Instant Pot Beef Stew Savory and Easy Dinner Recipe

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Looking for a warm and hearty meal? This Instant Pot Beef Stew is both savory and easy! With tender beef, crisp veggies, and fresh herbs, you’ll have a dinner that warms the soul. I’ll guide you step-by-step from sautéing to pressure cooking, ensuring your stew turns out perfect every time. No more guesswork—let’s dive in and make a delightful dish that your whole family will love!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting and Hearty: This beef stew is the perfect comfort food, packed with tender meat and vegetables, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
  2. Easy to Make: The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing for a delicious stew with minimal effort and cleanup.
  3. Flavorful Ingredients: With a blend of herbs, garlic, and rich beef broth, every bite is bursting with flavor that warms the soul.
  4. Perfect for Meal Prep: This stew keeps well in the refrigerator and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients

To make a tasty Instant Pot beef stew, you need simple ingredients that pack a lot of flavor. Here’s what you will need:

  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 3 potatoes, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)

These ingredients create a rich and hearty stew. The beef chuck gives a tender bite, while the veggies add color and crunch. Olive oil helps to brown the beef and cook the onions and garlic to enhance their flavors. The broth brings everything together, making a comforting and savory dish. Don’t forget the herbs, as they add a lovely aroma and depth. If you prefer a thicker stew, cornstarch is your friend here. Just mix it with water before adding, and you will enjoy a perfect texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Instant Pot

1. Setting up for Sauté Mode

First, plug in your Instant Pot and set it to ‘Sauté’ mode. This will heat the pot and make it ready for cooking.

2. Browning the Beef

Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil once the pot is hot. Add 2 pounds of beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes. Season with salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Do this in batches if needed. Remove the beef and set it aside.

3. Sautéing Onion and Garlic

In the same pot, add 1 large chopped onion and 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to turn translucent. This adds flavor and depth to your stew.

Cooking the Stew

1. Deglazing the Pot

Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for another minute. Pour in 4 cups of beef broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits. This adds rich flavor to your stew.

2. Adding Remaining Ingredients

Return the browned beef to the pot. Add 3 sliced carrots, 3 diced potatoes, and 2 chopped celery stalks. Toss in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and 1 bay leaf. Make sure to stir everything well to combine.

3. Pressure Cooking Settings

Close the lid securely. Set the pressure valve to ‘Sealing.’ Choose ‘Manual’ high pressure and cook for 35 minutes. This will help the flavors blend and the beef become tender.

Final Touches

1. Natural Pressure Release

Once your cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. After that, do a quick release for any remaining pressure. Be careful when you open the lid.

2. Thickening the Stew

If you want a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the stew. Press ‘Sauté’ and let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens.

3. Adjusting Seasoning

Before serving, remove the bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Enjoy your warm and hearty beef stew!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Suggestions

How to Achieve Perfect Browning

To get great flavor, brown the beef well. Use batches to avoid crowding the pot. This allows each piece to sear properly. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Importance of Deglazing

After browning the beef, deglaze the pot. This means scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon. It gets all those tasty bits into the stew. When you add the broth, it lifts these flavors. This step is key for a rich taste.

Flavor Enhancements

Additional Herbs and Spices

You can add more herbs for extra flavor. Try adding some parsley or oregano. A pinch of paprika can give warmth. Adjust spices to fit your taste. Experiment with what you love best!

Optional Vegetables

Feel free to add more veggies. Mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers work well. Cut them into small pieces so they cook evenly. This adds color and nutrition to your stew. Mix and match as you like!

Pro Tips

  1. Brown the Beef: For maximum flavor, ensure you brown the beef in batches. This creates a rich base for your stew.
  2. Deglaze the Pot: After sautéing, always deglaze the pot with broth to lift the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, enhancing the stew’s taste.
  3. Natural Pressure Release: Allowing the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes helps the stew to develop deeper flavors and tenderize the meat further.
  4. Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables, such as peas or green beans, to make the stew your own.

Variations

Alternative Proteins

Using Chicken or Pork

You can easily swap beef for chicken or pork. For chicken, use about 2 pounds of boneless thighs or breasts. Cut them into 1-inch pieces. For pork, pork shoulder works well. Both options cook quickly in the Instant Pot. Adjust the cooking time to about 25 minutes for chicken or pork. This keeps the meat tender and juicy.

Vegetarian Options

If you want a meatless stew, try using hearty vegetables and legumes. Swap beef for 2 cans of chickpeas or lentils. You can also use mushrooms for a meaty texture. Add more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes. This will give your stew depth and flavor. Cook it for the same time as the beef stew.

Different Flavor Profiles

Mexican Beef Stew

For a Mexican twist, add spices like cumin and chili powder. Use diced tomatoes instead of tomato paste. You can also add corn and black beans for extra flavor. Serve with fresh cilantro and lime for a zesty finish. This variation brings a warm, spicy kick to your dinner.

Italian-Inspired Variations

To create an Italian-style stew, use Italian herbs like oregano and basil. Swap the beef broth for chicken broth for a lighter taste. Add diced tomatoes and bell peppers for a fresh flavor. A splash of red wine can enhance the richness. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Instant Pot beef stew fresh, follow these tips:

  • Best Practices for Refrigeration: Let the stew cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This way, the flavors stay strong, and you can enjoy it again soon.
  • Freezing Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the stew. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion. It will stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips

Two main ways to heat your stew are the microwave or stovetop.

  • Microwave vs. Stovetop: The microwave is quick and easy. Just place it in a bowl and heat for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway to heat evenly. The stovetop takes more time but can keep the stew’s texture. Pour it into a pot and heat on low for about 10 minutes.
  • Maintaining Texture and Flavor: To keep the stew thick and rich, stir it often while reheating. If it seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water. This will help keep the flavor just right.

FAQs

How Long Does it Take to Cook Instant Pot Beef Stew?

Cooking Instant Pot beef stew takes about one hour. This includes 20 minutes for prep and 35 minutes under high pressure. After cooking, allow 10 minutes for natural pressure release. This method gives you tender beef and rich flavors.

Can I Use Frozen Beef for Stew?

Yes, you can use frozen beef for stew. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time. Do not thaw the beef before cooking. The Instant Pot cooks it safely and evenly, giving you a great stew.

What Can I Serve with Instant Pot Beef Stew?

You can serve this stew with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes. A fresh salad makes a nice side too. Try pairing it with green beans or roasted vegetables for more flavor. Each option complements the stew well.

The Instant Pot beef stew is simple and tasty. We covered the key ingredients and steps to make it. You learned about browning beef, deglazing, and adding veggies. I also shared tips for better flavor and storage. You can even mix up the recipe with different meats or spices.

Cooking should be fun and rewarding. Take these steps and make your own delicious stew. Enjoy the process and share with loved ones. Happy cookin

To make a tasty Instant Pot beef stew, you need simple ingredients that pack a lot of flavor. Here’s what you will need: - 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 large onion, chopped - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 4 cups beef broth - 3 carrots, sliced - 3 potatoes, diced - 2 celery stalks, chopped - 1 tablespoon tomato paste - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - 1 bay leaf - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening) - 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch) These ingredients create a rich and hearty stew. The beef chuck gives a tender bite, while the veggies add color and crunch. Olive oil helps to brown the beef and cook the onions and garlic to enhance their flavors. The broth brings everything together, making a comforting and savory dish. Don't forget the herbs, as they add a lovely aroma and depth. If you prefer a thicker stew, cornstarch is your friend here. Just mix it with water before adding, and you will enjoy a perfect texture. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Setting up for Sauté Mode First, plug in your Instant Pot and set it to 'Sauté' mode. This will heat the pot and make it ready for cooking. 2. Browning the Beef Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil once the pot is hot. Add 2 pounds of beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes. Season with salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Do this in batches if needed. Remove the beef and set it aside. 3. Sautéing Onion and Garlic In the same pot, add 1 large chopped onion and 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to turn translucent. This adds flavor and depth to your stew. 1. Deglazing the Pot Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for another minute. Pour in 4 cups of beef broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits. This adds rich flavor to your stew. 2. Adding Remaining Ingredients Return the browned beef to the pot. Add 3 sliced carrots, 3 diced potatoes, and 2 chopped celery stalks. Toss in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and 1 bay leaf. Make sure to stir everything well to combine. 3. Pressure Cooking Settings Close the lid securely. Set the pressure valve to 'Sealing.' Choose 'Manual' high pressure and cook for 35 minutes. This will help the flavors blend and the beef become tender. 1. Natural Pressure Release Once your cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. After that, do a quick release for any remaining pressure. Be careful when you open the lid. 2. Thickening the Stew If you want a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the stew. Press 'Sauté' and let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens. 3. Adjusting Seasoning Before serving, remove the bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Enjoy your warm and hearty beef stew! How to Achieve Perfect Browning To get great flavor, brown the beef well. Use batches to avoid crowding the pot. This allows each piece to sear properly. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside. Importance of Deglazing After browning the beef, deglaze the pot. This means scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon. It gets all those tasty bits into the stew. When you add the broth, it lifts these flavors. This step is key for a rich taste. Additional Herbs and Spices You can add more herbs for extra flavor. Try adding some parsley or oregano. A pinch of paprika can give warmth. Adjust spices to fit your taste. Experiment with what you love best! Optional Vegetables Feel free to add more veggies. Mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers work well. Cut them into small pieces so they cook evenly. This adds color and nutrition to your stew. Mix and match as you like! Pro Tips Brown the Beef: For maximum flavor, ensure you brown the beef in batches. This creates a rich base for your stew. Deglaze the Pot: After sautéing, always deglaze the pot with broth to lift the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, enhancing the stew's taste. Natural Pressure Release: Allowing the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes helps the stew to develop deeper flavors and tenderize the meat further. Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables, such as peas or green beans, to make the stew your own. {{image_2}} You can easily swap beef for chicken or pork. For chicken, use about 2 pounds of boneless thighs or breasts. Cut them into 1-inch pieces. For pork, pork shoulder works well. Both options cook quickly in the Instant Pot. Adjust the cooking time to about 25 minutes for chicken or pork. This keeps the meat tender and juicy. If you want a meatless stew, try using hearty vegetables and legumes. Swap beef for 2 cans of chickpeas or lentils. You can also use mushrooms for a meaty texture. Add more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes. This will give your stew depth and flavor. Cook it for the same time as the beef stew. For a Mexican twist, add spices like cumin and chili powder. Use diced tomatoes instead of tomato paste. You can also add corn and black beans for extra flavor. Serve with fresh cilantro and lime for a zesty finish. This variation brings a warm, spicy kick to your dinner. To create an Italian-style stew, use Italian herbs like oregano and basil. Swap the beef broth for chicken broth for a lighter taste. Add diced tomatoes and bell peppers for a fresh flavor. A splash of red wine can enhance the richness. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. To keep your Instant Pot beef stew fresh, follow these tips: - Best Practices for Refrigeration: Let the stew cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This way, the flavors stay strong, and you can enjoy it again soon. - Freezing Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the stew. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion. It will stay good for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Two main ways to heat your stew are the microwave or stovetop. - Microwave vs. Stovetop: The microwave is quick and easy. Just place it in a bowl and heat for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway to heat evenly. The stovetop takes more time but can keep the stew’s texture. Pour it into a pot and heat on low for about 10 minutes. - Maintaining Texture and Flavor: To keep the stew thick and rich, stir it often while reheating. If it seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water. This will help keep the flavor just right. Cooking Instant Pot beef stew takes about one hour. This includes 20 minutes for prep and 35 minutes under high pressure. After cooking, allow 10 minutes for natural pressure release. This method gives you tender beef and rich flavors. Yes, you can use frozen beef for stew. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time. Do not thaw the beef before cooking. The Instant Pot cooks it safely and evenly, giving you a great stew. You can serve this stew with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes. A fresh salad makes a nice side too. Try pairing it with green beans or roasted vegetables for more flavor. Each option complements the stew well. The Instant Pot beef stew is simple and tasty. We covered the key ingredients and steps to make it. You learned about browning beef, deglazing, and adding veggies. I also shared tips for better flavor and storage. You can even mix up the recipe with different meats or spices. Cooking should be fun and rewarding. Take these steps and make your own delicious stew. Enjoy the process and share with loved ones. Happy cooking!

Savory Instant Pot Beef Stew

A hearty and comforting beef stew made in the Instant Pot, perfect for a family meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 3 medium carrots, sliced
  • 3 medium potatoes, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 leaf bay leaf
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)

Instructions
 

  • Set the Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and heat the olive oil.
  • Once hot, add the cubed beef in batches, seasoning with salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
  • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for an additional 1 minute.
  • Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to remove any browned bits (deglazing).
  • Return the beef to the pot and add the carrots, potatoes, celery, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
  • Close the lid, set the pressure valve to 'Sealing,' and cook on 'Manual' high pressure for 35 minutes.
  • Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
  • (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl, then stir it into the stew and press 'Sauté' to simmer for a few more minutes until thickened.
  • Remove the bay leaf before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Notes

Serve the stew in deep bowls, garnished with fresh chopped parsley, and accompanied by crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Keyword beef stew, comfort food, Instant Pot

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