Name: Savory Instant Pot Pork Stew for Quick Weeknight Comfort
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs Pork Loin (Cut into 2-3 inch cubes); 1 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper (Freshly ground); 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (Can be replaced with gluten-free flour); 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil (Olive oil or avocado oil are alternatives); 1 large Yellow Onion (Chopped); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); 2 tbsp Tomato Paste; 1 cup Red Wine (Substitute with additional broth for non-alcoholic version); 4 cups Chicken Stock or Beef Broth (Choose low-sodium options); 3 medium Carrots (Chopped); 2 stalks Celery (Chopped); 1 lb Mini Red Potatoes (Halved); 8 oz Baby Bella Mushrooms (Sliced); 1 cup Frozen Peas (Added at the end); 2 leaves Bay Leaves (Remove before serving); 2 tbsp Cornstarch (Mixed with water for slurry); 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley (For garnish)

Pin1

1 Shares

The moment I heard the unmistakable sizzle of pork browning in the Instant Pot, my kitchen was filled with a sense of warmth and promise. Cooking can transport us to a cozy place, and nothing does it quite like a steaming bowl of Instant Pot Pork Stew. In just 30 minutes, you can create a comforting dish infused with rich flavors from red wine and fresh veggies that feels like a hug in a bowl.

After a long day, the thought of whipping up dinner can be daunting, but this one-pot meal is a lifesaver. Minimal cleanup ensures you can spend more time enjoying this delicious comfort food with family rather than scrubbing pots and pans. Whether you choose tender pork loin, add hearty veggies, or even a unique twist with taco seasoning, this stew is endlessly adaptable to please everyone at the table. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s embark on this flavorful journey together!

Why Will You Love Instant Pot Pork Stew?

Comforting, Hearty Flavors: Each bowl of this Instant Pot Pork Stew is a warm embrace, featuring tender pork and a rich broth that balances savory and slightly sweet notes from the red wine and fresh veggies.
Quick Weeknight Solution: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll be ready to serve a delicious meal without the fuss.
Minimal Cleanup: Thanks to the one-pot design, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying great conversations around the dinner table.
Endless Versatility: Customize this stew with different meats, veggies, or spices, making it a fantastic base for your family’s favorites.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy meals all week long. For more ideas, check out my tips on meal planning.

Instant Pot Pork Stew Ingredients

For the Stew

Pork Loin – Cut into 2-3 inch cubes for even cooking; substitute with pork shoulder for extra flavor.
Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust as needed to meet dietary preferences.
Ground Black Pepper – Freshly ground adds better flavor; don’t skip this key seasoning.
All-Purpose Flour – Coats meat for browning; can be replaced with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free Instant Pot Pork Stew.
Vegetable Oil – Used for sautéing; olive oil or avocado oil work as great alternatives.
Yellow Onion – Provides an aromatic base; shallots can be used for a sweeter flavor.
Garlic – Fresh garlic contributes depth and savory notes; use more for a punchier taste.
Tomato Paste – Thickens the stew while boosting its flavor profile.
Red Wine – Adds a rich dimension to the dish; substitute with additional broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Chicken Stock/Beef Broth – Serves as the liquid base; choose low-sodium options for a healthier stew.
Carrots – Provide sweetness and texture; sweet potatoes can also be substituted for heartiness.
Celery – Adds a crunchy texture and enhances flavor.
Mini Red Potatoes – A hearty addition; other potatoes can be swapped based on preference.
Baby Bella Mushrooms – Enhances umami notes; feel free to use any mushrooms or omit as desired.
Frozen Peas – Added at the end for a pop of sweetness and a splash of color.
Bay Leaves – Imparts aromatic undertones during cooking; remember to remove before serving.
Cornstarch & Water Slurry – Perfect for thickening the stew; try different thickening agents if preferred.
Chopped Fresh Parsley – Adds a burst of freshness for garnish and flavor enhancement.

How to Make Instant Pot Pork Stew

Prep the Pork: Toss the pork cubes in a bowl with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. This step helps the meat brown beautifully and adds flavor.
Brown the Pork: Turn your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’, add vegetable oil, and brown the pork in batches for about 5 minutes each. Remove the browned pork and set it aside to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Sauté Aromatics: Sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic in the remaining oil for 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant and tender. This will create a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.
Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any brown bits stuck on the bottom. This step adds incredible depth to the stew’s flavor.
Combine Ingredients: Cancel the ‘Sauté’ mode, then add the browned pork back into the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, carrots, celery, mini red potatoes, mushrooms, and broth. Season with additional salt and pepper to your taste.
Pressure Cook: Close the lid, seal the valve, and set to ‘Manual Pressure Cook’ for 20 minutes. Afterwards, allow for a 10-minute natural release to ensure the pork remains tender and juicy.
Add Peas and Thicken: Release any remaining pressure, then gently stir in the frozen peas. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry, and stir it in.
Simmer: Simmer on ‘Sauté’ mode for a few minutes until the stew reaches your desired thickness. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a burst of color and flavor.

Optional: Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

This Instant Pot Pork Stew is perfect for meal prep aficionados! You can chop your vegetables and coat the pork with flour, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The sauté step can be completed ahead as well; simply brown the pork and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to enjoy your comforting stew, toss everything into the Instant Pot along with the broth and seasonings, and proceed with the pressure cooking instructions. This way, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time, just as delicious as if you made it from scratch on a busy weeknight!

Expert Tips for Instant Pot Pork Stew

Choose the Right Cut: Opt for pork shoulder for more flavor; avoid lean cuts like tenderloin to prevent dryness.
Don’t Rush Browning: Browning the meat is crucial for flavor. Take your time to develop rich, deep color on all sides.
Uniform Cube Size: Cut your pork into even 2-3 inch cubes to ensure consistent cooking; larger pieces may require extra time.
Natural Pressure Release: Allow for natural pressure release after cooking for tender meat; quick release can lead to toughness.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite spices or veggies; this Instant Pot Pork Stew is highly adaptable to suit your family’s taste!
Thickening Tips: If your stew isn’t thick enough, a cornstarch slurry can work wonders; mix with water before adding to avoid clumps.

Storage Tips for Instant Pot Pork Stew

Fridge: Store the stew in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent condensation.

Freezer: The stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container and leave some space for expansion.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.

Meal Prep Friendly: This Instant Pot Pork Stew is perfect for meal prep; leftovers make quick meals for busy weeknights without the hassle of cooking from scratch!

What to Serve with Instant Pot Pork Stew?

This hearty dish is perfect for cozy evenings at home, and a few delightful sides can truly elevate your meal.

Crusty Bread: The ideal companion for soaking up every drop of that rich, flavorful broth. A warm, fresh loaf is irresistible!
Homemade Cornbread: Sweet and buttery, cornbread adds a comforting touch and a hint of sweetness to balance the savory stew. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for extra indulgence.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and fluffy, these mashed potatoes provide a lovely, velvety texture that pairs beautifully with the stew. The flavors meld in every bite, offering pure comfort.
Simple Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad featuring mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette brightens the meal, cutting through the richness while adding a pop of color.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, a mix of seasonal veggies adds a cheerful crunch and complements the tender pork stew harmoniously.
Light Fruit Dessert: Consider serving a refreshing fruit salad or an apple crisp to finish the meal. The sweetness can cleanse the palate after the savory dish.

Each of these sides not only enhances the flavors of the Instant Pot Pork Stew but also rounds out a satisfying and wholesome family dinner experience.

Instant Pot Pork Stew Variations

Get ready to explore delightful ways to customize your stew that tantalize the taste buds!

Chicken Swap: Try using chicken thighs or breasts instead of pork for a lighter variation that still delivers on flavor.
Beefy Delight: Substitute the pork with beef chuck for a heartier stew, providing rich and robust flavors.
Taco Twist: Incorporate taco seasoning and black beans for a Mexican-inspired stew that’s bursting with zest and spice.
Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans to the pot for an extra serving of wholesome veggies and vibrant color.
Sweet Surprise: Toss in diced pineapples to introduce a touch of sweetness, creating a lovely contrast to the savory elements.
Slow-Cooked Goodness: For a more leisurely approach, make this stew using a slow cooker. Just set it and forget it for tender, flavorful results.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace regular flour with gluten-free flour in the recipe to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to amp up the heat and spice things up for adventurous palates.

Instant Pot Pork Stew Recipe FAQs

What type of pork is best for stew?
Absolutely! For this Instant Pot Pork Stew, I recommend using pork shoulder or pork loin. Pork shoulder has a higher fat content, giving your stew a richer flavor, while pork loin offers a leaner option. Just make sure to cut it into uniform 2-3 inch cubes for even cooking.

How do you store leftovers?
Very easy! Store your Instant Pot Pork Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow the stew to cool completely before sealing it, as this helps maintain its freshness without any condensation.

Can I freeze the stew?
Certainly! You can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave a little space at the top for the stew to expand as it freezes. To reheat, just add a splash of broth or water when warming it up to bring back that luscious consistency.

What if my stew didn’t thicken?
No worries at all! If your Instant Pot Pork Stew isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir this mixture into the stew while it’s still hot and allow it to simmer on the sauté function until the desired thickness is reached.

Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes, it can be! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to keep this Instant Pot Pork Stew gluten-free. Be sure to check any other sauces or broths for gluten content, and you’ll have a delicious dish suitable for everyone!

Can I use other vegetables in this stew?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to throw in veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even beans for added heartiness. Get creative and customize the stew to suit your family’s preferences!