Instant Pot Pot Roast

This Instant Pot pot roast is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any gathering. Ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy meal during the week, this recipe delivers juicy, tender meat paired with flavorful vegetables. The rich gravy elevates the dish, making it a standout choice for comfort food lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This recipe cooks in under two hours, perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Meal: With all ingredients cooked together, cleanup is a breeze!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and beef broth creates a savory gravy that enhances the roast.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your veggies or add herbs to suit your family’s taste preferences.
• Perfectly Tender Meat: The pressure cooking method ensures the beef is juicy and easy to shred.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Instant Pot pot roast, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Small mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This electric pressure cooker speeds up cooking time while enhancing flavor.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing meat.
• Sharp Knife: Ensures clean cuts when preparing your ingredients.
• Small Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining spices before seasoning the roast.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious Instant Pot pot roast recipe:

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 Gravy

• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

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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 ensure an even coat on all sides.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

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

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

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

Step 4: Add Ingredients

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

Step 5: Pressure Cook

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

Step 6: Release Pressure

After cooking time is complete, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes. Then perform a controlled quick release for any remaining steam.

Step 7: Shred the Roast

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

Step 8: Make the Gravy

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

Step 9: Serve

Plate your shredded pot roast with veggies on top and generously smother with gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast

Serving Instant Pot pot roast is a delightful experience that brings comfort and joy to the table. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes, making each meal unique and flavorful.

With Fresh Herb Garnish

• Chopped parsley: Brightens up the dish and adds a fresh flavor.
• Thyme sprigs: Offers a fragrant touch that complements the beef perfectly.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: Serve the pot roast on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for an indulgent experience. The gravy seeps into the potatoes, enhancing their flavor.

In a Sandwich

• Pot roast sandwiches: Shred leftover pot roast and serve it in a toasted bun with some gravy for a delicious handheld meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or baguette: Perfect for soaking up the rich gravy, crusty bread adds texture to your meal.

As a Salad Topping

• Shredded pot roast salad: Top mixed greens with shredded pot roast and drizzle with vinaigrette for a hearty salad option.

In Tacos

• Pot roast tacos: Use shredded pot roast as filling in soft tortillas topped with avocado and salsa for a fun twist on traditional tacos.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast

To achieve the perfect Instant Pot pot roast, consider these essential tips that ensure tenderness and flavor in every bite.

• Choose the right cut: Selecting a boneless beef chuck roast is ideal as it becomes tender during cooking.
• Season generously: A well-seasoned roast enhances flavor; don’t be shy with spices!
• Sear before cooking: Searing locks in juices and creates a rich flavor base that elevates your dish.
• Deglaze properly: Scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot adds depth to your gravy.
• Use natural pressure release: Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure helps keep the meat tender.
• Adjust cooking time for size: Follow recommended times based on your roast’s weight for optimal results.

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Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot pot roast can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to complement this hearty main course.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add sweetness and color to your plate.
2. Creamy Polenta: This smooth, cheesy dish offers a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of pot roast.
3. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds provide crunch and freshness.
4. Buttered Corn on the Cob: Juicy corn on the cob slathered in butter pairs beautifully with rich gravies.
5. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is creamy and satisfying.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds brightness and texture, balancing out the richness of the meat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot pot roast, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the roast before cooking can lead to bland flavor. Always rub your roast with a mixture of spices for maximum taste.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many ingredients can prevent proper cooking and pressure buildup. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Not deglazing properly: Failing to scrape up browned bits after searing can lead to burnt flavors. Always deglaze the pot with broth to ensure a rich and complex gravy.
• Ignoring natural pressure release: Quick releasing pressure right after cooking can result in tough meat. Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release for at least 10 minutes for tenderness.
• Not adjusting cook time for size: Cooking a larger or smaller roast without adjusting time can lead to undercooked or overcooked meat. Use the correct timing based on roast weight.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the pot roast cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Ensure you remove as much air as possible from freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the pot roast in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place slices of pot roast on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Add sliced pot roast and some beef broth into a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook an Instant Pot pot roast?

The cooking time varies based on the size of your roast; typically, it takes about 60-90 minutes under high pressure.

Can I use frozen meat for Instant Pot pot roast?

Yes, you can use frozen beef chuck roast. Just skip searing and add extra cooking time of about 20-30 minutes.

What should I serve with Instant Pot pot roast?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or crusty bread that pairs well with gravy.

How do I make my gravy thicker?

To thicken your gravy, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the simmering liquid until desired thickness is reached.

Can I customize my Instant Pot pot roast recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like parsnips or swap seasonings according to your preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot pot roast is not only quick and easy but also deeply satisfying and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, allowing you plenty of opportunities for customization based on your tastes. Try including different herbs or vegetables to make it uniquely yours!