When the evenings start to grow cooler and the days unexpectedly drench us in rain, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of beef stew, simmering away in your Instant Pot. Just picture yourself surrounded by the delicious, robust aroma drifting through the house—a true invitation to gather around the dinner table with loved ones. Yes, my friend, this Instant Pot Beef Stew is the answer to those dreary nights when you crave a soul-soothing meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it cooks to perfection, making your weeknight dinner feel quite extraordinary.
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe
A Comforting Embrace After a Long Day
Often, life keeps us racing from work to home, running errands, and dealing with endless schedules. We’ve all had days when we come home tired, longing for something hearty and delicious that doesn’t take ages to prepare. That’s where this Instant Pot Beef Stew comes into play! Not only does it deliver an explosion of flavor, but it fills your kitchen with a cozy, inviting aroma that envelops you as you walk in.
This Dish Solves That
Imagine cutting into tender pieces of beef, fragrant with garlic and thyme, mingling beautifully with vibrant vegetables and savory broth. This Instant Pot Beef Stew is truly an experience that fills you with warmth—a bowl of comfort in every bite. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when it feels good to settle in with a hearty meal. After just thirty minutes of pressure cooking, you’ll find yourself savoring a delicious stew, reminding you of family dinners and cherished moments spent around the table. You can even take a moment to reflect, as you enjoy each bite, just how enriching sharing food can be.
Ingredients Breakdown & Prep Tips
Ingredients List with Suggestions
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delightful stew:
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| 2 tablespoons olive oil | |
| 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour | |
| 1 teaspoon salt, divided | |
| 1 teaspoon pepper, divided | |
| 1 pound beef stew meat | Cut into bite-sized pieces. |
| 1 onion, chopped | |
| 3 garlic cloves, chopped | Minced or smashed for more flavor. |
| 3 carrots, peeled and sliced into coins | Sweet and hearty, adding color and taste. |
| 3 stalks celery, sliced | For that comforting crunch and flavor. |
| 2 tablespoons fresh thyme | Fresh is best for a fragrant boost. |
| 1 tablespoon tomato paste | Adds a splash of flavor and color. |
| 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce | For depth of flavor. |
| 3 cups low-sodium beef stock | A rich, savory base for the stew. |
| 1/4 cup julienned sun-dried tomatoes, drained | For a tangy touch. |
| 1 pound baby potatoes, halved | Use baby potatoes for less prep and great texture. |
| 1 tablespoon cornstarch | To thicken the stew deliciously. |
| 1 1/2 cups frozen peas | Sweet and tender finish. |
Prep Method with Sensory Cues
- Add olive oil to the Instant Pot and set to ‘Sauté.’
- In a bowl, combine flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Toss the beef into the mix, ensuring every piece is coated.
- When the oil is hot and shimmering, add the seasoned beef, sizzling as it browns beautifully. Remove once browned.
- Now add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, sprinkling in the remaining salt and pepper. As they begin to soften, your kitchen fills with that mouthwatering, savory fragrance.
- Stir in thyme, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for just 1 minute to release every bit of flavor.
- Pour in the beef stock, scraping the bottom of the pot to capture all those delicious bits. Add in the sun-dried tomatoes and baby potatoes, along with the reserved beef.
- Lock the lid in place and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Let it rest and release pressure naturally for about 15 minutes.
- After this, manually release any remaining pressure. Switch back to sauté mode.
- Mix cornstarch with some cooking liquid until smooth; add it back into the pot and cook until thickened—delight as the stew transforms into something creamy and rich.
- Stir in the peas, cooking until they’re bright green and tender, ensuring gorgeous colors in every bowl.
- Hit ‘Cancel’ on the Instant Pot, let it cool slightly, and serve warm for the best experience.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbs | 12g |
| Fat | 6g |
Avoid These Mistakes
Common Mistakes & Fixes
- Using too much flour: It can create a pasty texture instead of thickening naturally. Stick to those 2 tablespoons!
- Not browning the meat: This step adds depth to the flavor—don’t rush this integral part!
- Overcrowding the pot: If your pot is too full, the beef may steam rather than brown. Cook in batches if necessary.
Pro Tips to Get It Right
- Let the stew sit after cooking: It enhances the flavors, allowing everything to meld beautifully.
- Taste before serving: Adjust the seasoning with salt or extra thyme for a final touch. A little loving attention goes a long way!
Serving, Storage & Creative Variations
Best Ways to Serve It
Whether it’s a hectic weekday or a lazy Sunday, enjoy your Instant Pot Beef Stew in a bowl right from the pot, or pour it over fluffy mashed potatoes for an added touch of comfort. Serve it alongside some warm crusty bread to soak up all that savory goodness.
Storage + Seasonal or Dietary Variations
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Feel free to freeze individual portions of stew for those nights when cooking feels like a chore! You can also customize this recipe: try adding some sweet potatoes for a twist or even toss in diced bell peppers for added color and flavor.
FAQs
What kind of beef is best for stew?
Cut a chuck roast into bite-sized pieces, as it’s well-marbled and becomes incredibly tender during cooking.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Potatoes, green beans, or even turnips can add a unique flavor while keeping the dish nutritious.
What should I serve with beef stew?
Serve with bread, biscuits, or a green salad to balance out the hearty goodness of the stew.
Can I make this beef stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply follow the same steps, but cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for about 3-4 hours.
Conclusion
With its effortless preparation and comforting flavors, this Instant Pot Beef Stew will surely become a cherished family favorite. Dive into those warm, hearty bowls and let each delicious mouthful spark memories of love and joy. Cooking is an act of kindness, and sharing this stew can brighten someone else’s day. If this dish brings back a memory, pass it on. Someone you love might need it today.
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Instant Pot Beef Stew
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add olive oil to the Instant Pot and set to Sauté.
- In a bowl, combine flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Toss beef to coat.
- Brown beef in hot oil; remove once browned.
- Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery with remaining salt and pepper; cook until softened.
- Stir in thyme, tomato paste, and Worcestershire; cook 1 minute.
- Pour in beef stock, scraping up browned bits. Add sun-dried tomatoes, potatoes, and browned beef.
- Lock lid; cook on High Pressure 30 minutes. Natural release 15 minutes.
- Manually release remaining pressure; set to Sauté.
- Mix cornstarch with some cooking liquid; stir into stew and simmer until thickened.
- Stir in peas and cook until bright and tender. Cancel and let cool slightly before serving.