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

Steak lovers, rejoice! The Instant Pot isn’t just for soups and stews – it’s also perfect for cooking up a perfectly tender and juicy steak. Whether you’re a busy cook looking for a quick and easy dinner option, or you want a fuss-free way to make a steak without firing up the grill or turning on the oven, the Instant Pot has got your back.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Steak In Instant Pot

Cooking steak in the Instant Pot requires minimal effort and time. The average time to cook a tender steak in the Instant Pot ranges from 6 to 10 minutes on high pressure. However, the exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness.

Selection

Before you begin the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right cut of steak. Opt for well-marbled cuts like ribeye, striploin (also known as New York strip), or tenderloin. These cuts have the perfect balance of fat and tenderness, ensuring a moist and flavorful end result.

When it comes to thickness, aim for steaks that are at least 1 inch thick. Thicker steaks are less likely to overcook and dry out during the pressure cooking process.

Preparation

Prior to cooking, ensure that your steak is at room temperature. This allows for even cooking and ensures that the internal temperature of the steak rises more consistently.

Season your steak generously with salt and pepper, or your preferred steak seasoning blend. For an extra flavor boost, you can also marinate the steak in your favorite marinade for 30 minutes to a few hours before cooking.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Steak

The cooking time for steak in the Instant Pot largely depends on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steak. Here’s a general guideline for cooking times:

• Rare (internal temperature of 125°F to 130°F): 6 minutes
• Medium Rare (internal temperature of 135°F to 140°F): 7 minutes
• Medium (internal temperature of 145°F to 150°F): 8 minutes
• Well Done (internal temperature of 160°F and above): 10 minutes

For thicker steaks, you may need to add an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

How To Cook Steak In Instant Pot

Now that you’ve selected your steak and prepared it for cooking, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty of using your Instant Pot to achieve steak perfection.

Step 1: Searing The Steak

Preheat your Instant Pot using the "Sauté" function. Once the display reads "Hot" or the oil starts shimmering, it’s time to carefully place the seasoned steak in the pot. Sear each side for 1-2 minutes until a golden brown crust forms. This step helps lock in the juices and enhances the flavor of the steak.

Step 2: Pressure Cooking

After the steak is nicely seared, remove it from the Instant Pot and set it aside. Add a cup of beef broth or water to the pot to deglaze it, ensuring that any browned bits from searing are incorporated into the liquid. This adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

Place the metal trivet that comes with the Instant Pot into the pot, and then return the steak to the pot, resting it on the trivet. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring that the sealing ring is properly in place.

Set the Instant Pot to "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" mode, then adjust the pressure to high. Use the cooking times mentioned earlier as a guide, depending on your desired level of doneness. Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of pressure.

Step 3: Resting And Serving

Once the pressure has been fully released, carefully remove the steak from the Instant Pot and transfer it to a cutting board. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness, then serve and enjoy your perfectly cooked Instant Pot steak.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While cooking steak in the Instant Pot is relatively straightforward, hiccups can occur. Here are some common issues and troubleshooting tips:

Tough Steak

If your steak turns out tough, it likely means it was overcooked. To prevent this from happening, make sure to select the correct cooking time based on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Additionally, using the natural release method instead of quick release can help retain the steak’s juiciness.

Burn Notice

It’s not uncommon to see a "Burn" notice on the Instant Pot when cooking steak, especially if the pot hasn’t been deglazed properly after searing the steak. If you encounter this issue, carefully remove the steak from the pot, deglaze the pot thoroughly, and ensure there are no browned bits stuck to the bottom before returning the steak to the pot.

Lack Of Flavor

If your steak turns out bland, consider enhancing the seasoning or marinating the steak for a longer period before cooking. Additionally, using a flavorful liquid like beef broth or adding aromatics to the cooking liquid can contribute to a more flavorful end result.

The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that simplifies the steak-cooking process without sacrificing flavor and tenderness. By selecting the right cut of steak, properly seasoning and preparing it, and following the recommended cooking times, you can achieve a restaurant-quality steak in a fraction of the time. With this handy guide, you’re well-equipped to cook a succulent steak in your Instant Pot, impressing your family and friends with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen Steak

Cooking steak in an Instant Pot is a game-changer for those looking to enjoy a tender and flavorful steak without the hassle of traditional cooking methods. The Instant Pot, a multi-functional electric pressure cooker, not only saves you time but also ensures a perfectly cooked steak every time. Whether you have a frozen or thawed steak, the Instant Pot can handle it with ease.

One of the many benefits of using an Instant Pot is its ability to cook frozen meat quickly and efficiently. Cooking frozen steak in the Instant Pot is a convenient way to have a delicious meal without the need for advanced planning. While thawing the steak beforehand is recommended for optimal texture and flavor, the Instant Pot can still deliver a great result with frozen steak.

To cook frozen steak in the Instant Pot, adjust the cooking time accordingly. For thin cuts of steak (about 1 inch or less), set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for approximately 12-15 minutes. For thicker cuts (1-2 inches), increase the cooking time to around 20-25 minutes. Keep in mind that these times are estimates and may need to be adjusted based on personal preferences and the size of the steak.

Achieving Perfect Texture

Texture is a crucial factor when it comes to cooking steak. While some prefer a tender and juicy steak, others may prefer a bit more chewiness. The Instant Pot can help achieve the perfect texture, regardless of personal preference.

For a more tender steak, it is recommended to use the natural release method. After cooking the steak in the Instant Pot, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 5-10 minutes. This process allows the meat to relax and ensures a more tender result.

If you prefer a steak with a bit more chew, you can use the quick release method. Simply turn the release valve on the Instant Pot to manually release the pressure. Be cautious when doing this, as the steam and hot liquid inside the Instant Pot can be extremely hot. Always use oven mitts or other protective gear to avoid any burns.

Flavor Infusion

One of the advantages of cooking steak in an Instant Pot is the ability to infuse it with flavorful ingredients. The Instant Pot not only cooks the steak to perfection but also helps in enhancing its taste by incorporating marinades, herbs, and spices.

To infuse flavors into the steak, you can marinate it before cooking. Simply combine your choice of marinade ingredients – such as soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs – in a bowl. Place the steak in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Once marinated, remove the steak from the marinade and place it in the Instant Pot along with some of the marinade. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function will allow the flavors to infuse into the steak, resulting in a more flavorful and delicious outcome.

Additionally, you can also add herbs, spices, and aromatics directly into the Instant Pot while cooking the steak. The heat and pressure will help to intensify their flavors. Popular choices include rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, garlic, and onions. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect flavor profile.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Steak

While pressure cooking may be the most common method for cooking steak in an Instant Pot, there are other techniques you can try to achieve different results.

Searing Before Pressure Cooking

One approach is to sear the steak on the stovetop or in a separate pan before pressure cooking it in the Instant Pot. Searing creates a flavorful crust on the steak, adding depth to its taste. To do this, heat oil in a skillet over high heat and sear each side of the steak for about 2-3 minutes until nicely browned. Then transfer the steak to the Instant Pot and continue with the pressure cooking process. This method helps in achieving the desired Maillard reaction, which adds a richly browned flavor to the steak.

Broiling Or Sauteing After Pressure Cooking

After pressure cooking the steak in the Instant Pot, you can also broil or sauté it briefly to give it a nice texture and color. To do this, remove the steak from the Instant Pot and place it on a baking sheet or skillet. Broil the steak for a few minutes on each side until a golden crust is formed. Alternatively, you can sauté the steak in a hot skillet with some oil for a couple of minutes on each side. These methods help to enhance the appearance and flavor of the steak.

Sous Vide Steak

Another technique to consider is sous vide cooking, which involves sealing the steak in an airtight bag and cooking it in a water bath at a precise temperature. While the Instant Pot is not specifically designed for sous vide cooking, it can be used as a makeshift sous vide machine. Simply fill the Instant Pot with water, set it to the desired temperature using the "Sous Vide" function (usually around 130-135°F/54-57°C for medium-rare), and place the sealed steak in the water. Sous vide cooking in the Instant Pot results in an incredibly tender and evenly cooked steak.

Instant Pot Tips For Steak

To ensure the best possible outcome when cooking steak in an Instant Pot, it is essential to follow some tips and tricks:

1. Use the right cut of steak: Choose cuts that are well-suited for pressure cooking, such as chuck steak, flank steak, or brisket. These cuts have more connective tissue, which breaks down during pressure cooking, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak.

2. Season generously: Make sure to season the steak with salt and pepper or your desired spice rub before cooking. This helps to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.

3. Use proper liquid: When cooking steak in the Instant Pot, it is crucial to include enough liquid to create steam and build pressure. This liquid can be water, broth, or even a flavorful sauce or marinade.

4. Monitor internal temperature: To achieve the desired level of doneness, it is recommended to use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. The desired temperature for different levels of doneness are as follows: 125°F/52°C for rare, 135°F/57°C for medium-rare, 145°F/63°C for medium, and 160°F/71°C for well-done.

5. Rest the steak: After removing the steak from the Instant Pot, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.

Creative Instant Pot Steak Recipes And Variations

Now that you have mastered the basics of cooking steak in an Instant Pot, it’s time to get creative and explore different recipes and variations. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

1. Steak Fajitas: Cook thinly sliced steak in the Instant Pot with bell peppers, onions, and fajita seasoning. Serve with warm tortillas, guacamole, and sour cream for a delicious Tex-Mex meal.

2. Beef Stroganoff: Sear the steak in the Instant Pot, then add mushrooms, onions, beef broth, and sour cream. Pressure cook until the flavors meld together, and serve over cooked egg noodles for a comforting and satisfying dish.

3. Asian-inspired Steak: Marinate the steak in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Pressure cook with a bit of beef broth and serve with rice and steamed vegetables for a flavorful and healthy meal.

4. Philly Cheesesteak: Sear thinly sliced steak in the Instant Pot, then add onions, bell peppers, and beef broth. Pressure cook and serve on a toasted roll with melted cheese for an indulgent sandwich.

5. Steak Tacos: Pressure cook steak with your favorite taco seasoning and a bit of beef broth. Shred the cooked steak and serve in taco shells with avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a delicious and easy meal.

Feel free to experiment with different flavors, seasonings, and cooking techniques to create your own unique Instant Pot steak recipes.

Conclusion

Cooking steak in an Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy a tender and flavorful meal. Whether you have a frozen or thawed steak, the Instant Pot can deliver excellent results. By adjusting the cooking times, using the right cut of meat, and incorporating flavorful ingredients, you can achieve the perfect texture and taste. Don’t be afraid to try different cooking methods and recipes to elevate your steak game. With the Instant Pot as your culinary companion, you can enjoy steakhouse-quality meals from the comfort of your own home.

FAQS

Can I Cook A Steak In An Instant Pot?

Yes, the Instant Pot can be used to cook steak. It not only saves time but also produces tender and juicy results.

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

The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak. On average, it takes about 6-8 minutes on high pressure for a medium-rare steak, and 10-15 minutes for a well-done steak.

What Cut Of Steak Is Best For Cooking In An Instant Pot?

Tougher cuts of steak such as chuck, round, or flank are perfect for pressure cooking. These cuts require longer cooking times which the Instant Pot can provide, breaking down the tough fibers and resulting in a tender piece of meat.

Do I Need To Use A Lot Of Liquid When Cooking Steak In An Instant Pot?

No, the Instant Pot requires less liquid compared to traditional cooking methods. About 1 cup of liquid is enough for cooking steak in the Instant Pot.

How Do I Know When My Steak Is Cooked To Perfection In An Instant Pot?

You can use a meat thermometer to ensure that your steak is cooked to the desired level of doneness. The internal temperature for medium-rare is 135°F, medium is 145°F, and well-done is 160°F. You can also use the Instant Pot’s sauté function to sear the steak after pressure cooking, giving it a nice crust and added flavor.