can you make espresso with a keurig

Can you make espresso in Keurig?

Keurig is certainly a name you've probably heard of, especially if you watch TV. But is it a super cheap way to get into the hobby of making espresso at home? Can you make espresso in a Keurig for 1/100th the price of what a prosumer espresso machine would cost you? 

We'll do our very best to answer this question for you. 

To the point - does Keurig Make Espresso?

While it is true you can find espresso blends in the form a Keurig pods, no, a Keurig coffee make does not make true espresso.

What do you mean by "true espresso." 

Well, espresso is basically the combination of two things: pressure and heat. 

Keurig coffee makes do not have the required pressure to make real espresso, unfortunately. What it will do is make slightly bitter coffee which can give you the appearance and taste (sort of) of espresso but it isn't actually espresso. Nespresso machines fall into this category as well. 

Good stuff, just not espresso. 

Espresso pods for Keurig

Yes, you can buy "espresso" pods for your Keurig. They are made in a fairly large number of flavors and a variety of roasts from names you probably have already heard of - Lavazza, Illy, Starbucks, and Dunkin.

However, these pods will not create actual espresso as a Keurig does not have the proper heating element or pressure settings to produce true espresso. What they'll give you is a glorified version of pour over coffee. 

How to make espresso with Keurig

First, you want to make sure you're brewing the smallest cup possible to emulate a shot (or two) of espresso.

For reference, a typical single shot of espresso measures out to 1.5 oz. A double 3 oz.

Choosing a larger yield will result in a very "watered-down" shot of espresso that will taste pretty yucky. 

Instead of selecting the brew button, select the shot button if your Keurig has it. This button will give you a 2oz concentrated shot of strong coffee. Still not espresso but not bad if we're being honest.

Our favorite Keurig espresso blend found on Amazon 

A better espresso alternative? Nespresso!

Coffee and espresso enthusiast, and world barista Champion, James Hoffman, tried every single Nespresso pod currently available. We agree with most of his solutions however in our opinion, Nespresso offers a better version of "espresso" than any Keurig can buy. Available on Amazon.

Related Stories

View all
rocket espresso appartamento espresso machine

Heat Exchanger vs Dual Boiler Espresso Machines: What’s Right for You?

The Coffee Guy

Choosing between a heat exchanger and a dual boiler espresso machine can make or break your home barista experience. This guide breaks down the differences, benefits, and which machine type is best for you in 2025.

espresso machine with an e61 group head

Why the E61 Group Head Still Reigns Supreme in 2025

The Coffee Guy

Trusted for over 60 years, the E61 group head continues to dominate the espresso world with its thermal stability, durability, and upgrade potential. In this post, we explore why it’s still the go-to choice for serious home baristas in 2025.

lelit bianca v3 pulling a shot of espresso

Is a Dual Boiler Espresso Machine Worth It?

The Coffee Guy

Curious if a dual boiler is really worth the investment? We break down the pros, cons, and who should make the leap.

eureka oro mignon single dose

The Best Espresso Grinders for Single Dosing [Under $1,000]

The Coffee Guy

Looking to perfect your single dose workflow without breaking the bank? Discover the top grinders under $1,000 that deliver precision and consistency.

lelit bianca v3 making espresso

Lelit Bianca V3 vs Profitec Pro 700: Which Dual Boiler Should You Choose?

The Coffee Guy

Torn between the artisanal charm of the Lelit Bianca V3 and the refined performance of the Profitec Pro 700? We compare build quality, heat-up times, and shot consistency so you can decide which dual boiler truly fits your espresso style.

lucca a53 mini espresso machine on kitchen countertop

The Best Espresso Machines for Beginners [2025 Edition]

The Coffee Guy
The Best Espresso Machines for Beginners [2025 Edition] If you're just getting into the world of espresso, welcome. You're about to discover a d...
coffee grinder grinding into a portafilter

Beginner’s Guide to Dialing In Espresso at Home

The Coffee Guy
Beginner’s Guide to Dialing In Espresso at Home If you’ve just bought your first espresso machine and grinder, welcome to the most rewarding (and ...
espresso with a shadow

Why Is My Espresso Bitter? Common Mistakes and Fixes

The Coffee Guy
Why Is My Espresso Bitter? Common Mistakes and Fixes Bitter espresso can ruin even the best coffee beans, and it’s one of the most common complaint...
used espresso machine in box

Open Box vs. New: When It’s Worth Saving 20% on an Espresso Machine

The Coffee Guy
Introduction: The Espresso Machine Dilemma You’ve finally narrowed it down — the espresso machine of your dreams. But then, right below the “Add to...