Achieve Super Tender Beef Steak Meals with the Help of a Pressure Cooker

The pressure cooker works magic on typically tougher steak cuts, transforming them into fork-tender perfection in a fraction of the time. Cheaper cuts like round, chuck or flank become meltingly tender and full of flavor with the pressurized moist heat. These easy pressure cooker beef steak recipes highlight ways to make the most of the appliance’s ability to quickly break down connective tissues. Get ready for amazing steak meals in record time!

Choose the Right Cuts of Steak

Look for leaner cuts like round, chuck, or flank steak about 1 1/2 inches thick, around 1 1/2 lbs total. The pressure cooker excels at cuts that benefit from moist heat cooking.

Uniform Thickness

Choose steaks of an even thickness to ensure even cooking in the pressure cooker.

Season the Steak Generously

Coat steaks all over with spices like garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper. Chili powder, oregano, paprika add bold flavors. Be generous with seasoning.

Season Strongly

The pressurized environment really drives seasonings into the meat and concentrates flavors.

Quickly Brown the Steak

First, sear seasoned steaks in batches in hot oil over high heat for 1-2 minutes per side. This caramelizes flavors before pressure cooking.

Skip Browning if Short on Time

Browning adds flavor but isn’t essential. You can go right to pressure cooking.

Pressure Cook with Flavorful Liquid

Place seared steaks in pressure cooker and add broth, tomatoes, onions, garlic, wine, etc. Lock lid and pressure cook on high for 15-25 minutes until fork tender.

Adjust Time for Thickness

Add 5 minutes for thicker cuts or larger quantities. Test doneness.

Finish with Sauces and Sides

Once pressure is released, remove steaks to a plate. Make an easy pan sauce using the cooking juices. Slice steak and serve with sauce over mashed potatoes, pasta, or greens.

Effortless Pan Sauces

The flavorful fond left in the pot makes an easy, delicious sauce base.

Some Favorite Pressure Cooker Steak Recipes:

- Cheesesteak Sandwiches

- Steak Fajitas

- Steak Ragu Pasta

- Steak & Potato Soup

- Steak House Salad

Frequently Asked Questions

What liquid is best for pressure cooking steak?

Beef broth, wine, tomatoes, onions, mushrooms all add great flavor.

Can I cook frozen steaks in a pressure cooker?

It’s best to thaw steaks first for more even cooking results.

Is it necessary to sear the steaks first?

Browning helps develop flavor but isn’t essential in the pressure cooker.

What doneness should I aim for?

Medium rare to prevent overcooking into dry, tough meat.

Can I make steak meals ahead of time?

Yes, pressure cook then store meat and sauce separately to combine when ready.

In Summary

With the pressurized moist heat environment, the pressure cooker quickly transforms tougher steak cuts into amazingly tender, delicious meals. Just be mindful not to overcook the meat. Get ready to enjoy budget-friendly steaks any night of the week!