Stewing beef and beef stew cooking times
How long to cook beef stew: 2½–3 hours in the oven at 160°C (140°C fan), 2–2½ hours braised, 7–8 hours in a slow cooker and 35–40 min in a pressure cooker. Every way to cook it is below, with the temperature and how to tell it’s done.
How long to cook beef stew
Times are for 1 kg diced braising steak or chuck, for 4–6.
| Method | Time | Heat | How |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven | 2½–3 hours | 160°C (140°C fan), 325°F, gas 3 | In a covered casserole with liquid just covering the meat. |
| Braise | 2–2½ hours | covered, at a gentle simmer on the hob | Stir now and then and top up with liquid if needed. |
| Slow cooker | 7–8 hours | on low | Brown the meat first for flavour. 4–5 hours on high. |
| Pressure cooker | 35–40 min | on high pressure | Natural release for 15 minutes. |
Before you start
Cut into 4–5 cm chunks, pat dry and brown in batches. Tougher, cheaper cuts (chuck, shin, braising steak) are best: lean steak goes dry.
How to tell it’s done
Tender enough to cut with a spoon. If it’s still tough, it needs longer, not less.
Questions
How long to cook beef stew in the oven?
2½–3 hours at 160°C (140°C fan), 325°F, gas 3. In a covered casserole with liquid just covering the meat.
How long to braise beef stew?
2–2½ hours covered, at a gentle simmer on the hob. Stir now and then and top up with liquid if needed.
How long to cook beef stew in a slow cooker?
7–8 hours on low. Brown the meat first for flavour. 4–5 hours on high.
How long to cook beef stew in a pressure cooker?
35–40 min on high pressure. Natural release for 15 minutes.
Times are a guide for typical home portions: ovens, air fryers, microwaves and the size of what you’re cooking all vary. Check meat, poultry and fish with a thermometer before serving. Safe temperatures follow USDA and UK Food Standards Agency guidance, last checked 11 November 2026.