How Long To Cook Gravy Beef In Pressure Cooker? A Full Guide

Using a pressure cooker is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to cook delicious gravy beef The pressurized environment allows the meat to become incredibly tender and infused with flavor in a fraction of the normal cooking time But exactly how long does it take to cook gravy beef in a pressure cooker? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know, from preparation to cooking times to tips for making the perfect gravy beef every time.

How A Pressure Cooker Works

Before jumping into specifics, it helps to understand how a pressure cooker works. A pressure cooker is a specially designed pot with a tight-fitting lid that seals and locks. As ingredients cook, steam builds up inside, creating pressure. At sea level, the pressure reaches about 15 PSI (pounds per square inch).

This pressurized environment allows liquid to reach temperatures above boiling point. For example at 15 PSI the boiling point is 250°F instead of 212°F. This higher temperature cooks food much faster by rapidly breaking down fibers in meat and accelerating the absorption of liquid.

Benefits Of Cooking Gravy Beef In A Pressure Cooker

Cooking gravy beef in a pressure cooker has several advantages:

• Speed – The intense heat cuts cooking time significantly, allowing you to make tender, fall-apart gravy beef in under an hour.

• Moisture retention – The sealed environment traps steam and moisture keeping meat incredibly juicy and tender.

• Intense flavor – Pressure cooking draws out and concentrates the flavors of the meat and gravy.

• Convenience – Once the lid is locked, the pot requires no monitoring. You can go about your day while dinner cooks itself.

• Nutrient retention – The quick cooking retains more vitamins and minerals compared to slow cooking methods.

How To Prepare Gravy Beef For Pressure Cooking

Proper preparation is key for delicious pressure cooker gravy beef. Here are some tips:

• Cut meat into chunks – Uniformly sized 2-3 inch chunks will cook evenly.

• Season generously – Use salt, pepper, herbs, and spices to infuse big flavor.

• Sear the meat – Browning the outside locks in juices and adds richness. Use oil or butter in the pressure cooking pot.

• Make a flavorful gravy – Saute aromatics then whisk in broth, wine, and thickener to coat the meat.

• Layer carefully – Place meat chunks on bottom, pour over gravy, and do not overfill past the max line.

How Long To Cook Gravy Beef In A Pressure Cooker

Cooking time can vary based on cut, amount, and preferred texture. For 1-2 pounds of gravy beef chunks, the average cooking time is:

• Tough cuts like chuck roast: 45-60 minutes
• Tender cuts like sirloin: 25-35 minutes

Factors that increase cooking time:

• More meat – allow 5-10 extra minutes per pound
• Larger chunks – may need up to 75 minutes for fall-apart tender
• Bone-in cuts – bones take longer to soften

Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick releasing to finish. Then simmer gravy uncovered for 5-10 minutes to thicken.

Tips For Tender, Flavorful Results

Follow these tips for gravy beef that’s meltingly tender and full of flavor every time:

• Sear thoroughly – Take the time to brown all sides to enhance flavor.

• Skim fat – Use a spoon to remove excess fat from gravy for a cleaner taste.

• Add collagen-rich bits like marrow bones or oxtail to boost body.

• Use an instant-read thermometer – Cook roasts and larger cuts to 195-205°F.

• Simmer gravy uncovered to reduce and concentrate flavors after pressure cooking.

• Let rest for 5-10 minutes – This allows juices to reabsorb for maximum tenderness.

• Add cornstarch slurry – For a silky, clingy gravy texture.

Satisfying Pressure Cooker Gravy Beef Recipes

Here are two delicious pressure cooker gravy beef recipes to add to your dinner rotation:

Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy

• 3-4 lb chuck roast
• Salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup red wine
• 2 tbsp cornstarch

1. Season meat generously. Select “Saute” and brown all sides in oil.
2. Add garlic, onion, broth, wine. Lock lid. Pressure cook on high for 45-60 minutes.
3. Release pressure. Separate juices. Simmer to reduce.
4. Whisk cornstarch into juices. Simmer 2 minutes until thickened.
5. Slice roast and smother with gravy.

Instant Pot Beef Tips in Mushroom Gravy

• 2 lbs beef sirloin tips
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder
• 1 onion, diced
• 8 oz button mushrooms
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 cups beef broth

1. Cut beef into 2 inch chunks, season with s&p and garlic powder.
2. Select “Saute” and brown beef in batches. Set aside.
3. Add oil, onion and mushrooms. Cook 5 minutes.
4. Whisk in flour, then slowly stir in broth.
5. Add beef chunks back in. Lock lid. Cook 20-25 minutes.
6. Serve beef and gravy over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

With the right preparation, cook times, and recipes, you can easily make incredible gravy beef using the convenience of a pressure cooker. Experiment with different cuts, seasonings, and gravy ingredients until you find your family’s perfect bowl of tender, hearty comfort food.