3 Quick Ground Beef Instant Pot Recipes

If you're looking for quick and convenient dinner ideas, the Instant Pot is your best friend. Not only does it save time, but it also maintains the rich flavor and tenderness of the meat. Here are three fantastic ground beef Instant Pot recipes that will make your meal prep a breeze.

1. Instant Pot Chili

Chili is a comforting dish perfect for any time of the year. Here’s how to make it:

• Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: cheese, sour cream, cilantro for toppings
• Instructions
  1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the ground beef, cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
  2. Stir in onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the onions become translucent.
  3. Add all other ingredients, stirring to combine.
  4. Seal the lid, set to manual pressure cooking at high for 20 minutes.
  5. After cooking, perform a natural release for 10 minutes followed by a quick release.
  6. Open the pot and stir. If the chili is too thin, sauté for a few minutes to thicken.

🍲 Note: For a spicier chili, add a jalapeño or increase the chili powder.

2. Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Combine your main dish and side in one go with this meatloaf and mashed potatoes recipe:

• Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
• Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into a loaf shape.
  2. Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot. Place the meatloaf on a trivet and lower it into the pot.
  3. Wrap potatoes in foil with a tablespoon of butter and place on top of the meatloaf.
  4. Close the lid, set to high pressure for 25 minutes.
  5. After cooking, perform a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
  6. Remove the meatloaf and potatoes. Mash potatoes with butter, milk, garlic powder, and salt.

🍽 Note: Ensure the meatloaf has internal temp of 160°F for safety.

3. Instant Pot Taco Pasta

Combine the flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta in one pot:

• Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet of taco seasoning
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Toppings: sour cream, green onions, diced tomatoes
• Instructions
  1. Set Instant Pot to sauté mode, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add taco seasoning, macaroni, salsa, broth, and water. Stir well.
  3. Seal the lid, cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
  4. Quick release the pressure. Stir in the corn and cheese until cheese melts.

As you see, these ground beef Instant Pot recipes are not only quick but also packed with flavor and convenience. The Instant Pot handles the cooking with minimal effort on your part, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax.

Whether it's a hearty chili, a comforting meatloaf with sides, or a fun twist on pasta, these recipes are designed to cater to diverse palates while saving you time. Enjoy the process of cooking and the delicious outcomes without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I use frozen ground beef for these recipes?

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Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, though cooking time might need slight adjustments. For chili and taco pasta, you can add a few extra minutes to the pressure cooking time.

How can I make these recipes vegetarian?

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Substitute ground beef with plant-based alternatives like Beyond Meat or add more beans or lentils for protein. Adjust spices and seasonings to taste.

Can I double these recipes for larger gatherings?

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Yes, you can double the ingredients, but keep in mind the maximum fill line in your Instant Pot. Cook time might remain the same, but ensure you don’t go over the pot’s capacity.