BBQ Beef Tips Recipe Instant Pot: Tender & Quick Pressure Cooker Delight

I’ve perfected my BBQ beef tips recipe using the Instant Pot, combining my love for smoky flavors with pressure cooker convenience. This method delivers tender results in a fraction of the time.

The Instant Pot’s high pressure cooking ensures the beef tips are cooked to perfection, achieving that fall-apart tenderness we all crave. With this recipe, you’ll get restaurant-quality BBQ beef tips on your dinner table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients for Bbq Beef Tips Recipe Instant Pot

Quick, tender, and full of smoky flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights.

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The beef tips matter here. Sirloin or ribeye works best—chuck can be tough. Most grocery stores have pre-cut beef tips, which saves time. For the best results, use high-quality beef broth and don’t skip the smoked paprika for that authentic BBQ flavor.

No beef broth? Use chicken broth or water with a beef bouillon cube. For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the sauce before serving. If you prefer a spicier kick, add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture.

This recipe reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to maintain the sauce consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions for BBQ Beef Tips in Instant Pot

Let’s get started with this easy and delicious recipe that delivers tender beef tips in no time.

Step 1: Sear the Beef Tips

First, I press the “Saute” button on my Instant Pot and heat the 2 tbsp olive oil until it shimmers. Then, I add the 1.5 lb beef tips in batches, searing them until they’re browned on all sides. This step is crucial as it locks in the flavor. Once browned, I remove the beef tips from the pot and set them aside.

It’s essential to not overcrowd the pot, as this can prevent the beef from browning properly. By cooking in batches if necessary, you ensure each piece gets a nice sear. The aroma of browning beef is incredible – it’s a sign that you’re building deep flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Next, I add the 1 whole onion, sliced, to the Instant Pot. I sauté until it’s translucent and starting to caramelize, stirring occasionally. This process takes about 5 minutes. Then, I add the 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced, and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly become bitter.

The onions and garlic create a flavorful base for our dish. I like to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The kitchen will start to smell amazing as these aromatics cook.

Step 3: Pressure Cook the Beef

Now, I add the browned beef tips back into the Instant Pot, along with 1 cup beef broth, 1 cup BBQ sauce, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper. I stir to combine, making sure the beef is coated in the sauce. Then, I close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. I press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode and set the cooking time to 15 minutes at high pressure.

The pressure cooking process tenderizes the beef to perfection. The Instant Pot does all the work, making the beef tips incredibly tender and flavorful. You’ll know it’s working when you hear the pot pressurizing.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

After the cooking time is up, I allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, followed by a quick release. Once the pressure is released, I open the lid and check the beef for tenderness. If it’s not tender enough, I close the lid and cook for a few more minutes. Finally, I stir in the 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped, and serve the BBQ beef tips hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.

The final dish is incredibly flavorful, with the beef tips coated in a rich BBQ sauce. The fresh parsley adds a nice freshness to the dish. I like to serve it immediately to enjoy the tender beef at its best.

Flavor Customization for bbq beef tips recipe instant pot

Spice It Up

For those who like a little heat, I often add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce directly to the BBQ sauce mixture. This gives the dish a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors. You can adjust the amount based on your personal heat tolerance. Some popular hot sauce options include Frank’s RedHot or Cholula. 🔥

Sweet and Smoky Variations

To enhance the sweetness, I sometimes add an extra 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar to the sauce mixture. For a deeper smoky flavor, you can increase the smoked paprika to 1.5 or 2 teaspoons. This adds a rich, complex flavor profile that complements the beef beautifully.

Herbaceous Twists

Incorporating fresh herbs can elevate the dish. I like to add 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh thyme or rosemary along with the parsley at the end. This adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that pairs well with the beef and BBQ sauce. You can also experiment with other herbs like oregano or tarragon.

Regional BBQ Influences

To give the dish a regional twist, you can modify the BBQ sauce. For a Kansas City-style BBQ, add 1-2 tablespoons of molasses to the sauce for a thicker, sweeter flavor. For a Memphis-style dry rub, sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons of dry rub seasoning on the beef before searing. These variations can add interesting depth to the dish.

Customizing the Heat Level

If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce or omit the black pepper and hot sauce. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sauce. This allows you to tailor the heat level to your taste preferences. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Finishing Touches

For an extra burst of flavor, I sometimes stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard or apple cider vinegar into the BBQ sauce mixture. This adds a tangy element that balances the richness of the beef. You can also top the dish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor and visual appeal.