[Full Guide] How Long To Cook Ribeye Steak In Instant Pot?

Cooking a juicy and flavorful ribeye steak in an Instant Pot might sound unconventional, but it’s absolutely possible to achieve fantastic results with this method. Despite being traditionally associated with slow-cooking meals, the Instant Pot can also be used to prepare tender and succulent ribeye steak in a fraction of the time it takes using traditional methods. This guide will provide a detailed, step-by-step approach to cooking a mouthwatering ribeye steak using an Instant Pot.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Ribeye Steak In Instant Pot

The cooking time for a ribeye steak in an Instant Pot can vary based on the desired level of doneness. However, as a general guideline, cooking a 1-inch thick ribeye steak on high pressure for 3 to 6 minutes for medium-rare and 6 to 8 minutes for medium should yield outstanding results.

Selection

When choosing a ribeye steak for your Instant Pot cooking, look for well-marbled cuts with visible intramuscular fat. The marbling not only adds flavor but also keeps the meat juicy and tender during the cooking process. Aim for a steak that is at least 1 inch thick to ensure optimal results.

Preparation

Before cooking the ribeye steak in the Instant Pot, it’s crucial to season the meat to enhance its flavor. Begin by patting the steak dry with paper towels, and then generously season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. If desired, you can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, or a steak rub to further enhance the flavor profile.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Ribeye Steak

The cooking time for ribeye steak in an Instant Pot largely depends on the thickness of the cut and the desired level of doneness. Thicker cuts will require slightly longer cooking times. Here’s a general guideline for cooking 1-inch thick ribeye steaks:

• Rare: 2-3 minutes on high pressure
• Medium-Rare: 3-6 minutes on high pressure
• Medium: 6-8 minutes on high pressure
• Well-Done: 8-10 minutes on high pressure

How To Cook Ribeye Steak In Instant Pot

Step 1: Searing The Steak (Optional)

While the traditional approach to cooking steak in an Instant Pot doesn’t involve searing, a quick sear can add an enticing caramelized crust to the meat. To do this, select the "Sauté" function on the Instant Pot and heat a small amount of oil until it shimmers. Sear the seasoned ribeye steak for 1-2 minutes on each side, then remove and set it aside.

Step 2: Adding Liquid

After searing the steak, add 1 cup of beef broth, red wine, or water to the Instant Pot. This will create steam and help to pressurize the pot while infusing the meat with additional flavor.

Step 3: Pressure Cooking The Steak

Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot and carefully position the seared ribeye steak on the trivet. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to the sealing position. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" function and set the timer based on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steak.

Step 4: Natural Release

Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for 5-10 minutes. This gradual release helps keep the meat tender and prevents it from becoming tough.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Carefully remove the ribeye steak from the Instant Pot and transfer it to a cutting board. Let the steak rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing and serving. Optionally, you can brush the steak with melted butter and sprinkle with fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Tough Or Overcooked Steak

If the ribeye steak turns out tough or overcooked, it may have been subjected to excessive pressure cooking. To avoid this, adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak and consider using a quick release of pressure to prevent overcooking.

Lack Of Flavor

If the steak lacks flavor, consider increasing the seasoning before cooking or using a richer broth or wine in the Instant Pot to enhance the overall taste.

Uneven Cooking

For more even cooking, ensure that the steak is of uniform thickness and consider using a meat thermometer to gauge the internal temperature for precise doneness.

Using an Instant Pot to cook ribeye steak is a convenient and efficient method that yields superb results. By following the detailed steps outlined in this guide, you can achieve a perfectly cooked, tender, and flavorsome ribeye steak without the hassle of traditional cooking methods. Whether you prefer it rare, medium-rare, or medium, the Instant Pot offers a versatile and reliable approach to preparing this beloved cut of beef. Experiment with various seasonings, liquids, and cooking times to tailor the steak to your personal preference, and savor the delightful outcome of a beautifully cooked ribeye steak courtesy of your Instant Pot.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen Ribeye Steak

The Instant Pot has become a beloved kitchen appliance for its convenience and ability to create delicious meals in a fraction of the time. While it may be most commonly associated with stews and soups, it can also be used to cook a mouthwatering ribeye steak. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking feature locks in the flavor and juices, resulting in a perfectly tender and flavorful steak.

Cooking a frozen ribeye steak in the Instant Pot is a convenient option when you forget to thaw your steak ahead of time. Here are the recommended cook times for different levels of desired doneness:

1. Rare: 3-5 minutes per side
2. Medium-rare: 5-6 minutes per side
3. Medium: 6-7 minutes per side
4. Well-done: 8-10 minutes per side

It’s important to note that these cook times may vary depending on the thickness of your steak and the desired level of doneness. For thicker cuts, you might need to add a minute or two to the cook time.

To cook a frozen ribeye steak in the Instant Pot, follow these steps:

1. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
2. Preheat the Instant Pot by selecting the "Saute" function and adjusting the heat to the highest setting. Allow the pot to heat up for a few minutes until "Hot" is displayed.
3. Add a tablespoon of oil to coat the bottom of the pot.
4. Place the frozen ribeye steak into the pot.
5. Sear each side of the steak for 2-3 minutes to develop a flavorful crust.
6. Once the steak is seared, cancel the "Saute" function.
7. Secure the lid and make sure the valve is set to the sealing position.
8. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" function, depending on your Instant Pot model.
9. Adjust the cook time according to your desired level of doneness.
10. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5-10 minutes before using the quick release option to vent any remaining pressure.
11. Remove the ribeye steak from the Instant Pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Achieving Perfect Texture

One of the benefits of using an Instant Pot to cook ribeye steak is the ability to achieve a perfect texture. The pressure cooking feature helps to break down the tough muscle fibers, resulting in a tender and juicy steak. To ensure you achieve the perfect texture, consider the following tips:

1. Use a meat thermometer: Investing in a good quality meat thermometer is essential to cooking your ribeye steak to perfection. This will help you monitor the internal temperature and ensure that you don’t overcook or undercook the steak.
2. Sear the steak: Before pressure cooking the ribeye steak, searing it on each side in the Instant Pot will help develop a savory crust that adds depth of flavor to the final dish.
3. Natural pressure release: Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for a few minutes before using the quick release option. This helps the juices redistribute within the steak, contributing to a more even and tender texture.
4. Resting time: After cooking the ribeye steak, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the meat to reabsorb any juices and ensures a juicier end result.

Flavor Infusion

The Instant Pot is fantastic for infusing flavor into meat, and ribeye steak is no exception. By following a few simple steps, you can elevate the taste profile of your ribeye steak. Consider these flavor infusion methods:

1. Marinades: Prior to cooking the ribeye steak, marinating it can add depth and complexity to the flavor. You can use a variety of ingredients such as soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, herbs, and spices to create a marinade. Simply place the steak and the marinade in a zip-top bag or a container, and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight for optimal flavor absorption.
2. Broth or wine: Adding a flavorful liquid like beef broth or red wine to the Instant Pot before cooking the ribeye steak can infuse it with rich flavors. The liquid will also help create a flavorful sauce that can be drizzled over the steak when serving.
3. Aromatics: Adding aromatic ingredients like onions, garlic, and herbs to the Instant Pot can enhance the overall flavor profile of the ribeye steak. These ingredients will provide subtle undertones and complement the natural richness of the meat.

Using these flavor infusion methods in conjunction with the pressure cooking feature of the Instant Pot will result in a ribeye steak that is not only tender but also bursting with delicious flavors.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Ribeye Steak

While pressure cooking is the most common method for cooking ribeye steak in an Instant Pot, there are other cooking methods that can yield equally delicious results. Let’s explore a few alternatives:

1. Sous vide: The Instant Pot can double as a sous vide cooker by using the "Sous Vide" function available on some models. This method involves vacuum-sealing the ribeye steak in a bag and cooking it in a water bath at a precise temperature for an extended period. This technique ensures evenly cooked steak with perfect doneness throughout. Once the steak is done sous vide, a quick sear in the Instant Pot using the "Saute" function will provide the desired crust.
2. Slow cooking: If you prefer a more hands-off approach, using the slow cooker function on your Instant Pot can yield tender and flavorful ribeye steak. Simply season the steak, add any desired liquids or aromatics, and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. For added flavor, sear the steak in the Instant Pot using the "Saute" function before transferring it to the slow cooker.
3. Broiling: After pressure cooking the ribeye steak in the Instant Pot, finish it under the broiler for a few minutes to achieve a nicely charred crust. This method is quick and adds an appealing visual element to the presentation, in addition to enhancing the flavor.

Experimenting with these alternative cooking methods will allow you to personalize the cooking process and achieve the desired texture and flavor for your ribeye steak.

Instant Pot Tips For Ribeye Steak

To ensure the best results when cooking ribeye steak in an Instant Pot, here are some useful tips specific to this method:

1. Choose the right thickness: For optimal cooking, aim for ribeye steaks that are between 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Thicker steaks may require additional cook time, while thinner steaks may become overcooked easily.
2. Use a natural release for delicate steaks: If you’re working with a particularly tender ribeye steak, it’s recommended to perform a natural pressure release rather than a quick release. This method gradually releases the pressure, minimizing the risk of overcooking the steak.
3. Brown the steak: Searing the steak before pressure cooking not only adds flavor but also helps preserve the steak’s texture. The Maillard reaction that occurs during searing creates a mouthwatering crust and enhances the overall taste experience.
4. Season generously: Don’t be shy when it comes to seasoning your ribeye steak. Use a generous amount of salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings to ensure the flavors penetrate the meat.
5. Consider the resting time: After cooking, it’s important to let the ribeye steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.

By following these Instant Pot tips, you’ll be well on your way to cooking a delectable ribeye steak every time.

Creative Instant Pot Ribeye Steak Recipes And Variations

Now that you have mastered the basic techniques for cooking ribeye steak in an Instant Pot, let’s explore some creative recipes and variations to take your steak to the next level:

1. Garlic Butter Ribeye: Season the ribeye steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear the steak in the Instant Pot, then remove it from the pot. Add a tablespoon of butter, minced garlic, and fresh thyme to the pot. Place the steak back in the Instant Pot and pressure cook for the desired cook time. The result is a juicy ribeye with a flavorful garlic butter sauce.
2. Asian-inspired Ribeye: Create an Asian-inspired marinade using soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sesame oil. Marinate the steak for a couple of hours before pressure cooking. Once cooked, slice the steak thinly and serve it over rice or noodles for a delicious Asian-inspired meal.
3. Chimichurri Ribeye: Prepare a vibrant chimichurri sauce using fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and a squeeze of lime juice. Pressure cook the ribeye steak to your desired doneness, then serve it with a spoonful of chimichurri sauce on top. The herbaceous flavors of the sauce perfectly complement the rich and juicy steak.
4. Blue Cheese and Mushroom Ribeye: Sear the ribeye steak in the Instant Pot, then remove it from the pot. In the same pot, sauté sliced mushrooms and onions until caramelized. Place the steak back in the Instant Pot, add crumbled blue cheese on top, and pressure cook. The result is a decadent ribeye steak with a luscious blue cheese and mushroom topping.

These creative recipes and variations will add excitement and variety to your Instant Pot ribeye steak repertoire.

Conclusion

Cooking a ribeye steak in an Instant Pot offers convenience and delicious results. Whether you’re working with a frozen steak or looking to achieve the perfect texture and flavor infusion, the Instant Pot can deliver. By following the recommended cook times, utilizing flavor infusion methods, and exploring alternative cooking methods, you’ll be able to cook a mouthwatering ribeye steak every time. With the addition of creative recipes and variations, you’ll find endless possibilities for creating delectable dishes that will impress your family and friends. So fire up your Instant Pot and enjoy a perfectly cooked ribeye steak in no time!

FAQS

What Is An Instant Pot?

An instant pot is a popular brand of multi-functional electric pressure cooker that can be used to cook a variety of dishes, including ribeye steak.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Ribeye Steak In An Instant Pot?

The cooking time for ribeye steak in an instant pot can vary depending on the thickness of the steak, but on average it takes about 10-12 minutes of cooking time.

Do I Need To Use Any Special Settings On My Instant Pot To Cook Ribeye Steak?

No, you do not need any special settings. The "meat" or "pressure cook" function on your instant pot is usually the best option for cooking ribeye steak.

Can I Sear The Ribeye Steak Before Cooking It In The Instant Pot?

Yes, you can sear the ribeye steak before cooking it in the instant pot. This will help create a nice crust on the steak and enhance its flavor.

Is It Safe To Cook Ribeye Steak In An Instant Pot?

Yes, it is safe to cook ribeye steak in an instant pot as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use caution when handling the hot contents. Make sure to release the pressure properly before opening the pot to avoid accidents.