pot can simplify. Layer lasagna noodles, ground beef sauce, and cheese in a springform pan that fits inside your Instant Pot.
Ingredients and Instructions
You’ll need lasagna noodles, ground beef, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese. Brown the ground beef first. Then, layer the ingredients in a springform pan. Cook on high pressure for 20-25 minutes.
Tips for Perfect Results
Check the noodles for doneness to avoid overcooking. Let the lasagna rest before serving. This allows the layers to set.
Instant Pot Hamburger Soup
Hamburger soup is a hearty meal perfect for any time of the year. It’s easy to make in your Instant Pot by combining ground beef with vegetables and broth.
Ingredients and Instructions
You’ll need ground beef, mixed vegetables (like carrots, potatoes, and green beans), diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Brown the ground beef first. Then, add the rest of the ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 10-15 minutes.
Tips for Perfect Results
Customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or add noodles for extra heartiness. Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving.
Conclusion: Transform Your Weeknight Dinner Routine with These Instant Pot Ground Beef Recipes
You now have a collection of delicious and easy-to-make Instant Pot ground beef recipes. These recipes can make your weeknight dinners better. You can make everything from hearty chili to creamy Beef Stroganoff.
These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights. They help you get a quick and nutritious meal ready. Using your Instant Pot saves time on cooking and cleaning up.
Start exploring Instant Pot cooking with these recipes. Try new ingredients and variations to keep your meals interesting. With these recipes, you’ll make cooking more efficient and fun.
FAQ
What are the best types of ground beef to use in Instant Pot recipes?
You can pick from different ground beef types, like 80/20 or 85/15 lean to fat ratio. This choice affects how juicy and flavorful your dish will be. Always go for fresh, high-quality ground beef for the best taste.
How do I avoid the “burn” notice when cooking ground beef in my Instant Pot?
To dodge the “burn” notice, sauté the ground beef well before adding liquid. Make sure there’s enough liquid to cover everything. Also, deglaze the pot after browning to remove stuck-on food.
Can I cook frozen ground beef in my Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook frozen ground beef in your Instant Pot. Just remember to adjust cooking time and break the meat into small pieces for even cooking. Thawing the meat first will give better results.
How do I store and reheat leftover Instant Pot ground beef recipes?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat in the Instant Pot or microwave, ensuring it reaches a safe temperature.
Can I make Instant Pot ground beef recipes ahead of time?
Yes, many Instant Pot ground beef recipes can be made ahead. Cook, store, and reheat as needed. Some, like chili or stews, are great for large batches that can be refrigerated or frozen.
Are Instant Pot ground beef recipes suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Instant Pot ground beef recipes are perfect for meal prep. Cook a big batch, portion it out, and store in the fridge or freezer for days.
Can I customize Instant Pot ground beef recipes to suit my dietary needs?
Yes, you can tailor Instant Pot ground beef recipes to fit your diet. Adjust seasonings, add or remove ingredients, or swap proteins and veggies to meet your dietary preferences.