Instant Pot Corned Beef is the ultimate solution for anyone craving a hearty, flavorful meal without spending hours tending to the stove. Using a pressure cooker dramatically reduces cooking time while still delivering the signature tenderness and bold taste that corned beef is known for. Whether you are preparing a comforting family dinner, planning a festive St. Patrick’s Day spread, or simply looking for a satisfying protein-packed meal, this method guarantees reliable, delicious results every time.

This recipe transforms a traditionally slow-cooked dish into a convenient, weeknight-friendly option. The pressure cooker locks in moisture, infuses the brisket with aromatic spices, and produces fork-tender slices in a fraction of the time required by conventional methods.

Why Make Corned Beef in the Instant Pot?

Traditional corned beef recipes often require simmering for several hours to break down the tough fibers of brisket. The Instant Pot uses high pressure to accelerate this process, making it possible to achieve the same melt-in-your-mouth texture much faster.

• Significantly reduces cooking time without sacrificing flavor.
• Creates incredibly tender meat that slices or shreds easily.
• Requires minimal hands-on preparation.
• Locks in moisture to prevent dry or chewy brisket.
• Perfect for busy schedules or last-minute meal planning.

The result is a savory, comforting dish that tastes like it has been cooking all day, even though it comes together with very little effort.

Choosing the Right Cut: Flat Cut vs. Point Cut

Flat Cut

The flat cut is leaner and more uniform in shape, making it ideal for slicing. It is the most commonly available option in grocery stores and works beautifully in the Instant Pot because it cooks evenly and produces neat, tender slices.

Point Cut

The point cut contains more fat and has a thicker, irregular shape. While slightly richer in flavor, it may shred more easily rather than slicing cleanly. This cut is excellent if you prefer a more rustic presentation.

Both cuts work well in a pressure cooker, so your choice depends largely on personal preference.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Corned beef brisket with included seasoning packet
• Onion, peeled and quartered
• Garlic cloves for aromatic depth
• Chicken broth or beef broth to fully cover the brisket

These simple ingredients allow the natural flavor of the cured meat and spices to shine while creating a rich cooking liquid that enhances tenderness.

How to Cook Instant Pot Corned Beef?

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Start by placing onion and garlic in the bottom of the Instant Pot. These aromatics create a flavorful foundation and subtly season the meat as it cooks.

Step 2: Add the Brisket

Place the corned beef brisket on top of the aromatics. Sprinkle the seasoning packet evenly over the meat so the spices infuse throughout the cooking process.

Step 3: Add the Cooking Liquid

Pour in enough chicken or beef broth to fully cover the brisket. This ensures even cooking and helps tenderize the meat under pressure.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure using the manual setting. Cook for 90 minutes. The high-pressure environment breaks down connective tissue quickly, producing exceptionally tender results.

Step 5: Quick Release and Rest

Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick pressure release. Allow the meat to cool slightly before handling to retain its juices.

Step 6: Slice or Shred

Slice the corned beef against the grain for the most tender texture, or shred it if you prefer a pulled style for sandwiches or hash.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can still prepare delicious corned beef using other techniques.

Slow Cooker Method

• Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
• Or cook on high for 4–6 hours.
• This method produces similar tenderness with longer cook time.

Stovetop Method

• Simmer gently in a large pot.
• Cook approximately 50 minutes per pound.
• Maintain a low simmer to prevent toughening the meat.

While both methods work well, the Instant Pot remains the fastest and most convenient approach.

Tips for the Best Instant Pot Corned Beef

Enough broth must be added to cover the brisket. This is essential for proper pressure cooking and ensures even tenderness.

Allowing the brisket to cool slightly helps redistribute juices, preventing dryness.

The Instant Pot’s timing is precise. Cooking significantly longer can cause the meat to become overly soft.

The seasoning blend is specifically designed to complement corned beef and provides the signature flavor profile.

Making It Low-Carb or Keto Friendly

Instant Pot Corned Beef is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb lifestyles. Simply pair it with non-starchy vegetables like cabbage, greens, or roasted asparagus instead of potatoes.

Using a sugar-free dressing or mustard-based sauce also helps maintain a keto-friendly approach without sacrificing flavor.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Refrigeration

Store leftover corned beef in an airtight container for up to four days. Keeping some of the cooking liquid with the meat helps retain moisture.

Freezing

Corned beef freezes well. Slice or shred before freezing and store in sealed containers for up to three months.

Reheating

• Warm gently in a skillet with broth to prevent drying.
• Reheat in the microwave covered to trap steam.
• Avoid high heat, which can toughen the meat.