As the weather cools down, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of stew to cozy up with. And when you’re short on time but still want to satisfy your craving for a hearty meal, the Instant Pot is your best friend. With its ability to cook a variety of ingredients quickly and evenly, it’s no wonder that stews are one of the most popular uses for this versatile appliance.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 different Instant Pot stew recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From classic beef and vegetable combinations to more exotic flavors like Moroccan lamb and apricot or Thai coconut curry, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get started on a culinary adventure!
Classic Beef and Vegetable Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. This recipe yields a rich and flavorful dish packed with tender beef, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pot and add the peas and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Stew
A comforting and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the richness of chicken, mushrooms, and cream with a hint of thyme and rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms, flour, broth, cream, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Lentil and Sausage Stew
This hearty stew combines the comfort of lentils with the spicy kick of sausage and a medley of aromatics. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a chilly weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, lentils, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetarian Chickpea and Spinach Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with nutritious chickpeas and spinach. It’s a great option for a quick and easy dinner that’s also vegan-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan Lamb and Apricot Stew
This hearty stew is a classic Moroccan dish that combines the rich flavors of lamb with the sweetness of apricots, all wrapped up in a fragrant blend of spices. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups lamb broth or beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the apricots, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Thai Coconut Curry Stew
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this comforting and aromatic stew, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with the warmth of Thai red curry paste and the freshness of lemongrass.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add garlic, lemongrass, and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Add mixed vegetables; reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Black Bean and Sweet Potato Stew
This hearty stew combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the smokiness of black beans, all wrapped up in a rich and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Hungarian Goulash Stew
Experience the rich flavors of Eastern Europe with this comforting and flavorful stew. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a gathering with friends, this classic Hungarian dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 2 tbsp paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, bell peppers, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Tuscan White Bean and Kale Stew
This hearty stew is a classic Tuscan recipe that combines the creamy texture of cannellini beans with the earthy flavor of kale. It’s a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bunch curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add soaked cannellini beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Add chopped kale and continue to simmer until the greens are tender, about 20-25 minutes more.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Korean Kimchi and Pork Stew
This hearty and spicy stew combines the bold flavors of kimchi with tender pork, perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups kimchi (homemade or store-bought), chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 4 cups pork broth or water
– 1/2 cup rice vinegar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the kimchi, soy sauce, Gochujang, garlic, and broth/water to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours or until the pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Irish Guinness Beef Stew
Warm up with a hearty Irish-inspired stew that combines tender beef, rich Guinness stout, and flavorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Brown beef on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onions, carrots, potatoes, garlic, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Pour in Guinness stout; bring to a boil.
6. Transfer pot to preheated oven; braise for 2 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Mexican Chicken and Corn Stew
A flavorful and comforting stew that combines tender chicken, sweet corn, and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy meal or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onions, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the chicken back to the pot, along with diced tomatoes and corn kernels. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook until the flavors meld together, about 20-25 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
French Ratatouille Stew
A classic Provençal dish from southern France, this ratatouille stew is a flavorful and hearty vegetable-based meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 2 medium eggplants, chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the bell peppers and eggplants, cooking until they start to soften, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Indian Butter Chicken Stew
Experience the rich flavors of India with this comforting Butter Chicken Stew recipe. Tender chicken and vegetables simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce, flavored with aromatic spices and finished with a pat of butter – a true delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened (5 minutes).
2. Add garlic, bell pepper, and chicken; cook until browned (7-8 minutes).
3. Stir in cumin, garam masala, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and butter; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Greek Lemon and Orzo Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the brightness of lemon with the comfort of orzo, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated feta cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, lemon juice, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Miso and Tofu Stew
This hearty and comforting stew is a staple of Japanese cuisine, made with the savory flavors of miso paste, tofu, and a variety of vegetables. It’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini)
– 2 cups water or dashi broth (optional)
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms, cooking until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the tofu, miso paste, soy sauce, and ginger. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the water or dashi broth (if using), and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 10-15 minutes, or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Stew
This hearty stew combines succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and a medley of vegetables in a rich Cajun-inspired broth. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups long-grain rice
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onions, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning, rice, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
5. Add shrimp; simmer for 5-7 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern-style Chicken and Dumpling Stew
This hearty stew is a classic Southern comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. Tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and rich broth come together to create a meal that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups biscuit or dumpling mix (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in a little oil until the chicken is browned.
2. Add the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
3. Gradually add the broth, whisking constantly.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Stir in the biscuit or dumpling mix according to package instructions (or make homemade dumplings).
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and the stew has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Persian Eggplant and Tomato Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Persian cuisine, showcasing the rich flavors of eggplant, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. With its bold and savory taste, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add eggplant and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Add tomatoes and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
African Peanut and Sweet Potato Stew
Experience the rich flavors of Africa with this hearty stew that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory taste of peanuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add sweet potatoes, peanut butter, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 20 hearty Instant Pot stew recipes perfect for a chilly night. From classic beef and vegetable to creamy chicken and mushroom, spicy lentil and sausage to vegetarian chickpea and spinach – there’s something for everyone. Discover international flavors like Moroccan lamb and apricot, Thai coconut curry, and Japanese miso and tofu. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, these Instant Pot stews are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.