One-Pot Ground Beef and Israeli Couscous Recipe for the Instant Pot®
This easy one-pot meal combines savory ground beef with tender Israeli couscous for a comforting and flavorful dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together quickly in the Instant Pot® with minimal cleanup.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time25 min
Total Time35 min
Difficulty
Medium
Kitchen Tips
Brown the ground beef well before adding other ingredients to develop deeper flavor.
Rinse the Israeli couscous under cold water to remove any excess starch and prevent clumping.
Use the sauté function on the Instant Pot® to cook onions and garlic first for a richer base.
Ingredients
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Why This Dish Is Hard To Resist
A perfect weeknight meal because it’s quick, flavorful, and requires minimal cleanup. Using the Instant Pot® makes the cooking process easy and hands-off, while the combination of ground beef and Israeli couscous creates a comforting and satisfying dish.
Step 1
Turn on your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Toss in the ground beef, seasoning it with a bit of salt and pepper, and cook it until it’s nicely browned and crumbly, which should take about 5 minutes. Then add the onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent, around 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook just until you can smell that delicious aroma, about 30 seconds.
Step 2
Pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes so the liquid reduces a bit. Now add the rest of the chicken broth, the red pepper, Israeli couscous, parsley, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Step 3
Lock the lid in place and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 6 minutes. It will take about 10 to 15 minutes for the pressure to build before the timer starts counting down. Once the cooking time is up, carefully use the quick-release method to let out the steam, then open the lid.
Step 4
Stir in the spinach until it wilts down. Pop the lid back on, but just loosely this time, and let it sit for about 5 minutes so the couscous can soak up any remaining liquid. Give it a taste and add more salt if you think it needs it, then you’re ready to serve!
100
people cooked this recipe
ByDaniel Wilson
Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.
How To Plate This Dish
Serve this meal with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner. You can also top it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a dollop of plain yogurt to add freshness and creaminess.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to keep the couscous from drying out. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular couscous instead of Israeli couscous?
You can substitute regular couscous, but cooking times and liquid amounts may vary since it absorbs liquid differently.
Do I need to brown the ground beef before pressure cooking?
Yes, browning adds flavor and texture, and helps prevent the meat from clumping during cooking.
Can I omit the spinach or use a different green?
Yes, spinach is optional, and you can substitute kale or Swiss chard if you prefer.
How do I do a quick release safely on the Instant Pot?
Use a long utensil to turn the steam release valve away from you, and keep your hands and face clear of the steam.
Is low-sodium soy sauce necessary, or can I use regular?
You can use regular soy sauce, but adjust salt to taste since it’s saltier than low-sodium versions.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook it on the stove in a covered pot—brown the beef and veggies, then simmer with broth and couscous until tender.
What can I do if the couscous is too dry after cooking?
Stir in a little extra chicken broth or water and let it sit covered for a few minutes to absorb the moisture.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers and reheat gently with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
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