5 Delicious Ground Beef Pressure Cooker Recipes

Are you in search of easy yet savory meals that can be made swiftly? If ground beef is a staple in your pantry and you own a pressure cooker, you're in for a treat! Here we'll explore five mouth-watering ground beef recipes tailored for pressure cooking. From quick weeknight dinners to comfort foods, these recipes will not only save you time but also fill your home with irresistible aromas.

1. Classic Bolognese Sauce

Bolognese sauce is a timeless classic, perfect for pasta nights. Here's how to make it in your pressure cooker:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, grated
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of red wine (optional)
• 1 cup of beef or chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, oregano, and bay leaf

Steps:

1. Set your pressure cooker to sauté mode, add a drizzle of olive oil, and cook the onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
2. Add garlic, then brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Pour in the wine (if using), and let it cook until reduced by half.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, tomatoes, broth, and seasonings.
5. Close the lid, set to high pressure, and cook for 20 minutes. Use a quick release when the time is up.

🍅 Note: For a richer flavor, consider adding pancetta or bacon to the sauté step.

2. Beef and Bean Chili

A hearty, spiced chili is just what you need to warm up those chilly evenings. Here's how to whip it up:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of kidney beans, drained
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 can of tomato sauce
• Chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Use the sauté function to brown the ground beef, then add the onions, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until soft.
2. Add the beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, and spices. Stir well.
3. Seal the cooker and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
4. Allow natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

🌶️ Note: Adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili powder or by including diced jalapeños.

3. Stuffed Pepper Soup

This recipe takes the beloved flavors of stuffed peppers and turns it into a comforting soup:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 3 bell peppers, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 cup of uncooked rice
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Steps:

1. On sauté mode, cook the ground beef until browned, then remove some of the fat if necessary.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers, and cook until they start to soften.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes, broth, uncooked rice, and seasoning. Stir to combine.
4. Close and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. Use quick release after.

4. Quick Beef Enchiladas

Transform ground beef into a fiesta of flavors with these enchiladas:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can of enchilada sauce
• 1 can of green chilies
• 8 small tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• Cilantro, for garnish

Steps:

1. Sauté the beef and onions until cooked through.
2. Stir in half the enchilada sauce and the chilies. Warm tortillas to soften.
3. Spread a bit of sauce in the bottom of a pressure cooker-safe dish, roll the beef mixture into the tortillas, place seam side down, and pour the remaining sauce over top.
4. Cover with cheese, place the dish in the pressure cooker, and cook on high for 5 minutes.

🌮 Note: If you like, add a layer of black beans or corn for extra texture.

5. Shepherd's Pie Pressure Cooker Style

A classic comfort food, Shepherd's Pie gets a modern twist with this pressure cooker version:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Gravy granules or 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• Mashed potatoes for topping (pre-made or instant)

Steps:

1. Use sauté mode to cook the beef, onions, and garlic until the meat is browned.
2. Mix in the peas, carrots, and gravy granules or flour, then pour in the broth.
3. Layer the mashed potatoes on top. Cover with foil and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
4. Natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.

In conclusion, your pressure cooker can be your best ally when it comes to creating delightful ground beef dishes with minimal effort. Not only do these recipes offer convenience, but they also ensure that the flavors are locked in, providing you with rich, satisfying meals in record time. Whether it's a simple Bolognese or a more adventurous enchilada, the versatility of ground beef shines through when paired with the efficiency of a pressure cooker. Happy cooking!

Can I use frozen ground beef in these recipes?

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Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but increase the cooking time by about 50% and ensure it’s fully thawed before adding ingredients that require heat to cook through properly.

How do I adjust these recipes for a different quantity?

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Scaling these recipes up or down is relatively straightforward. Just maintain the proportions of ingredients, adjusting the cooking times slightly if increasing quantities. Ensure your pressure cooker isn’t overfilled.

Can I use these recipes with an Instant Pot?

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These recipes are designed for electric pressure cookers, which includes Instant Pot. Just follow the cooking times provided or adjust them according to your model’s instructions for best results.

What are some alternatives to beef broth if I’m out?

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You can substitute beef broth with chicken or vegetable broth, bouillon cubes mixed with water, or even a mix of soy sauce and water for a quick beef flavor substitute.

How can I make these recipes gluten-free?

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To make these recipes gluten-free, ensure all ingredients like broths, tomato paste, and sauces are labeled gluten-free. Substitute flour with cornstarch for thickening, and use gluten-free pasta or alternatives when necessary.