Imagine coming home to a rich, aromatic beef stew that's not just delicious, but also incredibly easy to prepare. This Instant Pot Beef Stew is your ticket to a mouthwatering meal that will have your family begging for seconds! Whether you're a busy professional or a home cook looking for a foolproof recipe, this tender, flavor-packed stew will transform your dinner routine and make you look like a culinary genius with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by cutting beef chuck into 1-inch cubes, ensuring even sizing for consistent cooking.
- Season beef cubes generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme, allowing meat to absorb flavors for 5-10 minutes before cooking.
- Set Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Brown beef cubes in batches, creating a rich caramelized exterior on each piece, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove browned beef and set aside. In the same pot, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and slightly translucent.
- Return beef to the Instant Pot and add sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and beef broth. Stir to combine ingredients evenly.
- Close Instant Pot lid, set valve to sealing position, and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. If using slow cooker, cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
- Once cooking completes, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully do a quick release.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Let stew rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or thyme, alongside crusty bread or over rice.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Use beef chuck for maximum tenderness and flavor. Cut into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Browning is Key: Take time to properly brown the meat. This step develops deep, rich flavors that make the difference between a good and an extraordinary stew.
- Don't Rush the Pressure Cooking: Allow for natural pressure release to keep the meat tender and juicy.
- Seasoning Matters: Let the beef sit with seasonings for 5-10 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor absorption.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for meal prep.
- Customize Your Stew: Feel free to add additional vegetables like celery or mushrooms to make it your own.
- Storage Tip: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 606kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 48g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 120mg
