Description
Instant Pot Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting classic made with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, and a rich, savory broth. It delivers deep, slow-simmered flavor in a fraction of the time, making it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasonings
- 2 pounds beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Liquid and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
Vegetables
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
Thickener
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Set the Instant Pot to the Sauté setting and add olive oil to heat.
- Season the beef: In a bowl, season the beef stew meat with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
- Brown the beef: Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, brown the beef chunks in the heated oil until all sides are nicely seared. This step locks in flavor.
- Add liquids and herbs: Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine. Add dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf.
- Add the vegetables: Add the peeled and cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the Instant Pot. Stir gently to mix them with the broth and beef.
- Pressure cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the Sealing position. Select the High Pressure setting and cook for 35 minutes to tenderize the beef and vegetables.
- Release pressure: Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes after cooking. Then carefully switch the valve to Quick Release to release any remaining pressure.
- Remove bay leaf: Open the lid and remove the bay leaf from the stew to avoid any strong or bitter flavors.
- Thicken the stew: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and cold water until smooth to create a slurry. Set the Instant Pot back to Sauté and stir in the slurry. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until the stew thickens to your liking.
- Serve hot: Once thickened, ladle the stew into bowls and serve warm for a cozy, comforting meal.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, deglaze the Instant Pot pot well after browning the beef by scraping up browned bits before adding liquids.
- You can add frozen peas during the final simmer for added color and sweetness.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months for convenient future meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
