Name: Instant Pot Beef Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast or beef stew meat (fat trimmed); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 large potatoes (cut into large chunks); 2 large carrots (cut into thick slices); 3 sticks celery (cut into thick slices); 1 large onion (cut into large chunks); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 leaf bay leaf; 1 sprig rosemary; 2 cups beef broth

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When you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and utterly satisfying, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of beef stew. Picture tender chunks of beef simmered together with vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, flavorful broth. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness in a fraction of the time it would take with traditional methods. This Instant Pot Beef Stew is not only easy to prepare but also a delightful way to warm up on chilly evenings. So, let’s dive into this soul-soothing stew that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There are countless beef stew recipes out there, but this one stands out for several reasons. First, using the Instant Pot means you get to enjoy deep flavors and tender meat in just over an hour! No need for slow simmering all afternoon. Second, the combination of hearty vegetables and perfectly seasoned beef makes for a dish that is not just filling but also nutritious. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any) taste even better the next day! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy dinner with family and friends.

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck roast (fat trimmed) or beef stew meat
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 large potatoes cut into large chunks
2 large carrots cut into thick slices
3 sticks celery cut into thick slices
1 onion cut into large chunks
2 cloves garlic minced
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 bay leaf
1 sprig rosemary
2 cups beef broth

How To Make Instant Pot Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Begin by cutting your beef chuck roast or stew meat into 1-2 inch cubes. This ensures even cooking. In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed beef with the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the beef is well coated.

Step 2: Sauté the Meat

Turn the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the floured beef to the pot in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Sauté the beef for about 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides. This browning adds depth to your stew’s flavor.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Once your beef is well-browned, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Then, stir in the tomato paste, making sure it gets mixed thoroughly with the beef and garlic.

Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables and Broth

Next, add the chopped potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Stir gently to combine. Pour in the beef broth, and add the bay leaf and rosemary sprig. Give it all a good stir to ensure everything is well mixed.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and set the timer for 35 minutes. Once the time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining steam.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

After all the steam has escaped, remove the lid and discard the bay leaf and rosemary sprig. Give the stew a gentle stir. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can use the “Sauté” function again for a few minutes to reduce the broth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Expert Tips

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Grape juice to the beef broth before pressure cooking.
Feel free to adjust the vegetable quantities based on your preference; parsnips or mushrooms can be wonderful additions!
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a little cornstarch with water and stir that in after cooking.
Let the stew cool completely before storing it in airtight containers; it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Variations and Customizations

Add in some peas or green beans for extra color and nutrition in the last few minutes of cooking.
For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Switch up the herbs: thyme can be a delightful alternative to rosemary.
Looking for a low-carb option? Substitute potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter version.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Instant Pot beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Let the stew cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQ

Can I use other cuts of beef for this stew?

Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use brisket or round cuts. Just be mindful that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut you choose.

Is it necessary to brown the beef before cooking?

Browning the beef helps to develop richer flavors in the stew by creating a caramelized crust. It’s not absolutely necessary, but highly recommended for the best flavor.

Can I cook this stew without an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook this beef stew in a slow cooker or on a stovetop. For stovetop cooking, simmer the stew for about 2-3 hours until the beef is tender.

How can I make this stew even healthier?

To make the stew healthier, you can reduce the amount of oil used, add more vegetables, or substitute beef broth with low-sodium broth. You can also consider using lean cuts of meat.

Conclusion

There you have it—a delightful and easy recipe for Instant Pot Beef Stew that is sure to become a staple in your home. Whether it’s a cold winter night, a busy weeknight, or a family gathering, this hearty stew brings comfort and warmth to the table. With the rapid cooking abilities of the Instant Pot and the rich flavors developed in this recipe, you can bring a delicious, homemade meal to your family in less time than you might think. So dust off your Instant Pot and get ready to enjoy a bowl of deliciousness that will keep you coming back for more!

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