There’s nothing quite like the aroma of slow-cooked beef brisket wafting through your home, inviting everyone to the table for a heartfelt meal. I first discovered this Instant Pot Brisket after a long day at work, craving something warm and comforting that didn’t require hours of fussing in the kitchen. Using my trusty Instant Pot turned what could be an all-day affair into a remarkable dish perfected in just a fraction of the time.
With tender slices of brisket soaked in a savory blend of beef broth, red wine vinegar, and spices, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that spices up any dinner routine. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply want to savor a taste of home-cooked joy, this brisket captures the essence of comfort food while saving you time for the things (or people) you love most. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful journey that brings joy back to your dinner table!
Why choose Instant Pot Brisket today?
Effortless Cooking: With the Instant Pot, an impressive beef brisket is just a button away.
Savory Flavors: This dish combines rich beef broth and tangy red wine vinegar for a depth of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Perfectly Tender: Thanks to the pressure cooking, you’ll enjoy melt-in-your-mouth slices without waiting all day.
Versatile Meal: Serve it with mashed potatoes, on a sandwich, or paired with your favorite veggies for a well-rounded feast.
Time-Saving: Forget the long cook time, and let your Instant Pot do all the work while you relax. Inspired? Explore more delicious slow-cooker recipes to complement your cooking repertoire!
Instant Pot Brisket Ingredients
• All the essentials for a tender feast.
For the Brisket
- 1 large yellow onion – Adds a sweet and aromatic base to your dish.
- 1 (3-pound) beef brisket, preferably flat-cut – The star of the show, choose a high-quality cut for the best flavor.
- 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided – Essential for seasoning, helps enhance the brisket’s natural flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – A touch of spice to complement the savory notes.
For the Cooking Liquid
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – Helps sear the brisket for a beautiful crust.
- 1/3 cup beef broth – Provides moisture and richness as the brisket cooks.
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar – Adds a tangy kick that balances the richness of the meat.
- 1/3 cup ketchup – A surprising ingredient that brings sweetness and depth.
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar – Caramelizes into a lovely sweetness as it cooks.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Offers an herbal note that enhances the dish’s flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Brings a warm, earthy undertone to the cooking liquid.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Infuses a subtle smokiness into the sauce.
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a rich, savory depth to the flavor profile.
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, for serving (optional) – Adds a pop of color and freshness when plating.
This Instant Pot Brisket will become a staple in your home kitchen, making mealtime a delightful experience for family and friends alike!
How to Make Instant Pot Brisket
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Season the brisket by rubbing 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and black pepper all over its surface. This is the first step to ensuring your meat is flavorful and ready for cooking.
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Sear the brisket in a large skillet over medium-high heat with vegetable oil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. This elevates the flavor beautifully.
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Mix the cooking liquid in your Instant Pot by combining beef broth, red wine vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, thyme, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir until everything is well blended.
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Place the seared brisket into the Instant Pot, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the savory liquid. This will guarantee tender, juicy results!
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Cook on the meat setting for about 90-120 minutes, depending on your preferred tenderness. Let the pressure naturally release for the best texture.
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Rest the brisket for 10 minutes after cooking before slicing. This gives the juices time to settle, making each bite extra flavorful. Serve with fresh parsley if desired.
Optional: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting, hearty meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Brisket
Fridge: Store leftover brisket in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This preserves its tenderness, allowing you to enjoy it in various meals.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the brisket wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the brisket in a covered pan with a splash of beef broth. Heat slowly on the stove or in the oven until warmed through, preserving its succulent flavors.
Portioning: Consider slicing the brisket before storing to make it easier to serve later. Instant Pot brisket always tastes delicious, even after a few days!
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Brisket preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can season and sear the brisket up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate it covered until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can prepare the cooking liquid (beef broth, red wine vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, and spices) and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply place the marinated brisket in the Instant Pot, add the prepared liquid, and cook as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy a rich, delicious meal with minimal effort, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness every time!
What to Serve with Beef Brisket?
There’s something truly special about gathering loved ones around a table filled with comforting sides that elevate your mouthwatering brisket.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture and rich flavor make the perfect canvas for soaking up brisket drippings, enhancing each delightful bite.
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Sweet Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread pairs beautifully, providing a contrasting flavor that complements the savory brisket wonderfully. Perfect for scooping up sauce!
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Seasoned Roasted Vegetables: Choose seasonal veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts. Their roasted sweetness adds earthy notes to round out the meal’s flavor profile.
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Garlic Butter Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans drizzled with garlic butter add a bright freshness, balancing the richness of your succulent brisket.
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Coleslaw: This crunchy side offers a refreshing contrast and a hint of tanginess that cuts through the brisket’s richness, making each bite more exciting.
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Homemade Pickles: The tart crunch of pickles can provide a delightful contrast to the tenderness of the brisket, brightening the entire plate.
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Red Wine: A bold red wine will enhance the meal’s robust flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment. Take a sip between bites to savor the moment.
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Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, these fudgy treats will keep the joy of the meal going with their rich chocolate layers, proving that nothing says love like dessert.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Brisket
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Quality Ingredients: Choose a flat-cut brisket for optimal tenderness and flavor. Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a noticeable difference in your Instant Pot brisket’s overall taste.
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Searing Matters: Don’t skip the searing step! This caramelizes the meat’s surface, enhancing flavors and creating a beautiful crust that contrasts with the tender interior.
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Liquid Levels: Always ensure the brisket is completely submerged in the cooking liquid to guarantee it cooks evenly and stays juicy. Insufficient liquid can lead to dry brisket.
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Timing is Key: Cooking for 90-120 minutes should provide perfect tenderness. Remember, overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so it’s better to check a little earlier if you’re unsure.
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Resting Time: Allow the brisket to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite of your Instant Pot brisket deliciously satisfying.
Instant Pot Brisket Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ketchup to ensure this dish suits gluten-sensitive family members.
- Low-Carb: Replace brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol for a sugar-free option. This twist keeps the flavors while cutting carbs.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cooking liquid for a delightful heat that warms the soul. You’ll enjoy a fiery twist that complements the savory brisket beautifully.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil instead of dried thyme and oregano for a vibrant herbal flavor. You can use a handful of fresh herbs to elevate the overall taste.
- BBQ Style: Swap ketchup for your favorite barbecue sauce, adding a smoky sweetness that will take your brisket to BBQ heaven. The tangy sauce will create a different, yet delicious, mouthwatering experience!
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a teaspoon of liquid smoke into the cooking liquid for that irresistible smoky flavor typical of traditional barbecue brisket. This will make your kitchen smell divine!
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in chopped carrots or celery with the onions to add nutrition and create a more dynamic flavor profile. The extra veggies will enhance the sauce while enriching the dish.
- Wine-Free: Substitute red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a milder tanginess that still retains the necessary depth of flavor. This alteration allows the natural brisket taste to shine without the wine.
Instant Pot Brisket Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right brisket?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for a flat-cut brisket with even marbling. This cut is leaner and tends to be more tender when cooked properly. If you’re unsure, ask your butcher for recommendations based on your cooking method.
What’s the best way to store leftover brisket?
Store your leftover brisket in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The brisket will retain its delicious flavor and tenderness this way. Just make sure it’s cooled down to room temperature before sealing to avoid moisture build-up.
Can I freeze Instant Pot brisket?
Yes, you can! Wrap the cooled brisket tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a covered pan with a splash of beef broth to keep it moist.
What’s the best way to reheat brisket?
To reheat, I recommend placing sliced brisket in a pan with a little beef broth or broth to maintain moisture. Cover the pan and heat it slowly on low heat on the stove or in the oven until warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy tender slices without drying them out!
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Great question! If you’re serving this dish to guests, be mindful of common allergens like gluten and dairy. The recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, but make sure to choose gluten-free broth and check your ketchup for any hidden allergens. If you have pets, keep the brisket out of reach, especially because seasoned meats can be harmful to dogs.
What if my brisket turns out tough?
Very common concern! If your brisket isn’t tender, it likely needs more cooking time. Make sure it’s cooked on the meat setting for at least 90-120 minutes. If it’s still not tender, slice it thinly against the grain and serve it with the sauce to help moisten the meat. Patience is key for a delightful dish!
Tender Instant Pot Brisket: Your New Dinner Hero
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the brisket by rubbing 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and black pepper all over its surface.
- Sear the brisket in a large skillet over medium-high heat with vegetable oil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Mix the cooking liquid in your Instant Pot by combining beef broth, red wine vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, thyme, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir until everything is well blended.
- Place the seared brisket into the Instant Pot, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the savory liquid.
- Cook on the meat setting for about 90-120 minutes, depending on your preferred tenderness.
- Rest the brisket for 10 minutes after cooking before slicing.