Name: Instant Pot Beef Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 large yellow onion, chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced 3 cups beef broth 2 tablespoons tomato paste 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional) 1 tablespoon water (optional)

When the temperature dips and comfort food cravings hit hard, nothing satisfies quite like a hearty bowl of beef stew. This Instant Pot Beef Stew takes the classic, slow-simmered dish and brings it to your table in a fraction of the time. Rich, savory broth, tender chunks of beef, and melt-in-your-mouth vegetables all come together in one pot, creating a fuss-free dinner that feels like a warm hug.

Using an Instant Pot means you can develop deep, complex flavors without hours of cooking. It’s a perfect weeknight meal, especially when you want something nourishing but don’t have all day to babysit the stove. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or a simple green salad, this stew is destined to become a cold-weather favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Beef Stew

This stew is all about balance. The beef becomes incredibly tender under pressure, while the potatoes and carrots absorb every bit of savory goodness from the broth. You don’t need any fancy ingredients, and most of what you need is probably already in your kitchen. It’s also very forgiving, so you can tweak it with what you have on hand.

The Instant Pot locks in flavor, making each spoonful taste like it’s been simmering all day. It’s a one-pot meal that feeds a crowd and stores beautifully for leftovers. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, this stew is a no-brainer for cozy nights in.

What Kind of Beef Should I Use for Stew?

For the best results, go with well-marbled, tougher cuts of beef like chuck roast or stew meat. These cuts have enough connective tissue and fat to break down beautifully under pressure, resulting in tender, flavorful bites. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin, which can dry out in the Instant Pot.

If you’re using a chuck roast, just cut it into even, bite-sized pieces. Patting it dry before browning helps get a nice sear, which adds depth and richness to the final stew.

Ingredients for the Instant Pot Beef Stew

This stew relies on classic, humble ingredients that create bold, comforting flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Beef chuck roast – This cut becomes wonderfully tender when pressure cooked, making it ideal for stew.

Olive oil – Helps brown the beef and adds a touch of richness to the base.

Onion – Adds savory depth and a touch of sweetness as it cooks down.

Garlic – Brings an aromatic boost that enhances the overall flavor.

Carrots – Naturally sweet and hearty, they hold their shape well under pressure.

Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold are perfect for soaking up flavor while keeping texture.

Beef broth – A rich base that ties the whole dish together with deep, savory notes.

Tomato paste – Adds umami and a touch of acidity for balance.

Worcestershire sauce – A secret weapon for boosting flavor.

Thyme and rosemary – Earthy herbs that make the stew taste like it’s been simmering for hours.

Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to round out the flavor.

Cornstarch + water (optional) – For thickening the stew at the end, if desired.

How To Make the Instant Pot Beef Stew

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil and sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. This step builds flavor, so take your time. Once done, remove the beef and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the onions until soft. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Stew

Add a splash of beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and remaining broth. Return the beef to the pot.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

Add in the carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together gently.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before doing a quick release.

Step 6: Thicken (Optional)

If you’d like a thicker stew, mix cornstarch and water into a slurry and stir it into the hot stew using Sauté mode until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serving and Storing Instant Pot Beef Stew

This recipe serves about 6 hearty portions, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Serve it piping hot with crusty bread or buttered rolls to mop up every bit of the rich broth.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually get better as it sits. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

What to Serve With Instant Pot Beef Stew?

Crusty French Bread

A thick slice of crusty bread is the classic side for soaking up the stew’s flavorful broth.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Double the comfort with a scoop of buttery mashed potatoes under your stew.

Buttery Dinner Rolls

Soft rolls make a great option for little hands and are perfect for dipping.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Add a pop of green and crunch with some oven-roasted sprouts on the side.

Apple Walnut Salad

Crisp and sweet, this salad adds brightness to balance the richness of the stew.

Pickled Vegetables

A tangy bite like pickled onions or cucumbers can provide contrast and zing.

Cheddar Biscuits

Flaky, cheesy biscuits are another fun alternative to bread.

Steamed Green Beans

Lightly steamed and buttered green beans round out the meal with freshness.

Want More Hearty Dinner Ideas?

If this stew warmed you up, you’ll love these satisfying mains from the blog:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or skip the potatoes? Maybe a dash of red wine for depth?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter.

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