The Best Instant Pot Beef Tips Recipe For Busy Nights

Instant Pot Beef Tips are the ultimate answer when you need a quick, hearty dinner that doesn’t compromise on comfort or flavor. With just a few ingredients and the magic of pressure cooking, you’ll have fork-tender beef in a rich, savory gravy—all in under an hour. This guide walks you through everything from choosing the best cuts of beef to making the perfect gravy and troubleshooting common mistakes.

One of the reasons Instant Pot beef tips have become such a favorite is because they deliver big, bold flavor without a big-time commitment. Whether you’re a busy parent, new to cooking, or just craving a satisfying meal, you’ll find this recipe surprisingly easy to master—and impossible to forget.

Looking for another cozy Instant Pot meal? Try this creamy chicken meatball soup that’s equally satisfying.

Introduction to Instant Pot Beef Tips

What Are Instant Pot Beef Tips?

Beef tips refer to small chunks or cubes of beef, often taken from tender or moderately tough cuts like sirloin, chuck, or round. When pressure-cooked using the Instant Pot, these pieces of beef become incredibly soft and flavorful, soaking up the delicious gravy like they were made for it.

The Instant Pot drastically reduces cooking time while locking in flavor and moisture. Unlike stovetop simmering that can take hours, pressure cooking makes even tougher cuts tender in less than 45 minutes. This efficiency has made beef tips one of the most popular weeknight meals.

Why This Dish Has Become a Weeknight Favorite

What makes beef tips so appealing is their versatility. You can serve them over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or low-carb alternatives like mashed cauliflower. They reheat beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Plus, the Instant Pot frees up your evening. You can toss in your ingredients, seal the lid, and walk away—knowing a delicious, hearty meal is on the way. It’s no wonder people keep coming back to this recipe week after week.

Choosing the Best Cut for Instant Pot Beef Tips

Are Beef Tips the Same as Stew Meat?

It’s easy to confuse beef tips with stew meat, especially since both are cubed and slow-cooked until tender. But they’re not always the same. Beef tips usually come from tender cuts like sirloin, tenderloin, or even flank steak, depending on the butcher. These cuts are more flavorful and cook faster compared to stew meat.

Stew meat, on the other hand, is often a mix of tougher cuts like chuck or round, which need a longer cook time to break down properly. While stew meat can be used in Instant Pot beef tips, expect a slightly longer pressure-cook time to get that same melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Pro Tip: If your grocery store doesn’t label “beef tips” specifically, go for sirloin or flank steak and cut it into bite-sized pieces yourself.

Best Cuts of Beef for Tender, Juicy Results

To nail that fall-apart texture every time, pick cuts that either cook quickly or break down well under pressure. Here are your top options for Instant Pot beef tips:

• Sirloin Steak: Lean but still tender and flavorful. Ideal for fast cooking.
• Chuck Roast: Well-marbled and great for rich, juicy beef tips. Needs longer pressure time but totally worth it.
• Flank Steak: Slightly chewy but soaks up flavor beautifully.
• Top Round: A bit leaner, but works well in pressure cooking when sliced thin.
• Tenderloin Tips: Premium choice, cooks quickly and has a buttery-soft finish.

The best part? Even budget-friendly cuts like chuck become tender in the Instant Pot thanks to its ability to pressure cook and trap moisture.

Looking for inspiration? Try switching up the cut next time and comparing results—it’s a great way to customize the dish to your taste and budget.

Prepping Beef Tips for the Instant Pot

How to Properly Season and Marinate Beef Tips

The secret to unforgettable Instant Pot Beef Tips starts with prep. While the pressure cooker takes care of the tenderness, it’s your seasoning that delivers the flavor punch. Before you even touch the “Pressure Cook” button, you’ve got to season that meat like you mean it.

Marinating adds richness and helps tenderize your beef even more. For a bold, savory flavor that stands out, whip up this easy marinade:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Let your beef tips marinate for at least 30 minutes—or for the best results, let them sit in the fridge for a few hours. This gives your Instant Pot beef tips an edge that makes every bite memorable.

In a hurry? Go with a dry rub! A quick toss with a blend of salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder can still deliver a deep, meaty flavor.

Pro Tip: Adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar can create that restaurant-style finish. The acidity breaks down the proteins slightly, making your beef tips even more tender and flavorful under pressure.

Should You Sear the Beef Before Pressure Cooking?

If you’ve ever wondered why some recipes for Instant Pot beef tips are more flavorful than others—it’s usually the sear. Browning your beef before pressure cooking unlocks deep, rich flavors you just can’t get from pressure alone.

Searing activates the Maillard reaction, which caramelizes the surface of the beef and locks in juices. It takes just a few minutes, but the flavor payoff is huge.

Here’s how to nail the sear:

1. Hit the Sauté button on your Instant Pot.
2. Add a bit of oil—olive or avocado oil works best for high heat.
3. Add beef tips in a single layer; don’t crowd them.
4. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned.

Even if you’re using budget cuts, a proper sear makes your Instant Pot beef tips taste like you slow-cooked them all day. You’ll also develop those browned bits at the bottom—fond—which become a flavor bomb once you deglaze with broth or wine.

Pressed for time? Skip the sear and get right to pressure cooking. You’ll still have tender, savory results, but searing takes your dish to the next level.

Cooking Instant Pot Beef Tips the Right Way

Step-by-Step Instant Pot Beef Tips Recipe

Now that your beef tips are seasoned (and maybe seared), it’s time to let the Instant Pot do what it does best. Cooking Instant Pot beef tips is incredibly simple once you follow the proper steps—and it always helps to have your ingredients ready to go.

Here’s a basic recipe for perfectly cooked beef tips in the Instant Pot:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef tips (sirloin, chuck, or flank)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Sear the beef: Set Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil and brown beef tips in batches.
2. Sauté onions and garlic: After searing, toss in the chopped onions and garlic. Cook until soft—about 2–3 minutes.
3. Deglaze: Add a splash of beef broth to scrape up those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Add ingredients: Pour in the rest of the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and spices.
5. Pressure cook: Seal the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and pressure cook on High for 25 minutes (30 if using tougher cuts like chuck).
6. Natural release: Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then switch to a quick release.
7. Thicken the sauce: Set to Sauté mode again. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook for a few minutes until the gravy thickens.

That’s it. In less than an hour, you’ve got juicy, flavorful Instant Pot beef tips with a gravy that clings perfectly to every bite.

Does Meat Need to Be Submerged in a Pressure Cooker?

Here’s a myth we need to bust: No, meat doesn’t need to be fully submerged in liquid in the Instant Pot.

The Instant Pot cooks with steam and pressure, not direct contact with liquid. As long as there’s enough liquid to generate steam—usually 1 to 1.5 cups of broth—you’re good to go.

Submerging beef completely isn’t just unnecessary; it can actually water down the flavor. Instead, focus on using just enough liquid to cover the bottom of the pot and build pressure without drowning your meat.

If you’re worried about sticking or burning, deglaze the pot after sautéing. This prevents the dreaded “Burn” error and also pulls all that seared flavor back into your dish.

Pressure Cooking Tips for Perfect Texture

Why Is My Beef Tough in the Instant Pot?

Few things are more disappointing than biting into tough, chewy meat when you were expecting melt-in-your-mouth goodness. If your Instant Pot beef tips turn out tough, don’t panic—there’s a good reason, and better yet, an easy fix.

The top reasons beef may be tough after pressure cooking:

• Not enough cook time: Contrary to popular belief, tougher cuts actually need longer in the Instant Pot to become tender. If you undercook, the connective tissue hasn’t broken down yet.
• Wrong cut of beef: Using lean or dry cuts like round steak without enough marbling can lead to a tougher bite.
• High-pressure release too soon: Releasing pressure immediately after cooking can “shock” the meat, making it seize up. Always allow 10 minutes of natural pressure release before switching to quick release.

How to fix it:

• Return your beef tips to the pot with 1/4 cup extra broth and cook for another 5 to 10 minutes on high pressure. Let it naturally release for 10 minutes again.
• Use a fattier cut like chuck roast for better tenderness next time.

Remember, it’s hard to overcook beef tips in the Instant Pot unless you’re leaving them for hours. It’s usually better to go longer than shorter, especially with tougher cuts.

For ultra-creamy sides, serve these beef tips over our famous olive oil mashed potatoes.

Do Beef Tips Get Softer the Longer You Cook Them?

Yes—when it comes to pressure cooking, beef tips do get more tender the longer you cook them (within reason). This is especially true for cuts like chuck, brisket, or bottom round, which are rich in collagen and connective tissue.

During high-pressure cooking, the collagen in these cuts breaks down into gelatin, giving you that rich, succulent texture. But here’s the trick: you need enough cook time and moisture to get there.

Here’s a general cook time guide:

So yes, longer = softer, as long as there’s enough liquid in the pot. Don’t be afraid to experiment with time based on the cut you’re using. Once you get the sweet spot, your Instant Pot beef tips will always come out perfect.

Creating the Perfect Gravy for Beef Tips

Ingredients for a Flavorful, Rich Gravy

The gravy isn’t just a sidekick here—it’s the heart of the dish. It brings the beef tips together and elevates everything on the plate, from mashed potatoes to rice or even crusty bread.

The best part? You can make incredible gravy right in the Instant Pot using the juices left behind from cooking your beef tips.

Essential ingredients for Instant Pot beef tips gravy:

• Beef drippings or cooking liquid – this is your flavor foundation.
• Beef broth – adds depth and volume. Low-sodium is best if you’re using salty ingredients like soy sauce.
• Worcestershire sauce – adds that classic umami kick.
• Tomato paste – brings acidity and richness.
• Onions and garlic – for that slow-cooked, homemade flavor.
• Cornstarch slurry – thickens your gravy without flour, keeping it smooth and glossy.
• Optional: Red wine or balsamic vinegar for complexity and richness.

Tip: Always taste your cooking liquid before thickening. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a touch of sugar if it needs balance.

How to Thicken Gravy in the Instant Pot

Once your Instant Pot beef tips are cooked and tender, it’s time to turn that flavorful liquid into a luscious gravy. Luckily, this is easy using the Sauté function.

Step-by-step gravy thickening method:

1. After pressure cooking, remove the beef tips and set them aside (keep them warm).
2. Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté mode.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry.
4. Stir the slurry into the hot liquid in the pot.
5. Keep stirring until the gravy thickens—this usually takes 3–5 minutes.

Want it thicker? Add a little more slurry, but go slowly—it can thicken fast. Too thick? Just add a splash of warm broth.

Pro Tip: Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes even after thickening. This helps cook off any starchy flavor and concentrates the sauce for a richer finish.

Now spoon that velvety gravy over your Instant Pot beef tips and watch it cascade down like magic.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Best Sides to Serve with Instant Pot Beef Tips

A plate of Instant Pot beef tips just isn’t complete without something to catch that amazing gravy. These tender chunks of beef are incredibly versatile, pairing well with a variety of starches and veggies.

Classic side dishes:

• Mashed potatoes – The #1 choice. Creamy, buttery, and the perfect sponge for rich gravy.
• White or brown rice – A quick and easy base that soaks up all the sauce.
• Egg noodles – For a homestyle, stroganoff-style meal.
• Buttered pasta shells – Another comfort food go-to.
• Garlic bread – Ideal for mopping up every last drop of gravy.

Low-carb options:

• Mashed cauliflower – Light, creamy, and a great keto-friendly pick.
• Steamed green beans or broccoli – To balance out the richness of the beef.
• Zucchini noodles – A fresh, low-carb base that still tastes indulgent.

Want to take it up a notch? Serve your beef tips with roasted root vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, or even over a cheddar polenta base for a southern twist.

Want a roasted side dish option? These roasted garlic mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up gravy.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers Without Drying Out

Leftover Instant Pot beef tips might just be better the next day—if you reheat them the right way. Here’s how to keep them tender and juicy:

Storage Tips:

• Cool beef tips and gravy completely before storing.
• Use an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips:

• Stovetop (best method): Add a splash of beef broth or water, cover, and heat over medium-low until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 60-second bursts, stirring each time.
• Instant Pot: Use the “Keep Warm” or “Steam” function for gentle reheating.

Avoid boiling or reheating uncovered, as that can make the beef chewy and the gravy too thick.

Pro Tip: When freezing, portion the beef tips with extra gravy to keep them juicy during thawing and reheating. It’s a meal prep winner.

Making Beef More Tender in a Pressure Cooker

Proven Tips to Make Meat Tender in the Instant Pot

Getting perfectly tender beef doesn’t have to be a gamble. With the right approach, your Instant Pot Beef Tips will come out juicy and soft every time. Here’s how to get it right from the start:

1. Choose the Right Cut
   Cuts like chuck roast, brisket, or sirloin work best. They have enough marbling to stay moist under pressure and break down into buttery bites.
2. Cut Meat Evenly
   Uniform cubes (about 1 to 1.5 inches) cook more evenly. Oversized chunks may end up chewy in the center while the edges are soft.
3. Marinate or Use Acidic Ingredients
   Acids like vinegar, lemon juice, or even Worcestershire sauce help tenderize the meat before it even hits the heat. Even a quick 30-minute marinade can make a difference.
4. Use Natural Pressure Release
   One of the most important tricks—always let pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes. Quick-releasing too soon can cause muscle fibers to tighten, leading to that rubbery texture.
5. Don’t Skip the Liquid
   Moisture is crucial for the Instant Pot to build pressure and soften the meat. Even just 1 to 1.5 cups of broth is enough to keep things tender without drowning your beef.
6. Cook It Long Enough
   Many people undercook, thinking beef will get tough if it goes too long. But pressure cooking breaks down collagen, so tougher cuts need more time, not less. For chuck or round, go for 30–35 minutes on high pressure.
7. Let It Rest
   Just like a steak off the grill, your Instant Pot beef tips need a moment to relax. After cooking, let them sit in the sauce for a few minutes. This helps redistribute juices and enhances tenderness.

Does Beef Get Tender in Instant Pot Every Time?

It absolutely can—as long as you follow the fundamentals. The Instant Pot is designed to make cooking easier, but it still requires a few thoughtful steps to get professional-quality results.

If your beef tips are consistently turning out dry or chewy, take a closer look at:

• Your cooking time—under or overcooking is usually the culprit.
• Your cut of beef—some lean cuts just don’t perform well under pressure.
• Your rest and release method—natural release and post-cook resting are game changers.

Once you master those variables, Instant Pot Beef Tips will become a no-fail favorite. You’ll never go back to stovetop stew again.

FAQs About Instant Pot Beef Tips

Bringing It All Together: Your Go-To Guide for Perfect Instant Pot Beef Tips

Making Instant Pot beef tips at home doesn’t require fancy tools, complicated steps, or hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, the right beef cut, and a few pressure-cooking tricks, you can serve up a dish that’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor every time.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests, this Instant Pot beef tips recipe is one you’ll keep coming back to. From choosing the perfect cut to mastering the gravy, you’ve now got all the tools to turn simple ingredients into a memorable meal.

No more guessing cook times. No more chewy beef. Just perfectly tender, juicy Instant Pot beef tips with that classic slow-cooked taste—done in under an hour.

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Instant Pot Beef Tips

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This quick and savory Instant Pot Beef Tips recipe delivers fork-tender chunks of beef simmered in rich brown gravy—all in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or whenever you’re craving comfort food, these Instant Pot Beef Tips pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

✅ 2 lbs beef tips (sirloin, chuck, or flank)

✅ 1 tbsp olive oil

✅ 1 small onion, chopped

✅ 3 garlic cloves, minced

✅ 2 cups beef broth

✅ 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

✅ 1 tbsp tomato paste

✅ 1 tsp onion powder

✅ 1/2 tsp thyme

✅ Salt and pepper to taste

✅ 1 tablespoon cornstarch

✅ 2 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

1️⃣ Sear beef in Sauté mode with oil for 2–3 mins.
2️⃣ Add onions & garlic, cook until soft.
3️⃣ Deglaze with broth, scraping the bottom.
4️⃣ Stir in broth, Worcestershire, tomato paste, spices.
5️⃣ Pressure cook on High for 25 mins + 10-min natural release.
6️⃣ Thicken with cornstarch slurry on Sauté mode, return beef, stir, and serve!

Notes

✔ Chuck roast gives the most flavor but needs full 25–30 minutes cook time.
✔ For added richness, add a splash of red wine before pressure cooking.
✔ Leftovers reheat beautifully and make an excellent freezer meal.
✔ Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness, especially when using Worcestershire.
✔ Double the batch for meal prep—this dish gets even better the next day.

• Author: Easy Meals
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner / One-Pot Meal
• Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 420 kcal
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 740mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: Instant Pot Beef Tips