If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s both incredibly flavorful and easy to prepare, this Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth come together in a matter of minutes thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. Whether you’re chasing away a chilly evening or just looking for a home-cooked classic that brings everyone to the table eagerly, this stew will satisfy your soul and your appetite with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look simple, but each one plays a vital role in crafting a stew bursting with color, texture, and depth. From the robust beef to the fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, everything works together to create a dish that’s both wholesome and comforting.
- 2 lbs beef (cut into 1-inch pieces): Choose a good stew cut like chuck for tender, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth.
- 2 cups diced potatoes: Adds a creamy texture and hearty bulk to the stew.
- 1 cup green peas: For a sweet pop of freshness and a dash of vibrant green color.
- 1 onion, chopped: Delivers aromatic sweetness that balances the savory flavors perfectly.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Lends natural sweetness and enhances the overall color palette.
- 2 cups beef broth: Forms the savory, rich base that ties all ingredients together.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Adds a subtle tang and deepens the stew’s flavor profile.
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped: Infuses the dish with an irresistible, aromatic kick.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing, it ensures a nice caramelization on the beef.
- 2 tbsp potato starch: Helps naturally thicken the stew to that perfect, comforting consistency.
- 3 tbsp water: Mixed with starch to create a smooth slurry for thickening.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/2 tsp pepper: Adds a gentle heat that wakes up each bite.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Gives a subtle smoky warmth and lovely color.
- 1/2 tsp granulated garlic: Boosts the garlicky depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant herbal note that ties together the vegetables and meat beautifully.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in your Instant Pot on Saute mode and fry the beef pieces for about 10 minutes. Be sure to close the lid and stir the beef twice during the process to brown all sides evenly. This step builds a rich flavor base through the caramelization of the meat, setting the tone for a deeply savory stew that comforts with every bite.
Step 2: Cook the Onion and Garlic
Remove the browned beef and set it aside. Then, sauté the chopped onion and finely chopped garlic in the same pot for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Leaving the lid open lets the flavors concentrate and ensures the onions soften and become slightly sweet, an essential foundation for the stew’s depth.
Step 3: Add Tomato Paste
Mix in the tomato paste and stir continuously for another two minutes. This step allows the tomato paste to caramelize lightly, adding a depth of umami and gentle tanginess that elevates the richness of the broth.
Step 4: Pour in Beef Broth
Now pour in the beef broth and give everything a good stir, ensuring all the browned bits from the bottom of the pot loosen up and dissolve into the liquid. These flavorful bits will enrich your stew immensely.
Step 5: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Throw in your chopped potatoes, carrots, the sautéed beef, and sprinkle in the salt, pepper, paprika, granulated garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mixing these ingredients now makes certain that every flavor has time to meld beautifully during pressure cooking.
Step 6: Pressure Cook the Stew
Seal the Instant Pot lid, set it to pressure cook for 25 minutes, and make sure it stays put — no moving the pot during this time to avoid disrupting the cooking. This step transforms the beef into tender morsels and allows the vegetables to soften just right, marrying all the flavors perfectly.
Step 7: Release Pressure and Open
Once the timer beeps, gently release the pressure before opening the lid. At this point, the stew is wonderfully tender and fragrant, ready for the finishing touch.
Step 8: Thicken and Finish Cooking
Mix the potato starch with water to make a smooth slurry, then pour it into the pot along with the green peas. Stir well and cook on Saute mode with the lid closed for 10 minutes. This step thickens the stew naturally while allowing the peas to cook just enough to retain their sweet pop and bright green color.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Your Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe is now ready to serve — warm, hearty, and brimming with flavor. Spoon it into bowls and savor the tender beef and perfectly cooked vegetables bathed in a rich, savory gravy.
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme leaves works wonders for brightening both flavor and appearance. A dollop of sour cream or a few grinds of fresh black pepper can also add a lovely finishing touch that elevates every spoonful.
Side Dishes
This beef stew pairs beautifully with rustic bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious broth, or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. Mashed potatoes or buttered noodles are classic companions that add extra comfort to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your stew in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun and edible presentation, or ladle it over creamy polenta for an elegant twist. You can also spoon it atop a baked sweet potato for a nutritious and visually appealing meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
Freezing
This stew freezes well, making it a great make-ahead meal. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing its hearty charm.
Reheating
Reheat your stew gently on the stove over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, just be sure to stir midway for even heating and to revive that luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this stew?
Absolutely! While chuck is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use bottom round or brisket as alternatives. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut.
Is it possible to make this stew vegetarian?
You can adapt the recipe by substituting the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or even tempeh, and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavors accordingly.
Can I prepare this stew in a regular pot instead of an Instant Pot?
Yes, though it will take longer to cook. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as described, then simmer everything covered on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is tender.
How thick should the stew broth be?
The broth should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. Using the potato starch slurry helps achieve a velvety, rich consistency without being overly gloopy.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce during sautéing for a deeper flavor boost. Fresh herbs like rosemary or bay leaves added during cooking can also enhance the aromatic profile.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe is the perfect hug in a bowl that combines ease, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite. Once you try it, you’ll see how quickly this dish becomes a trusted favorite in your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and get ready to create a stew that feels like home with every mouthful.
