Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe

This Instant Pot Beef Stew is my go-to recipe for a hearty and flavorful meal that’s ready in a fraction of the time it takes to make it on the stovetop. It’s packed with tender beef, vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that’s perfect for chilly evenings or cozy weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Beef Stew

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, thanks to the convenience of the Instant Pot.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The stew is packed with tender beef, vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this stew with different vegetables, herbs, or spices to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Best Ever Instant Pot Beef Stew

• Beef Stew Meat: I like to use chuck roast for this recipe, but you can use any type of beef stew meat you prefer.
• Olive Oil: Used for browning the beef.
• Salt, Pepper, and Italian Seasoning: To season the beef.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory depth of flavor to the stew.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor.
• Onion: A chopped onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Baby Carrots: I use baby carrots for convenience, but you can also use regular carrots cut into slices.
• Potatoes: I like to use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture, but Russet potatoes will also work.
• Beef Broth: Forms the base of the stew.
• Tomato Sauce: Adds richness and acidity to the stew.
• Cornstarch and Water: Used to thicken the stew.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

Want to try something different? Here are a few ideas:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the stew for some heat.
• Veggie Variety: Toss in some other vegetables like mushrooms, celery, or parsnips.
• Herby Twist: Add some chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, to the stew.
• Wine Enhancement: Add a splash of red wine to the stew for a deeper flavor.

How to Make Best Ever Instant Pot Beef Stew

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Add the olive oil to the Instant Pot and turn on the sauté function. When the oil is hot, add the beef stew meat and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the meat until browned on all sides.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pot

Add the beef broth to the Instant Pot and use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This will add a lot of flavor to the stew.

Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Add the Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, chopped onion, carrots, potatoes, and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Close the lid and steam valve on the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.

Step 5: Natural Pressure Release

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, do a quick release to release any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew

In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the stew until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the stew hot with your favorite sides, such as crusty bread or a simple salad.

Tips and Tricks

• Beef Choice: I like to use chuck roast for this recipe because it’s flavorful and becomes tender when cooked in the Instant Pot.
• Natural Pressure Release: Allowing the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes helps to ensure that the beef is tender and flavorful.
• Seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed.

How to Serve

This Instant Pot Beef Stew is delicious with:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the stew and sopping up the flavorful broth.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing complement to this hearty stew.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are another great side dish option.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stew ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the stew for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat the stew on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use other types of stew meat, such as beef round or sirloin. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a chicken stew.

Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, celery, parsnips, or turnips. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, depending on the type of vegetable.

Can I make this stew without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make this stew on the stovetop. Just brown the beef in a large pot or Dutch oven and then simmer the stew for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

There you have it! A delicious and easy recipe for Instant Pot Beef Stew. I hope you enjoy it!

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