Corned beef has been a beloved dish for centuries, enjoyed for its rich, salty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Traditionally cooked low and slow for hours, corned beef can sometimes be a lengthy and labor-intensive process. However, thanks to the Instant Pot, you can achieve perfectly tender corned beef in a fraction of the time—without sacrificing flavor or texture.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cooking corned beef in an Instant Pot, from selecting the right cut to step-by-step instructions for a fail-proof meal. Whether you’re preparing this dish for St. Patrick’s Day, a family gathering, or just a comforting dinner, the Instant Pot method ensures juicy, flavorful corned beef every time.
Why Use an Instant Pot for Corned Beef?
Many people are switching to pressure cooking for corned beef due to its efficiency and consistency. Here are some reasons why the Instant Pot is the best cooking method for this classic dish:
Saves Time: Instead of waiting 3-4 hours for a stovetop or slow cooker method, the Instant Pot can cook corned beef in just 90 minutes (plus natural release time).
Superior Texture: Pressure cooking locks in moisture and tenderness, resulting in fork-tender beef.
Infused Flavors: The sealed environment allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Hands-Free Cooking: No need to babysit a pot on the stove—just set it and let the Instant Pot do the work.
In the next sections, we’ll cover everything from the history of corned beef to how to cook the perfect Instant Pot corned beef step by step. Stay tuned!
If you love slow-cooked beef, you may also want to try this Mississippi Pot Roast, which has a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture similar to corned beef.
What is Corned Beef?
Corned beef is a salt-cured beef brisket, typically seasoned with a blend of pickling spices and curing salts that give it its signature pink color and distinct flavor. The curing process preserves the meat while infusing it with a deliciously tangy, slightly spiced taste. While corned beef is especially popular in Irish-American cuisine, it has a rich history that spans centuries and cultures.
The History of Corned Beef
Despite its association with St. Patrick’s Day and Irish heritage, corned beef did not originate in Ireland. The dish became popular in the 17th century when Irish salt merchants began exporting heavily salted beef to England and beyond. The term “corned” comes from the large grains of rock salt, or “corns,” used in the curing process.
When Irish immigrants arrived in America, they adapted their traditional foods, swapping pork for beef due to its availability. Corned beef quickly became a staple in Irish-American households, especially when paired with cabbage, potatoes, and carrots—affordable ingredients at the time.
What Makes Corned Beef Unique?
Corned beef differs from regular brisket due to its curing process. It is not smoked or roasted but brined in a salty solution with pickling spices like:
- Mustard seeds
- Black peppercorns
- Cloves
- Bay leaves
- Coriander
- Allspice
This curing process tenderizes the meat while infusing it with deep, savory flavors. The result? A juicy, fork-tender brisket with a delicious balance of salt and spice.
Different Cuts of Corned Beef
Before cooking your Instant Pot corned beef, it’s essential to understand the different cuts available:
- Flat Cut: This is the leaner portion of the brisket, with a uniform shape and minimal fat. It’s easier to slice and great for sandwiches.
- Point Cut: This cut has more marbling and fat, making it extra juicy and flavorful. It’s ideal for dishes like corned beef hash.
For the best Instant Pot corned beef, many people prefer the flat cut for its tenderness and ease of slicing. However, if you love rich, fatty, melt-in-your-mouth meat, the point cut is a great option too.
Why Use an Instant Pot for Corned Beef?
Now that we understand what makes corned beef special, let’s explore why the Instant Pot is the perfect cooking method for this dish.
Benefits of Pressure Cooking Corned Beef
Pressure cooking transforms tough brisket into tender, flavorful corned beef in much less time than traditional cooking methods. Here’s why:
- Faster Cooking: Traditional stovetop or slow-cooker corned beef takes 3-4 hours. The Instant Pot cuts that time to 90 minutes (plus natural release).
- Tender Texture: The high-pressure environment breaks down tough muscle fibers, resulting in ultra-tender beef.
- Better Flavor Infusion: The sealed Instant Pot locks in all the flavors, ensuring the spices penetrate the meat deeply.
- No Guesswork: The Instant Pot ensures consistent results every time, without having to check for doneness constantly.
Instant Pot vs. Other Cooking Methods
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot | 90 minutes + natural release | Fast, tender, and flavorful | Requires pressure release time |
| Slow Cooker | 8-10 hours | Hands-free cooking, good flavor | Takes a long time |
| Stovetop | 3-4 hours | Traditional method, good texture | Requires monitoring |
| Oven Braising | 3-4 hours | Deep flavor, good texture | Can dry out if not watched carefully |
Clearly, the Instant Pot is the best option if you want fast, delicious corned beef without sacrificing tenderness.
Ingredients for the Perfect Instant Pot Corned Beef
To achieve the most flavorful and tender corned beef, you’ll need high-quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to make a delicious Instant Pot corned beef meal.
Essential Ingredients
Corned Beef Brisket (3-4 lbs.) – Choose either flat cut (leaner, easy to slice) or point cut (fattier, richer in flavor). Most store-bought corned beef comes pre-brined with a seasoning packet.
Water or Beef Broth (4 cups) – Helps create steam for pressure cooking. Beef broth adds more flavor, while water keeps it traditional.
Pickling Spice Mix (if not included) – If your corned beef doesn’t come with a spice packet, you can use a mix of:
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 whole cloves
- ½ teaspoon allspice
Onion (1 large, quartered) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
Garlic (4 cloves, smashed) – Enhances the savory taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tablespoons) – Helps tenderize the beef and balances the salty flavor.
Bay Leaves (2-3 leaves) – Adds aromatic depth.
Cabbage (1 small head, cut into wedges) – A traditional pairing with corned beef, added at the end.
Carrots (4, cut into chunks) – Adds natural sweetness.
Potatoes (4-6 small, halved) – Soaks up the flavorful cooking liquid.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
Beer (12 oz., replaces some of the water/broth) – A stout beer like Guinness adds depth and richness.
Brown Sugar (1 tablespoon) – Balances the saltiness with a touch of sweetness.
Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon) – Adds a slight tang and enhances flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 teaspoon) – Deepens umami flavor.
For another hearty beef dinner, check out this Smoked Meatloaf Recipe—it’s packed with smoky, juicy goodness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Instant Pot Corned Beef
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s walk through the exact steps to make tender, flavorful corned beef in your Instant Pot.
Prepare the Corned Beef
1️⃣ Rinse the Brisket: Corned beef is pre-brined and can be very salty. Rinse the brisket under cold water to remove excess salt.
2️⃣ Trim Fat (Optional): If your corned beef has a thick fat cap, you can trim some off, but leave a thin layer for moisture and flavor.
3️⃣ Season (if needed): If your brisket didn’t come with a seasoning packet, use the homemade spice mix listed above.
Layer Ingredients in the Instant Pot
1️⃣ Place the Onion & Garlic First: Add onions, garlic, and bay leaves to the bottom of the Instant Pot.
2️⃣ Add the Corned Beef: Place the brisket fat-side up on top of the onions.
3️⃣ Pour in Liquid: Add 4 cups of liquid (water, broth, or beer). The liquid should partially submerge the meat but not fully cover it.
4️⃣ Sprinkle the Spice Packet: If using, spread the pickling spices over the beef.
Pressure Cook the Corned Beef
1️⃣ Seal the Lid: Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing.”
2️⃣ Set the Cooking Time:
- 90 minutes on High Pressure for a 3-4 lb. brisket.
- 100 minutes for a larger cut (4-5 lbs.).
3️⃣ Natural Release: After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 15-20 minutes before opening the lid. This step ensures maximum tenderness.
Add the Vegetables
1️⃣ Remove the Corned Beef: Place it on a cutting board and tent with foil to rest.
2️⃣ Add the Vegetables:
- Place potatoes, carrots, and cabbage wedges in the Instant Pot.
- Cook on High Pressure for 3-5 minutes (quick release).
3️⃣ Slice the Corned Beef: Always slice against the grain for the most tender bite.
At this point, your Instant Pot corned beef and vegetables are ready to serve! 🍽️
Tips for the Best Instant Pot Corned Beef
Cooking corned beef in an Instant Pot is easy, but a few extra steps can take it from good to amazing. Follow these expert tips for the most flavorful and tender results.
How to Get the Most Tender Corned Beef
Use the Natural Release Method: Let the pressure release naturally for at least 15-20 minutes after cooking. A quick release can make the meat tough and chewy.
Slice Against the Grain: Always slice corned beef across the grain to ensure each bite is tender and easy to chew.
Rest the Meat Before Slicing: Let the brisket rest for 10 minutes after removing it from the Instant Pot. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, and cabbage only need 3-5 minutes under pressure. Cooking them with the meat will make them mushy.
Adjusting Seasonings for Taste
Corned beef is naturally salty due to the curing process, but you can tweak the flavor:
🧂 Too Salty? Soak the brisket in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking to reduce saltiness.
🌿 More Flavor? Add fresh garlic, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, or brown sugar to the cooking liquid.
🍺 Deeper Taste? Replace half the water with beer (Guinness or lager) for a richer flavor.
Serving Instant Pot Corned Beef
Now that your corned beef is perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve it in a delicious way!
Best Side Dishes to Pair with Corned Beef
Corned beef is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. Here are some classic and creative ideas:
🥔 Mashed or Roasted Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes or crispy roasted potatoes soak up the delicious juices.
🥬 Braised or Buttered Cabbage – A classic pairing that complements the rich, salty beef.
🥖 Irish Soda Bread – A soft, slightly sweet bread to balance the savory flavors.
🥕 Glazed Carrots – Adds a touch of sweetness to the meal.
🌽 Cornbread or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up extra broth.
How to Slice Corned Beef Properly
The key to super tender corned beef is slicing against the grain:
1️⃣ Identify the grain – Look for the direction of the muscle fibers in the meat.
2️⃣ Slice perpendicular to the grain – This breaks up the muscle fibers, making each bite tender and juicy.
3️⃣ Use a sharp knife – A long slicing knife or serrated knife works best.
Traditional and Creative Serving Ideas
Corned beef is delicious on its own, but you can also use leftovers in creative ways:
🥪 Reuben Sandwich – Pile slices of corned beef on rye bread with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing.
🍳 Corned Beef Hash – Fry diced corned beef with potatoes and onions, then top with a fried egg.
🥗 Corned Beef Salad – Toss chopped corned beef with greens, cheese, and a mustard vinaigrette.
🌮 Corned Beef Tacos – Fill soft tortillas with shredded corned beef, cabbage slaw, and spicy mustard sauce.
For a different way to enjoy beef, you might love this Beef Enchilada Recipe, which packs bold flavors into every bite.
Storing and Reheating Corned Beef
If you have leftovers, proper storage and reheating methods will help maintain the flavor and tenderness of your corned beef.
How to Store Leftover Corned Beef
Corned beef stores very well and can be used for various delicious dishes later.
🥶 Refrigeration:
- Let the corned beef cool to room temperature before storing.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container.
- It stays fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days.
❄️ Freezing:
- Slice or shred the beef before freezing to make reheating easier.
- Wrap it in freezer-safe bags or vacuum-seal it for the best preservation.
- Frozen corned beef lasts up to 3 months.
Best Methods for Reheating Corned Beef
To keep corned beef juicy and tender, follow these reheating methods:
🔥 Instant Pot (Best for Whole Pieces)
- Place the corned beef on a trivet inside the Instant Pot.
- Add ½ cup of water or broth to create steam.
- Set to Steam mode for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.
♨️ Oven (Best for Sliced Corned Beef)
- Wrap slices in foil with a little broth to keep moisture.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.
🍳 Skillet (Best for Corned Beef Hash or Crispy Pieces)
- Heat a pan over medium heat with a little butter or oil.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until warm and slightly crispy.
💡 Pro Tip: Never reheat corned beef in the microwave for too long—it can dry out quickly!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Instant Pot Corned Beef
Even though Instant Pot corned beef is easy to make, a few mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:
1. Overcooking or Undercooking the Corned Beef
- Undercooked? If your corned beef is tough, it needs more time. Add 10-15 more minutes under pressure.
- Overcooked? If it falls apart too much, try using a point cut, which has more fat and holds its shape better.
2. Not Rinsing the Brisket Before Cooking
- The brine can make the corned beef too salty. Always rinse it under cold water before cooking.
3. Skipping the Natural Pressure Release
- A quick release can make the meat tough. Always let the Instant Pot release naturally for at least 15 minutes.
4. Adding Vegetables Too Early
- Potatoes, carrots, and cabbage cook much faster than beef. Adding them too early results in mushy vegetables.
- Instead, cook them after the beef using a quick 3-5 minute pressure cycle.
5. Not Slicing the Meat Correctly
- Slicing with the grain makes the meat chewy.
- Always slice against the grain for the most tender results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Corned Beef Good in the Instant Pot?
Yes! The Instant Pot is one of the best ways to cook corned beef because it significantly reduces cooking time while maintaining flavor and tenderness. The pressure cooking process helps break down tough muscle fibers in the brisket, resulting in juicy, fork-tender meat in about 90 minutes—far faster than traditional methods like slow cooking or stovetop simmering.
Additionally, the Instant Pot locks in moisture and enhances the flavors, ensuring the meat stays succulent rather than drying out. It’s also a hands-free method, making it perfect for busy cooks who want great results with minimal effort.
Why is My Corned Beef Not Tender Enough in the Instant Pot?
If your corned beef is tough or chewy, it’s likely due to one of the following reasons:
Not Enough Cooking Time: Corned beef comes from the brisket cut, which has a lot of connective tissue that needs time to break down. If your meat is still tough, cook it for an additional 10-15 minutes under high pressure.
Quick Pressure Release: Always let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for at least 15-20 minutes. A quick release can cause the meat’s fibers to contract too quickly, making it tougher.
Slicing the Wrong Way: If you slice with the grain instead of against the grain, the meat will be much chewier. Look for the natural muscle fibers and cut perpendicular to them for the most tender bite.
Skipping the Resting Step: Let the corned beef rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
Choosing the Wrong Cut: If you prefer extra-tender, fall-apart meat, use the point cut (which has more marbling). If you want a leaner, firmer texture, go for the flat cut.
What is the Best Cooking Method for Tender Corned Beef?
There are four main ways to cook corned beef, each with its pros and cons:
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Tenderness Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker) | 90 minutes + natural release | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Quick, flavorful, and juicy corned beef |
| Slow Cooker | 8-10 hours on Low | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Fall-apart tender, hands-free cooking |
| Stovetop Simmering | 3-4 hours | ⭐⭐⭐ | Traditional texture, classic method |
| Oven Braising | 3-4 hours at 300°F | ⭐⭐⭐ | Deep flavor, slightly firmer texture |
🏆 Best Method for Quick and Tender Corned Beef: Instant Pot
🏆 Best Method for Ultimate Fall-Apart Tenderness: Slow Cooker
The Instant Pot is the best balance between time and tenderness, while the slow cooker is ideal if you have more time and want ultra-soft, melt-in-your-mouth meat.
What Happens If You Don’t Rinse Corned Beef Before Cooking?
If you don’t rinse corned beef, it may turn out overly salty. Corned beef is cured in a salty brine, and while some of the salt is necessary for flavor, too much can overpower the dish.
🚫 Skipping the rinse can lead to:
- Excessively salty meat
- Overpowering brine flavors
- A salt-heavy cooking broth that affects the taste of vegetables
✅ How to Properly Rinse Corned Beef:
- Place the corned beef under cold running water for 30-60 seconds.
- Gently rub off any excess brine or salt crystals.
- Pat dry before adding seasonings or cooking.
💡 Pro Tip: If you prefer less salty corned beef, soak it in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps draw out even more salt without losing the traditional flavor.
Conclusion
Cooking corned beef in an Instant Pot is the easiest and fastest way to achieve tender, flavorful meat without the long wait. By following the right cooking times, seasoning techniques, and slicing methods, you’ll have a perfectly cooked corned beef every time.
Whether you’re making this dish for St. Patrick’s Day, a Sunday dinner, or meal prep, the Instant Pot ensures delicious results with minimal effort. Plus, with leftover ideas like Reuben sandwiches, corned beef hash, and tacos, you can enjoy this meal in multiple ways.
Now that you have all the tools for success, it’s time to fire up your Instant Pot and make the best corned beef ever!
Enjoy your meal! 🍽️💚
Instant Pot Corned Beef
Equipment
- Instant Pot (6-quart or larger)
- Trivet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs
Ingredients
- For the Corned Beef:
- 3 to 4 lbs corned beef brisket with spice packet
- 4 cups beef broth or water
- 1 medium onion quartered
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- For the Vegetables:
- 1 lb baby potatoes or halved large potatoes
- 3 large carrots cut into chunks
- 1 small head green cabbage cut into wedges
- Optional Glaze for extra flavor:
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Corned Beef
- Rinse the brisket under cold water to remove excess brine, then pat dry.
- Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot and set the corned beef on top.
- Add beef broth, onion, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and mustard seeds.
- Sprinkle the spice packet over the brisket.
- Step 2: Pressure Cook the Corned Beef
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set to “Sealing”.
- Select “Pressure Cook” (Manual) on HIGH for 90 minutes.
- After cooking, let the pressure naturally release for 15 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
- Remove the corned beef and let it rest on a cutting board, covered with foil.
- Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- Strain and discard spices and aromatics from the cooking liquid.
- Return the liquid to the Instant Pot and add potatoes and carrots.
- Close the lid and pressure cook on HIGH for 5 minutes, then quick release.
- Add cabbage wedges and pressure cook for 0 minutes (use the “Keep Warm” setting to soften them).
- Step 4: Optional Glaze (for extra flavor)
- Preheat the oven broiler to high.
- In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
- Spread the glaze over the corned beef and broil for 3–5 minutes until caramelized.
- Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice the corned beef against the grain.
- Serve with vegetables and ladle some cooking broth over everything for extra moisture and flavor.
Notes
Cooking Liquid: You can substitute beer or a mix of beer and broth for a richer flavor.
Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.