On a blustery evening, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a hearty stew to warm the soul. I found myself craving that kind of cozy meal recently, and my Instant Pot came to the rescue with this delightful Beef Stew (with a secret ingredient!). As the rich scents of sautéed garlic and browning meat filled my kitchen, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, reminding me of chilly nights spent around the dinner table with loved ones.
This dish seamlessly combines tender beef, creamy potatoes, and vibrant vegetables, but it’s the unexpected addition of red wine that elevates the flavor to new heights. In less than an hour, you can serve up a cozy bowl of comfort food that delights both family and friends alike. Say goodbye to the hassle of takeout and embrace the joy of home-cooked flavor with this easy weeknight recipe. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this heartwarming Instant Pot Beef Stew that will surely become a go-to favorite!
Why is this Instant Pot Beef Stew special?
Comforting warmth: There’s nothing like a bowl of stew to provide solace on a chilly evening.
Secret ingredient magic: The addition of red wine enhances the savory flavors, taking this stew to the next level.
Quick and easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-pleaser: With tender beef and colorful veggies, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Customizable delight: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch.
Effortless clean-up: Cooking in the Instant Pot means less mess and more time enjoying your meal!
For more amazing meal ideas, check out our collection of cozy recipes.
Instant Pot Beef Stew Ingredients
For the Stew
• Stew Meat or Chuck Roast – The heart of the dish; using pre-cut stew meat can save time.
• Oil – Tan the beef to enhance flavors; olive or vegetable oil performs best.
• Russet Potatoes – Creamy and hearty; Yukon Gold provides a buttery twist.
• Onion – Offers depth and sweetness; yellow or white onions work wonderfully.
• Minced Garlic – Adds aromatic richness; fresh garlic is ideal, but garlic powder is a good substitute.
• Celery – Brings crunch and flavor; you can omit it if preferred.
• Carrots – Sweet and vibrant; consider parsnips for a different taste experience.
• Red Wine – Enhances the stew’s savory depth; beef broth can be a non-alcoholic alternative.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami to your Instant Pot beef stew; soy sauce also works.
• Chili Sauce – Amplifies richness; Heinz Tomato-Based Chili Sauce is a solid pick.
• Beef Broth – Moisture and flavor base; opt for low-sodium for control over salt levels.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to your taste preference.
• Italian Seasoning – A delightful herb blend; substitute with a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme as you like.
• Cornstarch – For thickening the stew; flour or arrowroot starch are good alternatives.
• Water – Needed to mix with cornstarch for thickening purposes.
• Fresh Parsley or Cilantro – For garnish; chives can also add a lovely touch, or omit if desired.
Enjoy crafting this comforting bowl of Instant Pot beef stew that brings together rich flavors and heartwarming memories!
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Stew
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Prepare ingredients: Cut the beef into 1-inch pieces and chop the potatoes, onion, carrots, and celery. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
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Sauté meat: Turn on the Instant Pot’s Sauté function and heat oil until shimmering. Add the stew meat in batches, browning on all sides but not cooking through to keep it tender.
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Cook aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
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Deglaze the pot: Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom to lift any browned bits; this adds depth and richness to the stew’s flavor.
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Combine ingredients: Toss in the potatoes, carrots, celery, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, chili sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
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Pressure cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook on high for 35 minutes. This ensures the beef becomes fork-tender and infused with all those delicious flavors.
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Release steam: Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release steam for 15-20 minutes after cooking. This step helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful.
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Thicken gravy: If the stew’s consistency is too thin, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl and add it to the stew while hot, stirring constantly until thickened to your liking.
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Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top before serving to add a fresh touch.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Beef Stew?
There’s something magical about the harmony of flavors when you complement a hearty beef stew with the right sides.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory gravy, this crunchy exterior hides a soft, warm center that adds delightful texture.
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Cornbread: Its slight sweetness balances the savory flavors, creating a delightful contrast that brings out the best in your stew.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and buttery, these mashed potatoes provide comfort and richness that enhances the heartiness of the beef stew.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and crisp exterior add a touch of freshness and brightness to your meal.
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Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette offers a light, crunchy contrast that is both invigorating and satisfying.
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Red Wine: Enhance your dinner experience with a glass of red wine. Its deep flavors beautifully complement the savory notes of the beef stew.
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Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with fresh herbs can absorb the delicious gravy, making every bite wonderfully flavorful.
Let your meal shine with these pairing ideas that celebrate the robust flavors of your Instant Pot Beef Stew!
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Beef Stew meal prep options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the beef, potatoes, carrots, and celery up to 24 hours in advance. Store your prepared ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. If you’re really planning ahead, you can cook the stew completely and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the stew on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot on sauté mode until warmed through. This way, each bite of beef stew remains just as delicious and comforting as when it was freshly made!
Storage Tips for Instant Pot Beef Stew
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the stew cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top, as the stew will expand when frozen.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave until heated through.
Serving: Refresh the flavor by adding a splash of broth or wine while reheating your Instant Pot beef stew for a delightful meal every time!
Instant Pot Beef Stew Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful stew recipe and tailor it to your family’s taste!
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Paleo Swap: Use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a healthier, low-carb option. They add a hint of sweetness to the dish!
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Vegetable Boost: Add fresh peas or green beans just before serving for added color and nutrition. They bring a bright crunch that complements the rich flavors.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to introduce some heat, waking up your taste buds just perfectly.
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Herb Infusion: Replace Italian seasoning with a few sprigs of fresh thyme and rosemary. Their fragrances will envelop you in warmth and coziness.
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Red Wine Substitute: If you prefer to avoid alcohol, consider balsamic vinegar for a tangy depth of flavor that beautifully enhances the gravy.
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Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a luxuriously creamy stew that delights the palate.
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Mushroom Lovers: Incorporate sliced mushrooms along with the veggies for an earthier taste that adds unique texture to every bite.
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Citrus Zing: Add a tablespoon of lemon juice or zest before serving to brighten up the flavors, making it refreshing and vibrant.
Each of these variations offers a chance to put your personal touch on a classic favorite. Enjoy experimenting!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Beef Stew
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Brown the Meat: Always take the time to brown the stew meat first. This step enhances flavor and creates a delicious depth in your Instant Pot beef stew.
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Uniform Cuts: Ensure all meat and vegetables are cut into similar sizes. This helps them cook evenly, avoiding undercooked or mushy pieces.
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Don’t Skip Deglazing: Deglazing with red wine is crucial. If you choose to skip the wine, add a splash of vinegar to maintain the acidity and flavor balance.
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Pre-Prep Vegetables: Chop your vegetables ahead of time to speed up the cooking process. This allows you to enjoy cooking without feeling rushed.
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Adjust Thickness: If your stew is too thin after cooking, make a cornstarch and water slurry. Stir it in while hot to achieve the desired thickness.
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Flavor Customization: Feel free to add your favorite spices and herbs beyond the Italian seasoning. This is a great opportunity to personalize your Instant Pot beef stew!
Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe FAQs
What type of meat should I use for the stew?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using stew meat or chuck roast. If you’re in a hurry, pre-cut stew meat is a convenient option that works perfectly.
How should I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
Very! Store your Instant Pot beef stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s essential to let the stew cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation that can make it watery.
Can I freeze Instant Pot beef stew?
Certainly! You can freeze the stew for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Be sure to leave some space at the top since the stew will expand as it freezes. Thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results.
What if my stew is too thin after cooking?
If you find that the gravy in your stew isn’t thick enough for your liking, don’t worry! Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the hot stew while it’s cooking, and it will thicken up beautifully within minutes!
What dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious with the Worcestershire sauce, which often contains anchovies. You can substitute it with soy sauce or simply omit it. For vegetarians, a plant-based meat substitute could work well, combined with vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How do I select the best vegetables for my stew?
Certainly! Look for vibrant, firm vegetables without dark spots or blemishes. The potatoes should be free of sprouts, and the carrots should be crisp. Fresh garlic should feel firm and not sprouted. Your beef stew can be as colorful and nutritious as you want it to be!
Instant Pot Beef Stew with A Secret Ingredient You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare ingredients: Cut the beef into 1-inch pieces and chop the potatoes, onion, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté meat: Turn on the Instant Pot’s Sauté function and heat oil until shimmering. Add the stew meat in batches, browning on all sides.
- Cook aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Deglaze the pot: Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom to lift any browned bits.
- Combine ingredients: Toss in the potatoes, carrots, celery, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, chili sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Pressure cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook on high for 35 minutes.
- Release steam: Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release steam for 15-20 minutes after cooking.
- Thicken gravy: If the stew’s consistency is too thin, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl and add it to the stew while hot.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top before serving.