Instant Pot Pot Roast

This Instant Pot pot roast is not just another dinner option; it’s a hearty meal that brings family and friends together. With its juicy, tender meat and rich gravy, this dish embodies comfort food at its finest. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The use of an Instant Pot means you can enjoy all the flavors of a slow-cooked roast in a fraction of the time.

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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 Vegetables
• For the Broth and 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
• On a Bed of Mashed Potatoes
• With Crusty Bread
• In Sandwiches
• With Steamed Vegetables
• As Part of a Dinner Spread
• 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 pot roast is done?
• Can I make this recipe without beef broth?
• What sides go well with Instant Pot pot roast?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This Instant Pot pot roast cooks in under two hours, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Easy One-Pot Meal: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and beef broth creates a rich gravy that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with potatoes, carrots, or even over rice for a delicious twist on leftovers.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty meal that warms the soul.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious Instant Pot pot roast.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: The star of this recipe; it quickens cooking time while ensuring meat stays tender.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe space for chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting through meat and veggies easier and safer.
• Whisk: Essential for making the gravy smooth by mixing cornstarch with water effectively.

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 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 and Gravy

• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 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 ensure it’s evenly coated.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

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

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce. Use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Turn off Sauté mode afterwards.

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 into place and set vent to Sealing. Pressure Cook on High:
1. For a 3 lb roast: 60 minutes
2. For a 4-5 lb roast: 80-90 minutes

Step 6: Release Pressure

After cooking time ends, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes followed by a controlled quick release for remaining steam.

Step 7: Shred the Roast

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

Step 8: Make the Gravy

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

Step 9: Serve

Plate shredded pot roast with vegetables and cover generously with rich gravy. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.

How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast

Serving your Instant Pot pot roast is a joyful experience, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. The rich flavors and tender meat make it a standout dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and color to the dish.
• Thyme Sprigs: Enhances the earthy flavor profile; simply sprinkle on top before serving.

On a Bed of Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Serve the pot roast over buttery, creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the gravy.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or French Bread: Perfect for dipping into the rich gravy; warm them up for an added treat.

In Sandwiches

• Pot Roast Sandwich: Use leftovers in sandwiches with horseradish sauce or BBQ sauce for a delicious twist.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Seasonal Veggies: Pair with lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced meal.

As Part of a Dinner Spread

• Buffet Style: Serve alongside other favorites like salads and appetizers for a complete family feast.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast

Perfecting your Instant Pot pot roast takes only a few thoughtful steps. Follow these tips to ensure your roast turns out juicy and full of flavor every time.

• Choose the Right Cut: Use a boneless beef chuck roast for optimal tenderness.
• Sear Before Cooking: Searing the roast enhances flavor by creating a caramelized exterior.
• Don’t Skip the Broth: Use ample beef broth to keep the roast moist and add depth to the gravy.
• Natural Pressure Release: Allowing natural pressure release helps keep the meat juicy and tender.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and tweak the gravy seasoning before serving to ensure perfect flavor balance.
• Use Leftovers Creatively: Repurpose leftover pot roast in tacos, soups, or pasta dishes for meal variety.

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Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot pot roast elevates your meal experience. Here are some delightful options that complement its savory flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make an irresistible base for the pot roast.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these veggies add texture and taste.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory carrots brighten up your plate while echoing flavors in the pot roast.
4. Cauliflower Gratin: A cheesy cauliflower bake provides a comforting side that’s both rich and satisfying.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and contrasts nicely with the hearty pot roast.
6. Buttered Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory dishes.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the robust flavors of pot roast perfectly.
8. Crispy Green Beans Almondine: Tender green beans topped with toasted almonds offer both crunch and elegance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking an Instant Pot pot roast can be straightforward, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some to watch out for:

• Skipping the Searing Step: Not searing the meat can lead to a less flavorful roast. Always brown the roast first to enhance its taste.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient liquid can cause the Instant Pot to burn the food. Always ensure you have enough broth or water for pressure cooking.
• Crowding the Pot: Overfilling the pot can lead to uneven cooking. Keep ingredients spaced out for better results.
• Ignoring Natural Pressure Release: Quick releasing immediately can dry out the meat. Allow for a natural release to keep it tender and juicy.
• Not Adjusting Cook Time for Size: Cooking a larger roast will require more time. Always adjust based on the weight of your meat for optimal tenderness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Freeze in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 10-15 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen meat for Instant Pot pot roast?

Yes, you can cook a frozen roast in your Instant Pot without thawing it first. Just skip the searing step and add 20-30 minutes to your cook time.

How do I know when my pot roast is done?

An instant-read thermometer should read at least 195°F (90°C) for tender meat. You can also check if it shreds easily with forks.

Can I make this recipe without beef broth?

Yes, you can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth or even water, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

What sides go well with Instant Pot pot roast?

Some great sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. Their freshness complements the hearty flavors of pot roast nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot pot roast recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Its rich flavors and tenderness make it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs for an extra touch. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting classic!

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