Cozy up with a warm, comforting bowl of stew on a chilly night. The Instant Pot makes it easy to create hearty, flavorful stews that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its pressure-cooking abilities, you can tenderize tougher cuts of meat and cook vegetables to perfection in no time. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious Instant Pot stew recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic beef and vegetable stews to international-inspired options like Moroccan chickpea and sweet potato stew, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting, homey meal or an adventurous culinary experience, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, grab your Instant Pot, and get ready to dig in!
Classic Beef and Vegetable Instant Pot Stew
This hearty stew is a comforting blend of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and rich flavors, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. With minimal prep time and quick cooking, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large celery stalk, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and brown the beef, about 5 minutes.
2. Add potatoes, carrot, celery, onion, garlic, broth, wine (if using), and thyme.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 30 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich cream. Serve with crusty bread for a cozy meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add more oil if needed, then sauté mushrooms, garlic, and onion until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Pour in cream, broth, and thyme. Stir to combine. Return chicken to pot; simmer for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Stew
This hearty stew combines the savory flavor of spicy sausage with the earthy sweetness of kale, perfect for a cozy night in. With its rich broth and tender vegetables, this dish is sure to warm your belly and your soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the kale, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the sausage to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lamb and Potato Stew with Rosemary
Savor the rich flavors of lamb, potatoes, and rosemary in this hearty stew perfect for a cozy evening meal. This classic combination is elevated by the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup lamb or beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb pieces, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the rosemary and thyme; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the potatoes, broth, browned lamb, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 45-50 minutes or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Stew with Spinach
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with nutritious lentils, spinach, and aromatic spices. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh spinach leaves, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper over medium heat until tender.
2. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hearty Beef Bourguignon Stew
A classic French stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Hearty Beef Bourguignon Stew is a rich and flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or shank, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups red wine (such as Burgundy or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 thyme sprig
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return beef to pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 2 hours or until beef is tender.
5. Add carrots and celery; continue to simmer for another 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stew
This hearty stew combines succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and aromatic vegetables in a rich Cajun-inspired broth. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add shrimp, diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 10-12 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew
A hearty and aromatic stew that combines the comforting flavors of Morocco with the creamy texture of sweet potatoes and chickpeas. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a unique addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, sweet potato, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the chickpeas and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Stew
Savor the rich flavors of Thailand with this comforting stew that combines tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onions are translucent (5 minutes).
3. Add the curry paste and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the chicken, coconut milk, broth, water, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Bean and Ham Stew with Herbs
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of creamy beans, savory ham, and fragrant herbs, all simmered to perfection. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy), soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound diced ham
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 sprig fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and ham; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the soaked white beans, chicken broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Loaded Potato and Bacon Stew
This comforting stew combines the creaminess of potatoes, the smokiness of bacon, and the richness of cheese to create a satisfying meal perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, milk, and butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese until melted and combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Beef and Black Bean Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful combination of tender beef, creamy black beans, and rich spices, perfect for a cozy night in. With a blend of Mexican flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck or brisket, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, browned beef, and black beans. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 30-40 minutes or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
French Onion Beef Stew with Gruyère
French Onion Beef Stew with Gruyère: A hearty, flavorful stew that combines tender beef, caramelized onions, and rich Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook the butter over medium heat until melted. Add onions; cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Add flour and stir to coat onions evenly. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add beef broth, white wine (if using), garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add beef cubes; bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Remove from heat and stir in Gruyère cheese until melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Tuscan Sausage and White Bean Stew
This hearty stew combines sweet Italian sausage with creamy cannellini beans, garlic, and herbs for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Tuscan-style sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and olive oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hungarian Goulash with Paprika
Experience the rich flavors of Hungary with this classic goulash recipe, infused with the unmistakable warmth of paprika. This comforting stew is perfect for a cold winter’s day or a cozy dinner with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tsp caraway seeds
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, caraway seeds, and paprika; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Korean Spicy Beef and Radish Stew
This hearty stew, known as “Jeyuk bokkeum” in Korean, is a popular comfort food dish that combines tender beef, crunchy radish, and spicy gochujang sauce. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this stew is perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium-sized radishes, peeled and cut into wedges
– 2 tablespoons gochujang sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 cups beef broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Sesame oil, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the radishes to the pot and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang sauce, soy sauce, chili flakes, garlic, and sugar.
5. Pour the sauce mixture into the pot and stir to combine with the radishes.
6. Add the beef back into the pot and pour in the beef broth.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Lemon Chicken and Orzo Stew
This hearty stew combines tender chicken, nutty orzo, and a burst of citrusy flavor from freshly squeezed lemon juice. Perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add lemon juice, chicken broth, orzo, parsley, and oregano to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over orzo.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Butternut Squash and Chickpea Stew
This stew is a perfect blend of comforting fall flavors, featuring roasted butternut squash and creamy chickpeas. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add roasted squash, vegetable broth, and any accumulated juices from roasting. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 18 delicious Instant Pot stew recipes! From classic beef and vegetable to creamy chicken and mushroom, there’s something for everyone. Hearty stews like lamb and potato with rosemary, vegetarian lentil with spinach, and Cajun shrimp and sausage will keep you warm on chilly nights. Experiment with international flavors like Moroccan chickpea and sweet potato, Thai coconut curry chicken, or Hungarian goulash. With a variety of proteins and vegetables to choose from, these stews are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Get ready to indulge in a flavorful and comforting meal!
