As the weather starts to cool down, our stomachs start to crave warm, comforting meals that can soothe our souls. And what better way to do so than with a hearty and flavorful stew? The Instant Pot has made it easier than ever to whip up a delicious stew in no time, and we’re excited to share our top 20 recipes with you! From classic beef and vegetable to spicy sausage and kale, we’ve got a stew for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or a satisfying dinner option for the whole family, these instant pot stews are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, highlighting the best of the best in Instant Pot stew recipes. From traditional dishes like beef and barley and chicken and dumplings, to international flavors like Moroccan chickpea and Thai coconut curry, we’ve got you covered. So grab your Instant Pot and get ready to cozy up with these 20 delicious stew recipes!
Beef and Barley Instant Pot Stew
Warm up with this comforting and hearty beef and barley stew, cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and green beans)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and brown the beef until cooked through.
2. Add the mixed vegetables, barley, beef broth, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
4. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and check that the stew has thickened slightly. Serve hot!
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Chicken and Dumplings Instant Pot Stew
This hearty stew combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich creamy broth, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. A comforting meal that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp butter
– 2 cups milk
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and melt the butter. Add the chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic; cook until the chicken is browned.
2. Add the chicken broth, flour, and milk to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode for 8 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Stir in the cooked chicken and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Instant Pot Stew
A hearty and comforting stew perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, water, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Instant Pot Stew
Quickly cook up a flavorful stew using spicy sausage, kale, and simple ingredients. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as Andouille or chorizo), sliced
– 2 cups chopped kale
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the sausage until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the kale, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Classic Beef and Vegetable Instant Pot Stew
This hearty stew is a comforting blend of tender beef, colorful vegetables, and rich flavors, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal, this recipe is easy to make and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add beef; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Close lid; set valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (including pressure release)
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Instant Pot Stew
Warm up with a comforting and flavorful stew that’s ready in no time! This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Instant Pot Stew is a perfect combination of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken, mushrooms, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the chicken is browned and the mushrooms are tender (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally (about 10 minutes) before opening the lid.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Moroccan Chickpea Instant Pot Stew
Experience the vibrant flavors of Morocco with this hearty and aromatic stew, cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the red bell pepper and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on “HIGH PRESSURE” for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pork and Apple Cider Instant Pot Stew
A hearty, autumnal stew that combines the rich flavors of pork and apples with a hint of sweetness from apple cider.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the pork cubes, apples, apple cider, chicken broth, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
7. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Lamb and Rosemary Instant Pot Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the rich taste of lamb with the aroma of rosemary, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, 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. Add the rosemary, chicken broth, and red wine (if using); stir to combine.
5. Return the lamb to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and close the lid.
6. Cook on “High Pressure” for 30 minutes; let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot over mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Thai Coconut Curry Instant Pot Stew
A flavorful and aromatic stew that combines the rich flavors of Thai cuisine with the convenience of instant cooking.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp curry paste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add chicken, potatoes, bell pepper, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add curry paste, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Pour in coconut milk and diced tomatoes; stir well.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Instant Pot Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of fall flavors, featuring tender turkey, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, turkey, sweet potatoes, chicken broth, water, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Seafood Chowder Instant Pot Stew
A hearty and flavorful seafood stew that’s ready in no time! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1/2 cup diced potatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the seafood, flour, milk, fish broth, potatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and check the seafood is cooked through. If not, close the lid and cook for an additional minute.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Italian Sausage and White Bean Instant Pot Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the creamy texture of white beans, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15.5 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes, then allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mexican Beef and Corn Instant Pot Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, this Mexican-inspired dish combines tender beef, sweet corn, and savory spices in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, shredded cheese, cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the canned tomatoes, corn kernels, taco seasoning, and beef broth.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Serve hot with your favorite toppings or garnishes!
Curried Butternut Squash Instant Pot Stew
A flavorful and comforting stew that combines the sweetness of butternut squash with the warmth of curry spices, all cooked to perfection in an Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the squash, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
French Onion Instant Pot Stew
A hearty and flavorful French onion stew cooked quickly and effortlessly in the Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter. Add the sliced onions and cook until they’re softened and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the beef broth, white wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
5. Open the lid and stir in the Gruyère cheese (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (includes natural release)
Bison and Root Vegetable Instant Pot Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the rich flavor of bison with the earthy sweetness of root vegetables, all cooked to perfection in an Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bison stew meat
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the bison until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, parsnips, potato, garlic, beef broth, water, and thyme to the pot.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
4. Press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode and cook at high pressure for 30 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Garden Vegetable and Quinoa Instant Pot Stew
A hearty and nutritious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 zucchinis, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, zucchinis, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the quinoa, water or broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” button and cook on high pressure for 6-8 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Hungarian Goulash Instant Pot Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew inspired by traditional Hungarian cuisine, cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef or pork, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode for 30 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Spicy Black Bean and Sweet Potato Instant Pot Stew
A hearty, plant-based stew that combines the flavors of sweet potatoes, black beans, and a hint of heat from cumin and chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and chili flakes; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the sweet potato, black beans, and vegetable broth.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes total (10 minutes cooking + 10 minutes natural release)
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 delicious instant pot stew recipes! From classic comfort foods like beef and vegetable, to international flavors like Moroccan chickpea and Thai coconut curry, there’s something for everyone. Try out hearty options like bison and root vegetable or lamb and rosemary, or go vegetarian with lentil or garden vegetable quinoa stews. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or creamy, these instant pot stew recipes are sure to warm your belly and your heart.
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