Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner routine with the most mouthwatering, ridiculously easy Instant Pot Taco Sloppy Joes that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! Imagine the perfect blend of zesty taco seasoning, juicy ground beef, and a saucy mixture that comes together in just 30 minutes - this recipe is about to become your new go-to meal that combines the best of Mexican-inspired flavors with classic comfort food.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup diced onions
- 4 hamburger buns
- Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Press the Sauté function on your Instant Pot and add ground beef. Break the meat into small crumbles using a wooden spoon or spatula, cooking until it's no longer pink and has developed a light brown color.
- Add diced onions to the ground beef and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and slightly softened.
- Sprinkle the entire packet of taco seasoning over the meat and onion mixture, stirring thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the spices.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine all ingredients, making sure the meat is well-coated with sauce and seasoning.
- Cancel the Sauté function and secure the Instant Pot lid, setting the valve to sealing position. Cook on Manual/Pressure Cook mode for 8 minutes at high pressure.
- Once cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and stir the meat mixture, checking the consistency. If too liquid, use Sauté mode to reduce and thicken slightly.
- Toast the hamburger buns lightly, then spoon the taco sloppy joe mixture onto each bun. Top with optional shredded cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot, with additional toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños if preferred.
Tips
- For extra flavor, use fresh ground beef with a slightly higher fat content (80/20) to ensure maximum juiciness.
- Make sure to break down the ground beef into small, even crumbles for consistent cooking and better texture.
- Don't skip the natural pressure release - it helps the meat absorb more flavor and become more tender.
- If you want to make the dish spicier, choose a hot taco seasoning packet or add some diced green chilies.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or lean ground beef.
- Toast the buns lightly to prevent them from getting soggy when you add the meat mixture.
- Experiment with toppings like pickled jalapeños, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream to customize your sloppy joes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and make an excellent next-day lunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 75mg
