Instant Pot Beef Stew (Rich, Tender & Ready in 1 Hour!)
I still remember all those family dinners when my grandmother would serve her classic beef stew. She’d let it simmer on the stove for hours, and by dinnertime, we’d gobble it all up in a heartbeat.
Memories of my grandma’s cooking always give me so much joy, and I want to share that same feeling with my family. But the problem is I don’t always have the time to spend all day making slow-cooked meals.
So I adapted her recipe and created my own version: the Instant Pot Beef Stew.
With the marvels of pressure cooking, I can have melt-in-your-mouth beef and soft veggies soaking up the flavors of a rich, savory broth with that tastes like it’s been simmering all day — but in a fraction of the time.
So if you want a hearty, comforting meal that’s ridiculously easy to make but doesn’t sacrifice that slow-cooked taste, you’ll love this beef stew recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and convenient: Cooks in a little over an hour
- Rich and hearty: Tender beef and wholesome vegetables in a flavorful broth
- Perfect for meal prep: Can be stored in containers, with the flavor deepening over time
- Customizable: Goes well with different vegetables and seasonings of your choice
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 2 lbs. beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 can (8 oz.) tomato sauce (or 2 tablespoons tomato paste)
- 2 medium Yukon gold potatoes, quartered (or russet potatoes)
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 white onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (deepens umami flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional for a thicker broth)
Prep & Cook Time
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 55 minutes | 60 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat the beef dry, then season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat the olive oil and brown the beef to ensure a golden crust. Remove and set aside.
- Stir in beef broth and scrape up browned bits at the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
- Add the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Secure the lid of your Instant Pot, set the valve to “Sealing,” select the “Meat/Stew” option, and set the timer for 35 minutes (your Instant Pot will build pressure first for around 15 to 20 minutes).
- Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- For a thicker broth, mix cornstarch with water and stir into the stew until you achieve the desired thickness.
- Serve and enjoy!
Expert Tips for the Best Instant Pot Beef Stew
- Don’t skip the browning step — it adds richness and flavor to your stew.
- Let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure to help keep the beef fork-tender instead of tough.
- You can use tomato juice instead of tomato sauce, but I prefer sauce because it’s thicker and more flavorful. Another substitute is tomato paste, although note that you may end up with less liquid.
- Feel free to add peas to your stew. Just remember to stir them in after pressure cooking and let them sit for a few minutes in the hot stew to keep them tender instead of mushy.
- Chuck roast is the best choice for stew because it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender under pressure. Alternatives like flap or brisket can work, but be sure to always avoid lean cuts, which can turn tough and dry.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbohydrates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 cup | 350 | 30g | 15g | 25g |
FAQs About Instant Pot Beef Stew
Can I use frozen beef?
Yes, just increase the cooking time by 10 minutes and ensure even pressure release.
What’s the best reheating method?
Reheat on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth if you need more liquid.
Is this meal prep-friendly?
Absolutely! Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors develop more overnight!
This Instant Pot Beef Stew Is Warm, Hearty, and Ready in No Time!
There’s nothing like a warm bowl of this homemade Instant Pot Beef Stew to bring a sense of comfort and nostalgia. I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your home when you share it with your family it on a chilly night!
