Bring the comforting flavors of Panera Bread right into your own kitchen with our Instant Pot Panera Bread Beef Stew recipe.
This hearty and savory stew, filled with tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and aromatic herbs, is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and utterly delicious.
Panera Bread is renowned for its comforting and hearty dishes, and its beef stew is no exception. This classic stew is a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring succulent pieces of beef, tender vegetables, and a rich, savory broth.
Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s a comforting bowl of warmth that brings a sense of nostalgia and satisfaction with each spoonful. The combination of earthy root vegetables, aromatic herbs, and melt-in-your-mouth beef chunks makes Panera’s beef stew a timeless favorite that soothes the soul and fills the belly.
Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with a freshly baked bread bowl, Panera’s beef stew is a true comfort food classic that never goes out of style.
Some of my favorite Instant Pot Soup Recipes are INSTANT POT COPYCAT PANERA’S BROCCOLI AND CHEDDAR SOUP, INSTANT POT CURRIED PUMPKIN SOUP, and INSTANT POT NEW ENGLAND CLAM CHOWDER.
Panera Bread Beef Stew Recipe
Panera Bread’s Beef Stew is a beloved dish that captures the essence of comfort food at its finest. This recipe features tender pieces of beef, slow-cooked to perfection, nestled amidst a medley of hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery. The broth is rich and savory, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, making every spoonful a symphony of flavors. What sets Panera’s Beef Stew apart is the attention to detail and the commitment to using wholesome ingredients, ensuring that each bite is a warm and satisfying embrace.
Recreating Panera Bread’s Beef Stew at home allows you to savor the familiar, soul-warming taste right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a nourishing dish to share with loved ones, this recipe brings the comforting essence of Panera’s signature stew to your table, making it a delightful addition to any family’s recipe collection.
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
You’ll fall in love with this recipe for Instant Pot Panera Bread Beef Stew for several compelling reasons:
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Homemade Comfort: It captures the essence of Panera’s beloved beef stew, allowing you to enjoy the comfort of this restaurant classic in the cozy confines of your home.
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Time-Saving Instant Pot: Utilizing the Instant Pot speeds up the cooking process, meaning you can have a hearty and flavorful stew on your table in a fraction of the time compared to traditional stovetop methods.
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Tender and Flavorful Beef: The pressure cooking method ensures that the beef turns out incredibly tender and infused with the savory flavors of the broth and seasonings.
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Abundance of Vegetables: This stew is loaded with a medley of wholesome vegetables, providing both nutrition and a satisfying variety of textures.
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Rich and Aromatic Broth: The broth is rich, aromatic, and deeply flavorful, thanks to the herbs, spices, and wine (optional) used in the recipe.
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Versatile Comfort Food: Whether you’re seeking a comforting meal on a chilly day or a dish to serve at gatherings, this beef stew is a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.
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Customizable: You can easily tailor this recipe to your preferences by adjusting the spices, vegetables, or thickening agent to create your perfect bowl of beef stew.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare a batch and store it for later enjoyment. The flavors in the refrigerator tend to deepen and improve after a day or two.
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Nostalgic Appeal: If you’re a fan of Panera’s beef stew, this recipe allows you to recreate that familiar taste and savor it whenever you like.
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Served with Warm Bread: Enjoy your Instant Pot Panera Bread Beef Stew with a slice of warm, crusty bread or in a bread bowl for a comforting and satisfying meal.
In summary, this recipe combines the best of Panera’s iconic beef stew with the convenience and speed of the Instant Pot. It’s a heartwarming, delicious, and customizable dish perfect for enjoying with loved ones on any occasion.
Ingredients Needed For Copycat Panera bread Instant Pot Beef Stew
Winter is coming, meaning it’s time for hearty soups and stews. The Instant Pot is the perfect appliance to make these recipes, as they cook quickly and easily.
This week, we’ll be sharing a recipe for Copycat Instant Pot Panera Bread Beef Stew requires a few simple ingredients. Keep reading to learn what you’ll need to get started!
Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.
- Beef Stew Meat: Tender cubes of beef stew meat serve as the hearty foundation of this dish, providing a rich and meaty flavor.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for searing the beef, adding a subtle depth of flavor and ensuring a golden, caramelized exterior.
- Onion: Chopped onions bring a savory and aromatic base to the stew, enhancing its overall flavor.
- Carrots: Carrots contribute sweetness and earthiness while providing a satisfying texture to the stew.
- Celery: Chopped celery adds a refreshing and slightly peppery note to the stew, complementing the other vegetables and meat.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the stew with a fragrant and savory depth of flavor.
- Beef Broth: A rich and flavorful beef broth forms the savory foundation of the stew’s broth.
- Red Wine (Optional): Red wine adds a touch of depth and complexity to the broth, although it’s entirely optional.
- Potatoes: Diced potatoes provide a hearty and creamy element to the stew, making it a filling and satisfying dish.
- Butternut Squash: Chopped butternut squash adds a delightful sweetness and a vibrant orange hue to the stew.
- Green Beans: Cut green beans contribute a fresh, crisp texture and a burst of green color.
- Frozen Peas: Frozen peas are a convenient addition, providing a sweet and poppy contrast to the other vegetables.
- Dried Thyme: Dried thyme adds an aromatic herbal note, enhancing the stew’s overall flavor profile.
- Dried Rosemary: Dried rosemary complements the savory elements of the stew with its distinct pine-like aroma.
- Salt and Black Pepper: These common seasonings enhance and balance the stew’s flavors.
- All-Purpose Flour (Optional): All-purpose flour can create a slurry for thickening the stew.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (Optional): Chopped fresh parsley serves as a vibrant garnish, adding a touch of color and freshness to each serving.
These carefully selected ingredients combine to create a Copycat Panera Bread Instant Pot Beef Stew that’s hearty and delicious, perfect for warming your soul on a cold day.
How To Make Instant Pot Panera Bread Beef Stew
If you love beef stew, then you’re going to love this quick and easy Copycat Instant Pot version of Panera Breads.
Just a few minutes of prep time is all you need to have a delicious and hearty meal on the table. The best part is that the Instant Pot does all the work for you – so it’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Give this recipe a try tonight!
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Heat the olive oil (or butter) in the pot.
- Add the cubed beef and sear it on all sides until browned. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- If using, add the red wine and allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Return the seared beef to the Instant Pot and add the diced potatoes, butternut squash, green beans, frozen peas, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth, making sure the ingredients are mostly submerged.
- Lock the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” function and set the timer for 35 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a natural pressure release for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully switch the valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.
- If you’d like a thicker stew, you can create a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of flour with a few tablespoons of water until smooth. Stir the slurry into the stew and select the “Sauté” function again. Cook for a few minutes until the stew thickens.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper, if needed.
- Serve your Copycat Panera Bread Instant Pot Beef Stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Pro Tips
Here are some pro tips to help you make the most of your Instant Pot Panera Bread Beef Stew:
- Searing for Flavor: Don’t skip the step of searing the beef before pressure cooking. Searing helps to lock in the meat’s juices and adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the stew.
- Choosing Beef: Use beef stew meat that’s well-marbled and cubed into bite-sized pieces. This ensures tender and flavorful results.
- Wine for Depth: While the red wine is optional, it can add depth and complexity to the stew’s flavor. If you choose to use wine, select one that you would enjoy drinking, as its flavor will be infused into the stew.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary available, feel free to use them instead of dried herbs. Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of the stew even further.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew after it’s done cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed. Be cautious with the salt if your beef broth is already salted.
- Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, create a slurry by mixing the flour with water until smooth. Adding it during the sauté step at the end will help thicken the broth.
- Cutting Veggies: Cut the vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Smaller pieces will cook faster, while larger ones may remain undercooked.
- Natural Release: Letting the stew naturally release pressure for a short period (10-15 minutes) can help keep the meat tender and prevent it from becoming tough.
- Make It Ahead: Beef stew often tastes even better the next day. Consider making it ahead and allowing it to cool and meld flavors in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish your serving bowls with fresh parsley or thyme before serving. It adds a burst of color and a touch of freshness.
- Bread Bowl: For an authentic Panera Bread experience, serve the stew in a bread bowl made from a round, hollowed-out loaf of bread.
Following these pro tips, you’ll ensure that your Instant Pot Panera Bread Beef Stew turns out flavorful, tender, and satisfying, just like the restaurant’s version. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this homemade classic!
Faq’s
Can I use other cuts of beef for stew? Yes, you can use other cuts of beef suitable for stew, such as chuck roast or bottom round. Look for well-marbled cuts that are suitable for slow cooking.
Can I make beef stew with frozen beef? While it’s possible to use frozen beef in an Instant Pot, it’s recommended to use thawed beef for better flavor and texture. Frozen beef may require a longer cooking time and can release excess liquid.
Do I need to sear the beef before pressure cooking? Searing the beef before pressure cooking is optional but highly recommended. It enhances the flavor by creating a caramelized crust on the meat.
Can I add more vegetables or substitute with different ones? Absolutely! Beef stew is versatile, and you can customize it with your favorite vegetables. Common additions include mushrooms, peas, corn, or bell peppers.
Can I omit the wine or substitute it with something else? If you prefer not to use wine, you can omit it or substitute it with beef broth or even a non-alcoholic cooking wine. The wine adds depth to the flavor, but the stew will still be delicious without it.
How can I thicken the stew if it’s too thin? To thicken the stew, you can create a slurry by mixing flour or cornstarch with water until smooth. Stir the slurry into the hot stew and use the sauté function to simmer until it thickens to your liking.
Can I make beef stew ahead of time? Yes, beef stew often tastes even better the next day. You can make it ahead, cool it, and refrigerate it. Reheat it on the stove or in the Instant Pot when you’re ready to serve.
How long can I store leftover beef stew, and can I freeze it? Leftover beef stew can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3-4 months.
What can I serve with beef stew? Beef stew pairs well with various sides, including crusty bread, biscuits, rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Can I make beef stew in a slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot? Yes, you can adapt beef stew to a slow cooker by following a similar recipe and allowing it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef and vegetables are tender.
More Instant Pot Recipes
- INSTANT POT BROCCOLI AND CHEDDAR CHEESE SOUP
- INSTANT POT HOMEMADE TOMATO SOUP
- HOW TO MAKE VEGETABLE BROTH IN THE INSTANT POT
- INSTANT POT CHICKEN AND GNOCCHI SOUP (OLIVE GARDEN COPYCAT)
- NINJA FOODI SOUTHWESTERN CHILI
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Instant Pot Panera Bread Beef Stew
Description
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, or butter
- 1 large large onion, chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 stalks celery , chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine, optional
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 2 cups butternut squash, diced–optional
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, optional, for thickening
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Heat the olive oil in the pot.
- Add the cubed beef and sear it on all sides until browned. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- If using, add the red wine and allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Return the seared beef to the Instant Pot and add the diced potatoes, butternut squash, green beans, frozen peas, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth, making sure the ingredients are mostly submerged.
- Lock the Instant Pot lid in place and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” function and set the timer for 35 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a natural pressure release for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully switch the valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.
- If you’d like a thicker stew, you can create a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of flour with a few tablespoons of water until smooth. Stir the slurry into the stew and select the “Sauté” function again. Cook for a few minutes until the stew thickens.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper, if needed.
- Serve your Copycat Panera Bread Instant Pot Beef Stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Equipment
- Instant Pot Pressure Cooker, Or Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker
Nutrition
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Helene Last
I didn’t have rosemary so added a teas of Oregano and also added arrowroot to ticken up the gravy.