Instant Pot Pot Roast

This Instant Pot pot roast is the perfect dish for cozy family dinners or special occasions. With its tender beef, hearty potatoes, and rich gravy, it brings comfort food to a whole new level. Not only is it quick to prepare thanks to the Instant Pot, but its flavors deepen in just about an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends. Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste that will remind you of home-cooked meals with every bite.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Roast
• For the Vegetables
• For the Broth
• For Thickening the Gravy
• For Garnish
• How to Make Instant Pot Pot Roast
• Step 1: Season the Roast
• Step 2: Sear the Roast
• Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
• Step 4: Add Ingredients
• Step 5: Pressure Cook
• Step 6: Release Pressure
• Step 7: Shred the Roast
• Step 8: Make the Gravy
• Step 9: Serve
• How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast
• With Fresh Herbs
• Over Mashed Potatoes
• In a Sandwich
• With Crusty Bread
• How to Perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast
• Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Pot Roast
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Instant Pot Pot Roast
• Reheating Instant Pot Pot Roast
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen meat for Instant Pot pot roast?
• How do I know when my Instant Pot pot roast is done?
• What should I serve with my Instant Pot pot roast?
• How long does it take to make Instant Pot pot roast?
• Can I customize my Instant Pot pot roast recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: Prepare this meal in under two hours, making it perfect for busy nights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Save on cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.
• Flavorful and Tender: The pressure cooking locks in moisture, ensuring a juicy roast every time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your family’s taste.
• Family-Friendly: A classic dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Instant Pot pot roast, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multi-functional appliance speeds up cooking times while infusing flavors.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and prepping the roast.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for easily cutting meat and vegetables with precision.

Ingredients

For the Roast

• 3-5 pound boneless beef chuck roast
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the Vegetables

• 1 pound baby red potatoes
• 4 large carrots, chopped into 2-inch pieces (or 1 pound baby carrots)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced

For the Broth

• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

For Thickening the Gravy

• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Instant Pot Pot Roast

Step 1: Season the Roast

In a small bowl, mix together the salt, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Rub this seasoning blend all over the roast to coat all sides evenly.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

Turn on your Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Once hot, add the oil. Sear the seasoned roast for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove the roast and set it aside.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, using a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Turn off the Sauté function.

Step 4: Add Ingredients

Place the seared roast back into the pot. Scatter the potatoes, carrots, and onions around it.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Lock the lid in place and set the vent to Sealing. Pressure Cook on High for:
1. 60 minutes for a 3 lb roast
2. 80-90 minutes for a 4-5 lb roast

Step 6: Release Pressure

Once cooking is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. Then perform a controlled quick release for any remaining steam.

Step 7: Shred the Roast

Carefully remove the lid. Transfer both the roast and veggies to a platter. Use two forks to shred the roast into chunks.

Step 8: Make the Gravy

Set your Instant Pot to Soup/Broth setting. In a small bowl, whisk together water and cornstarch to create a slurry. Once simmering, whisk in this mixture until thickened. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 9: Serve

Plate your shredded pot roast alongside veggies and smother with rich gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme as desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast

Serving Instant Pot pot roast is an opportunity to create a comforting and satisfying meal for your family. This dish is not only delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the pot roast for a pop of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add fresh thyme for an aromatic touch that complements the beef.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Serve your shredded pot roast over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For added flavor, mix in roasted garlic or garlic powder into the mashed potatoes.

In a Sandwich

• Pot Roast Sandwiches: Pile the shredded pot roast onto crusty bread with some gravy for a delicious sandwich.
• French Dip Style: Serve with a side of beef broth for dipping, creating a classic French dip experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Dinner Rolls: Pair the pot roast with soft dinner rolls to soak up all the rich gravy.
• Sourdough Bread: A thick slice of sourdough adds texture and flavor, perfect for mopping up gravy.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast

To achieve the most tender and flavorful Instant Pot pot roast, consider these key tips. Following them can elevate your dish from good to great!

• Bold Seasoning: Use a generous amount of seasoning on your roast before cooking. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
• Searing is Key: Don’t skip the searing step. Browning the meat enhances its flavor and creates a rich base for your gravy.
• Vegetable Placement Matters: Layer vegetables around the roast rather than on top to prevent them from becoming mushy during pressure cooking.
• Natural Pressure Release: Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure helps keep the meat tender and juicy.
• Adjust Gravy Thickness: If you prefer thicker gravy, add more cornstarch to your slurry until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Complement your Instant Pot pot roast with these delightful side dishes that add variety and enhance your meal.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts and carrots roasted until caramelized brings sweetness and crunch.
2. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the pot roast.
3. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash offers creaminess without extra calories.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the hearty flavors of the pot roast.
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with gravy, making every bite more enjoyable.
6. Side Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette offers freshness that complements the meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot pot roast, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Bold seasoning: Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland meat. Always rub your roast with a generous amount of spices before cooking.
• Ignoring the sear: Not searing the roast may result in a lack of flavor. Take the time to sear each side for 2-3 minutes to enhance the taste.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for steam to circulate around the roast and veggies.
• Rushing the pressure release: Quick-releasing the pressure too soon can lead to tough meat. Allow for natural release for at least 10 minutes before finishing with a quick release.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can diminish flavor. Opt for a good-quality beef broth or stock for richer tastes in your gravy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pot roast in an airtight container.
• It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Place cooled pot roast in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pot roast in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to keep it moist.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen meat for Instant Pot pot roast?

Yes, you can use frozen meat. Just skip searing and add an extra 20-30 minutes to cooking time.

How do I know when my Instant Pot pot roast is done?

For a tender roast, ensure it reaches at least 195°F (90°C) internally. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

What should I serve with my Instant Pot pot roast?

Consider pairing it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

How long does it take to make Instant Pot pot roast?

The total time is about 1 hour 40 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Can I customize my Instant Pot pot roast recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables like mushrooms or parsnips based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot pot roast is not only juicy and tender but also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings to make it uniquely yours!