Best Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe

Instant Pot Beef Stew is a one-pot meal that brings together the rich flavors of tender beef and hearty vegetables in a thick, satisfying gravy. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe ensures you can enjoy delicious comfort food without the hassle. The Best Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe makes cooking easier and faster, allowing you to savor every bite in just over an hour!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: With the Instant Pot, you’ll have a complete meal ready in about 75 minutes.
• One-Pot Wonder: Simplifies cleanup by cooking everything in one pot.
• Rich Flavor: The beef broth and seasonings create a deep, savory flavor that enhances every ingredient.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and veggies, this stew is both nourishing and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Instant Pot Beef Stew, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl for slurry

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multifunctional appliance speeds up cooking time while infusing flavors beautifully.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for scraping down the bottom of the pot to prevent burning while deglazing.

Ingredients

For this hearty stew, gather the following ingredients:

For the Beef Stew

• 2 pounds stew meat
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 2 pounds gold potatoes (cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 2 cups baby carrots
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 4 cups beef broth (divided)
• ½ cup apple vinegar (or more beef broth)
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch

How to Make Best Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Take beef out of the refrigerator. Season it with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Optional: Let stew meat come to room temperature before cooking; this will create more tender beef.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil and add half of the stew meat, making sure not to crowd it.
– Sear both sides for about 3 minutes each.
– Remove from pot and set aside on a plate.
– Add remaining oil and repeat with the second batch of meat.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Add ½ cup of broth to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits stuck at the bottom. This step is crucial to avoid getting a burn message during cooking.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return seared meat back into the pot. Then add:
– Gold potatoes,
– Baby carrots,
– Diced onion,
– Diced celery,
– Minced garlic,
– Italian seasoning,
– Worcestershire sauce,
– 3 cups of beef broth,
– Apple vinegar.

Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Set Cooking Parameters

Lock the lid onto the Instant Pot and set the valve to seal. Choose high pressure cooking for 30 minutes. Note that it will take about 10 minutes for it to come to pressure.

Step 6: Natural Pressure Release

Once cooking time is complete, let it naturally release for 10–15 minutes without opening. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Make Slurry for Gravy

While waiting for natural release, prepare your slurry by whisking together:
– 4 tablespoons cornstarch
– Remaining 4 tablespoons broth in a small bowl.

Step 8: Thicken Gravy and Serve

Quick release any leftover pressure after natural release is done. Turn Instant Pot back to sauté mode.
– Pour in your slurry while stirring continuously until gravy thickens (about 2–3 minutes).
Serve warm alongside fresh bread and garnish with parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Best Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe

Serving the Best Instant Pot Beef Stew is all about enhancing its rich flavors and hearty textures. Here are some delightful suggestions for serving this comforting dish.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy.
• Garlic Bread – The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread complements the stew beautifully.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Steamed White Rice – Serve the stew over fluffy white rice for a classic pairing that absorbs all the flavors.
• Quinoa – For a healthier option, quinoa adds protein and a nutty flavor.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Leaves – A few thyme leaves can enhance the aromatic experience of your stew.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew.
• Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing adds a nice contrast to the hearty beef stew.

How to Perfect Best Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe

Perfecting your Best Instant Pot Beef Stew requires attention to detail in both preparation and cooking. Here are some helpful tips to enhance your dish.

• Choose Quality Meat – Select well-marbled beef for tenderness and flavor; chuck roast works great.
• Sear Properly – Searing the meat before adding other ingredients develops deeper flavors in your stew.
• Use Fresh Veggies – Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also add vibrant colors to your dish.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste before serving; feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
• Thicken Wisely – Use a cornstarch slurry to achieve the desired thickness without clumping.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the stew to rest before serving lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Best Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Best Instant Pot Beef Stew can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this hearty dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a wonderful match for beef stew.
2. Buttered Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the stew’s richness.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy sprouts seasoned with olive oil bring an earthy flavor that pairs well with beef.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients to balance out the meal.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, brightening up each bite of stew.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes complements the savory beef perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking the Best Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring the Searing Step: Skipping the searing of beef can lead to less flavor. Always take time to brown your meat before pressure cooking.
• Crowding the Instant Pot: Overloading the pot can prevent proper cooking and browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Not Deglazing Properly: Failing to scrape up browned bits can cause the burn warning during cooking. Always deglaze with broth after searing.
• Rushing the Pressure Release: Quick releasing too soon can result in tough meat. Use natural release for better tenderness.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting or adjusting seasoning before serving can leave your stew bland. Always season to taste before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Allow the stew to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Best Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Best Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook the Best Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe?

The total time is around 75 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I use other meats in this beef stew recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken, turkey, or lamb for beef if desired.

What vegetables work well in this Best Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe?

Feel free to add peas, green beans, or mushrooms based on your preference.

Can I make this stew gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply replace Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free alternative and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

How do I thicken my stew if it’s too thin?

You can whisk together additional cornstarch with broth and stir it into the stew while sautéing until thickened.

Final Thoughts

This Best Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it an appealing option for any meal. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices!