Q: Can you put raw ground beef in an Instant Pot?

Yes, absolutely. You can brown raw ground beef directly using the 'Sauté' function before pressure cooking the rest of the ingredients in this ground beef Instant Pot recipe.

Q: What can I make quickly with ground beef in an Instant Pot?

This recipe is one of the easiest and most flavorful meals you can make. It combines meat, pasta, and sauce all in one pot with minimal cleanup. Or, if you're craving something more brothy, check out these hearty Crock Pot posole recipes .

Q: Why does my meat turn tough in the Instant Pot?

Usually, it’s due to overcooking or not enough liquid. For this ground beef Instant Pot recipe, we balance the liquids to ensure tenderness.

Q: Do I need to drain the beef before pressure cooking?

If using high-fat beef, it’s a good idea to drain excess grease after browning to keep the dish balanced and avoid oily texture.

Q: Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure not to exceed the Instant Pot's fill line. You may need to increase cooking time slightly depending on the pasta type.

Ground Beef Instant Pot Recipe: The Best Weeknight Comfort Meal

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef

1 tbsp oil

3 tsp minced garlic

3 tsp Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence

24 oz marinara sauce

2 cups water

1 cup beef broth

16 oz short pasta (penne, shells, etc.)

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Step 1 – Sauté Ground Beef
Turn Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add oil and brown the ground beef. Add garlic and herbs. Remove beef and set aside.

Step 2 – Combine Ingredients
Add marinara, water, broth, pasta, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.

Step 3 – Pressure Cook
Secure lid. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Quick release when done.

Step 4 – Add Beef & Cheese
Stir in reserved ground beef and shredded mozzarella. Stir until cheese melts and sauce is creamy. Serve warm.

Author: Layla Nour
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes (plus pressurizing time ~10 min)
Category: Main dish, Comfort food
Method: Pressure cooking, Instant Pot
Cuisine: American-Italian Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5–2 cups
Calories: ~510 per serving
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 80mg