Why Make This Recipe

Instant Pot Beef Stew is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. This one-pot meal is easy to prepare and provides deep, rich flavors. The Instant Pot speeds up the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy tender beef and delicious veggies in no time. Plus, it’s great for meal prepping or serving to family and friends!

How to Make Instant Pot Beef Stew

Ingredients

2 pounds chuck roast (cut into 1½ to 2 inch chunks *see notes)
1 large yellow onion (cut into 1 inch pieces)
3 stalks celery (cut into 1 inch pieces)
3 large carrots (peeled and cut at a diagonal into 1 inch pieces)
2 tablespoons garlic (minced (about 4-5 cloves per 2 TBSP))
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1½ pounds baby gold potatoes (washed and cut in half)
6 ounces mushrooms (cut in half or quartered depending on the size)
3 cups unsalted beef stock
3 dry bay leaves
3 teaspoons kosher salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoons cracked black pepper (or to taste)
3½ tablespoons cornstarch (mix every 3½ TBSP of cornstarch with 3 TBSP of water to make a slurry)
1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Parsley (finely chopped for garnish, optional)
Oil (as needed for cooking, any neutral oil)

Directions

With the lid of the Instant Pot off, select the "Saute" option. Add enough oil to lightly coat the bottom, about 1 tablespoon. Once hot, sear the chuck roast pieces on each side until brown, about a minute per side. Do this in batches, adding oil as needed. Avoid crowding the pot. Remove the beef and set aside.
Keeping the Instant Pot on "Saute," add the onion, celery, and carrots. Saute for a few minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add the tomato paste, mixing it with the vegetables. If needed, add a small amount of beef stock or water to scrape up any bits on the bottom to prevent burning.
Return the chuck roast to the pot along with the baby gold potatoes, mushrooms, beef stock, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Stir everything together. It should be close to the maximum line in the pot.
Place the lid on the Instant Pot, lock it, and turn the pressure release knob to "Sealing." Select "Pressure Cook" and cook the stew on high for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, let it naturally release for 15 minutes, then turn the pressure release knob to "Venting" to release any remaining steam. Once the pressure is released, open the lid.
With the lid off, stir in the peas and select the "Saute" button. Wait for the stew to simmer.
Meanwhile, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. When the stew bubbles, slowly pour in the slurry while stirring. Stir well and let it simmer for a few seconds until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
Serve the beef stew in bowls, garnished with parsley if desired, and enjoy hot!

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Stew

This beef stew is perfect served hot in bowls. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread for dipping. It’s also delicious alongside rice or mashed potatoes.

How to Store Instant Pot Beef Stew

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Instant Pot Beef Stew

Cut the beef into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Searing the beef first adds great flavor, so don’t skip that step!
Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your taste.
For a thicker stew, allow it to simmer longer after adding the cornstarch slurry.

Variation

Feel free to mix up the vegetables! You can add green beans or replace the potatoes with sweet potatoes.

FAQs

Can I use a different meat?
Yes, you can use other cuts of beef like brisket or round, but cooking times may vary.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free beef stock and ensure your cornstarch is pure, the recipe is gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make beef stew in a slow cooker; just adjust the cooking time to about 6-8 hours on low.

Instant Pot Beef Stew