Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe

When you're craving a warm, hearty meal but don't have hours to spare, this Instant Pot Beef Stew recipe is the perfect solution. This rich and savory stew, packed with tender beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth, is ready in a fraction of the time it would take in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. The Instant Pot locks in flavors and tenderizes the meat quickly, so you get all the depth of a slow-cooked meal in under an hour. Stick around to learn how to make this delicious beef stew, along with tips, substitutions, and serving suggestions that will make it your go-to comfort food recipe!

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What is Instant Pot Beef Stew?

Instant Pot Beef Stew is a traditional beef stew made with chunks of beef, hearty vegetables like carrots and potatoes, all simmered in a savory broth. What sets this recipe apart is the use of the Instant Pot, a pressure cooker that drastically reduces cooking time while still achieving the deep, rich flavors you'd expect from hours of slow cooking. It’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients List for Instant Pot Beef Stew

Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty and flavorful Instant Pot Beef Stew:

1. Beef chuck roast (cut into 1 to 1 ½-inch cubes) – 2 pounds
   Chuck roast is perfect for stew because it becomes tender when cooked under pressure.
2. Flour – ¼ cup
   Used to coat the beef, creating a nice crust when browned, and helps to thicken the stew.
3. Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
   For browning the beef and adding flavor.
4. Onion (diced) – 1 large
   Adds sweetness and depth to the stew.
5. Garlic (minced) – 3 cloves
   Enhances the savory flavor of the stew.
6. Carrots (sliced into 1-inch chunks) – 3 medium
   Carrots add sweetness and texture to the stew.
7. Potatoes (cut into 1-inch cubes) – 3 medium
   Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best as they hold their shape during cooking.
8. Celery (sliced) – 2 stalks
   Adds a subtle flavor and extra texture to the stew.
9. Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons
   Adds richness and a concentrated tomato flavor to the broth.
10. Beef broth – 4 cups
    The liquid base for the stew, giving it rich, savory flavor.
11. Red wine (optional) – ½ cup
    Adds depth and complexity to the broth. You can skip this or substitute with more broth if you prefer.
12. Worcestershire sauce – 2 tablespoons
    Enhances the savory umami flavor of the stew.
13. Bay leaves – 2
    Adds an herbal, slightly bitter note that complements the richness of the beef.
14. Thyme (dried or fresh) – 1 teaspoon
    A classic herb in beef stew, it adds warmth and flavor to the dish.
15. Salt and black pepper – to taste
    Adjust to your preference, keeping in mind that the flavors intensify during cooking.
16. Cornstarch (optional, for thickening) – 1 tablespoon mixed with 2 tablespoons water
    To create a slurry for thickening the stew at the end if needed.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about beef stew is its versatility. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

1. Meat Substitutions:
   You can substitute beef with lamb for a richer flavor, or even use chicken thighs for a lighter variation. For a plant-based option, replace the meat with mushrooms and lentils.
2. Vegetable Variations:
   Add root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for an earthy flavor. Peas or green beans can be added at the end for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Gluten-Free Option:
   Skip the flour or use gluten-free flour to coat the beef. The cornstarch slurry at the end will still give you the thick, rich consistency you’re looking for.
4. Wine-Free Stew:
   If you prefer not to cook with wine, simply replace the red wine with additional beef broth or vegetable broth.
5. Herb Substitutions:
   You can swap thyme with rosemary or add some fresh parsley at the end for a bright finish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Instant Pot Beef Stew is quick and easy. Follow these step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Prep and Brown the Beef

1. Coat the Beef:
   In a bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. This will help the beef develop a beautiful crust when browned and also thicken the stew.
2. Sauté the Beef:
   Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté setting. Once it reads "Hot," add the olive oil. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown each side for 2-3 minutes until you get a nice golden crust. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
   In the same pot, add the diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

4. Deglaze with Wine or Broth:
   If you're using red wine, pour it in now to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These browned bits are full of flavor! Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. If you’re not using wine, you can deglaze with a little beef broth.

Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients

5. Add Vegetables and Broth:
   Return the browned beef to the Instant Pot. Add the carrots, potatoes, celery, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir everything together.

Step 5: Pressure Cook the Stew

6. Pressure Cook:
   Secure the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to Sealing, and select Pressure Cook on High for 35 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release by turning the valve to Venting.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

7. Thicken the Stew:
   If you’d like a thicker stew, you can create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté again, stir in the slurry, and let the stew simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 7: Taste and Serve

8. Season and Serve:
   Remove the bay leaves, taste the stew, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley (if desired), and serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

How to Cook Instant Pot Beef Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Brown the Beef:
   Start by browning the beef cubes on the Sauté setting for flavor and color.
2. Cook Aromatics:
   Sauté onions and garlic to build a flavorful base.
3. Deglaze the Pot:
   Use red wine or broth to scrape up the browned bits and add complexity to the broth.
4. Pressure Cook:
   Lock in the flavor by pressure cooking for 35 minutes, which will make the beef melt-in-your-mouth tender.
5. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
   Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the stew if you like a heartier, thicker consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Browning Step:
   Browning the beef adds depth and flavor to the stew, so don’t skip it! This step also helps seal in the juices.
2. Overfilling the Instant Pot:
   Be mindful of the “Max Fill” line when adding your ingredients. Overfilling can prevent the Instant Pot from reaching pressure or may result in uneven cooking.
3. Quick Releasing Too Soon:
   Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and the beef to become even more tender. A quick release right after cooking can make the beef tougher.
4. Not Deglazing the Pot:
   Skipping the deglazing step means missing out on those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom, which add loads of flavor to your stew.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Instant Pot Beef Stew is hearty and comforting, perfect for serving on its own or paired with complementary sides. Here’s how to present it:

• With Crusty Bread:
  Serve the stew with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the rich broth.
• Over Mashed Potatoes:
  For an extra comfort food vibe, serve the beef stew over creamy mashed potatoes.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
  A sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or even a bit of rosemary can add a pop of color and freshness to the rich stew.

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Stew

1. In Bread Bowls:
   Hollow out large rolls or bread loaves and ladle the stew into the bread for a rustic, edible serving dish.
2. With Rice or Noodles:
   Serve the stew over rice or wide egg noodles for a heartier meal.
3. With a Side Salad:
   Pair the richness of the stew with a light, fresh green salad to balance the meal.

Presentation Ideas for Instant Pot Beef Stew

1. Rustic Wooden Bowls:
   Serve the stew in rustic wooden or ceramic bowls for a cozy, homey presentation.
2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
   A sprinkle of parsley or thyme on top adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich colors of the stew.
3. Family Style:
   Serve the stew family-style in a large cast-iron pot in the middle of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves.

Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead:
   The flavors of this stew only get better the next day. You can make it ahead of time and reheat it for an even richer flavor.
2. Freezing:
   This beef stew freezes well! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating:
   Reheat the stew on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit more broth if necessary to thin out the consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen beef?
   Yes, you can use frozen beef, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by 10 minutes. However, you won’t be able to brown the meat first, so the flavor might be slightly less rich.
2. Can I use different cuts of beef?
   Yes, other cuts like brisket or even stew meat will work well in this recipe. Just make sure it’s a cut with good marbling to stay tender.
3. Can I make this without wine?
   Absolutely! If you prefer not to use wine, just substitute it with extra beef broth.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
   Definitely! Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, parsnips, or even peas towards the end of cooking.

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, flavorful, and hearty Instant Pot Beef Stew that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The Instant Pot makes this comforting dish quick and convenient, without sacrificing the rich flavors you expect from a classic beef stew. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or freezing portions for later, this stew is the perfect go-to meal for chilly nights or busy days. Enjoy!

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