Instant Pot Beef Stew

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dish that’s rich in flavor but short on time, this Instant Pot Beef Stew is the perfect solution! Using an Instant Pot, you can make a classic beef stew that would normally take hours to simmer, in under an hour! Tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth come together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a last-minute family dinner. Best of all, the Instant Pot locks in all the rich flavors, giving you a delicious, fall-apart beef stew without the long wait.

Ready to make the best beef stew in no time? Read on for the full recipe and tips!

---

What is "Instant Pot Beef Stew"?

Instant Pot Beef Stew is a quick and efficient version of the traditional beef stew made in a pressure cooker. By using the Instant Pot, you can achieve tender beef and deeply flavored broth in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop or in the slow cooker. The pressure cooking method seals in moisture and flavors, producing a rich and hearty dish that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked for hours.

The recipe still includes the classic ingredients: chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and a thick, flavorful broth made from beef stock, tomato paste, and seasonings. This comforting dish is perfect for busy schedules when you want to enjoy a homemade meal without the long prep and cook times. With the Instant Pot, you'll be able to savor this delicious meal in record time!

---

Ingredients List for Instant Pot Beef Stew

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this hearty Instant Pot Beef Stew:

For the Beef Stew:

1. Beef Chuck (2 pounds, cubed) – Beef chuck works best for stews because it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender when pressure-cooked.
2. All-Purpose Flour (¼ cup) – For coating the beef, which helps it brown and slightly thickens the stew.
3. Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – For browning the beef in the Instant Pot.
4. Onion (1 large, diced) – Adds sweetness and flavor depth to the stew.
5. Carrots (3 large, sliced) – Hearty and naturally sweet, carrots add color and nutrition.
6. Celery (2 ribs, chopped) – Provides a nice crunch and adds to the overall flavor of the stew.
7. Potatoes (4 medium, peeled and cubed) – Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape best when pressure-cooked.
8. Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor to the stew.
9. Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons) – For richness and a slightly tangy, savory taste.
10. Beef Broth (4 cups) – The liquid base that provides deep beefy flavor to the stew.
11. Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Adds a savory, umami-rich note to the stew.
12. Bay Leaves (2) – For subtle herbal flavor.
13. Thyme (1 teaspoon, dried) – Enhances the warm, earthy flavor of the stew.
14. Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the flavors of the stew.
15. Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds a mild peppery heat.

Optional Ingredients:

1. Red Wine (½ cup, optional) – Adds depth and richness to the stew. Substitute with more beef broth if preferred.
2. Frozen Peas (1 cup, optional) – Add them at the end for a pop of color and sweetness.

For Garnish:

1. Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Adds freshness and color before serving.

---

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of Instant Pot Beef Stew is its versatility. You can make adjustments to suit your dietary needs or personal tastes. Here are a few ideas:

• Meat Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of beef, you can use other meats like lamb, pork, or even chicken thighs. Just keep in mind that different meats might need slightly different cooking times.
• Vegetarian Option: For a meatless stew, skip the beef and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, and extra potatoes. Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth.
• Low-Carb Version: Omit the potatoes and replace them with lower-carb vegetables like turnips or cauliflower.
• Gluten-Free: Instead of using flour to coat the beef, use cornstarch or gluten-free flour.
• No Red Wine: If you don’t want to use wine, substitute with extra beef broth or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy touch.
• Spices and Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or even paprika to give the stew more complexity.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make this quick and delicious Instant Pot Beef Stew:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

• Begin by patting the beef cubes dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown properly.
• Season the beef with salt and pepper, then dredge each piece lightly in flour. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 2: Sauté the Beef

• Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and wait for it to heat up.
• In batches, brown the beef on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Don’t overcrowd the pot to ensure even browning. Remove the browned beef and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

• Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the Instant Pot. Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

• If using red wine, pour it in now to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom with a wooden spoon. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes until reduced slightly.
• If not using wine, deglaze the pot with a little beef broth instead.

Step 5: Add the Remaining Ingredients

• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to let the flavors develop.
• Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, and the browned beef back to the pot.
• Finally, add the cubed potatoes to the Instant Pot, stirring everything together.

Step 6: Pressure Cook the Stew

• Lock the Instant Pot lid in place, making sure the valve is set to Sealing.
• Set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (Manual) on High for 35 minutes.
• After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

• If you’d like a thicker stew, set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode again. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry.
• Stir the slurry into the stew and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 8: Add Final Touches

• Stir in the frozen peas (if using) and let them heat through for 2-3 minutes.
• Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

---

How to Cook Instant Pot Beef Stew: A Quick Summary

Here’s a brief recap of the steps to make Instant Pot Beef Stew:

1. Brown the Beef: Sauté beef cubes in the Instant Pot until browned.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Cook the onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
3. Deglaze the Pot: Use wine or broth to scrape up the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Add Ingredients: Add broth, seasonings, and vegetables.
5. Pressure Cook: Cook on High for 35 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
6. Thicken the Stew: Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the stew, if desired.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Instant Pot Beef Stew turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Not Browning the Beef: Browning the beef helps develop rich, complex flavors. Don’t skip this step, even if it adds a few extra minutes.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Brown the beef in batches to avoid steaming the meat instead of getting a nice sear.
• Forgetting the Natural Release: Letting the pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes helps prevent overcooking and ensures the beef stays tender.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cut the vegetables into larger chunks so they hold their shape and don’t become mushy during pressure cooking.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Instant Pot Beef Stew is ready, it’s time to serve it up! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Stew

• With Crusty Bread: Serve the stew with a side of crusty bread or rolls to soak up the rich broth.
• Over Mashed Potatoes: For a hearty twist, spoon the stew over creamy mashed potatoes.
• With Rice or Noodles: Serve the beef stew over steamed rice or egg noodles for a satisfying meal.

Presentation Ideas for Instant Pot Beef Stew

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve in Rustic Bowls: Present the stew in rustic, deep bowls for a cozy, homey feel.
• Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: For extra richness, add a dollop of sour cream on top of each serving.

---

Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe Tips

Here are a few tips to make sure your Instant Pot Beef Stew turns out amazing every time:

1. Pre-Cut Ingredients: Pre-cut all your vegetables while the beef is browning to speed up the process.
2. Freeze for Later: This stew freezes wonderfully! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Make Ahead: Beef stew tastes even better the next day. Prepare it a day ahead, refrigerate overnight, and simply reheat for a flavorful meal.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen beef in the Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can use frozen beef, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Increase the pressure cooking time to 45 minutes instead of 35. Keep in mind that you won’t be able to brown the beef if it’s frozen.

Q: Can I use other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, parsnips, or green beans for extra variety. Just be mindful of the cooking times for each vegetable.

Q: How do I store and reheat leftover beef stew?
A: Store any leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or heat it on the stovetop until warmed through.

Q: Can I make this beef stew without an Instant Pot?
A: Yes! You can make this recipe on the stovetop by simmering the stew on low heat for 2-3 hours, or in a slow cooker by cooking on low for 6-8 hours.

---

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, flavorful, and quick Instant Pot Beef Stew recipe! With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth, this stew is the ultimate comfort food made more convenient thanks to the Instant Pot. Whether you’re in need of a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Now that you’ve got the recipe, go ahead and whip up this comforting stew in a fraction of the time. Enjoy!

Print