Beef stew is a classic comfort dish that warms you up from the inside out, but traditionally, it takes hours of simmering to reach that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Enter the Instant Pot: a magical device that cuts down the cooking time significantly without sacrificing flavor. In this guide, we’re diving into how to make a rich and hearty Instant Pot Beef Stew, packed with tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and bold flavors. So, get ready to discover the secrets to a perfect beef stew that’s ready in under an hour!

What is Instant Pot Beef Stew?
Instant Pot Beef Stew is a modern twist on the traditional beef stew, made using an Instant Pot or any electric pressure cooker. This method allows you to achieve the same depth of flavor and tenderness you’d expect from a slow-cooked stew in a fraction of the time. Using pressure cooking technology, the Instant Pot locks in moisture, flavors, and nutrients, creating a savory and hearty stew that’s perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients List for Instant Pot Beef Stew
Here’s everything you’ll need to create a delicious Instant Pot Beef Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 large carrots, sliced into rounds
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crusty bread for serving
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to personalize your Instant Pot Beef Stew? Here are some simple swaps and add-ons to make it uniquely yours:
- Vegetables: Swap out the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor. You can also add mushrooms, parsnips, or butternut squash.
- Beef Substitute: If you don’t eat beef, you can use lamb or even chicken thighs for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Thickening Options: Instead of cornstarch, you can use flour to thicken the stew. Or, skip the thickener entirely if you prefer a brothier texture.
- Herbs and Spices: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil can also be added at the end for an extra burst of flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Instant Pot Beef Stew is easier than you think! Follow these steps for a fuss-free, flavor-packed meal.
How to Cook Instant Pot Beef Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prep the Ingredients: Start by chopping the onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Trim any excess fat off the beef and cut it into 1-inch cubes.
- Sear the Beef: Turn on the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add the olive oil, then add the beef cubes in batches, searing each side until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onions to the Instant Pot and sauté until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in a bit of beef broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This step adds flavor and prevents a burn warning during pressure cooking.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients: Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the carrots, potatoes, celery, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Pour in the rest of the beef broth.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Choose the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting, and set the timer for 35 minutes.
- Natural Release: Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Afterward, do a quick release by carefully turning the valve to “Venting.”
- Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Set the Instant Pot to sauté and stir in the slurry until the stew thickens.
- Add Peas and Adjust Seasoning: Stir in the frozen peas and let them cook for 2-3 minutes. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread on the side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Searing Step: Browning the beef before pressure cooking adds depth of flavor to the stew. Don’t skip this step!
- Not Deglazing the Pot: Failing to deglaze can cause food to stick and may trigger a burn warning on your Instant Pot.
- Overfilling the Pot: Instant Pots should never be filled more than two-thirds full when pressure cooking. Be mindful of your liquid levels.
- Quick Release Instead of Natural Release: Letting the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for at least 10 minutes helps the meat retain its tenderness.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Beef stew is best served piping hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color. Serve it in wide, shallow bowls for an appealing presentation. Place a few slices of crusty bread or a dinner roll on the side, perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Stew
Instant Pot Beef Stew is a hearty main course that pairs beautifully with simple sides. Serve with:
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for sopping up the rich broth.
- Mashed Potatoes: For an extra comforting meal, serve the stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa: These grains help soak up the sauce and add a different texture.
Presentation Ideas for Instant Pot Beef Stew
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, rosemary, or thyme gives a pop of color.
- Serve in Rustic Bowls: Use stoneware or rustic-style bowls for a cozy, homestyle feel.
- Top with Parmesan Cheese: A dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can add an extra savory touch.
Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe Tips
- Cut Vegetables Uniformly: Try to cut the vegetables into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Adjust Seasoning at the End: Always taste and adjust seasoning after pressure cooking to make sure the flavors are balanced.
- Save Leftovers: Beef stew tastes even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it beforehand. If you must cook from frozen, increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.
2. Can I make this stew without an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Follow the same steps, but use a large pot or Dutch oven. Simmer the stew on low heat for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
4. Can I add wine to the recipe?
Yes! Adding ½ cup of red wine along with the beef broth can deepen the stew’s flavor.
5. What’s the best way to reheat the stew?
You can reheat the stew in the Instant Pot on the sauté function or in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the meat rubbery.
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy, flavorful Instant Pot Beef Stew that’s bound to become a favorite in your household. By using the Instant Pot, you save time without compromising on flavor or tenderness. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a good stew, this recipe has you covered. Now that you know how to make the ultimate Instant Pot Beef Stew, grab your ingredients and get cooking!
Enjoy this comforting dish and feel free to experiment with your own variations. Don't forget to share this recipe with friends and family who could use a warm bowl of goodness!
PrintInstant Pot Beef Stew
This Instant Pot Beef Stew recipe delivers a savory, tender beef stew with vegetables in a rich broth, all made quickly and easily in the Instant Pot. Perfect for cozy dinners with family, it combines hearty ingredients for a satisfying, warm meal in under an hour!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pressure Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
Instructions
- Set Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Brown beef cubes on all sides.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Add carrots, potatoes, and beef broth.
- Secure the lid, seal the valve, and set to pressure cook on high for 35 minutes.
- Once done, let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.
- Stir in peas, let sit for 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm.
Notes
- Add extra vegetables like celery or parsnips for added flavor.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 640 mg
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