Step 1: Sauté the Ground Beef

Turn the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting and allow it to heat for a minute. Add the olive oil, diced onion, and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Season the Beef

Once the beef is browned, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This step adds a punch of flavor to your ground beef, making it rich and savory.

Step 3: Add Rice and Liquids

Turn off the sauté function. Add the rinsed rice to the Instant Pot, spreading it evenly over the beef mixture. Pour in the beef broth (or water), making sure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid. Be careful not to stir too much—just gently press the rice into the liquid.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Soup

Pour the can of diced tomatoes and the can of cream of mushroom soup over the rice. Do not stir—this helps prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom during pressure cooking. The soup will give the dish a creamy texture, while the tomatoes add a slight tanginess to balance the flavors.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid and make sure the valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the time for 10 minutes on high pressure.

Step 6: Quick Release and Add Cheese

Once the cooking time is up, do a quick pressure release by carefully turning the valve to the “Venting” position. Open the Instant Pot once the pressure is fully released. Stir the mixture to combine all the ingredients.

Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the Instant Pot and stir until the cheese melts into the rice mixture. This creates a creamy and cheesy base.

Step 7: Add Peas and Top with Cheese

If you’re using frozen peas (or any other veggies), stir them into the mixture now. They’ll heat up quickly in the hot rice. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Close the Instant Pot lid (no need to turn it on) and let the residual heat melt the cheese on top for about 2-3 minutes. Serve immediately and enjoy your comforting Instant Pot Cheesy Hamburger and Rice!