Instant Pot Beef Stew Hearty Comfort in a Hurry

By Chef BakerAugust 21, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy some proper comfort food ? How about a hearty instant pot beef stew ready in under an hour? Honestly, this recipe is a game changer.

Think tender beef, rich gravy, and all the delicious veggies.

Brief Overview

Beef stew is a classic dish with roots deep in hearty home cooking. This quick beef stew recipe uses the instant pot to cut down cooking time.

It serves around six to eight people. Perfect for a family dinner.

Main Benefits

This easy instant pot beef stew is packed with protein and nutrients. It's ideal for a chilly evening, providing warmth and satisfaction.

What makes it special is the depth of flavour achieved so quickly! This is your new go-to one pot beef stew recipe.

Let's talk ingredients.

Searing the Beef

Right, grab your beef tips and let's get started. You will need about 2 lbs (900g) of beef chuck. Cut it into 1 inch (2.

5cm) cubes, and pat it dry. This is important to get that proper sear.

Building the Flavor Base

You need two tablespoons of olive oil, one large chopped onion, two chopped carrots, and two chopped celery stalks. Also grab four cloves of minced garlic.

Sautéing these creates the base for a flavourful stew. Don’t skip this step!

Adding the Liquids

Four cups (950ml) of beef broth are essential. You should use low sodium broth if possible, and one cup (240ml) of dry red wine (optional).

Remember that a drinkable bottle of wine is okay. We're cooking, not judging!

Finishing Touches

One pound (450g) of Yukon Gold potatoes will be necessary, peeled and cut into cubes. Also you will need one pound (450g) of frozen peas that we add at the end.

To thicken it up, grab two tablespoons of cornstarch and cold water. Finish with salt to taste and fresh parsley to garnish.

Right then, let’s get cracking on this instant pot beef stew . Forget spending all day slaving over a hot stove like your Nan used to this version is proper quick and easy, without sacrificing any of that hearty, comforting flavour.

It's a dish that'll warm your cockles on a chilly evening, no doubt about it.

Ingredients & Equipment For Your Instant Pot Beef Stew

Let's gather what we need for this easy instant pot beef stew . Honestly, it's mostly stuff you probably already have knocking about. But getting organised is half the battle, innit?

Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter

Beef chuck: 2 lbs (900g) , cut into 1 inch (2.5cm) cubes. Make sure it's patted dry.
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons .
Onion: 1 large , chopped (about 1 cup ).
Carrots: 2 medium , peeled and chopped (about 1 cup ).
Celery: 2 stalks , chopped (about 1 cup ).
Garlic: 4 cloves , minced.
Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons .
Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon .
Dried rosemary: ½ teaspoon .
Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon .
Bay leaf: 1 .
Beef broth: 4 cups (950ml) , low sodium preferred. Proper stock makes all the difference.
Dry red wine: 1 cup (240ml) (optional). Honestly, anything drinkable will do. No need for fancy claret!
Yukon Gold potatoes: 1 lb (450g) , peeled and cut into 1 inch (2.5cm) cubes.
Frozen peas: 1 lb (450g) . Added right at the end.
Cornstarch (or arrowroot powder): 2 tablespoons .
Cold water: 2 tablespoons .
Salt: To taste.
Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish.

For the beef, look for good marbling. That's where the flavour is! Nobody wants chewy beef.

Seasoning Notes: The Secret Sauce

This comfort food beef stew is all about building flavour. Think of it as a hug in a bowl.

Essential spice combo: Thyme and rosemary are your base. They give that classic stew vibe.
Flavour enhancers: Don't underestimate the tomato paste. It adds richness and depth. Red wine, if you're using it, does the same.
Quick substitutions: No rosemary? A pinch of dried sage will do. Don’t have time for red wine? Use a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

For this pressure cooker beef stew recipe , you don't need loads of fancy kit. Honest!

Instant Pot (6-quart or larger). Essential, obviously.
Large bowl: For tossing the beef in seasoning.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy. Though I usually just wing it.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping veg.
Small bowl: For mixing the cornstarch slurry. This method for Beef Tips Instapot is a great way to make the perfect instant pot beef tips and rice

And there you have it! Easy peasy. The beef tips pressure cooker will be tender in no time. Now, go forth and make some quick beef stew recipe , which can be the perfect Beeftips Recipe Instapot for a delicious one pot beef stew

Right then, let's get cracking on this instant pot beef stew . Forget spending all day slaving over a hot stove like your Nan used to.

This version is proper quick and easy, without sacrificing any of that hearty, comforting flavour. It's a dish that'll warm your cockles on a chilly evening, no doubt about it.

And we're using the instant pot , so its fast!

Cooking Method

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

Essential mise en place is key. Honestly, chopping everything beforehand saves loads of time. Trust me, you don't want to be faffing about with onions while your beef is burning.

I always get my ingredients ready first. It helps me cook like a pro and not a stressed out student. Time saving organization is where it is at!

Quick safety note: Watch your fingers when chopping. It's not worth losing a digit for a beef tips pressure cooker recipe, is it?

step-by-step Process: Stew pendous Simplicity

Sear the beef. Season your beef cubes with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. Brown the beef in batches, about 3- 4 minutes per side. Don't overcrowd the pot!.
Sauté the aromatics. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5- 7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook another minute, stirring.
Deglaze the pot. Pour in 1 cup of red wine (or extra broth). Scrape up those browned bits on the bottom flavour gold!.
Combine and cook. Add 4 cups of beef broth, 1 bay leaf, and the seared beef.
Pressure cook. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes .
Release and add potatoes. Allow a 10-minute natural pressure release , then quick release any remaining pressure. Add 1 pound of cubed Yukon Gold potatoes. Cook for 5 minutes on high pressure, then quick release again.
Thicken and finish. Stir in a slurry of 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water. Sauté until thickened, about 2- 3 minutes. Stir in 1 pound of frozen peas and cook for 1 minute to heat through.
Season and serve. Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Stew Game

Don’t skip searing the beef. It really adds depth of flavour. Ever tried making beef tips instapot without searing? It's just not the same.

Common mistake? Overcooking the potatoes. That's why they go in later. I learned that the hard way. Mushy Beef Tips And Rice are a No-No.

This Easy instant pot beef stew is perfect for making ahead. Cool it completely, then refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Honestly, this pressure cooker beef stew recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It’s proper comfort food beef stew , especially when the weather turns grim.

Give it a go, you won’t regret it! This Quick beef stew recipe is ready in 1 hour and 5 minutes.

It is a One pot beef stew you can do on one pot! It is delicious! Don't forget to make the Instant Pot Beef Tips And Rice too!

Right then, you've smashed the instant pot beef stew recipe. Now, let's talk about making it your own! Think of these notes as guidelines. Honestly, cooking should be fun, not scary, innit?

Recipe Notes

Serving Up Perfection

Plating and Presentation Ideas: Think rustic charm. Ladle that hearty stew into a bowl. Sprinkle with fresh parsley. A dollop of sour cream? Why not! It's like giving it a little fancy makeover before the grub down.

Complementary Sides or Beverages: This comfort food beef stew is begging for some crusty bread for mopping up that amazing gravy.

A simple side salad cuts through the richness. Or how about a pint of your favourite ale? Cheers!

Storage Savvy

Refrigeration Guidelines: Got leftovers? Lucky you! Let the stew cool completely. Then bung it in an airtight container in the fridge.

It'll keep for about 3-4 days. This easy instant pot beef stew tastes even better the next day.

Freezing Options (if applicable): Yep, you can freeze it. Let it cool. Pack it into freezer safe containers or bags. It'll last for up to 3 months.

Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions: Gently reheat in a saucepan over medium heat. Or microwave it. Stir occasionally. Make sure it's piping hot throughout before serving.

This is how you make a Quick beef stew recipe .

Remixing the Recipe

Dietary Adaptations: gluten-free? Swap the flour for cornstarch to thicken it up. Lower carb? Increase the veggies and reduce the potatoes. This one pot beef stew can meet your dietary requirements.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In winter, try adding root vegetables like parsnips or swede. In summer, courgettes or green beans would be lovely.

Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. This works great with beef tips instapot .

Nutrition Nuggets

Simplified Nutrition Information: Each serving's roughly around 350-400 calories. Good source of protein and fibre, thanks to the beef and veggies.

Key Health Benefits: Beef provides iron. The vegetables give you vitamins and antioxidants. Basically, it's a hug in a bowl that's good for you.

Try it as Instant pot beef tips and rice , you won't regret it. Or as Beef tips pressure cooker

So, there you have it. A stew that's easy, delicious, and adaptable. Don't be afraid to experiment. Cooking should be fun, not a chore.

You got this. Get in the kitchen and start creating some magic with your instant pot beef stew ! You can also try Beef tips and rice or Beef tips recipe instapot .

Also, You can even try Beeftips Recipe Instapot to make a pressure cooker beef stew recipe . Go on, give it a go!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Instant Pot beef stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, Instant Pot beef stew often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to tuck in, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Proper tasty, it is!

My Instant Pot beef stew turned out watery, what went wrong?

A watery stew usually means there was too much liquid or not enough thickening. Make sure you're using the right amount of beef broth as indicated in the recipe. If it's still too thin after cooking, use a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) and simmer on the sauté function until it reaches your desired consistency.

Remember, the key is to add the slurry gradually until you're happy with how thick the stew is.

Can I substitute the red wine in this Instant Pot beef stew recipe?

You certainly can. The red wine adds a depth of flavor, but if you don't have any on hand or prefer not to use it, simply substitute with an equal amount of beef broth. For a touch of acidity, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce. It won't be exactly the same, but still proper delicious.

I'm trying to eat healthier, how can I reduce the fat in this Instant Pot beef stew?

That's a cracking question! Firstly, trim any excess fat from the beef chuck before searing. Secondly, use a leaner cut of beef or consider swapping for chicken or turkey. Finally, skim any excess fat from the surface of the stew after cooking and before adding the peas. Job's a good'un!

What's the best way to store leftover Instant Pot beef stew?

Leftover Instant Pot beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.

When reheating from frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results or use the defrost setting on your microwave, making sure it's piping hot when served!

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

Beef chuck is the classic choice for beef stew because it has a good amount of marbling that renders down during the long cooking time, resulting in tender and flavorful beef. Other suitable options include beef brisket or short ribs. Just avoid very lean cuts, as they can become dry in the Instant Pot.

Remember to sear the beef to lock in those scrummy flavors.