Instant Pot Beef Recipe With Fine Ingredients For A Craving Stomach

If you have been looking for a rich, comforting, delicious, and easy-to-make beef stew recipe, you have come to the right place. This dish in particular is one of the best Instant Pot Beef Recipes and is one of the best we have come across.

It is packed full of delicious, soft, and perfectly cooked veggies and soft meat that you are guaranteed to love. Best of all, it is so easy to make, even an amateur cook should be able to enjoy this delightful dish. 

In this article, we are going to go over everything you need to know about baking this delightful and tasty stew. From what ingredients you need to each step that you should follow to make this dish at home. 

So, without further ado, let’s dive right in and get started!

What Is Instant Pot Beef?

Instant Pot Beef refers to beef dishes prepared using the Instant Pot, a multi-functional electric pressure cooker. This method of cooking accelerates the time it traditionally takes to tenderize beef, melding flavors efficiently and effectively. 

The Instant Pot harnesses pressurized steam to infuse the meat with seasonings, resulting in succulent, flavorful dishes. From stews to roasts, this technique promises a gourmet experience, saving both time and energy while never compromising on taste.

History Of Instant Pot Beef  

The history of Instant Pot Beef is intrinsically tied to the advent of the Instant Pot itself. Introduced in 2010 by Robert Wang, the Instant Pot transformed traditional pressure cooking, making it safer and more versatile. 

As its popularity grew, so did the repertoire of recipes. Beef, historically slow-cooked for tenderness, became a prime candidate. Home cooks and chefs alike began experimenting, adapting beloved beef dishes for this new tool. 

From classic stews to innovative creations, Instant Pot Beef soon became a culinary favorite, melding modernity with time-honored tradition.

Interesting Facts About The Instant Pot Beef  

• Swift and Succulent: Instant Pot can reduce beef cooking time by up to 70%, retaining its juiciness.
• Flavor Fusion: Due to pressurized cooking, flavors meld and penetrate deeper into the beef.
• Safe Searing: The Instant Pot’s sauté function allows for browning beef before pressure cooking, keeping flavors intact.
• Consistency: Achieve uniform tenderness throughout, a challenge in traditional methods.
• Variety: From beef stroganoff to pot roast, a myriad of dishes have been adapted for the Instant Pot.
• Energy Efficient: Consumes less energy compared to oven or stovetop cooking.
• Heritage Meets Hi-Tech: Modernizes age-old beef recipes, ensuring they’re passed to new generations.

What Makes The Instant Pot Beef  Special? 

• Time-Efficiency: Achieves slow-cooked tenderness in a fraction of the time.
• Depth of Flavor: Enhanced infusion of seasonings deep into the beef.
• One-Pot Wonder: Sear, sauté, and simmer all in one appliance.
• Consistent Results: Offers predictable and reproducible perfection with each preparation.
• Juiciness: The sealed environment retains moisture, preventing beef from drying out.
• Adaptable: Suits various beef cuts, from brisket to chuck roast.
• Safety: Modern pressure-cooking ensures risk-free cooking.
• Environmentally Friendly: Uses less energy and water than traditional methods.
• Space Saving: Eliminates the need for multiple pots and pans.
• Culinary Evolution: Continuously inspires innovative beef recipes and techniques.

Ingredient List

Ingredient	Quantity & Description
Beef Chuck Roast	3 lbs – excess fat trimmed, chopped into 0.5-inch pieces
All-Purpose Flour	¼ cup
Kosher Salt	1 tablespoon
Dried Rosemary	1 teaspoon
Garlic Powder	1 teaspoon
Dried Thyme	1 teaspoon
Black Pepper	1 teaspoon
Onion Powder	1 teaspoon
Olive Oil	1 tablespoon
Onion	1 medium – chopped into small thin pieces
Garlic Cloves	6 – minced
Tomato Paste	2 tablespoons
Beef Broth	2½ cups
Dry Red Wine	½ cup
Worcestershire Sauce	2 tablespoons
Baby Carrots	12 oz bag
Yukon Gold Potatoes	2 lbs
Fresh Lemon Juice	2 tablespoons
Cornstarch	1 tablespoon (to thicken)
Fresh Parsley	For garnish – minced

Ingredient Needed For This Recipe

Before you can do cooking of any kind, you absolutely need to make sure that you have all the right ingredients on hand. Below, we have listed everything you need to make this delightful, rich beef stew: 

• Beef Chuck Roast – Three pounds of beef chuck roast, with the excess fat trimmed and chopped into half-inch pieces. 
• All-Purpose Flour – One-quarter cup of all-purpose flour. 
• Kosher Salt – One tablespoon of kosher salt. 
• Dried Rosemary – One teaspoon of dried rosemary. 
• Garlic Powder – One teaspoon of garlic powder. 
• Dried Thyme – One teaspoon of dried thyme. 
• Black Pepper – One teaspoon of black pepper. 
• Onion Powder – One teaspoon of onion powder. 
• Olive Oil – One tablespoon of olive oil. 
• Onion – One medium onion chopped into small thin pieces. 
• Garlic Cloves – Six garlic cloves that have been minced. 
• Tomato Paste – Two tablespoons of tomato paste. 
• Beef Broth – Two and a half cups of beef broth. 
• Dry Red Wine – Half a cup of dry red wine. 
• Worcestershire Sauce – Two tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce.
• Baby Carrots – One twelve-ounce bag of baby carrots. 
• Yukon Gold Potatoes – Two pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes. 
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. 
• Cornstarch – To thicken your stew, you can add one tablespoon of cornstarch.
• Fresh Parsley – Minced parsley for your garnish. 
• If you don’t have some of these ingredients in the kitchen, you need to head to your store and acquire them. With your fresh ingredients on hand, you can head to the kitchen and start cooking!

With the instructions we have laid out in the next section, you will be well on your way to making the best instant pot beef stew (Also check out How To Make Bo Kho- The Traditional Vietnamese Beef Stew).

Ingredient Tips 

• Beef Quality: Opt for grass-fed beef; it’s richer in nutrients and flavor.
• Flour Freshness: Store flour in a cool, dark place to maintain its potency.
• Salt Selection: Sea salt or Himalayan pink can be used for a richer mineral profile.
• Herbs: Fresh alternatives intensify flavor; remember the 3:1 fresh-to-dried ratio.
• Garlic Tip: Let minced garlic sit for 10 minutes before cooking to enhance health benefits.
• Wine Pick: Choose a red wine you’d drink, enhancing the stew’s taste.
• Potatoes: Keep them submerged in water prior to cooking to prevent browning.
• Cornstarch: Always mix with cold water before adding to prevent clumping.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin offers a richer taste and better health profile.
• Parsley: Opt for flat-leaf parsley; it’s more flavorful than curly varieties.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

• Keto: Replace potatoes with radishes and use almond flour instead of all-purpose. Eliminate carrots or use sparingly due to their natural sugar content.
• Paleo: Swap all-purpose flour for arrowroot or tapioca flour. Stick to organic, grass-fed beef and veggies.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour blends or cornstarch as a thickening agent.
• Whole30: Omit wine, and ensure all other ingredients (like broth) are Whole30 compliant.
• Vegetarian: Skip the beef and introduce hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, and bell peppers. Replace beef broth with vegetable broth.
• Vegan: In addition to the vegetarian modifications, use plant-based Worcestershire sauce or tamari as an alternative.

Recipe Directions

• Mix flour and seasonings; coat beef.
• Heat olive oil in Instant Pot on sauté.
• Sauté onions and garlic; add tomato paste, wine, broth, and Worcestershire.
• Add beef, seal, and cook for 20 minutes.
• Release pressure; add potatoes and carrots. Cook on high for 10 minutes.
• Release pressure.
• Optional: Thicken with cornstarch on sauté mode.
• Add lemon juice and adjust seasonings.
• Garnish with parsley and serve.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, capers, and sun-dried tomatoes for a zesty flair.
• Asian Fusion: Introduce soy sauce, ginger, and star anise for an Eastern touch.

Add-Ons

• Proteins: Toss in chickpeas or lentils for added protein and texture.
• Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or peas for added nutrition.
• Grains: Serve over quinoa, barley, or rice for a hearty, complete meal.

Toppings

• Creamy Touch: Dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
• Crunch Factor: Crushed toasted nuts, like almonds or pecans, for crunch.
• Herbal Freshness: Chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or dill.
• Zest & Zing: Grated citrus zest or a splash of vinegar for acidity.
• Cheese: Sprinkle grated parmesan or crumbled feta to enhance flavor.

Scaling The Recipe

• Ingredient Proportions: Multiply or divide each ingredient by the scaling factor. For doubling, use twice the amount; for halving, use half.
• Liquids: Ensure there’s enough liquid for the Instant Pot to pressurize, even when scaling down. Don’t go below the minimum required.
• Pot Size: Ensure there’s enough space, especially when scaling up. Most Instant Pots shouldn’t be filled more than two-thirds full, especially for foods that expand.
• Cooking Time: While scaling down, reduce time slightly. When scaling up, add a bit more time, but not double.
• Batch Cooking: For significantly larger quantities, consider cooking in batches to ensure even cooking.

What Is Used For Garnishing? 

• Herbs: Fresh parsley, cilantro, basil, dill, and mint provide color and aroma.
• Citrus Zest: Lemon, lime, or orange zest adds bright colors and a zesty aroma.
• Seeds & Nuts: Toasted sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, chopped nuts, or pine nuts provide texture and crunch.
• Edible Flowers: Pansies, violets, or marigolds elevate elegance.
• Spices: Paprika, ground pepper, or saffron can be sprinkled for a pop of color.
• Vegetable Curls: Cucumber, carrot, or radish curls add visual interest.
• Drizzles: Olive oil, balsamic reduction, or melted chocolate give a gourmet touch.

Can I Make Instant Pot Beef In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot? 

Slow Cooker

• Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic separately in a pan before adding to the slow cooker.
• Combine all ingredients except for thickening agents like cornstarch.
• Cook on ‘low’ for 7-8 hours or ‘high’ for 3-4 hours.
• If thickening is needed, whisk in the cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Instant Pot

• Yes, you can! If you don’t have an instant pot on hand, you can always make your stew on the stove top. Simply follow through the first three steps as you normally would.
• Instead of using a slow cooker, use a large pot. Add your beef to the pot and allow it to simmer with the lid on for one and a half hours. At the end of this time, your meat should be nice and tender. 
• At the end of your one-and-a-half hour simmering time, add the baby carrots and potatoes to the pot and allow the stew to cook for another thirty minutes. After this time has elapsed, the potatoes should be tender and soft, but not falling apart. 
• If your stew is still runny at this point, you can thicken it up by adding a water and cornstarch slurry to the stew.  Continue stirring while you are pouring it in, and then allow it to simmer for another two to three minutes. 
• By the end of this time, all you need to do is add your salt, pepper, and lemon juice as you normally would. It is that simple!

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own? 

Store-bought Broth

• Convenience: Ready-to-use, perfect for quick meals.
• Consistency: Offers a predictable flavor.
• Variety: Available in low-sodium, organic, or bone broth versions.

Homemade Broth

• Flavor Control: Tailor the broth’s taste to your preference.
• No Additives: Avoid preservatives or excess sodium commonly found in commercial broths.
• Economical: Made from leftover bones and vegetable scraps.
• Richness: Often richer in flavor and gelatin, especially when made from bones.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Recipe? 

• Meat: Swap beef for chicken, pork, or lamb. Remember, different meats might require adjustments in cooking time.
• Fish: Sturdier fishes like salmon, cod, or halibut can be used. However, add them towards the end to avoid overcooking.
• Pasta: Small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini can be incorporated. Add during the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent sogginess.
• Vegetables: Most veggies are fair game! Think zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans. For harder vegetables, adjust the cooking time accordingly. For softer ones, add them later to maintain their texture.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making

Here are some tips and tricks for perfecting the Instant Pot Beef:

Prepping Tips

• Meat Quality: Opt for chuck roast or stewing beef for tender results.
• Uniformity: Chop beef and veggies uniformly for even cooking.
• Browning: Sear beef in batches to ensure thorough browning, enhancing flavor.
• Deglazing: After sautéing, deglaze the pot with wine or broth to capture flavorful bits stuck to the pot’s base.

Cooking Time Tips

• Layering: Place denser vegetables at the bottom and softer ones on top.
• Pressure Release: Allow natural pressure release for tender meat without overcooking.
• Thickness: For a thicker stew, increase the cornstarch-water ratio.
• Taste Test: Before serving, adjust seasoning as required. Remember, it’s easier to add salt later than to correct an overly salty dish.

Nutritional Values  

Delve into the nutritional richness of Instant Pot Beef. A dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also nourishes the body with essential vitamins and proteins.

What Are The Total Calories In The Recipe? 

On average this recipe contains approximately 400 calories per serving. This calorie count is based on the ingredients used in the recipe. If you alter the recipe with any additional ingredients, then it will change the calorie count of the soup. So, if you want to get accurate calorie measurement, it is best to use a calorie counter.

Dietary Restrictions Of The Instant Pot Beef 

• Gluten: All-purpose flour is a source of gluten. People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should opt for gluten-free alternatives.
• Alcohol: The dry red wine, even though cooked, might be a concern for some abstaining from alcohol. It can be replaced with extra broth.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: The recipe is not suitable due to the beef and beef broth. Alternative ingredients can be used for a vegan version.
• Low-Sodium: High sodium levels might arise from the broth and Worcestershire sauce. Use low-sodium versions if needed.
• Allergies: Ensure none of the ingredients trigger any known allergies, and always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.

Health Benefits Of Instant Pot Beef 

• Protein: Beef provides essential amino acids, vital for muscle growth and repair.
• Iron: Beef is a rich source of heme iron, aiding in red blood cell production and preventing anemia.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables contribute vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like potassium.
• Antioxidants: Garlic, onion, and herbs such as rosemary contain antioxidants that combat oxidative stress.
• Bone Health: Beef broth, especially if homemade from bones, can provide collagen and minerals beneficial for joint and bone health.
• Heart Health: Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Instant Pot Beef Lower In Sodium? 

• Broth: Opt for a low-sodium or unsalted beef broth. This will drastically reduce the sodium content.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Look for a reduced-sodium version or decrease the quantity.
• Kosher Salt: Reduce the amount used, or replace with a salt substitute if you’re familiar with its flavor.
• Tomato Paste: Some brands come with added salt, so choose unsalted or low-sodium variants.
• Taste and Adjust: As you decrease sodium, be open to enhancing flavor with herbs, spices, and acid (like lemon juice).
• Rinse: If using canned vegetables, rinse them to remove excess salt.

How Can I Make Instant Pot Beef Lower In Sugar? 

• Tomato Paste: Some versions contain added sugars. Opt for a no-sugar-added or unsweetened variant.
• Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce may contain sugars. Search for a reduced or sugar-free version.
• Vegetables: While the recipe doesn’t call for notably sugary vegetables, be mindful of ones that naturally have higher sugar content, such as carrots.
• Wine: Dry red wine has minimal sugar, but ensure it’s truly dry. Some red wines can be surprisingly high in sugar.
• Broth: Some store-bought broths might have added sugars. Read labels carefully or make your own.
• Enhance Flavor: Offset reduced sweetness by increasing herbs or adding spices like smoked paprika or black pepper.

How To Serve The Instant Pot Beef At Its Best? 

• Timing: Serve immediately after cooking to maintain its warmth and flavor intensity. Use a pre-warmed dish to keep it hot.
• Bowl Selection: Opt for deep bowls to retain the broth and make it easier to scoop.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh minced parsley or a sprig of rosemary can elevate its appearance and taste.
• Sides: Accompany with crusty bread or a light green salad to contrast the rich, hearty stew. Garlic bread or mashed potatoes can also enhance the experience.
• Broth: Ladle generously, ensuring each serving has a balance of beef, vegetables, and liquid.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of the same dry red wine used in cooking complements the dish beautifully.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Instant Pot Beef 

• A stew like this can be eaten on its own without a side. However, it is best enjoyed with a delicious side.
• The best options to enjoy along with this stew are as follows: Caesar Salad, Mashed Potatoes, Quinoa, Creamy Polenta, Homemade Bread, Baked Potatoes, Rice, Couscous, Dumplings, and more. 
• At the end of the day, you can go with any side that you like. There are healthy options, starchy options, healthy starches, and more. It is entirely up to you and what you prefer. 

What Is The Best Wine To Go With Instant Pot Beef Stew?

If you want to serve wine with your stew, there are a few options that will certainly make this dish shine. Red wine for example is particularly delicious along with this stew.

It might be a good idea to try a delicious glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, or Merlot. All of which will pair well with this delicious, rich stew.

How Long Can We Store The Recipe? 

First up, storing leftovers. There are two main ways that you can do this. One method is to keep it in the refrigerator. This method will keep your stew for three days or so. Just make sure that it is kept in an airtight container, or it will spoil faster.

The second method is to pop your stew in the freezer. It will last longer in the freezer. Around three months or so is recommended. For this method, you do need an airtight and freezer-safe container as well. 

Freezing your stew can cause cornstarch to separate. As such, it is not recommended that you put your cornstarch in the stew if you intend to freeze it. You can always thicken your stew at a later date!

How To Reheat Leftovers?

• Reheating leftovers couldn’t be easier. All you need to do is put your stew in a pot and put it on the stove top. Make sure that the heat is only on medium so that the stew does not burn.
• Alternatively, you can heat your stew up in a microwave-safe dish. And heat it up that way. Both ways are easy and should be no trouble to do.
• As we said, however, if you are heating up a stew that has been frozen, and it is too watery. Simply add some cornstarch to the pot. This will help it to thicken up.

Can I Make This Recipe In Advance? 

• Flavor Development: Stews like this often taste even better the next day as flavors meld and deepen.
• Convenience: Prepare it a day or two ahead of when you need it, especially for gatherings or busy days.
• Freezing: If making far in advance, freeze and then thaw in the refrigerator a day before serving.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Beef Tacos: Shred the beef and use it as a filling for tacos, garnishing with fresh veggies and cheese.
• Sandwiches: Place beef chunks between crusty bread with a bit of the sauce for a juicy sandwich.
• Pasta: Combine shredded beef with pasta and a touch of the stew sauce for a hearty meal.
• Shepherd’s Pie: Use beef as a base layer, then a veggie layer, and top with mashed potatoes.
• Stir-fry: Incorporate beef into stir-fries with veggies and your favorite sauce.
• Rice Bowls: Serve beef atop a bowl of rice, maybe with steamed greens.
• Pies: Make mini pot pies using puff pastry or pie dough.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

• Instant Pot: The primary tool, it’s a multi-cooker that can function as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for chopping the beef, onions, and other ingredients.
• Cutting Board: Preferably two – one for meats and another for vegetables, to avoid cross-contamination.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
• Mixing Bowl: Useful for mixing the beef with the seasoned flour.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and sautéing ingredients in the Instant Pot.
• Ladle: For serving the beef and its delicious broth.
• Heat-Resistant Mitts: The Instant Pot can get very hot; these ensure safe handling.
• Sealable Storage Containers: Handy for storing leftovers or prepped ingredients.
• Steam Release Accessory: Optional, but it can help direct the steam safely away during the pressure release.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Can Make Stew Meat Tough?

Sometimes, the meat in a stew just does not turn out as soft and silky smooth as we would like. In cases like this, there are two main reasons that this could happen. The first is that the meat simply has not cooked for long enough. 

If this is the reason that your meat is tough, all you need to do is cook your stew for a bit longer. Alternatively, your meat may be tough because there is not enough liquid in the pot.

To fix this, simply add more liquid to the pot and allow your stew to cook for a bit longer. 

Does An Instant Pot Make Stew Meat Soft And Tender?

Yes! An instant pot can make meat delightfully soft and tender. This is because the meat will cook above boiling point, which breaks down collagen fibers. When this happens, the meat will turn out soft, tender, and 100% delicious!

Is It A Good Idea To Cook With Frozen Meat?

It is not a problem to cook using frozen meat. Best of all, by using an instant cooker, you do not have to cook your food for longer. The only difference is that the pressure cooker will take a bit longer to get to the right pressure setting and temperature. 

What Should You Not Cook In A Pressure Cooker?

While you can use a pressure cooker for a great many dishes, there are some foods that are not suited for this device.

The main foods that you should not cook in a pressure cooker are as follows: Cookies, burgers, pie, steak, fried chicken, and creamy sauces. 

Do You Cover Meat With Liquid In A Pressure Cooker?

The short answer is that you can use enough liquid to cover the meat. But, it is better to use just enough to allow the pressure cooker to get to the right pressure. When this happens, and the meat starts cooking, there will be juices released. 

So, you will end up with a delicious and flavorsome liquid with your meat. At the end of the day, either method works well. It just depends on how soupy you want your stew.