Instant Pot Shredded Beef Roast Recipe

Made with just 4 ingredients, this Instant Pot shredded beef is juicy and tender and can be used for anything from tacos to pasta to sandwiches.

overhead shot of shredded beef on white plate

When it comes to quick and easy meals, the Instant Pot is the first thing that comes to mind - from Instant Pot chicken tacos to General Tso's chicken to Instant Pot Pad Thai.

The problem with many beef recipes is you have at least a 3-4 lb cut of meat so it makes quite a bit of food, especially for a small family. Instead of having the same thing over and over again, why not make something that can be used in a variety of ways.

And this multi-purpose beef fits the bill. Not only does it take almost no work, but you can re-purpose it over several meals. It tastes great without any additional ingredients but you can also kick up the flavors by mixing it spices and sauces.

Oh and if meal prep is something you are into, this Instant Pot shredded beef is the perfect recipe to enjoy throughout the week.

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Ingredient Notes
Step-by-Step Photos
FAQs
Shredded Beef Uses
Equipment
Pro Tips/Recipe Notes
Other Instant Pot Recipes
Instant Pot Shredded Beef

overhead shot of Instant Pot shredded beef on white plate

Ingredient Notes

Chuck roast - you want the cheap stuff that you can cut into 4 large piece. You can also use brisket.
Sea salt - enhances the flavor of the beef.
Olive oil - used to sear the beef.
Beef bone broth - you need some liquid when cooking in the Instant Pot. Bone broth has a deep flavor which helps with deliciousness of the beef. You can use beef broth as well or even chicken stock.

Step-by-Step Photos

process shots of seasoning beef and searing

Season the beef with the salt on all sides. Set the Instant Pot to "sauté" and add the olive oil. Sear on all sides, about 2 minutes per side. Press "cancel" to turn it off.

process shots of adding broth and cooking in Instant Pot before shredding

Add the broth and close the lid. Turn vent to "sealing." Set to "manual" on high pressure for 50 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally before removing the beef and shredding with two forks.

FAQs

What is the Best Cut of Meat for Shredded Beef?

You are breaking down the tissue of the meat quickly so it shreds easily. No need to go expensive and get something like filet mignon or Kobe beef.

The best is chuck roast or brisket. The Instant Pot will do its job in breaking down the beef so it melts in your mouth.

What is the Difference Between Bone Broth and Stock?

While interchangeable, they are made different. Bone broth is made with just roasted bones where stock also has vegetables. Bone broth has a more meaty flavor.

Can You Overcook Beef?

Yes. I've seen recipes that have you cooking the beef for 90+ minutes. There is no need to do this or you actually lose some of the juiciness and tenderness. 50 minutes and the natural pressure release is enough.

Can I Make in the Slow Cooker?

Yes. Just sear the beef in a cast iron before throwing in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 6 hours or low for 8-10 hours before shredding.

Can I Make Ahead of Time?

Yes. If freezing ahead of time, just sear the beef and let come to room temperature. After that, throw all the ingredients in a ziploc bag and lie on a flat surface in freezer to freeze. Once frozen, you can keep in the freezer for 3 months.

When ready to use, just let thaw in fridge overnight and then throw in the Instant Pot. You'll want to cook for 70 minutes as opposed to 50 minutes.

How Long Will It Last?

You can keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Shredded Beef Uses

I mentioned a few times but this Instant Pot shredded beef has so many uses. Some options include:

Just on its own with some vegetables like maple roasted carrots and Parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts
Tacos
Chili
Burrito bowls
Pizza
Pasta like a beef ragu

These are just a few options. Trust me, there are plenty of more.

Equipment

Like anything, the equipment you use has an impact on the dish. These are some options.

Instant Pot - I'm partial to the 6 quart version but you can use another size, brand or old-fashioned pressure cooker.
Slow Cooker - If you want to cook it low and slow.
Dutch Oven - If you prefer to just cook on the stovetop, you can sear and then simmer for 8 hours.

Pro Tips/Recipe Notes

Searing the beef is important as it locks in the flavor.
Trim some of the excess fat so the beef isn't too greasy.
If you want a thick sauce with the beef, add the shredded beef back to the Instant Pot and set to "sauté" until it thickens.
If the beef isn't tender enough for you, cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Use the leftover juice to make a beef gravy.

close-up of Instant Pot shredded beef on white plate

Other Instant Pot Recipes

Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas
Instant Pot Veggie Chili
Instant Pot Turkey Breast

If you've tried this Instant Pot shredded beef recipe or any other recipe on Chisel & Fork, please let me know how it turned out in the comments below! You can also follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube to see more tasty meals and anything else I'm up to.