Instant Pot Beef Stew Hearty and Comforting Recipe

ByNaomi
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 1 large onion, finely diced - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced - 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced - 2 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium) - 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end) - Freshly chopped parsley for serving When I make beef stew, I focus on hearty, fresh ingredients. The beef chuck gives a rich flavor. The olive oil helps to brown the meat. Onions and garlic add a sweet base. Carrots and potatoes provide great texture. I love using low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels. Diced tomatoes and tomato paste add depth to the flavor. I add dried thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika for a warm taste. Salt and pepper are key. They bring out the best in the stew. Lastly, peas add a pop of color and sweetness. I sprinkle parsley on top for a fresh touch. It looks great and tastes even better! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, cut 2 pounds of beef chuck into 1-inch cubes. This size helps the beef cook evenly. Next, season the beef well with salt and pepper. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting. Once hot, add half of the beef cubes. Sear them for 5-7 minutes until browned. This adds great flavor. Remove the beef and set it aside. Repeat with the rest of the beef. After cooking the beef, add 1 large diced onion to the pot. Sauté it for 2-3 minutes until it is soft and translucent. Then, add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds more. The aroma will fill your kitchen! Now, return all the beef to the pot. Add 4 medium sliced carrots and 3 diced potatoes. Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth and 1 cup of diced tomatoes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. Mix everything well. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Make sure the pressure valve is sealing. When the cooking time ends, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, switch to a quick release to let out any extra steam. Carefully open the lid and stir in 1 cup of frozen peas. Let the stew sit for 5 more minutes to warm the peas. Taste the stew and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot in deep bowls and enjoy! When making beef stew, I always choose beef chuck. This cut has great flavor and tenderness. It breaks down well during cooking. Look for pieces with some fat. Fat adds richness and helps keep the meat juicy. Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes. This size cooks evenly and absorbs the stew's flavors. To make your stew shine, use herbs and spices. I love adding dried thyme and rosemary. These herbs bring warmth and depth to the stew. Smoked paprika adds a nice, smoky note. You can adjust the flavors to your taste. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Always taste as you go. This way, you can find the perfect balance. Avoid these common mistakes to make the best stew. First, don't skip the browning step. Searing the beef adds a rich flavor. Next, don’t overcrowd the pot. Cook the beef in batches for even browning. Lastly, don’t rush the pressure release. Let it release naturally for better texture. These steps help create a hearty and delicious stew. Pro Tips Searing the Beef: Make sure to sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lead to steaming instead of browning. Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew after cooking, then simmer until thickened. Flavor Enhancements: For deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the pot after sautéing the onions and garlic, allowing it to simmer for a minute before adding the other ingredients. Storage Tips: This stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it also freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. {{image_4}} You can add more veggies to your stew. Some great options are: - Celery: Adds crunch and flavor. - Parsnips: Offers a sweet taste. - Bell Peppers: Brings color and freshness. - Mushrooms: Adds earthy notes. Feel free to mix and match. Just chop them up and add them with the other veggies. If you're looking for different proteins, try these: - Chicken: Use boneless thighs for tenderness. - Pork: Pork shoulder works well with the spices. - Lentils: A great plant-based option full of protein. Just adjust the cooking time. Chicken cooks faster, while lentils need less time than beef. You can change the broth for new tastes: - Chicken Broth: Lighter flavor, but still tasty. - Vegetable Broth: Perfect for a plant-based stew. - Red Wine: Adds depth and richness; use half broth and half wine. Experiment with flavors to make the stew your own. Enjoy the process! After making beef stew, cool it to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the stew fresh and tasty. When you're ready to enjoy it, just pull it out! If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Let the stew cool completely. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top. Seal the containers tightly and label them with the date. The stew can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat the stew, you have a few options. You can use the stove or the microwave. For the stove, pour the stew into a pot and heat it over medium heat. Stir it often until it’s hot. If using the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through. Make sure to check the temperature before serving. Enjoy your hearty stew again! You will know the beef is tender when it easily breaks apart with a fork. After cooking in the Instant Pot for 35 minutes, the beef should be soft and juicy. If it still feels tough, it needs more time. You can cook it on high pressure for an extra 5 to 10 minutes. The pressure helps break down the tough fibers in the meat. Yes, you can use other meats for this stew. Chicken thighs work well and cook faster. You can also try pork shoulder for a different flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose. Beef chuck is ideal for its rich taste and tenderness when cooked. Absolutely! You can skip the tomatoes if you prefer. Just add more beef broth to keep the stew moist. You could also add a splash of red wine for depth. The flavor will change, but the stew will still be hearty and delicious. If your stew is too watery, there are a few easy tricks. You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in. Let it cook for a few more minutes until it thickens. Another option is to mash some of the potatoes in the stew. This will naturally thicken the broth. This blog post covers how to make a great beef stew. We explored key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips. We also shared fun variations and storage advice. Remember, choosing the right beef cut makes a big difference. You can play with flavors by adding various herbs or veggies. Feel free to experiment with proteins, too. Each step is easy to follow, and with practice, you will master this dish. Now, it’s your turn to create a warm, hearty stew that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to make a warm and filling Instant Pot Beef Stew? This dish is packed with rich flavors and tender beef. In this recipe, I’ll guide you through every step, from picking the perfect meat to making tasty adjustments. Whether you’re new to cooking or a kitchen expert, you’ll find tips and tricks to make this stew a hit. Let’s dive in and create a hearty meal together!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting and Hearty: This beef stew is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender beef and hearty vegetables that warm you up from the inside out.
  2. Easy to Prepare: Using the Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  3. Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of herbs, spices, and fresh vegetables creates a rich and savory flavor profile that everyone will love.
  4. Perfect for Meal Prep: This stew makes excellent leftovers, so you can easily prepare it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

– 3 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 large onion, finely diced

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced

– 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

– 2 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)

– 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

– 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Seasoning Ingredients

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

– 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)

– Freshly chopped parsley for serving

When I make beef stew, I focus on hearty, fresh ingredients. The beef chuck gives a rich flavor. The olive oil helps to brown the meat. Onions and garlic add a sweet base. Carrots and potatoes provide great texture. I love using low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels. Diced tomatoes and tomato paste add depth to the flavor.

I add dried thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika for a warm taste. Salt and pepper are key. They bring out the best in the stew. Lastly, peas add a pop of color and sweetness. I sprinkle parsley on top for a fresh touch. It looks great and tastes even better!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Beef

First, cut 2 pounds of beef chuck into 1-inch cubes. This size helps the beef cook evenly. Next, season the beef well with salt and pepper. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting. Once hot, add half of the beef cubes. Sear them for 5-7 minutes until browned. This adds great flavor. Remove the beef and set it aside. Repeat with the rest of the beef.

Sautéing the Vegetables

After cooking the beef, add 1 large diced onion to the pot. Sauté it for 2-3 minutes until it is soft and translucent. Then, add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds more. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Cooking in the Instant Pot

Now, return all the beef to the pot. Add 4 medium sliced carrots and 3 diced potatoes. Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth and 1 cup of diced tomatoes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. Mix everything well. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Make sure the pressure valve is sealing.

Final Touches

When the cooking time ends, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, switch to a quick release to let out any extra steam. Carefully open the lid and stir in 1 cup of frozen peas. Let the stew sit for 5 more minutes to warm the peas. Taste the stew and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot in deep bowls and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

When making beef stew, I always choose beef chuck. This cut has great flavor and tenderness. It breaks down well during cooking. Look for pieces with some fat. Fat adds richness and helps keep the meat juicy. Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes. This size cooks evenly and absorbs the stew’s flavors.

Enhancing Flavor with Herbs and Spices

To make your stew shine, use herbs and spices. I love adding dried thyme and rosemary. These herbs bring warmth and depth to the stew. Smoked paprika adds a nice, smoky note. You can adjust the flavors to your taste. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Always taste as you go. This way, you can find the perfect balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to make the best stew. First, don’t skip the browning step. Searing the beef adds a rich flavor. Next, don’t overcrowd the pot. Cook the beef in batches for even browning. Lastly, don’t rush the pressure release. Let it release naturally for better texture. These steps help create a hearty and delicious stew.

Pro Tips

  1. Searing the Beef: Make sure to sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lead to steaming instead of browning.
  2. Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew after cooking, then simmer until thickened.
  3. Flavor Enhancements: For deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the pot after sautéing the onions and garlic, allowing it to simmer for a minute before adding the other ingredients.
  4. Storage Tips: This stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it also freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

Variations

Adding More Vegetables

You can add more veggies to your stew. Some great options are:

– Celery: Adds crunch and flavor.

– Parsnips: Offers a sweet taste.

– Bell Peppers: Brings color and freshness.

– Mushrooms: Adds earthy notes.

Feel free to mix and match. Just chop them up and add them with the other veggies.

Alternative Protein Options

If you’re looking for different proteins, try these:

– Chicken: Use boneless thighs for tenderness.

– Pork: Pork shoulder works well with the spices.

– Lentils: A great plant-based option full of protein.

Just adjust the cooking time. Chicken cooks faster, while lentils need less time than beef.

Swapping Out Broth for Different Flavors

You can change the broth for new tastes:

– Chicken Broth: Lighter flavor, but still tasty.

– Vegetable Broth: Perfect for a plant-based stew.

– Red Wine: Adds depth and richness; use half broth and half wine.

Experiment with flavors to make the stew your own. Enjoy the process!

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

After making beef stew, cool it to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the stew fresh and tasty. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just pull it out!

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Let the stew cool completely. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top. Seal the containers tightly and label them with the date. The stew can last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Tips

To reheat the stew, you have a few options. You can use the stove or the microwave. For the stove, pour the stew into a pot and heat it over medium heat. Stir it often until it’s hot. If using the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through. Make sure to check the temperature before serving. Enjoy your hearty stew again!

FAQs

How do I know when the beef is tender?

You will know the beef is tender when it easily breaks apart with a fork. After cooking in the Instant Pot for 35 minutes, the beef should be soft and juicy. If it still feels tough, it needs more time. You can cook it on high pressure for an extra 5 to 10 minutes. The pressure helps break down the tough fibers in the meat.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can use other meats for this stew. Chicken thighs work well and cook faster. You can also try pork shoulder for a different flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose. Beef chuck is ideal for its rich taste and tenderness when cooked.

Is it possible to make this stew without tomatoes?

Absolutely! You can skip the tomatoes if you prefer. Just add more beef broth to keep the stew moist. You could also add a splash of red wine for depth. The flavor will change, but the stew will still be hearty and delicious.

How do I thicken the stew if it’s too watery?

If your stew is too watery, there are a few easy tricks. You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in. Let it cook for a few more minutes until it thickens. Another option is to mash some of the potatoes in the stew. This will naturally thicken the broth.

This blog post covers how to make a great beef stew. We explored key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips. We also shared fun variations and storage advice. Remember, choosing the right beef cut makes a big difference. You can play with flavors by adding various herbs or veggies. Feel free to experiment with proteins, too. Each step is easy to follow, and with practice, you will master this dish. Now, it’s your turn to create a warm, hearty stew that everyone will love. Enjoy your cookin

- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 1 large onion, finely diced - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced - 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced - 2 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium) - 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end) - Freshly chopped parsley for serving When I make beef stew, I focus on hearty, fresh ingredients. The beef chuck gives a rich flavor. The olive oil helps to brown the meat. Onions and garlic add a sweet base. Carrots and potatoes provide great texture. I love using low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels. Diced tomatoes and tomato paste add depth to the flavor. I add dried thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika for a warm taste. Salt and pepper are key. They bring out the best in the stew. Lastly, peas add a pop of color and sweetness. I sprinkle parsley on top for a fresh touch. It looks great and tastes even better! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, cut 2 pounds of beef chuck into 1-inch cubes. This size helps the beef cook evenly. Next, season the beef well with salt and pepper. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting. Once hot, add half of the beef cubes. Sear them for 5-7 minutes until browned. This adds great flavor. Remove the beef and set it aside. Repeat with the rest of the beef. After cooking the beef, add 1 large diced onion to the pot. Sauté it for 2-3 minutes until it is soft and translucent. Then, add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds more. The aroma will fill your kitchen! Now, return all the beef to the pot. Add 4 medium sliced carrots and 3 diced potatoes. Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth and 1 cup of diced tomatoes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. Mix everything well. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Make sure the pressure valve is sealing. When the cooking time ends, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, switch to a quick release to let out any extra steam. Carefully open the lid and stir in 1 cup of frozen peas. Let the stew sit for 5 more minutes to warm the peas. Taste the stew and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot in deep bowls and enjoy! When making beef stew, I always choose beef chuck. This cut has great flavor and tenderness. It breaks down well during cooking. Look for pieces with some fat. Fat adds richness and helps keep the meat juicy. Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes. This size cooks evenly and absorbs the stew's flavors. To make your stew shine, use herbs and spices. I love adding dried thyme and rosemary. These herbs bring warmth and depth to the stew. Smoked paprika adds a nice, smoky note. You can adjust the flavors to your taste. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Always taste as you go. This way, you can find the perfect balance. Avoid these common mistakes to make the best stew. First, don't skip the browning step. Searing the beef adds a rich flavor. Next, don’t overcrowd the pot. Cook the beef in batches for even browning. Lastly, don’t rush the pressure release. Let it release naturally for better texture. These steps help create a hearty and delicious stew. Pro Tips Searing the Beef: Make sure to sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lead to steaming instead of browning. Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew after cooking, then simmer until thickened. Flavor Enhancements: For deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the pot after sautéing the onions and garlic, allowing it to simmer for a minute before adding the other ingredients. Storage Tips: This stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it also freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. {{image_4}} You can add more veggies to your stew. Some great options are: - Celery: Adds crunch and flavor. - Parsnips: Offers a sweet taste. - Bell Peppers: Brings color and freshness. - Mushrooms: Adds earthy notes. Feel free to mix and match. Just chop them up and add them with the other veggies. If you're looking for different proteins, try these: - Chicken: Use boneless thighs for tenderness. - Pork: Pork shoulder works well with the spices. - Lentils: A great plant-based option full of protein. Just adjust the cooking time. Chicken cooks faster, while lentils need less time than beef. You can change the broth for new tastes: - Chicken Broth: Lighter flavor, but still tasty. - Vegetable Broth: Perfect for a plant-based stew. - Red Wine: Adds depth and richness; use half broth and half wine. Experiment with flavors to make the stew your own. Enjoy the process! After making beef stew, cool it to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the stew fresh and tasty. When you're ready to enjoy it, just pull it out! If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Let the stew cool completely. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top. Seal the containers tightly and label them with the date. The stew can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat the stew, you have a few options. You can use the stove or the microwave. For the stove, pour the stew into a pot and heat it over medium heat. Stir it often until it’s hot. If using the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through. Make sure to check the temperature before serving. Enjoy your hearty stew again! You will know the beef is tender when it easily breaks apart with a fork. After cooking in the Instant Pot for 35 minutes, the beef should be soft and juicy. If it still feels tough, it needs more time. You can cook it on high pressure for an extra 5 to 10 minutes. The pressure helps break down the tough fibers in the meat. Yes, you can use other meats for this stew. Chicken thighs work well and cook faster. You can also try pork shoulder for a different flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose. Beef chuck is ideal for its rich taste and tenderness when cooked. Absolutely! You can skip the tomatoes if you prefer. Just add more beef broth to keep the stew moist. You could also add a splash of red wine for depth. The flavor will change, but the stew will still be hearty and delicious. If your stew is too watery, there are a few easy tricks. You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in. Let it cook for a few more minutes until it thickens. Another option is to mash some of the potatoes in the stew. This will naturally thicken the broth. This blog post covers how to make a great beef stew. We explored key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips. We also shared fun variations and storage advice. Remember, choosing the right beef cut makes a big difference. You can play with flavors by adding various herbs or veggies. Feel free to experiment with proteins, too. Each step is easy to follow, and with practice, you will master this dish. Now, it’s your turn to create a warm, hearty stew that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking!

Hearty Instant Pot Beef Stew

A comforting and flavorful beef stew made in the Instant Pot, perfect for a hearty meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)

Instructions
 

  • Begin by setting the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Pour in the olive oil and let it heat for about a minute until shimmering.
  • While the pot is heating, season the cubed beef generously with salt and pepper. Add half of the beef cubes to the pot and sear them for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside on a plate. Repeat the searing process with the remaining beef.
  • With the beef removed, add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and softened. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Return all the browned beef back into the pot. Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
  • Close the lid of the Instant Pot securely and set it to cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Ensure that the pressure valve is set to sealing.
  • When the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. After this, carefully switch to a quick release to vent any remaining steam, being cautious of the hot steam.
  • Open the lid and gently stir in the frozen peas. Allow the stew to sit for an additional 5 minutes; this will warm the peas through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  • Ladle the hearty stew into deep bowls and serve hot. If desired, garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of brightness.

Notes

Serve with crusty bread and garnish with chopped parsley.
Keyword beef stew, comfort food, hearty meal, instant pot

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Related Posts