Choosing the Perfect Steak for Your Soup

The Foundation: Beef Broth

The quality of your beef broth is paramount to the rich, deep flavor profile of this Instant Pot steak and potato soup. If you have the time, making your own bone broth is highly recommended. Homemade broth offers unparalleled depth, collagen, and a cleaner flavor profile compared to many store-bought varieties. However, if you’re opting for convenience, choose a low-sodium or no-sodium added beef stock or broth. Always take a moment to read the ingredient list carefully, as many commercial products contain artificial flavors, colors, and excessive sodium that can detract from the natural goodness of your soup. A good quality broth ensures a truly magnificent flavor experience.

Selecting the Best Potatoes for Soup

When it comes to potatoes for this Instant Pot steak recipe, versatility is key! Unlike stovetop cooking where some potato varieties might turn mushy, the pressure cooking environment of the Instant Pot allows potatoes to cook thoroughly while largely maintaining their shape and integrity. This means you can confidently use almost any kind of potato you have on hand, from starchy Russets to waxy Yukon Golds or red potatoes. For an extra boost of flavor and nutrition, I highly recommend leaving the peel on. Just give your spuds a thorough scrub to remove any dirt. Cutting them into roughly 1/2-inch cubes will ensure they cook evenly and integrate beautifully into the soup.

How to Prepare This Easy Steak Soup Recipe

Get ready to create a masterpiece with minimal effort! This easy steak soup recipe leverages the Instant Pot for maximum flavor and convenience. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfect bowl every time:

1. Sauté the Aromatics and Steak: Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and adding your cooking oil. Once the oil shimmers but isn’t smoking, add the diced steak along with the onions, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté on high for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is nicely browned on all sides and the vegetables are tender-crisp. Don’t worry if it steams more than browns; this initial step is crucial for building a deep, rich flavor base through the Maillard reaction.
2. Set the Pressure Cooking Time: Turn off the “Sauté” function. Now, set your Instant Pot to the “Soup/Stew” setting (or Manual/Pressure Cook) on high pressure for 30 minutes. This will ensure your steak becomes incredibly tender.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Carefully pour in the beef broth (remember to reserve 1/2 cup if you plan to thicken the soup with flour later), red wine (if using), diced potatoes, cut green beans, steak sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and a bay leaf. Add 1 teaspoon of salt at this stage. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensure the sealing valve is in the “Sealing” position, and press “Start” or re-select your pressure cook setting.
4. Pressure Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. This natural release helps to further tenderize the meat and prevent the pressure spigot from getting clogged with food particles. After 10 minutes, you can carefully turn the sealing valve to “Venting” to quick release any remaining pressure. Don’t worry, a quick release won’t harm your delicious soup if you’re in a hurry!
5. Prepare and Add Slurry (Optional): If you prefer a thicker soup, now is the time to make your slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved 1/2 cup of beef broth with the all-purpose flour until thoroughly combined and lump-free. With the Instant Pot still hot (but not on a cooking function), slowly pour the slurry into the soup while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
6. Thicken and Serve: Return the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, stirring frequently, and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness. Once thickened, turn off the Instant Pot, remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasonings (salt and pepper) as needed. Ladle generously into bowls and serve your amazing homemade steak soup!

Chef Jenn’s Expert Tips for the Best Steak and Potato Soup

Achieving restaurant-quality flavor in your homemade soup is easier than you think. Here are some invaluable tips from Chef Jenn to ensure your Instant Pot Steak and Potato Soup is an absolute triumph:

• Prepare Your Steak Properly: Always take the time to trim any excess fat and gristle from your steak before cubing. While a little marbling adds flavor, large chunks of chewy fat can detract from the soup’s enjoyable texture.
• Uniform Potato Cubes: For even cooking, aim to cut your potatoes into roughly 1/2-inch cubes. This ensures every potato piece is perfectly tender at the same time.
• Don’t Skimp on Steak Sauce: Your favorite steak sauce is more than just a condiment; it’s a flavor enhancer. It adds incredible depth, tang, and umami to the broth, so don’t hesitate to use a good quality one.
• Remember the Bay Leaf: The bay leaf adds a subtle, herbaceous note that rounds out the flavors. However, it’s meant to infuse, not be eaten, so always remove it before serving.
• Adjust Thickness to Your Liking: Thickening the soup with a flour slurry is entirely optional. If you prefer a lighter, brothier soup, simply skip this step. If you like it extra thick, feel free to add a bit more slurry until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Flavor Intensifies Overnight: Like many hearty soups and stews, this Instant Pot Steak and Potato Soup tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld and deepen overnight, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal.
• Make it Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, simply omit the all-purpose flour thickener. The soup will still be wonderfully flavorful and satisfying. You can also use a cornstarch slurry for thickening if you prefer a gluten-free option.
• Seasoning is Key: Always taste and adjust your seasonings (salt and pepper) at the end of cooking. Different brands of broth and steak sauce can vary in sodium content, so tailor it to your palate.

Craving More Delicious Instant Pot & Soup Recipes? Also Try These:

If you loved this flavorful beef and potato stew, you’ll surely enjoy exploring other comforting and easy recipes. These hand-picked selections offer a variety of tastes and textures, perfect for expanding your culinary repertoire:

Serving Suggestions for Your Steak and Potato Soup

This Instant Pot Steak and Potato Soup is incredibly versatile and makes for a fantastic meal on its own, especially when served in a generous bowl. However, if you’re looking to complement its rich flavors, here are some delightful pairing ideas:

• Crusty Bread or Rolls: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious, beefy broth. A fresh baguette or warm dinner rolls are ideal.
• Side Salad: A light, refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a wonderful contrast to the hearty soup.
• Classic Sandwich: Pair a smaller portion of soup with a classic sandwich, like one made with Old Fashioned Ham Salad, for a satisfying lunch or dinner combination.
• Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread adds a touch of sweetness and Southern comfort that pairs beautifully with the savory soup.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: For an extra indulgent meal, serve with slices of toasted garlic bread, perhaps topped with melted cheese.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted asparagus or broccoli can add extra nutrients and a lovely texture.
• Lighter Main Courses: If serving as a smaller starter, it also complements less meaty meals such as Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta or a rich Smoked Mac and Cheese.

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3.18 from 95 votes

Instant Pot Steak and Potatoes Soup

A Note on Nutritional Information

Nutritional information for this recipe is provided as a courtesy and is calculated based on available online ingredient information. It is only an approximate value. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site cannot be guaranteed.