Name: Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp tomato paste; 4 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 carrots, peeled and sliced; 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instant Pot Beef Stew is pure comfort in a bowl: tender chunks of beef mingle with sweet carrots, velvety potatoes, and aromatic herbs, all blanketed in a rich, savory gravy. This is the kind of meal you crave on a chilly evening, and the magic of the Instant Pot means you’ll have deep, simmered-all-day flavor in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping, or looking for an easy dinner that guarantees rave reviews, this stew will quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation.

Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Instant Pot Beef Stew keeps things deliciously simple, relying on wholesome, everyday ingredients that each play a starring role. Fresh vegetables provide subtle sweetness and texture, herbs and seasoning bring warmth, and a splash of Worcestershire ties the heartiness together. Here’s what makes this stew truly special:

Beef chuck: The ideal cut for stew—becomes meltingly tender after pressure cooking and imparts rich flavor.
Olive oil: Adds a hint of fruitiness while helping to achieve that crave-worthy seared crust on the beef.
Onion: Lends a subtle sweetness and depth to the base of the stew.
Garlic: Aromatic and essential, just a little goes a long way for flavor.
Tomato paste: Brings savory, tangy richness and an appealing dark color.
Beef broth: Creates the stew’s robust and comforting base—opt for low-sodium for more control over seasoning.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds irresistible umami and a bit of zing that really brightens the final dish.
Dried thyme: Gives quintessential “stew” earthiness and aroma.
Dried rosemary: An herb that pairs perfectly with beef, providing fragrance and a woodsy note.
Paprika: Adds a touch of color and a subtle smoky background.
Salt and pepper: Classic seasonings—season generously to taste for maximum flavor.
Carrots: Bring sweetness and beautiful color to each spoonful.
Potatoes: These soak up the stew’s flavors and make each bite hearty and satisfying.
Celery: Adds a light, peppery crunch and rounds out the vegetable medley.
Cornstarch mixed with water: Optional, but great for creating a thick, silky gravy to coat every ingredient.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle at the end brightens each serving and adds a pop of color.

How to Make Instant Pot Beef Stew

Step 1: Brown the Beef

The first step to developing unbeatable flavor is giving your beef a deep, golden sear. Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode, add the olive oil, and once it’s shimmering, add the beef cubes in batches—don’t overcrowd! Let each side brown undisturbed for a few minutes, then set the beef aside. This quick step creates those crave-able meaty notes that make Instant Pot Beef Stew so delicious.

Step 2: Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Tomato Paste

With the beef temporarily out, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for a couple minutes until it’s just starting to turn translucent. Add in the minced garlic and tomato paste, stirring constantly until fragrant. The tomato paste will caramelize a bit, adding a gorgeous color and tang to the stew’s base.

Step 3: Layer in the Flavors

Return the beef to the pot, then pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together so the flavors get to know each other—this step lays the foundation for the stew’s aromatic, savory character.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Carefully add the carrots, potatoes, and celery on top of the meat mixture, spreading them out evenly. Don’t stir—this allows the veggies to steam gently and hold their shape, resulting in a stew with perfectly cooked morsels in every bite.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to Sealing. Set to Manual or High Pressure for 35 minutes. Once the timer rings, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes—this makes the beef even more tender. Carefully quick release any remaining pressure. You’re greeted by the most inviting aroma!

Step 6: Thicken and Finish

If you like your Instant Pot Beef Stew with a thicker gravy, switch back to Sauté mode and stir in your cornstarch slurry. Let it bubble for a few minutes until it reaches the perfect consistency. All that’s left is to ladle the stew into bowls and finish with a scattering of fresh parsley.

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Stew

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped parsley brings a fresh, vibrant note and gorgeous color contrast. For extra indulgence, a sprinkle of parmesan, a swirl of sour cream, or even a few snipped chives can elevate each comforting bowl.

Side Dishes

Instant Pot Beef Stew is begging to be soaked up with a slice of crusty bread or a buttery dinner roll. For something lighter, serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette, or ladle your stew over pillowy mashed potatoes for the ultimate cold-weather feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic touch, ladle the stew into hollowed-out bread bowls or serve in wide, shallow dishes so the colorful vegetables and herbs are front and center. Take things up a notch for a dinner party by pairing with roasted garlic crostini and a glass of bold red wine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftover Instant Pot Beef Stew cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days—the flavors only get better as the stew rests and melds together.

Freezing

One of the best things about Instant Pot Beef Stew is how freezer-friendly it is. Spoon cooled stew into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving room for expansion. Label and freeze for up to 3 months for a ready-to-go meal any night.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s steaming and heated through. If the stew has thickened in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for its marbling and tenderness, stew meat or even brisket will work. Just ensure you cut the meat into uniform pieces for even cooking.

How can I make this stew gluten-free?

Instant Pot Beef Stew is naturally gluten-free as written, especially if you use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. Always double-check your broth labels to be certain.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to toss in other fridge favorites like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or peas after pressure cooking for variety and added nutrition. Just add delicate veggies at the end so they don’t get mushy.

Is it possible to make this recipe without tomato paste?

You’ll lose a little depth, but the stew will still be hearty and comforting. If needed, substitute with a couple tablespoons of ketchup or leave it out altogether—the broth and herbs will carry the flavor.

Can I make this stew ahead for a party?

Definitely! Instant Pot Beef Stew is actually better the next day. Make it in advance, store in the fridge, and gently reheat before serving for a stress-free, crowd-pleasing meal.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let another chilly evening go by without trying this Instant Pot Beef Stew—it’s simple, soulful, and practically guaranteed to win hearts at your table. Give it a whirl and see just how easy homemade comfort food can be!

Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Instant Pot Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a cozy dinner. Tender beef, vegetables, and savory broth come together quickly and easily in your pressure cooker.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef Stew:

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp tomato paste
4 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

Brown the Beef: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode, add olive oil, and brown the beef in batches.
Sauté Aromatics: Cook onion, garlic, and tomato paste until fragrant.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Return beef to the pot, add broth, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, and seasonings. Layer in vegetables.
Pressure Cook: Close the lid, set to High Pressure for 35 minutes, then natural pressure release.
Thicken (Optional): If desired, thicken stew with cornstarch slurry on Sauté mode.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy hot.