Growing up in Chicago, my kitchen was always the heart of our home. I remember the aroma of hearty meals wafting through the house, especially when my babcia was in town. She had this magical way of turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. One dish that always stood out was her savory beef stew. Now, as a busy mom of two, I’ve adapted her classic recipe into a modern favorite: savory instant pot beef. This dish brings back fond memories of family gatherings, yet fits perfectly into our fast-paced lifestyle.
There’s something truly comforting about a pot of beef simmering away, filling the house with warmth and delicious smells. My husband, who’s a meat-and-potatoes kind of guy, and our kids, Ella and Peter, can’t get enough of it. It’s a dish that bridges my Polish roots with the hustle and bustle of American life, offering both nostalgia and convenience. Let’s dive into why this savory instant pot beef is a must-try in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This savory instant pot beef is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and delivering maximum flavor. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, transforming tough cuts of beef into melt-in-your-mouth morsels in under an hour. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a home-cooked meal without the fuss.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s high in protein and can be customized to suit various dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option or want to pack in extra veggies, this recipe has got you covered. Plus, it’s a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out, making it ideal for those chilly Chicago evenings.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add olive oil. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Add the diced onion to the pot, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the beef broth and red wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Return the beef to the pot, along with the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, carrots, and potatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 35 minutes. Allow it to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, stir in the cornstarch slurry and set the pot to sauté, cooking until the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure to brown the beef thoroughly. This step adds depth and richness to the dish. Don’t skip deglazing the pot with broth or wine; those browned bits are flavor gold! If you’re short on time, you can skip the browning, but it does enhance the final taste.
Be mindful of the pressure release. Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for a few minutes helps keep the beef tender and juicy. If you’re new to using an Instant Pot, take a moment to familiarize yourself with its settings to ensure a smooth cooking process.
COOKING TOOLS
When I make this savory instant pot beef, a few trusty tools make the process seamless. My go-to is the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1, which is a lifesaver for quick, delicious meals. For prepping the ingredients, the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife is perfect for chopping everything from beef to veggies with ease. And if you like your beef perfectly cooked, the MEATER SE Smart Meat Thermometer ensures the ideal temperature every time.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly adaptable. For a gluten-free version, ensure your beef broth is certified gluten-free. You can also swap out the potatoes for sweet potatoes or parsnips for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking to add more veggies, consider tossing in some mushrooms or peas towards the end of cooking.
For a global twist, try adding a splash of soy sauce and a pinch of ginger for an Asian-inspired beef stew. Or, incorporate some smoked paprika and a dash of cayenne for a Spanish flair.
Serving Suggestions
This savory instant pot beef is a meal in itself, but pairing it with a fresh side salad or a crusty loaf of bread can elevate your dining experience. A glass of red wine complements the rich flavors beautifully, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner with friends or family.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and flavor, you can use brisket or even stewing beef. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for different cuts.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This dish also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply thaw and reheat before serving.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
No worries! You can make this recipe in a slow cooker by following the same steps and cooking on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, my savory instant pot beef—a dish that’s as comforting as a hug from babcia and as convenient as a Chicago deep-dish pizza delivery. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing this recipe as my family does. Remember, cooking is about love and laughter, so don’t forget to sprinkle a little of both into your pot!
👉 I hope you loved making this savory instant pot beef—it’s like a warm embrace on a chilly night. If you’re in the mood for more comforting dishes, check out my Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup, Creamy Mushroom Risotto, or Classic Beef Chili. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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savory instant pot beef 5 : A Quick and Delicious Recipe in 15 minutes
A comforting and easy-to-make beef stew using the Instant Pot, perfect for busy weeknights.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add olive oil. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Add the diced onion to the pot, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the beef broth and red wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Return the beef to the pot, along with the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, carrots, and potatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 35 minutes. Allow it to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, stir in the cornstarch slurry and set the pot to sauté, cooking until the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.