How to Cook Frozen Ground Beef in the Instant Pot Easily

Cooking frozen ground beef in your Instant Pot is a total game-changer for busy weeknights or when you forget to thaw meat ahead of time. With just a few simple steps, you can go from rock-solid beef to perfectly cooked, juicy meat ready for tacos, pasta, casseroles, and more. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—timing, tips, and tricks—to make sure your frozen ground beef comes out just right every time.

Why Use the Instant Pot for Frozen Ground Beef?

The Instant Pot is a lifesaver when it comes to cooking frozen meats. Unlike stove-top or oven methods that require thawing, the Instant Pot uses pressure cooking to quickly and safely cook food straight from the freezer. This means less waiting and more flexibility when planning meals. Plus, the results are juicy and flavorful, not dry or overcooked.

What You’ll Need

• Frozen ground beef (typically 1-2 pounds works best)
• Instant Pot (any size, but 6-quart is most common)
• Trivet or steamer rack
• 1 cup water (for 6-quart pot; use 1.5 cups for 8-quart)
• Seasonings (optional, add after cooking)

Step-by-Step Guide: Cooking Frozen Ground Beef in the Instant Pot

1. Add Water: Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of your Instant Pot insert. This is crucial for creating the steam needed for pressure cooking.
2. Insert Trivet: Place the metal trivet or steamer rack inside the pot. This keeps the meat elevated above the water so it doesn’t boil directly in the liquid.
3. Add Frozen Beef: Place your block of frozen ground beef on top of the trivet. If your beef is stuck in the packaging, remove it first—never cook plastic in your Instant Pot.
4. Seal and Set: Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and select Manual or Pressure Cook.
5. Cooking Time: For a standard 1-pound block, set the timer for 20 minutes. For thicker blocks or up to 2 pounds, increase the time to 23-25 minutes.
6. Naturally Release Pressure: Once the timer beeps, let the pressure release naturally for at least 5 minutes. Then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
7. Check and Break Up Meat: Open the lid and check your beef. It should be brown on the outside but may need to be broken up and sautéed for a few minutes if you want it crumbled for recipes.
8. Sauté if Needed: Use the Sauté function to break up and brown the beef further if you plan to use it in dishes like tacos or spaghetti sauce.

Tips for Best Results

• Don’t skip the trivet: Cooking directly in water can make your beef soggy and lose flavor.
• Avoid seasoning before cooking: Add spices or sauces after pressure cooking for best flavor.
• If your block is very thick or oddly shaped: Add a few extra minutes to ensure it cooks through.
• Sauté after pressure cooking: For crumbled beef, always finish with a quick sauté to get that classic texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Beef is still pink inside: Simply break up the meat and use the Sauté function until fully cooked.
• Too much liquid: Drain off excess liquid after cooking if needed, especially if using in saucy recipes.
• Bland flavor: Remember that seasoning happens after cooking! Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, or sauces once done.

How Long Does It Take to Cook Frozen Ground Beef?

The general rule is about 20 minutes per pound of frozen ground beef at high pressure. If your block is thicker than average or you’re cooking more than a pound at once, add a few extra minutes—up to 25 minutes total. Always check for doneness and finish with a sauté if you want crumbled beef.

Can I Cook More Than One Pound at a Time?

You can definitely cook up to two pounds of frozen ground beef at once in a standard 6-quart Instant Pot. Just make sure the pieces are stacked evenly and not wedged together too tightly. Add an extra couple of minutes to ensure everything cooks through.

Is It Safe to Cook Frozen Meat in an Instant Pot?

Yes! The Instant Pot reaches high enough temperatures under pressure to safely cook frozen meats all the way through. Just make sure you allow enough time for both pressurizing and cooking so your meat reaches a safe internal temperature (at least 160°F for ground beef).

How to Use Your Cooked Ground Beef

Your freshly cooked ground beef is incredibly versatile! Here are some easy ways to use it:

• Tacos or burritos
• Pasta sauces like Bolognese or chili
• Casseroles or shepherd’s pie
• Sloppy joes or stuffed peppers
• Baked potatoes with meat topping

Cleaning Up After Cooking Ground Beef

The Instant Pot makes cleanup simple. Just remove the trivet and inner pot, discard any leftover grease or liquid, and wash with warm soapy water. If you sautéed your beef after pressure cooking, be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom before washing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add onions or garlic before pressure cooking?

It’s best to add aromatics like onions or garlic after pressure cooking during the sauté step for better flavor.

What if my ground beef is stuck in its packaging?

Remove all packaging before cooking. If it’s stuck, run it under cold water until you can peel off any paper or plastic.

Can I season my beef before pressure cooking?

You can, but most spices will end up washed away by steam. For best taste, season after cooking.

How do I store leftovers?

Cooled ground beef can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or frozen for up to three months.

Can I use this method with other ground meats?

Yes! The same technique works well with ground turkey, chicken, or pork—just check internal temperature before serving.

The Bottom Line

The Instant Pot is your secret weapon for fast, safe, and delicious meals—even when you forget to thaw your meat! With these easy steps, you’ll never have to worry about what’s for dinner again. Give it a try and enjoy perfectly cooked ground beef from freezer to table in under half an hour!