Instant Pot Pot Roast

Instant Pot Pot Roast

The Instant Pot Pot Roast has become a cherished dish in my home, especially during the chilly winter months. I fondly recall the first time I made it, surrounded by friends and family, as the rich aroma filled the kitchen. It was an evening of laughter, stories, and the comforting warmth of good food. There’s something truly magical about a pot roast; it transforms simple ingredients like tender beef and vegetables into a hearty meal that warms the soul. I love how, with the help of the Instant Pot, this traditionally slow-cooked dish can be ready in a fraction of the time, yet it still delivers on flavor and tenderness.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
2 hr 30 mins
Prep Time:
30 mins
Cook Time:
120 mins
Difficulty:
Hard
Calories:
450 kcal
Protein:
42 g
Diet:
Keto, Whole30, Vegan
Fat:
20 g
Tools Used:
Instant Pot, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Skillet, Saucepan

Why This Instant Pot Pot Roast Shines

One-Pot Wonder

When I think of cozy meals, the Instant Pot Pot Roast stands out as a one-pot wonder. Everything cooks together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. There’s no need for multiple pots and pans, which makes cleanup a breeze!

Convenience of the Instant Pot

The Instant Pot is a game changer! It pressure cooks the roast to perfection, ensuring it’s always tender and juicy. Plus, the sauté function lets you brown the meat and deglaze the pot, enhancing the overall flavor.

Perfect for Gatherings

This recipe easily serves a crowd, making it the perfect choice for family gatherings or potlucks. Who doesn’t love a hearty meal that everyone can enjoy? Set it and forget it, then spend quality time with your loved ones.

Versatile Ingredients

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can customize the vegetables to your liking, introducing seasonal produce or whatever you have on hand. It’s a great way to use up those extra carrots or potatoes lingering in your kitchen.

Delicious Leftovers

What’s better than a delicious meal? Leftovers! The Instant Pot Pot Roast tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

Main Ingredients for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Instant Pot Pot Roast

The ingredients for this Instant Pot Pot Roast are the stars of the show, each playing a vital role in creating a delicious and satisfying meal. The key players include a well-marbled chuck roast, which provides the rich flavor and tenderness we crave, and a medley of vegetables that add both nutrition and color to the dish.

  • 4-5 lbs chuck roast: This is the main ingredient that brings the dish together. Chuck roast is known for its marbling, which helps it become tender during cooking.
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for browning the roast, the oil enhances the flavor and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
  • 1/2 cup water: Essential for the pressure cooking process, it creates steam for the Instant Pot.
  • 1 small onion: Quartered, it adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • 8 cloves garlic: Crushed, garlic infuses the pot roast with aromatic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon thyme: A classic herb that complements the beef beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon rosemary: Adds a fragrant, woodsy note.
  • 1 teaspoon oregano: This herb provides a warm, earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika: Contributes a mild sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a touch of spice, optional for those who like a kick.
  • 1 cup beef broth: Low sodium broth ensures the roast isn’t overly salty while adding richness.
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds umami depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: This sauce adds complexity and tang.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: For richness and flavor.
  • 1 lb mini red potatoes: Whole or halved, these add heartiness to the dish.
  • 8 oz baby Bella mushrooms: Whole or halved, they soak up the delicious sauce.
  • 3 large carrots: Cut into 1-inch chunks, they add sweetness and color.
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch: Used to thicken the gravy.
  • 1/3 cup water: To mix with cornstarch for thickening.

Cooking Method for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Instant Pot Pot Roast

Cooking with the Instant Pot is a breeze and perfect for the Instant Pot Pot Roast. It speeds up the process while still delivering that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness we all crave. Let me walk you through the steps, making it easy for you to create this delicious meal.

  1. Start by setting your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. When it reads “Hot,” add the 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil and wait for it to heat up. This step is essential for creating a nice sear on the beef.
  2. If your roast is quite large, consider cutting it into two pieces to ensure even browning. Place the beef in the pot, cooking each piece for about 5 minutes on each side until beautifully golden brown. The goal is to develop that deep, rich flavor.
  3. As you sear the beef, don’t hesitate to drizzle in a bit more oil if the pot seems dry. Once browned, carefully transfer the beef to a plate, covering it with foil to keep warm.
  4. Now, it’s time to deglaze the pot! Pour in 1/2 cup of water, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds incredible flavor to the broth.
  5. Once the pot is deglazed, turn off the sauté mode and return the browned beef to the pot.
  6. Next, add the remaining ingredients, starting with the 1 small onion and finishing with the 4 tablespoons of butter. Make sure to spread everything evenly around the beef.
  7. Now, close the lid securely and seal the valve. If your roast pieces are no thicker than 2 inches, set the Instant Pot to cook on High Pressure for around 75 minutes. Thicker pieces may need 100 minutes.
  8. When the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 15 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure manually.
  9. Open the lid and check for tenderness. If the beef isn’t tender enough to shred, don’t worry! Simply cook on High Pressure for an additional 15 to 20 minutes with another natural pressure release.
  10. Remove the beef from the pot, placing it in a large serving dish. Cover with aluminum foil and keep it warm with a towel.
  11. Next, strain the cooking liquid using a fine mesh sieve over a mixing bowl. You’ll want to add 1 cup of this liquid back to the beef, while the rest can be returned to the pot.
  12. Shred the beef with two forks, ensuring it’s nice and fluffy, then cover it again to keep warm.
  13. Now, add your prepared vegetables to the pot with the remaining cooking liquid and mix.
  14. If you halved the mini red potatoes, cook on High Pressure for about 4 minutes. For whole potatoes, it’ll be around 6 minutes, followed by a Quick Release.
  15. Once cooked, gently transfer the vegetables from the pot to the dish with the beef using a spider strainer, arranging them around the tender meat.
  16. For a thicker gravy, return to the pot, selecting Sauté mode and waiting until it reads Hot. Mix 1/4 cup cornstarch with 1/3 cup water in a small bowl until dissolved, then add to the pot and gently stir.
  17. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, as it will continue thickening as it cools.
  18. Transfer the gravy to a serving boat, drizzle it over the shredded beef, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Deglazing is Crucial: Be sure to deglaze the pot thoroughly to prevent the burn notice. It’s essential for flavor!
  • Check the Sealing Ring: Always ensure the silicone ring is clean and undamaged to maintain proper pressure.
  • Use Low-Sodium Ingredients: Opt for low-sodium broth and soy sauce to avoid an overly salty outcome.
  • Choosing the Right Cut: The best cuts for pot roast are chuck, brisket, or bottom round for optimum tenderness.
  • Testing for Tenderness: Always check if the meat is fork-tender before removing it from the pot; if it isn’t, continue cooking.

Ways to Customize

Instant Pot Pot Roast

There’s so much room for creativity with the Instant Pot Pot Roast. You can adjust flavors and ingredients to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to inspire you!

  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or swap vegetables based on what you have. Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or green beans work wonderfully!
  • Herb Exchange: Try using different herbs like sage or basil for a new flavor profile.
  • Heat Levels: If you like a little spice, consider adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the broth.
  • Gravy Options: Switch up the gravy by adding mushrooms or even a splash of balsamic for an extra depth of flavor.
  • Serving Styles: Serve over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even on a bed of fresh greens for a lighter meal.

How to Enjoy Instant Pot Pot Roast

Serving the Instant Pot Pot Roast is a delightful experience! This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, festive gatherings, or even as a comforting meal during the busy week. Here are some ideas for how to enjoy it:

  • Classic Pairing: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a traditional comfort food experience.
  • Add a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pot roast.
  • Sandwich Delight: Use leftovers to create delicious sandwiches with crusty bread and your favorite condiments.
  • Make It a Feast: Accompany the pot roast with roasted vegetables or a hearty grain like quinoa or farro.
  • Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
  • Freezing Options: You can freeze individual portions for an easy meal later; just thaw and reheat!
  • Occasions: This dish is fantastic for Sunday dinners, holidays, or any time you want to serve something truly special.

FAQ

The best cut of meat for a pot roast is typically a chuck roast. Chuck roast comes from the shoulder area of the cow and has a good amount of marbling, which helps it stay tender and juicy during the long cooking process. Other cuts like brisket, bottom round, and top round can also be used, but chuck roast is widely regarded as the classic choice for pot roast due to its rich flavor and tenderness.

Yes, you can use frozen meat in the Instant Pot! However, it will require a longer cooking time. When cooking from frozen, it’s essential to ensure the meat is safely cooked through. For a frozen chuck roast, you might need to add an additional 15 to 20 minutes to the cooking time. Always check for tenderness and ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Leftover pot roast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing it. For longer storage, you can freeze it; just ensure it’s wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn. When reheating, adding a bit of broth can help restore moisture and flavor.

Absolutely! The beauty of pot roast is its versatility. You can add a variety of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, onions, and even parsnips or sweet potatoes. Just make sure they’re cut into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly with the roast. Adding seasonal vegetables can also enhance the flavor and nutrition of your dish!

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Pot Roast is a true comfort food that showcases the magic of slow-cooked flavors in a fraction of the time. Its tender meat and savory gravy are sure to please anyone at the dinner table. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s perfect for family gatherings or as a cozy weeknight meal. With just a few simple ingredients and your Instant Pot, you can create a dish that warms the heart and brings everyone together.

Instant Pot Pot Roast

Instant Pot Pot Roast

The ultimate comfort food, the Instant Pot Pot Roast is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. This easy weeknight dinner makes use of simple ingredients to create a deliciously hearty meal that your family will love. Perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Instant Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Skillet
  • Saucepan

Ingredients
  

  • 4-5 lbs Chuck roast If needed, cut into 2 pieces that would fit in the pot.
  • 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil Or canola oil.
  • 1/2 cup Water
  • 1 small Onion Quartered.
  • 8 cloves Garlic Crushed.
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme
  • 1 teaspoon Rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup Beef broth Low sodium.
  • 1/4 cup Soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
  • 1 lb Mini red potatoes Whole or cut in half.
  • 8 oz Baby Bella mushrooms Whole or halved.
  • 3 large Carrots Cut into 1-inch chunks.
  • 1/4 cup Cornstarch
  • 1/3 cup Water

Instructions
 

  • Start by setting your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. When it reads “Hot,” add the 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil and wait for it to heat up.
  • If your roast is quite large, consider cutting it into two pieces to ensure even browning. Place the beef in the pot, cooking each piece for about 5 minutes on each side until beautifully golden brown.
  • As you sear the beef, don’t hesitate to drizzle in a bit more oil if the pot seems dry. Once browned, carefully transfer the beef to a plate, covering it with foil to keep warm.
  • Now, it’s time to deglaze the pot! Pour in 1/2 cup of water, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom.
  • Once the pot is deglazed, turn off the sauté mode and return the browned beef to the pot.
  • Next, add the remaining ingredients, starting with the 1 small onion and finishing with the 4 tablespoons of butter.
  • Now, close the lid securely and seal the valve. If your roast pieces are no thicker than 2 inches, set the Instant Pot to cook on High Pressure for around 75 minutes. Thicker pieces may need 100 minutes.
  • When the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 15 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure manually.
  • Open the lid and check for tenderness. If the beef isn’t tender enough to shred, continue cooking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Remove the beef from the pot, placing it in a large serving dish. Cover with aluminum foil and keep it warm with a towel.
  • Next, strain the cooking liquid using a fine mesh sieve over a mixing bowl. You’ll want to add 1 cup of this liquid back to the beef, while the rest can be returned to the pot.
  • Shred the beef with two forks, ensuring it’s nice and fluffy, then cover it again to keep warm.
  • Now, add your prepared vegetables to the pot with the remaining cooking liquid and mix.
  • If you halved the mini red potatoes, cook on High Pressure for about 4 minutes. For whole potatoes, it’ll be around 6 minutes, followed by a Quick Release.
  • Once cooked, gently transfer the vegetables from the pot to the dish with the beef using a spider strainer, arranging them around the tender meat.
  • For a thicker gravy, return to the pot, selecting Sauté mode and waiting until it reads Hot. Mix 1/4 cup cornstarch with 1/3 cup water in a small bowl until dissolved, then add to the pot and gently stir.
  • Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, as it will continue thickening as it cools.
  • Transfer the gravy to a serving boat, drizzle it over the shredded beef, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Deglazing is Crucial: Be sure to deglaze the pot thoroughly to prevent the burn notice.
  • Check the Sealing Ring: Always ensure the silicone ring is clean and undamaged to maintain proper pressure.
  • Use Low-Sodium Ingredients: Opt for low-sodium broth and soy sauce to avoid an overly salty outcome.
  • Choosing the Right Cut: The best cuts for pot roast are chuck, brisket, or bottom round for optimum tenderness.
  • Testing for Tenderness: Always check if the meat is fork-tender before removing it from the pot; if it isn’t, continue cooking.
Keyword comfort food, Easy Instant Pot Recipes, Instant Pot Pot Roast, Pot Roast Recipe

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