There’s something magical about the aroma of a simmering pot of beef stew wafting through the house. Picture this: tender chunks of meat swimming in a rich broth, mingled with vibrant vegetables that look like they just jumped off a rainbow. When I whip up my Instant Pot beef stew, it’s like hosting a cozy hug for my taste buds—comfort food at its finest.
I remember the first time I made this dish; I ended up nearly losing an eyebrow due to my excitement. My family couldn’t stop raving about it! Now it’s become our go-to meal for chilly evenings and spontaneous family gatherings. Trust me; you’ll want to dive into this flavor explosion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Instant Pot beef stew is not only easy to prepare; it’s also packed with flavor and comfort
- The vibrant colors from fresh veggies make every bowl appealing
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings!
I once served this dish at a dinner party where I was convinced my friends would challenge me to a cook-off afterward. Spoiler alert: they did not!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for stewing because of its marbling and tenderness when cooked slowly in the Instant Pot.
- Carrots: Use fresh carrots for sweetness and color; they add a lovely crunch when cooked just right.
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal as they hold their shape well and absorb all that flavorful broth.
- Onions: Chop up some onions for depth; they caramelize beautifully and provide that signature savory taste.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch; you can never have too much garlic in a hearty stew!
- Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the salt levels while still getting that rich flavor.
- Tomato Paste: This thickens the broth and gives it that rich color; a little goes a long way!
- Spices (Thyme & Bay Leaves): Fresh thyme brings earthiness; bay leaves infuse subtle aromatic notes into the stew.
- Pearl Barley (optional): This adds texture and heartiness; feel free to leave it out if you prefer a lighter option.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by chopping your carrots, potatoes, onions, and mincing the garlic. The more colorful your veggies, the happier your stew will be!
Sear the Meat: Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add a splash of oil and let it heat before adding your chuck roast in batches until browned on all sides.
Add Aromatics & Broth: Toss in your onions and garlic until fragrant. Then add tomato paste followed by beef broth while scraping any yummy bits stuck to the bottom.
Add Veggies & Spices: Gently stir in carrots, potatoes, thyme, bay leaves, and pearl barley if you’re using it. Make sure everything is evenly distributed in that glorious broth.
Pressure Cook It!: Close the lid securely on your Instant Pot and set it to “Manual” mode at high pressure for 35 minutes. Don’t forget to check that steam valve is closed!
Release & Serve!: Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes before using quick release for any remaining steam. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice!
Now you have an impressive dish ready that’ll make everyone think you spent hours slaving away in the kitchen when really…you were likely binging Netflix while waiting!
Cooking should be fun and enjoyable—just like indulging in this delicious Instant Pot beef stew!
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot Beef Stew recipe is a game-changer, offering rich flavors and tender meat in less time
- Perfect for chilly evenings, it warms both the belly and the soul
- The aroma will fill your kitchen, making everyone eagerly await dinner
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef to lock in flavors, then sauté your veggies before pressure cooking for 35 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vegetables like carrots or potatoes for seasonal options. Herbs like thyme or rosemary elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always trim excess fat from the beef to avoid greasy stew
- Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried for brighter flavors
There was that one rainy afternoon when I made this stew, and my kids declared me a culinary genius. Who knew a simple recipe could turn me into their hero?
FAQ
Can I use different meats in my Instant Pot Beef Stew?
Absolutely! Chicken or lamb can be great alternatives that work well too.
How do I thicken my Instant Pot Beef Stew?
For a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with water and stir it in after cooking.
What can I serve with Instant Pot Beef Stew?
Crusty bread or fluffy mashed potatoes are perfect companions for your hearty stew.
Instant Pot Beef Stew
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Savor the hearty flavors of this Instant Pot beef stew, brimming with tender meat and colorful vegetables—a perfect dish for cozy evenings or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 medium carrots, sliced
- 4 Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup pearl barley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping the carrots, potatoes, onions, and mincing the garlic.
- Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add olive oil and brown the chuck roast in batches on all sides.
- Stir in onions and garlic until fragrant. Add tomato paste and beef broth, scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom.
- Mix in carrots, potatoes, thyme, bay leaves, and pearl barley if using. Ensure even distribution.
- Secure the lid and set to ‘Manual’ high pressure for 35 minutes; check that the steam valve is closed.
- Once cooking is complete, allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining steam. Serve hot.
Notes
- Feel free to swap seasonal vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
- For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg