Name: Instant Pot Beef Ragu
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cubed; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 medium carrots, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 cup low-sodium beef broth; 1/2 cup dry red wine; Salt and pepper to taste

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Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever wished for a dish that envelops you in warmth and comfort with every bite? Instant Pot Beef Ragu: Scrumptious Comfort in Just 1 Hour is that dish. Imagine tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection in a rich, savory sauce, served over a bed of creamy polenta or al dente pasta. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will beckon your family and friends to gather around the table, creating memories as delightful as each mouthful.

This recipe combines the convenience of an Instant Pot with the heartwarming flavors of traditional Italian cooking. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a special family gathering, this dish promises to be the star. With just an hour of cooking time, you can elevate a simple weeknight meal into a feast fit for any occasion. Get ready to savor every moment as you dive into this delectable beef ragu, where comfort food meets gourmet excellence.

Key Ingredients For Instant Pot Beef Ragu: Scrumptious Comfort in Just 1 Hour

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it becomes tender and flavorful as it cooks down in the sauce.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds depth and richness to the sauce.
Onion: A sweet yellow onion will caramelize beautifully, enhancing the flavor profile of your ragu.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add natural sweetness and texture; chop them finely for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the aroma and flavor; mince them finely to release their oils.

For the Sauce:

Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality tomatoes; they form the base of your ragu’s sauce.
Beef Broth: Using low-sodium broth allows you to control salt levels while adding moisture and flavor.
Red Wine: A splash of red wine deepens the flavors; choose a dry variety that you enjoy drinking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Instant Pot Beef Ragu: Scrumptious Comfort in Just 1 Hour

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by selecting the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, toss in chopped onions and carrots, stirring occasionally until they soften, about 5 minutes. Next, add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Second Step : Brown the Beef

Add cubed beef chuck roast into the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper. Allow the beef to brown on all sides—about 8-10 minutes—ensuring it develops a nice crust for added flavor.

Third Step : Deglaze with Wine

Pour in red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot using a wooden spoon. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes so that some of the alcohol evaporates.

Fourth Step : Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in canned diced tomatoes and beef broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly within the pot. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Fifth Step : Pressure Cook

Seal your Instant Pot lid securely and ensure that the valve is set to “sealing.” Set it to cook on high pressure for about 40 minutes. Once done, allow natural pressure release for approximately 10 minutes before carefully switching to quick release mode.

Sixth Step : Serve with Style

After opening the lid, give your ragu a good stir. If desired, serve over creamy polenta or fresh pasta. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for an elegant touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Choose Quality Meat: Selecting well-marbled beef chuck ensures tenderness and flavor during cooking.
Let It Rest: Allowing your ragu to rest for a few minutes after cooking enhances its flavor as it cools slightly.
Add Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh basil or parsley right before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

Presentation Ideas

This Instant Pot Beef Ragu: Scrumptious Comfort in Just 1 Hour is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Pasta: Serve this rich beef ragu over your favorite pasta, such as tagliatelle or pappardelle. The sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, creating a delightful dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
Polenta: For a comforting option, spoon the beef ragu over creamy polenta. This combination offers a satisfying meal that balances the hearty meat with the smooth texture of polenta.
Crusty Bread: Enjoy the ragu with slices of crusty bread. This allows you to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce, making it an irresistible addition to any meal.

Cooking Tips for Instant Pot Beef Ragu

When making Instant Pot Beef Ragu: Scrumptious Comfort in Just 1 Hour, consider these helpful tips:

Ensure you use high-quality beef cuts like chuck roast. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of your ragu. Searing the meat before adding other ingredients intensifies its taste.

Adjust seasoning according to personal preference. While salt and pepper are essential, don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs like thyme and rosemary for added depth.

Letting the ragu rest for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld together beautifully. This simple step can make a significant difference in taste.

Storage and Reheating Suggestions

Proper storage ensures your Instant Pot Beef Ragu remains delicious even days later.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage, up to three months.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of broth or water can help maintain moisture and prevent drying out.

Nutritional Information

This Instant Pot Beef Ragu: Scrumptious Comfort in Just 1 Hour not only satisfies your cravings but also provides nourishing benefits.

Beef is an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. Pairing it with vegetables like onions and carrots enhances its nutritional profile while adding flavor.

For those watching their carbs, serve this ragu over low-carb options like zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a healthier twist.

FAQs

What is the best cut of beef for Instant Pot Beef Ragu?

Choosing the right cut of beef is crucial for an ideal ragu. Chuck roast is often recommended due to its rich marbling, which breaks down during cooking, creating tender pieces of meat. Other options include brisket or round cuts if you prefer leaner choices. Always ensure you cut against the grain when serving to maximize tenderness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing your Instant Pot Beef Ragu: Scrumptious Comfort in Just 1 Hour ahead of time makes weeknight dinners easier. You can cook it on the weekend and store it in the fridge or freezer. Reheating is simple; just warm it up gently on the stove or in your microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

What can I substitute for beef if I want a lighter option?

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. These options still provide protein while reducing calories and fat content. The cooking method remains largely unchanged; just adjust cooking times accordingly since poultry cooks faster than beef.

How do I enhance the flavor of my ragu?

To elevate your Instant Pot Beef Ragu: Scrumptious Comfort in Just 1 Hour, incorporate aromatic ingredients such as garlic, bay leaves, or fresh herbs during cooking. A splash of red wine adds depth too; just remember to cook off the alcohol before sealing your pot. Experimenting with different spices can further tailor flavors to your liking!