Pressure cooked beef slices and vegetables.
annick vanderschelden photography/Moment/GettyImages

Thanks to the invention of the Instant Pot, pressure cookers have quickly become one of the kitchen gadgets to have. They make it possible to cook so many different things, such as macaroni and cheese, pastas, chicken and even steaks. All are cooked to truly delicious results and in such little time.

If it seems like everyone and your cousin owns one, it’s because they probably do – and not just own one but consider it necessary to spread the word of this kitchen gadget as though it’s gospel. Once it gets to the point where your oven and microwave have started collecting dust from you using your pressure cooker so much, then it’s time to learn how to make a juicy, mouth-watering pressure cooker steak.

What's the Difference Between a Pressure Cooker and a Slow Cooker?

The major difference between a pressure cooker and a slow cooker (also known as a Crock-Pot) comes down to time. Essentially, the first cooks quickly, and the latter cooks slowly.

Pressure cookers work by trapping steam and raising the temperature inside. The bottom is what heats a slow cooker during cooking. This heat spreads to the sides of the slow cooker and then eventually heats the food.

If you have more time to spare, then the Crock-Pot is useful since you can actually leave it unsupervised for hours at a time. With a pressure cooker, dinner will be prepared much quicker, but it does require more supervision. Not only that, but because of the lid’s locking mechanism, you have to put all your trust in the pressure cooker to not ruin your food since you can’t open the lid until all the steam is released.

Is the Instant Pot the Same Thing as a Pressure Cooker?

It’s hard to find someone who hasn’t heard of the Instant Pot. Additionally, it’s hard to find someone who hasn’t wondered if an Instant Pot is the same thing as a pressure cooker. If you already own a pressure cooker, the answer to this question will be very important in helping you decide if the upgrade to an Instant Pot is actually worth it.

The answer is yes. The Instant Pot is an electric form of a pressure cooker, but it also wears many other hats, earning it the title of “multicooker" as well. It can cook rice, make homemade yogurt, cook and tenderize meat, create delicious desserts and so much more.

How to Cook Steaks in a Pressure Cooker

The idea of transforming cheaper cuts of steak into something truly five star in the Instant Pot or pressure cooker is definitely intriguing.

To achieve this, place the seasoned steak into the pressure cooker, secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Press the manual button and set to high pressure for 20 minutes.

When done, do a quick release (be careful of the steam) and enjoy. Certain recipes will also let you cook meat and veggies in there with the steak so it becomes a one-pot dinner.

Should Any Cuts of Meat Be Avoided in Pressure Cookers?

Certain cuts of meat are very expensive. For example, USDA prime filet mignon can cost you around $44.95 for 8 ounces. So, it's important to keep in mind that this cooking method is not ideal for premium grilling steaks.

Stick to the cheaper cuts of beef, such as beef tips. A quick search online will lead you to all sorts of pressure cooker recipes for beef. In the end, you'll be left with tender and juicy steak. Bon appétit.