Quick instant pot beef stew. Is there anything more comforting on a chilly evening? I remember my grandmother making beef stew every Sunday, the aroma filling the entire house with warmth and love. This recipe brings back those cozy memories but speeds up the process, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. Craving a stick your ribs meal that doesn’t take all day to prepare? This quick instant pot beef stew recipe is your answer.
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Why You Will Love This quick instant pot beef stew Recipe
This isn’t your average beef stew; it’s a hug in a bowl. What makes it so special? First, the Instant Pot cuts the cooking time drastically, meaning you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful stew in a fraction of the time it would normally take. Second, the pressure cooking intensifies the flavors, creating a depth you wouldn’t believe. It’s incredibly easy to make, too, perfect for busy weeknights when you need something comforting and satisfying. Follow us on Pinterest for more easy comfort food ideas!
I love how the beef becomes melt in your mouth tender while the vegetables retain their shape and texture. It’s a complete meal in one pot, packed with protein and nutrients. And cleanup is a breeze! For a delightful and comforting dessert you’ll reach for again and again, check out recipes for the Best Hot Chocolate Ever Crock Pot Recipe.
Ingredients Needed for This quick instant pot beef stew Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious quick instant pot beef stew:
- Beef: 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 large, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Beef Broth: 4 cups
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Rosemary: 1/2 teaspoon
- Bay Leaf: 1
- Potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and cubed
- Carrots: 2 large, peeled and sliced
- Celery: 2 stalks, chopped
- Frozen Peas: 1 cup
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (optional, for thickening)
- Water: 2 tablespoons (optional, for thickening)
How to Make This quick instant pot beef stew Recipe
Let’s get cooking! This quick instant pot beef stew recipe is super simple.
- 1. Sear the Beef: Turn on your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add olive oil. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Sear each side until browned. Remove beef and set aside. Searing the beef really adds depth of flavor.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the Instant Pot and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in about 1/2 cup of beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. This is crucial for preventing the “burn” notice!
- 4. Add Ingredients: Add the seared beef back into the Instant Pot. Pour in the remaining beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- 5. Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid, making sure the valve is set to “sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 35 minutes.
- 6. Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- 7. Add Vegetables: Open the Instant Pot carefully. Add the cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Close the lid again, set the valve to “sealing,” and cook on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 5 minutes.
- 8. Final Touches: Quick release the pressure. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the frozen peas. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This beautiful Purple Sweet Potato Recipe uses similar techniques to bring out the natural sweetness and texture of the main ingredient.
- 9. Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir the slurry into the stew and let it simmer on the “Sauté” function for a few minutes until thickened.
How to Serve This quick instant pot beef stew Recipe
This quick instant pot beef stew is a complete meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate the experience:
- Bread: Serve with crusty bread or rolls for soaking up the delicious gravy.
- Toppings: Garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad adds a refreshing contrast.
How to Store This quick instant pot beef stew Recipe
- Refrigeration: Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooled stew in freezer safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the stew in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make This quick instant pot beef stew Recipe
- Beef Selection: Beef chuck is the best cut for stew because it becomes incredibly tender when cooked low and slow.
- Vegetable Size: Cut the vegetables into uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
- Browning the Beef: Make sure to brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which can steam the meat instead of browning it.
- Add Some Wine: Add 1/2 cup of red wine after deglazing for a richer flavor.
Helpful Notes for This quick instant pot beef stew Recipe
- Broth: Low sodium beef broth gives you better control of the salt levels.
- Tomato Paste: Don’t skip the tomato paste! It adds depth and richness to the stew, and a bit of acidity for an incredible Ultimate Steak And Potatoes Recipe.
- Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as bay leaves and fresh thyme, or add a parmesan rind for even more umami.
Variation of This quick instant pot beef stew Recipe
- Vegetarian: Swap the beef for hearty mushrooms or lentils.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the stew.
- Sweet Potato: Substitute some of the potatoes with sweet potatoes for added sweetness and nutrients.
- Add Beer: Substitute some of the beef broth with dark beer or stout for a hearty, robust flavor.
How long does it actually take to cook beef stew in an Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time compared to traditional methods. Typically, it takes around 35-45 minutes of pressure cooking, plus time for the pot to come to pressure and release it.
What kind of beef is best for Instant Pot beef stew?
Chuck roast is ideal for Instant Pot beef stew because it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful during the pressure cooking process. Other options include stew meat or beef shanks.
Can I freeze leftover Instant Pot beef stew?
Yes, Instant Pot beef stew freezes very well. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
How do I thicken Instant Pot beef stew if it’s too watery?
There are several ways to thicken the stew. A simple method is to mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the stew and simmer until thickened. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes in the stew to naturally thicken it.
Conclusion
This quick instant pot beef stew is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of year. With its tender beef, flavorful gravy, and hearty vegetables, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to give this quick instant pot beef stew recipe a try, and let me know what you think in the comments below!
