Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

Name: Instant Pot Beef Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 medium carrots, sliced; 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme); 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Published: May 6, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful Instant Pot Beef Stew takes minimal prep time while delivering maximum flavor.
It’s a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze.
The vibrant colors of carrots and potatoes create an appetizing visual feast.
Enjoy it on chilly evenings or any day you seek comfort food magic.

Last week during our family game night, I made this stew, and everyone went back for seconds—now that’s what I call a victory!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Beef Chuck Roast: Look for well-marbled cuts; they become tender as they cook low and slow.
Carrots: Opt for fresh, vibrant carrots; they add sweetness and color to the stew.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best; they hold their shape while cooking.
Onions: Use yellow onions for their perfect balance of sweetness and sharpness in flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an aromatic punch; don’t skimp on this flavorful ingredient!
Beef Broth: Homemade or store-bought broth enhances depth; steer clear of low-quality options.
Tomato Paste: This adds richness and umami; just a few tablespoons do wonders.
Herbs (Thyme & Bay Leaf): Fresh thyme provides earthy notes while bay leaves enhance overall flavor complexity.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all other ingredients; adjust according to taste preferences.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps sear the beef nicely before pressure cooking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your beef chuck into 1-inch cubes—this ensures even cooking throughout. Dice your onions, slice the carrots into rounds, and cube your potatoes.

Sear the Beef: Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add olive oil. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides—about 3-5 minutes per batch will do.

Add Aromatics: Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic after browning the beef. Sauté until onions turn translucent and release their sweet aroma—around 3 minutes is ideal.

Pour in Liquids: Add beef broth along with tomato paste, ensuring you scrape any brown bits off the bottom of the pot—it’s packed with flavor! Stir well to combine everything nicely.

Add Vegetables & Spices: Gently fold in your chopped carrots and potatoes along with thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is submerged under liquid for even cooking.

Pressure Cook: Close your Instant Pot lid securely and set it to “Manual” mode at high pressure for 35 minutes. Don’t forget to let it naturally release steam afterward—this helps lock in those delicious flavors!

Now that you’re ready to dig into your bowl of comfort zone goodness, don’t forget a slice of crusty bread or a salad on the side! Enjoy every last bite of this warm hug from your kitchen!

You Must Know

Instant Pot beef stew is a hearty delight, perfect for busy weeknights.
The pressure cooker tenderizes the meat beautifully while infusing flavors quickly.
Plus, it’s like having a cozy hug in a bowl, especially on chilly days.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef for maximum flavor, then add veggies and broth before sealing the lid. The order of steps makes all the difference in taste!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables like carrots and potatoes with seasonal options. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate your stew.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stew in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat on the stove or in the microwave.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Searing your beef first adds depth and richness to the stew.
Don’t skimp on salt; it enhances flavor significantly.
Always let your stew rest before serving for better texture and taste.

Cooking this Instant Pot beef stew brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone would gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter as we savored each bite.

FAQ

What type of beef is best for Instant Pot beef stew?

Chuck roast works best due to its marbling and tenderness when cooked under pressure.

Can I use frozen vegetables in my beef stew?

Yes, but fresh vegetables offer better texture and flavor when cooked properly.

How long does it take to cook beef stew in an Instant Pot?

It typically takes about 35-40 minutes under pressure plus time for natural release.

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