This Perfect Instant Pot Corned Beef Is Shockingly Easy to Make

Instant Pot Corned Beef is a surprisingly simple dish that delivers rich flavor, juicy texture, and weeknight convenience all in one. Whether you’re planning for St. Patrick’s Day, need a quick comfort meal, or just want a foolproof way to cook brisket, this Instant Pot Corned Beef recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen.

Here on Desire Meals, I create recipes for home cooks at every level—especially those who are just starting out or feel unsure about cooking from scratch. I’ve been there myself, relying on microwave meals and takeout for years. That’s why this Instant Pot Corned Beef recipe hits all the right notes: it’s flavorful, easy to make, and designed to build your kitchen confidence.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to prep and cook a corned beef brisket in the Instant Pot, how to pair it with traditional sides like cabbage and potatoes, and how to use leftovers in creative ways. If you’ve ever been nervous about making corned beef at home, you’re about to discover how easy and rewarding it can be.

Let’s get into why cooking corned beef in the Instant Pot is not just easier—but better.

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Why Cook Corned Beef in an Instant Pot?

What Makes Instant Pot Corned Beef Different?

If you’ve ever boiled or baked corned beef the old-school way, you know it can take hours—and even then, you might end up with dry edges or stringy meat. With the Instant Pot, the entire game changes. It uses pressure to break down tough connective tissue quickly, turning brisket into a juicy, fall-apart dish in just about 90 minutes of cooking time.

Traditional cooking methods can’t always guarantee uniform tenderness. On the stovetop or in a slow cooker, heat distribution isn’t always even. But in a pressure cooker like the Instant Pot, the sealed environment traps both moisture and flavor, creating the ideal conditions for perfectly cooked corned beef every time.

The best part? No more standing by the stove wondering if you’re doing it right.Once you set the timer, the Instant Pot handles everything else—making this recipe perfect for beginners or anyone short on time but big on flavor.

For more tips on juicy corned beef with classic sides, don’t miss my melt-in-your-mouth Instant Pot corned beef recipe.

Benefits of Pressure Cooking Over Other Methods

There’s a reason more people are choosing to make Instant Pot Corned Beef over stove-top or slow cooker versions. First, the cooking time is dramatically shorter. Pressure cooking turns tough brisket into soft, juicy meat in about 90 minutes—no long wait times required.

Second, the flavor in Instant Pot Corned Beef is unbeatable. High-pressure steam pushes the seasonings, garlic, onion, and even beer or broth deep into the brisket, giving you bold flavor in every bite—not just on the surface. That kind of flavor development is hard to achieve with slow simmering alone.

Finally, it’s a one-pot solution. You can cook your meat, and even add your cabbage, carrots, or potatoes afterward, without dirtying multiple dishes. If simplicity, speed, and taste are what you’re after, Instant Pot Corned Beef delivers across the board.

Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Corned Beef

Choosing the Right Brisket for Your Instant Pot Corned Beef

When it comes to making Instant Pot Corned Beef, the cut of meat you choose plays a huge role in the final texture and flavor. Corned beef usually comes in two primary cuts—flat and point—each offering its own texture and flavor. Flat cut has a consistent shape and less fat, making it easy to slice and great for presentation. Point cut is fattier and has more connective tissue, which often results in a more flavorful, juicy outcome.

The good news? The Instant Pot works its magic on both. Its high-pressure cooking process softens tough fibers and renders fat beautifully, no matter which cut you use. What’s important is to check the size. If your brisket is larger than your pot, simply cut it in half to ensure even cooking.

Before you begin, rinse the meat thoroughly. Corned beef is packaged in a brine, and while it adds flavor, it can also be overly salty. A quick rinse under cold water helps balance the seasoning before cooking begins.

How to Season Corned Beef Without the Packet

Sometimes that little spice packet that comes with store-bought corned beef is missing, or it doesn’t include enough seasoning to flavor the whole roast. Don’t worry—it’s easy to make your own.

To season Instant Pot Corned Beef from scratch, try combining these pantry spices:

Mustard seeds

Coriander seeds

Whole black peppercorns

Bay leaves

Crushed red pepper flakes

A touch of ground allspice

Optional: a few cloves or a pinch of cinnamon for depth

Lightly smash the garlic and herbs, then press them into the meat to infuse flavor as it cooks.. The pressure cooking process will draw those spices deep into the brisket, resulting in rich, bold flavor with every bite.

Want to take it further? Layer sliced onions and garlic underneath and over the beef in your Instant Pot. Then add flavorful liquid—like dark beer, beef broth, or apple cider—over everything. As the pressure builds, these aromatics and liquids will infuse the brisket from the inside out, making this Instant Pot Corned Beef truly unforgettable.

How to Prepare Instant Pot Corned Beef Step-by-Step

Prepping the Brisket and Seasoning It Right

Before you start cooking Instant Pot Corned Beef, a few quick prep steps will help you get the most flavor and tenderness out of your brisket. First, remove the meat from its packaging and rinse it thoroughly under cold water. This helps wash away excess brine, which can otherwise make the dish overly salty.

Next, pat the brisket dry with paper towels and place it fat-side up. If your corned beef came with a seasoning packet, you can sprinkle it over the top. If not—or if you’d like to boost the flavor—make your own mix of mustard seeds, black peppercorns, coriander, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes. Rub the spices directly onto the meat for maximum flavor during pressure cooking.

This is also the time to slice your aromatics. One onion cut into thick slices and a few smashed garlic cloves placed under and over the brisket can add incredible depth to your Instant Pot Corned Beef. These will cook down into the liquid and enrich the entire dish.

Layering flavors the right way in the Instant Pot makes all the difference.

Now it’s time to build the base. Add 1½ cups of liquid into your Instant Pot to start the pressure cooking process. You can use water, but for better flavor, try low-sodium beef broth, dark beer like Guinness, or even apple cider. Each brings a slightly different twist to your Instant Pot Corned Beef, so feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand.

Place the metal rack or trivet inside the pot and carefully lay the brisket on top, fat side up. Scatter any remaining garlic and onions over the meat, and pour the liquid around (not directly over) the brisket to preserve your spice rub.

Once everything’s in place, lock the lid, seal the valve, and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 90 minutes. After cooking, allow a natural release for 10 minutes, followed by a quick release to finish.

This method gives you meat that slices beautifully but still falls apart with a fork—exactly what you want from a well-made Instant Pot Corned Beef.

Cooking Times and Pressure Levels Explained

How Long to Cook Corned Beef Based on Weight

One of the biggest advantages of making Instant Pot Corned Beef is how much faster it cooks compared to traditional methods. That said, it’s still important to adjust your cooking time based on the weight of the brisket to avoid undercooked or overly soft results.

As a general rule of thumb, you’ll want to cook corned beef in the Instant Pot for about 22 minutes per pound at high pressure. For example:

• A 3-pound brisket = 66 minutes
• A 4-pound brisket = 88 minutes
• A 5-pound brisket = 110 minutes

For most medium-sized cuts, setting your Instant Pot for 90 minutes hits the sweet spot—producing meat that’s tender enough to shred but still slices cleanly if needed. If you’re unsure about your brisket’s size, always round up a few extra minutes. The sealed environment of the Instant Pot keeps the meat from drying out, even with a slightly longer cook time.

Manual Release vs. Natural Release: What’s Best?

Pressure release method matters more than most people realize. It’s not just about safety—it also affects texture. When making Instant Pot Corned Beef, you want to give the brisket a bit of rest time while still under pressure.

Here’s the ideal release process:

After the timer finishes, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. This lets the juices redistribute and prevents the meat from toughening due to a sudden change in temperature.

Then, follow with a quick release to finish the process and safely open the lid.

If you rush the release (by doing a full quick release), you may lose moisture and end up with tougher results. On the flip side, letting it sit too long (over 20 minutes) can cause it to become overly soft, making clean slicing harder.

To achieve tender, juicy, and perfectly textured Instant Pot Corned Beef, try the 10/10 method—10 minutes of natural release followed by 10 minutes of quick release—for ideal results.

Want to add seafood to your weeknight menu? Discover my favorite Instant Pot salmon recipe using Trader Joe’s famous rub.

Instant Pot Corned Beef with Traditional Sides

Cooking Potatoes, Cabbage, and Carrots Together in One Pot

Once your Instant Pot Corned Beef is cooked, don’t discard the flavorful liquid. It’s the perfect base for your vegetables. After removing the brisket, pour out most of the liquid, leaving about 2 cups in the pot. This broth is infused with spices, making it ideal for cooking your sides.

Add the potatoes (quartered), the carrots (cut thick), and the cabbage (in wedges) to the pot.  Set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 4 minutes, then do a quick release. The result? Tender vegetables, perfectly seasoned by the same liquid that made your corned beef so flavorful.

Tips to Avoid Overcooked Vegetables

To keep everything from turning mushy:

• Cut vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking
• Use quick release as soon as the timer ends
• Don’t add delicate veggies (like cabbage) too early—they only need a few minutes

With this approach, you’ll have a complete one-pot meal, with tender meat and perfectly cooked sides—all made faster and easier thanks to your Instant Pot Corned Beef recipe.

What to Make with Corned Beef Leftovers

Irish Tacos, Reuben Sandwiches, and Nachos

One of the best things about making Instant Pot Corned Beef is what you can do with the leftovers. Instead of reheating the same plate, turn extra slices into bold, next-day meals.

Irish tacos are a fun twist—just slice or shred leftover corned beef, then pile it into warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, sour cream, and a sprinkle of cheese. They’re easy to assemble and perfect for casual dinners or next-day lunches.

Another classic is the Reuben sandwich.Layer slices of corned beef with Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and a spread of Russian dressing on rye or sourdough. Grill until golden and melty for the ultimate deli-style lunch at home.

Want something more unexpected? Try corned beef nachos. Use crispy potato slices instead of chips, then layer with chopped corned beef, melted cheese, and toppings like pico de gallo or a drizzle of spicy aioli. It’s the perfect appetizer—or indulgent dinner.

How to Store and Reheat for Later Use

TTo keep your leftover Instant Pot Corned Beef fresh and flavorful, slice or shred it and store it in an airtight container with a bit of cooking liquid. It helps retain natural juices and avoids dryness.

Refrigerate for up to 4 days

Freeze for up to 2 months (with liquid, in a freezer-safe bag)

When you’re ready to reheat, use a covered skillet on low heat with a splash of broth or water. Avoid the microwave if possible—it can dry out the meat quickly.

Pro Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding Dry or Tough Instant Pot Corned Beef

Even with a pressure cooker, Instant Pot Corned Beef can turn out dry if undercooked or rushed. Always cook it long enough—about 22 minutes per pound—and don’t skip the 10-minute natural release. This resting period helps the meat stay juicy and tender.

Also, rinse the brisket before cooking. If you skip this step, the beef may turn out too salty.

Smart Timing for Veggies and Liquids

Toss in vegetables like cabbage and carrots once the beef is done cooking. They only need 4 minutes on high pressure, or they’ll get mushy. Use just 1½ to 2 cups of cooking liquid—beer, broth, or cider all work well without watering down the flavor.

Keep seasoning balanced. Just a small amount brings out the beef’s deep, natural flavor.

St. Patrick’s Day Twist – Make It Festive!

Holiday Serving Ideas and Green-Themed Pairings

Cooking Instant Pot Corned Beef around St. Patrick’s Day? It’s a perfect fit. Serve your brisket with vibrant sides like buttered cabbage, roasted baby potatoes with parsley, or steamed carrots. Want to get festive? Add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh dill on top for a pop of color.

Pair your meal with traditional Irish soda bread or serve it alongside a cold pint of Guinness to keep with the holiday vibe. If you’re feeding a crowd, set up a corned beef carving board with mini slider buns, mustard, and pickles for a DIY sandwich bar.

Shamrock-Inspired Add-Ons

Balance the savory meat with something fun and sweet. Try a homemade shamrock shake—vanilla ice cream, milk, mint extract, and green food coloring blended together. This bright, kid-friendly dessert is a guaranteed favorite at any gathering.

You can also use leftover Instant Pot Corned Beef to create green-themed Irish tacos with shredded cabbage or fresh herbs for a next-day twist that still feels on-theme.

Instant Pot vs. Slow Cooker – Which Is Better?

Flavor, Texture, and Time Comparison

When it comes to making Instant Pot Corned Beef, the biggest advantage is time. What normally simmers all day in a slow cooker is ready in just 90 minutes with pressure cooking. That means you get a tender, juicy brisket in a fraction of the time.

But speed isn’t the only benefit. The Instant Pot locks in flavor using steam and pressure, creating a richer, more concentrated taste compared to the slow simmer of a crockpot. The meat stays moist, and aromatics like garlic, onion, and bay leaf infuse more deeply.

Slow cookers do have their appeal—especially for set-it-and-forget-it meals. But if you’re short on time or want consistent texture and flavor fast, Instant Pot Corned Beef wins the day.

When to Choose Each Method

Use a slow cooker if:

You’re prepping in the morning for a dinner-time meal

You like to let things simmer gently with little hands-on effort.

Use an Instant Pot if:

You’re starting late or need a fast dinner solution

You want maximum flavor in minimum time

You’re cooking both meat and sides in one session

For busy home cooks who still want that classic corned beef texture, the Instant Pot offers unbeatable convenience without compromising flavor.

Conclusion

Making Instant Pot Corned Beef doesn’t require chef skills—just the right timing, ingredients, and a little confidence. Whether you’re cooking it for St. Patrick’s Day or a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe gives you tender, flavorful results every single time.

From prepping your brisket to cooking veggies in the same pot, this guide has walked you through every step to make your next corned beef meal stress-free and delicious. With ideas for leftovers and tips to avoid common mistakes, you’re set up for success—even if you’ve never cooked brisket before.

For more recipes visite our Medium and pinterest pages.

FAQs About Instant Pot Corned Beef