How Long to Cook Beef Shank in an Instant Pot for Fork-Tender Results

Beef shank is an affordable, flavorful cut that turns meltingly tender when braised. With an Instant Pot, you can transform tough beef shanks into fall-off-the-bone perfection in under an hour. But exactly how long should you cook beef shanks in an Instant Pot?

Below I’ll share everything you need to know about Instant Pot beef shank cook times for the best results You’ll get

• Suggested cook times based on amount and bone-in vs boneless
• Tips for adjusting time based on thickness
• How to tell when shanks are properly tender
• Extra pointers for maximizing flavor

With these Instant Pot beef shank guidelines, you’ll be able to serve insanely tender, delicious shanks any night of the week.

Suggested Instant Pot Beef Shank Cook Times

Here are the estimated cook times for beef shanks in an Instant Pot

• 2 bone-in shanks (2-3 lbs total): 40 minutes
• 4 bone-in shanks (4-6 lbs total): 50 minutes
• 2 boneless shanks (2-3 lbs total): 30 minutes
• 4 boneless shanks (4-6 lbs total): 40 minutes

The bone-in shanks take 10 extra minutes to account for the bone insulating the meat. Go with a natural pressure release after cooking to allow the meat to further tenderize.

Always check shanks for tenderness after cooking, as times can vary. Instant Pot times may need adjusting based on the specific thickness and shape of your shanks, as well as personal taste preferences.

Adjusting Instant Pot Time for Shank Thickness

Thicker shank cuts will need more time under pressure. Here are some tips:

• For shanks under 2 inches thick, follow recipe times above.
• For very thick shanks up to 3 inches, add 10 extra minutes.
• Check thickness at thickest part of shank including bone.
• Flip shanks halfway through if very uneven in thickness.

Cover bone-in shanks with 1-2 cups broth or wine. Use at least 1 cup liquid for boneless. The braising liquid tenderizes the meat.

Testing Instant Pot Beef Shanks for Doneness

Since shank sizes can vary, always test for tenderness at the end of pressure cooking:

• Meat should be fork-tender and starting to fall off the bone.
• A knife or fork should slide in easily with little resistance.
• Try twisting a fork gently – meat should shred and separate if fully tender.

If shanks are not tender enough, add 5-10 extra minutes pressure cooking and re-test. Add extra liquid if pot looks dry.

Tips for Maximizing Flavor

For the best flavor, brown shanks first by sautéing in batches before pressure cooking. This adds deeper, richer taste.

Also, cook shanks in a flavorful braising liquid. Options include:

• Beef broth or stock
• Red or white wine
• Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• Beer or stout

Add aromatics to the pot like onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and herbs. Their flavors infuse into the meat as it cooks.

Finally, reduce the braising liquid after cooking to make a luscious sauce for serving.

Putting It All Together – Braised Shanks in Instant Pot

Follow this simple recipe to make fall-off-the-bone beef shanks in under an hour with your Instant Pot:

Ingredients:

• 2-4 beef shanks (2-3 lbs bone-in or 2-4 lbs boneless)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup beef broth or wine
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Select Sauté on Instant Pot and heat oil. brown shanks in batches if possible.

2. Add onion and garlic. Sauté 3 minutes until softened.

3. Pour in broth/wine and scrape any browned bits from pot bottom.

4. Place shanks in pot and add any aromatics if desired.

5. Lock lid and cook on High Pressure:

   • 40 minutes (bone-in shanks)
   • 30 minutes (boneless shanks)

6. Allow natural pressure release, then quick release remaining.

7. Test shanks for tenderness. Cook longer if needed.

8. Remove shanks and reduce braising liquid to make sauce.

9. Serve shanks topped with sauce over pasta, polenta or mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

With the simple Instant Pot cooking times above, you’ll be able to make incredible beef shanks for dinner any night of the week. Impress your family with insanely tender, fall-apart shanks in under an hour.