How to Cook Frozen Beef Tips in the Instant Pot: Easy Guide

Cooking frozen beef tips in your Instant Pot is a total game-changer for busy weeknights! No need to thaw, no need to stress—just pop those beef tips straight from the freezer into your pressure cooker and you’ll have a delicious, tender meal on the table in under an hour. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best method for cooking frozen beef tips in the Instant Pot, share handy tips to get perfect results, and answer common questions so you can serve up a comforting dinner with confidence.

Why Use the Instant Pot for Frozen Beef Tips?

The Instant Pot is a lifesaver when you forget to defrost meat or need dinner in a hurry. Its pressure cooking function quickly turns tough, frozen beef into juicy, fork-tender bites. Plus, it locks in flavors and nutrients, making your meal both tasty and wholesome. No more waiting hours for slow cooker results or worrying about uneven cooking—your Instant Pot does it all, fast!

What You’ll Need

• Frozen beef tips (about 2 pounds)
• Beef broth or stock (1 to 1.5 cups)
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Seasonings: salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, or your favorites
• Cornstarch or flour (optional, for thickening sauce)
• Oil (for sautéing, optional)

Step-by-Step: Cooking Frozen Beef Tips in the Instant Pot

1. Add Ingredients: Place the frozen beef tips right into the Instant Pot. Pour in beef broth or stock to help build pressure and prevent burning. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and your chosen seasonings.
2. Pressure Cook: Seal the lid and set your Instant Pot to High Pressure for 35 minutes. This time is ideal for most bite-sized beef tips that are frozen solid.
3. Natural Release: When cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes. This helps keep the meat extra tender.
4. Thicken Sauce (Optional): If you want a thicker gravy, turn on the Sauté function after releasing pressure. Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and simmer until thickened.
5. Serve: Spoon those savory beef tips over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or steamed veggies for a hearty meal!

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Beef Tips Every Time

• No Need to Brown First: While browning adds flavor, it’s not necessary when starting with frozen meat. If you prefer extra flavor and have time, brown thawed beef tips using the Sauté function before pressure cooking.
• Add Enough Liquid: Always use at least 1 cup of liquid to ensure your Instant Pot comes to pressure and cooks the beef evenly.
• Cut Size Matters: If your beef tips are large or in one big block, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cook time.
• Season Well: Since frozen meat can be bland, don’t be shy with herbs and spices. Try Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for more depth.

Flavor Variations to Try

• Mushroom Gravy: Add sliced mushrooms and use mushroom broth for a rich twist.
• Bourguignon Style: Toss in carrots, pearl onions, and a splash of red wine for a French-inspired meal.
• Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce, ginger, and a dash of sesame oil for beef tips with an Asian flair.

Troubleshooting & Common Questions

Can I cook beef tips from fresh instead of frozen?

Absolutely! For fresh beef tips, reduce the pressure cooking time to about 20-25 minutes on High Pressure. Everything else stays the same.

Do I need to defrost the beef before cooking?

Nope! The beauty of this recipe is that you can use beef tips straight from the freezer—just adjust cooking time as needed if they’re extra large or stuck together.

Why is my sauce thin?

The Instant Pot traps moisture, so sauces can be runnier than stovetop versions. Use the Sauté function with cornstarch or flour at the end to thicken it up.

Is it safe to cook frozen meat in the Instant Pot?

Yes! The Instant Pot heats quickly and evenly under pressure, so frozen meat cooks through safely as long as you follow recommended times and check that the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C).

How do I store leftovers?

Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Comfort: Serve over creamy mashed potatoes with green beans on the side.
• Pasta Night: Ladle beef tips over buttered egg noodles with a sprinkle of parsley.
• Low-Carb: Enjoy over cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli for a lighter option.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Add Veggies: Want a one-pot meal? Toss in carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers before sealing the lid.
• Use Broth for Flavor: Beef broth or stock gives richer flavor than water—try low-sodium if you’re watching salt intake.
• Taste & Adjust: Always taste your sauce at the end and adjust seasoning as needed.

Your Quick Reference: Cooking Chart

Status of Beef Tips	Pressure Cook Time (High)
Frozen (bite-sized)	35 minutes
Fresh (bite-sized)	20-25 minutes
Large frozen pieces/block	40-45 minutes

The Bottom Line

The Instant Pot makes it easy to whip up tender, flavorful beef tips straight from the freezer—no thawing required! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a comforting meal ready fast. Experiment with seasonings and sides to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions (Quick Recap)

• How long to cook frozen beef tips in Instant Pot?
  35 minutes on high pressure for most frozen beef tips.
• Can I add vegetables?
  Yes! Add sturdy veggies like carrots or potatoes before sealing the lid.
• How do I thicken the sauce?
  Use cornstarch slurry and sauté after pressure cooking until thickened.
• Can I use other cuts of beef?
  Yes—stew meat, chuck roast cubes, or sirloin all work well!

Your Instant Pot is about to become your new favorite way to cook frozen beef tips—quickly, easily, and always delicious!