When you think of a comforting, hearty meal, Instant Pot Corned Beef with Creamy Horseradish Sauce is the perfect dish to come to mind. This recipe is all about tender, juicy corned beef cooked to perfection in your pressure cooker, paired with a zesty, creamy horseradish sauce that brings out the full flavor of the meat. It’s simple, flavorful, and great for any celebration or just a satisfying meal.

What makes this corned beef so amazing is how easy it is to make in the Instant Pot, cutting down the long cooking time while still delivering tender, fall-apart beef. The horseradish sauce adds that extra punch of flavor, making it the perfect accompaniment. Whether you’re cooking for St. Patrick’s Day or just because, this meal is sure to be a hit.

Perfect Pairing with Creamy Horseradish Sauce

The homemade horseradish sauce adds the perfect amount of tang and spice to complement the rich flavors of the corned beef. It’s the ultimate topping that enhances each bite, adding creaminess and heat that makes the dish stand out.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Corned Beef:

4-pound flat cut corned beef: Flat cut corned beef is ideal for this recipe because it’s lean and easy to slice. You can use a point cut if preferred, but it may have more fat and require longer cooking.
4 large bay leaves: Bay leaves add a subtle, earthy flavor. If you don’t have them, you can use dried rosemary or thyme as an alternative.
8 whole peppercorns: Peppercorns add a slight heat and enhance the overall flavor. You can use ground black pepper as a substitute, but whole peppercorns work better in the Instant Pot.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an aromatic herbal note. You can substitute with dried oregano or basil if needed.
1 onion, cut into quarters: Onion gives depth to the flavor. If you prefer a sweeter taste, try using shallots or leeks.
2 14-ounce cans low-sodium chicken broth: Low-sodium chicken broth ensures the dish isn’t too salty. You can use beef broth for a richer flavor or vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Water (if needed): To cover the corned beef completely. Make sure the meat is fully submerged for even cooking.

Creamy Horseradish Sauce:

1/3 cup sour cream: Sour cream adds creaminess and a slight tang. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
1/3 cup mayo: Mayo contributes to the creamy texture of the sauce. You can replace it with vegan mayo or more sour cream for a lighter version.
2 tablespoons cream-style horseradish: The star ingredient that adds heat and flavor. Start with a small amount and add more to adjust the spiciness to your taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Corned Beef:

Prepare the corned beef: Remove the corned beef from the package and rinse it well under cold water to remove any excess gel. Trim most of the fat, leaving a thin layer to keep the meat juicy during cooking. Place the beef fat side up in the Instant Pot or pressure cooker.
Add seasonings: Add the bay leaves, peppercorns, dried thyme, and onion to the pot. Alternatively, you can use the seasoning packet that comes with the corned beef instead of the bay leaves, peppercorns, and thyme.
Add broth and water: Pour in the chicken broth and add enough water to cover the corned beef. Ensure the liquid almost covers the meat completely.
Cook the corned beef: Set your Instant Pot to MANUAL HIGH PRESSURE for 90 minutes. If you prefer firmer corned beef for slicing, you can reduce the cooking time to 80 minutes. If using a stovetop pressure cooker, bring the pressure to high, then reduce the heat and maintain high pressure for 90 minutes.
Release pressure: After 90 minutes, let the pressure release naturally for 20 minutes, then use the quick-release method to release the remaining pressure.
Rest the corned beef: Remove the corned beef from the Instant Pot and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Horseradish Sauce:

Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and mayo. Stir in the horseradish, tasting as you go to adjust the spice level. If you want more heat, add more horseradish until you reach your desired spice level.

Serve:

Serve the corned beef: Slice the corned beef against the grain and serve it hot with the creamy horseradish sauce on the side. This dish pairs beautifully with boiled potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

How to Serve Instant Pot Corned Beef with Creamy Horseradish Sauce

Corned beef is traditionally served with cabbage, potatoes, or carrots, but you can serve it with any side of your choice. The creamy horseradish sauce adds a perfect balance of flavor to the rich corned beef. You can also serve it with crusty bread or soft rolls for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Instant Pot Corned Beef:

Trim the fat but leave a thin layer to ensure the meat stays tender and flavorful during the cooking process.
Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness, as corned beef is naturally salty.
Don’t skip the resting time—letting the beef rest after cooking helps the juices redistribute, making it more tender and easier to slice.

This Instant Pot Corned Beef with Creamy Horseradish Sauce is an easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender, juicy beef paired with the tangy horseradish sauce is a match made in heaven!

Variations

Spicy Horseradish Sauce: For an extra spicy kick, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or hot sauce to the creamy horseradish sauce.
Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, try cooking a flavorful vegetable stew with similar seasonings in the Instant Pot for a hearty meal.
Traditional Side: Serve the corned beef with classic sides like mashed potatoes and sautéed cabbage for a more traditional St. Patrick’s Day meal.

FAQs

Can I use a stovetop pressure cooker instead of an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can use a stovetop pressure cooker. Bring it to high pressure, then reduce the heat and cook for 90 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally, then serve.

Can I freeze leftover corned beef?
Yes, you can freeze leftover corned beef. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I use fresh horseradish instead of prepared horseradish?
Yes, fresh horseradish can be used, but keep in mind that it may be spicier than cream-style horseradish. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.

Instant Pot Corned Beef with Creamy Horseradish Sauce is a flavorful and easy way to enjoy tender, perfectly cooked corned beef in a fraction of the time. The rich, savory meat pairs beautifully with the creamy, tangy horseradish sauce, making it the perfect dish for a family meal or a special occasion. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal in no time.