Master the Art of Cooking Steak in an Instant Pot: A Step-by-Step Guide

Calling all steak lovers! Are you looking for a quick and easy way to cook your favorite cut of meat without sacrificing flavor or tenderness? Look no further, because the Instant Pot is here to revolutionize the way you cook steak. This beloved kitchen appliance not only cuts down on cooking time but also locks in all the delicious juices, resulting in a perfectly cooked steak every time. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of how to cook steak in an Instant Pot, so you can enjoy a mouth-watering meal without the hassle. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your dinner guests with this game-changing cooking method.

Welcome to the world of Instant Pot cooking! The Instant Pot is a versatile and popular electronic pressure cooker that has revolutionized the way many people prepare their meals. With its ability to cook food quickly and efficiently, it has become a go-to appliance for busy individuals and families. One dish that may seem intimidating to make in an Instant Pot is steak. However, with the right techniques and tips, you can easily achieve perfectly cooked steak in just minutes using your Instant Pot. In this guide, we will walk you through how to cook steak in an Instant Pot and provide some helpful insights along the way.

Choosing the Right Cut of Steak

The first step in successfully cooking steak in your Instant Pot is selecting the right cut of meat. The most important factor to consider when choosing a cut of steak is its thickness. For optimal results, choose steaks that are at least 1 inch thick. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and doesn’t get overcooked or undercooked.

Another aspect to consider is the marbling of the steak. Marbling refers to the fat content within the meat, which can greatly affect its tenderness and flavor. Look for steaks with more marbling as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful when cooked.

Some popular cuts of steak that work well in an Instant Pot include ribeye, sirloin, striploin, or tri-tip. These cuts are typically thicker and have good marbling, making them perfect for pressure cooking.

Preparing Your Steak for Cooking

Before placing your steak into the Instant Pot, there are a few preparation steps you should take:

1. Allow your steak to come to room temperature: It’s crucial to let your steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will ensure even cooking throughout the meat.

2. Season your steak: Sprinkle both sides of your steak with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add any additional seasonings or herbs of your choice for more flavor.

3. Sear your steak: Preheat a skillet over high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the skillet is hot, sear your steak for about 1 minute on each side to create a nice crust and seal in the juices.

Cooking Your Steak in the Instant Pot

Now that your steak is prepped and ready to cook, it’s time to use the Instant Pot. Follow these steps:

1. Add liquid to the Instant Pot: The key to cooking in an Instant Pot is having enough liquid to create steam and pressure. For cooking steak, use 1 cup of beef broth or water.

2. Place trivet in the pot: The trivet is essential as it elevates the steak off the bottom of the pot, preventing it from burning.

3. Place your seasoned steak on top of the trivet: Make sure that your steak is not touching the sides of the pot or covering the vent.

4. Seal and set pressure cooker function: Securely close the lid and set the pressure cooker function on high for around 8-10 minutes depending on how you prefer your steak cooked (8 minutes for medium-rare, 10 minutes for medium).

5. Allow natural pressure release (NPR): Once cooked, allow natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure by turning the valve to “venting” position.

6. Check internal temperature: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of your steak to ensure it has reached an internal temperature of at least 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for medium.

7. Rest your steak: Remove the steak from the Instant Pot and let it rest wrapped in foil for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Steak in an Instant Pot

– For a bolder flavor, marinate your steak for a few hours before cooking.
– For medium-rare steak, cook for 8 minutes on high pressure and for medium, cook for 10 minutes.
– If using frozen steaks, increase cooking time by 4-5 minutes.
– Use natural pressure release to avoid overcooking the steak.
– Check the internal temperature of the steak with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.
– To achieve a nice crust on your steak, sear it before cooking in the Instant Pot or use the sauté function after cooking.
– To thicken the liquid left in the pot after cooking, use the sauté function to reduce it into a sauce to serve with your steak.

Cooking steak in an Instant Pot is quick, easy and produces delicious results. With its ability to tenderize meats in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods, you can enjoy your favorite cut of steak with minimal effort. By following these tips and techniques, you can impress your family and friends with perfectly cooked steak every time

The Benefits of Using an Instant Pot to Cook Steak

Cooking steak can be intimidating, especially if you’re not an experienced chef. It’s easy to overcook or undercook the steak, resulting in a tough and dry piece of meat. However, with the help of an Instant Pot, cooking steak becomes a breeze.

Here are the top benefits of using an Instant Pot to cook steak:

1. Saves time

The Instant Pot is known for its ability to cook food quickly and efficiently. Instead of spending hours grilling or broiling a steak, you can have a perfectly cooked piece of meat in just a fraction of the time. This is especially useful for busy individuals who don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen.

2. Retains moisture

One common problem with cooking steak is that it tends to lose its moisture, resulting in a dry and tough texture. With an Instant Pot, however, this won’t be an issue. The pressure cooking process helps seal in all the juices and flavors of the meat, resulting in a juicy and tender steak every time.

3. Versatile cooking options

Aside from pressure cooking, most Instant Pots also have multiple cooking functions such as sautéing and slow cooking. This means that you can sear or marinate your steak before pressure cooking it for added flavor and tenderness. You also have the option to slow cook your steak for a more tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

4. Easy clean-up

Using an Instant Pot means fewer pots and pans to wash after dinner. Since everything is cooked in one pot, there will be less mess and clean-up time involved. This makes it a convenient option for those who want to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal without spending too much time on clean-up.

5 . Perfectly cooked every time

With its precise temperature control and timer settings, an Instant Pot ensures that your steak is cooked to perfection every time. No more guessing or worrying about overcooking your steak – the Instant Pot does all the work for you.

Choosing the Right Cut of Steak for Your Instant Pot

When it comes to cooking steak in an Instant Pot, not all cuts are created equal. Some cuts of meat are tougher and require more cooking time, while others are more tender and can be cooked quicker. Here are some recommended cuts of steak that work well in an Instant Pot:

– Chuck Steak
– Round Steak
– Flank Steak
– Sirloin Steak
– Ribeye Steak

These cuts of meat are best suited for pressure cooking because they have enough fat and connective tissues to keep the meat moist and tender during the cooking process.

Avoid using leaner cuts like filet mignon or T-bone steak as they may become too dry and tough when cooked in an Instant Pot.

Additionally, make sure to slice your steak into smaller pieces before cooking to ensure even cooking and better absorption of marinades or seasonings.

Preparing Your Instant Pot for Cooking Steak

Before you start cooking your steak in an Instant Pot, there are a few key preparations that you need to do:

1. Season the meat: Before adding the meat into the pot, make sure to season it generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any other desired herbs and spices. This will help enhance the flavor of the steak.

2. Preheat your pot: Just like with any other cooking method, it’s important to preheat an Instant Pot before use. This helps ensure that your food cooks evenly and prevents any burning or sticking on the bottom of the pot.

3. Use enough liquid: The pressure cooking function in an Instant Pot relies on steam to cook food under pressure. Therefore, it’s important to add enough liquid (such as broth, wine, or water) to create the necessary steam and prevent the pot from burning.

4. Follow the recommended cooking time: Every cut of steak requires a different cooking time in an Instant Pot. Make sure to consult your user manual or do some research to determine the correct cooking time for your specific cut of meat.

Cooking Steak in an Instant Pot: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have your Instant Pot prepped and ready, it’s time to cook your steak! Here are the steps to follow:

1. Preheat your Instant Pot on the “sauté” function.

2. Once heated, add a tablespoon of oil and let it heat up for about a minute.

3. Add your seasoned steak into the pot and sear each side for 1-2 minutes until browned.

4. Cancel the “sauté” function and add any desired liquid (broth, wine, etc.) into the pot.

5. Close the lid and make sure it’s locked in place. Make sure that the vent is set to “sealing” rather than “venting.”

6. Set the timer according to your specific cut of meat (e.g. 15 minutes for a chuck steak).

7. Once done cooking

Q: What is an Instant Pot and how does it work?
A: Instant Pot is a programmable multi-cooker kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté/browning, and yogurt maker. It speeds up cooking by 2-6 times while using up to 70% less energy.

Q: Is it safe to cook steak in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes, it is completely safe to cook steak in an Instant Pot. It uses high pressure and heat to quickly cook the food, which ensures that the steak is cooked thoroughly and safely.

Q: Do I need to add water or broth when cooking steak in an Instant Pot?
A: No, there is no need to add additional liquid when cooking steak in an Instant Pot as the sealed lid traps steam inside which helps tenderize and cook the meat.

Q: Can I use frozen steak in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can use frozen steak in an Instant Pot. However, increase the cooking time by 50% compared to fresh steak.

Q: What type of meat cuts are best for cooking steak in an Instant Pot?
A: Tougher cuts of meat such as chuck roast, flank steak, or top/bottom round are best for cooking in an Instant Pot as they become tender and flavorful when cooked under pressure.

Q: How long does it take to cook steak in an Instant Pot?
A: The cooking time for steak in an Instant Pot depends on its thickness. For a one-inch thick cut of beef, cook on high pressure for 4 minutes for rare, 5 minutes for medium-rare, or 6 minutes for medium doneness. Let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before opening the lid.

In conclusion, cooking steak in an Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient method that can result in a delicious and tender meal. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking into consideration the recommended cook times for different types of steak, you can achieve perfectly cooked steaks every time. Be sure to use high-quality ingredients, such as a well-marbled cut of meat and flavorful seasonings, to enhance the taste of your dish.

One of the key advantages of using an Instant Pot for cooking steak is its ability to cook quickly at high pressure, resulting in a more tender and juicy texture. This method also allows for a hands-off approach, freeing up your time for other tasks while the steak cooks.

Additionally, the Instant Pot can be used not just for traditional cuts of steak such as ribeye or sirloin but also for tougher cuts like chuck or flank steak. This opens up a variety of options for budget-friendly meals without compromising on taste.

As with any cooking method, practice and experimentation are key to mastering cooking steak in an Instant Pot. Don’t be afraid to try different recipes and adjust cook times or seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

In conclusion, the Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking with its versatility and efficiency. By following the tips and techniques

Author Profile

Erick Benitez

In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.