Name: Instant Pot Beef Stew Meat Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1½ lb (680 g) beef stew meat, cut into evenly sized chunks; 3 medium potatoes (about 450 g / 1 lb), peeled and cubed; 3 medium carrots (about 200 g / 7 oz), sliced; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning; 1 bay leaf ((optional)); 2 tbsp cornstarch ((optional)); 2 tbsp cold water ((optional))

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of beef stew simmered until the meat is fork-tender and the vegetables soak up every bit of flavor. This Instant Pot beef stew meat recipe is designed for everyday cooking, simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and reliable results even when using budget-friendly stew meat.

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever struggled with tough beef or thin broth, this method solves those common problems while keeping the process stress-free.

Why This Instant Pot Method Works for Stew Meat

Beef stew meat is usually cut from tougher portions of beef, which is why it often turns chewy when cooked incorrectly. Pressure cooking changes that.

The Instant Pot uses consistent heat and steam to break down connective tissue efficiently. Instead of hours on the stove, you get tender beef in a fraction of the time, without babysitting a pot or washing multiple pans afterward.

This approach is especially helpful for beginners and busy home cooks who want dependable results without complicated techniques.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All ingredients are everyday staples and easy to find. Quantities can be adjusted depending on serving size.

Main ingredients

Beef stew meat (cubed)
Potatoes, peeled and chunked
Carrots, sliced
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Beef broth
Tomato paste

Seasonings

Salt and black pepper
Paprika
Dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Bay leaf (optional)

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Beef Stew Meat in the Instant Pot

1. Build flavor first
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add a small amount of oil and brown the beef in batches. This step adds depth and prevents bland stew.

2. Deglaze properly
Pour in a splash of beef broth and scrape the bottom thoroughly. This avoids burn warnings and keeps flavor intact.

3. Add remaining ingredients
Return the beef to the pot. Add vegetables, tomato paste, seasonings, and the rest of the broth. Stir gently.

4. Pressure cook
Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for about 35 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for best texture.

How to Make Sure Stew Meat Turns Out Tender

The most common reason stew meat stays tough is rushing the process.

Always allow natural pressure release
Cut beef into evenly sized chunks
If meat isn’t tender, reseal and cook 8 to 10 minutes longer

Pressure cooking rewards patience, give it time to work.

Thickening the Stew Without Ruining Flavor

If you prefer a thicker, gravy-like stew:

Mix cornstarch with cold water
Stir into the hot stew
Use sauté mode for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened

Avoid thickening before pressure cooking, it can affect texture and cooking performance.

Easy Flavor Variations Using What You Already Have

Vegetable-forward: Add peas or green beans at the end
Rich and savory: Stir in Worcestershire sauce
Herb-heavy: Finish with fresh parsley or thyme

These small changes keep the recipe flexible without changing the core method.

What to Serve With Beef Stew

This stew pairs well with:

Crusty bread or dinner rolls
Steamed rice
Mashed potatoes

It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but sides can stretch servings even further.

Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze portions for up to 3 months
Reheat gently with a splash of broth to maintain moisture

Flavor often improves the next day, making this ideal for meal planning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping deglazing (leads to burn warnings)
Cutting meat too small
Thickening before pressure cooking
Using quick release for stew meat

Avoiding these ensures consistent results every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen beef stew meat?
Yes, but skip browning and increase cook time slightly.

Why is my beef still tough?
It simply needs more time. Pressure cook again for a few minutes.

Can I add vegetables later?
Yes, tender vegetables can be added after pressure cooking.

How long does this keep?
Up to 4 days refrigerated, longer if frozen.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot beef stew meat recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With simple ingredients, smart pressure cooking, and minimal cleanup, you get a reliable, deeply satisfying meal that fits real life, especially when time and budget matter.