Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup with Beef Shanks

Looking for a hearty beef and barley soup that’s rich in flavor yet simple to prepare? This Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup, made using one of my favorite Instant Pot kitchen essentials , features tender beef shanks, wholesome pearl barley, and savory vegetables.

There’s something about cozy evenings at home that call for a big pot of soup simmering away while you curl up with a good book. Whether you’re hosting a book club dinner, planning a cozy night in, or just looking for an easy make-ahead meal, this recipe is a reader’s dream. Comforting, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable, it’s the kind of dish that makes conversation linger around the table long after the last page is turned.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Barley Soup

This Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup is the kind of recipe you come back to again and again. The beef shanks create a deep, rich broth, the barley makes it hearty and satisfying, and the Instant Pot does most of the work for you. It’s comforting, reliable, and perfect for both cozy weeknights and casual book club gatherings.

Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup with Beef Shanks

It’s the perfect cozy meal for chilly evenings or a satisfying dish to share with your book club.

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 35 mins | Total: ~1 hour

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs beef shanks, bone-in
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Season beef shanks with salt and pepper.
2. Using Instant Pot “Sauté,” sear beef until browned.
3. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic; sauté until softened.
4. Stir in barley, broth, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary.
5. Lock lid and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Allow natural release.
6. Remove beef, shred with two forks, and return to pot.
7. Adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Tips for Success

• Sear beef shanks for a deeper flavor base.
• Swap in chuck roast or stew beef if shanks aren’t available.
• Add a splash of red wine when deglazing for extra richness.

Ingredient Spotlight: Barley

Barley is what gives this soup its signature heartiness. It absorbs the rich beef broth as it cooks, adding both texture and substance without overpowering the other ingredients. Pearl barley works best here, holding its shape while still becoming tender—making it ideal for soups that are meant to be reheated or made ahead.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.

Q: What other vegetables can I add?
Mushrooms, parsnips, or green beans make great additions for variety.

Make It Your Own

• Swap beef shanks for chuck roast or stew meat if that’s what you have on hand.
• Add mushrooms or parsnips for extra depth and earthiness.
• Prefer a thicker soup? Stir in a little extra barley and let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes after cooking.
• Barley can be swapped for orzo or ditalini if you prefer a pasta-style soup, or left out entirely for a naturally gluten-free option.

Note: If using pasta like orzo or ditalini, add it during the final simmer (or after pressure cooking) so it doesn’t overcook; barley can be added at the start since it holds up well to longer cooking.

For more comforting dishes like this one, browse my comfort food recipes.

Meal Prep Ideas

This recipe doubles easily and freezes beautifully. Portion it out for ready-to-heat lunches during a busy week. Just thaw overnight and reheat with a splash of broth.

If you enjoy cozy, make-ahead meals like this, you might also love my book club-friendly recipes for relaxed gatherings.

Book Club Pairing Idea

This hearty Beef Barley Soup is a perfect match for a cozy book club night. Pair it with a historical romance or a family saga—something rich in character and atmosphere. Serve it with crusty bread, dim the lights, and lean into those cozy reading nights where the conversation lingers as long as the soup stays warm.

Love recipes with your reads?
Explore more Book Club Recipes here on Forever Book Lover.