Instant Pot Beef Stew

This Instant Pot Beef Stew is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With tender pieces of beef, flavorful vegetables, and a savory broth, this stew offers warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. It’s an easy recipe that can be prepared in less than two hours, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the rich flavors, and enjoy a meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious stew in under 90 minutes.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each component adds depth to the dish, resulting in a rich and aromatic broth.
• One-Pot Meal: This recipe minimizes cleanup by cooking everything in one pot, making it convenient for busy cooks.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from family meals to potluck gatherings.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasoning to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowls

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker not only speeds up cooking but also locks in flavors and moisture.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for preparing your ingredients quickly and safely.
• Measuring Spoons: Ensures precise ingredient measurements for consistent results.

Ingredients

This Instant Pot Beef Stew is filled with tender pieces of beef, potatoes and carrots in a rich and flavorful broth. Serve it with some crusty bread and a green salad for a hearty, satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless beef chuck roast (or beef stew meat)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 yellow onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 cups unsalted beef stock (or low sodium beef broth)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf

Vegetables

• 4 carrots (cut into 1-inch pieces on the diagonal)
• 1 ½ pounds Yukon gold potatoes (about 4 medium, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces)

Thickening Agent

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

How to Make Instant Pot Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. If using chuck roast and not already cut stew meat, cut the beef into 1 ½ to 2 inch cubes.

Step 2: Sauté the Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté function.
2. When hot, add half of the beef in a single layer; sprinkle with half of the salt and pepper.
3. Brown first side without moving it for about 4 minutes until browned; flip and brown second side for another 4 minutes.
4. Remove browned beef to a clean bowl.
5. Add remaining olive oil and brown the second half of the beef with remaining salt and pepper; remove to bowl when done.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

1. Add chopped onion to the Instant Pot; sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic; press cancel on heat, stir for about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

1. Pour in 1 cup of beef broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
2. Add remaining broth along with tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, thyme, bay leaf; stir well.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Return browned beef to the pot along with any juices from the bowl.
2. Place carrots and potatoes on top of beef without stirring.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

1. Close lid; set steam release valve to sealing position.
2. Press Manual/Pressure Cook button; set cook time to 35 minutes at high pressure.
3. Allow natural release for 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure carefully.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Open lid; remove bay leaf.
2. Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl; pour into Instant Pot while turning on sauté function again.
3. Simmer until slightly thickened while being careful not to break up vegetables as you stir.

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Stew

Serving Instant Pot Beef Stew is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. This hearty dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Enjoy the stew with slices of crusty bread to soak up the rich broth.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a burst of flavor and color.

Serve with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Offer a side of creamy mashed potatoes to complement the stew’s texture and flavors.

Include a Green Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the stew.

Use Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top adds creaminess and tang.

Offer Grated Cheese

• Sprinkle some grated cheese, like cheddar, over the top for an extra layer of indulgence.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Beef Stew

Perfecting your Instant Pot Beef Stew ensures every bite is packed with flavor and tenderness. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose Quality Meat: Select good quality beef chuck for tender pieces that melt in your mouth.
• Sear the Meat: Browning the beef creates depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the stew.
• Don’t Skip the Deglazing: Scrape up browned bits after sautéing; they add essential flavor to your broth.
• Layer Ingredients Properly: Place vegetables on top of the meat without stirring to keep them intact during cooking.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt and pepper after cooking; a little tweak can make a big difference.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for a few minutes before serving helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Beef Stew

Completing your meal with suitable side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider when serving Instant Pot Beef Stew:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the stew perfectly while providing added crunch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients, balancing out the meal.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf offers a nice base to absorb all those delicious stew flavors.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the stew’s warmth.
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully, adding a touch of sweetness to each bite.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies makes for a healthy side option full of texture.
7. Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add a pop of color and are quick to prepare alongside your main dish.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness that complements the savory notes of the stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to run into issues when making Instant Pot Beef Stew. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong cut of meat: Choosing a tough cut like chuck roast is essential for tender beef stew. Avoid lean cuts that won’t become tender during cooking.
• Overcrowding the pot: When browning beef, make sure not to overcrowd the Instant Pot. This could prevent proper browning. Brown in batches instead.
• Skipping the deglazing step: Failing to scrape up the browned bits after sautéing can lead to burnt flavors. Always deglaze with broth before adding other ingredients.
• Not following pressure release instructions: Allowing for natural pressure release is crucial for tender meat. Don’t rush this process; it makes a big difference in texture.
• Ignoring ingredient sizes: Cutting vegetables and meat into uneven sizes can result in uneven cooking. Aim for uniform pieces for consistent results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Instant Pot Beef Stew in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Instant Pot Beef Stew

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label containers with the date for tracking freshness.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Transfer stew to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Pour stew into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of beef is best for Instant Pot Beef Stew?

The best cut is boneless beef chuck roast, as it becomes tender and flavorful during cooking.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Beef Stew?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences.

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

The total time includes about 35 minutes of cooking under pressure, plus additional time for the pot to come to pressure and natural release.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can create a delicious variation using chicken thighs or breasts, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Beef Stew is not only hearty but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with various vegetables and seasonings. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, so give it a try and enjoy a cozy bowl of comfort!

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