Instant Pot Pot Roast

This Instant Pot pot roast recipe is a timeless classic that brings hearty flavors and tender meat to your dinner table in no time. Ideal for family gatherings, cozy weeknight dinners, or any special occasion, this dish combines the convenience of pressure cooking with the rich taste of slow-cooked comfort food. The juicy roast is paired with flavorful vegetables and a savory gravy, making it a truly satisfying meal for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can enjoy a delicious pot roast in just about an hour thanks to the Instant Pot’s efficiency.
• One-Pot Meal: Simplify your cooking and cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.
• Flavorful Gravy: The rich gravy made from the roast drippings elevates the dish, adding depth to every bite.
• Tender Meat: Pressure cooking ensures that your beef chuck roast is incredibly tender and easy to shred.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or adjust seasoning to fit your family’s tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making this delicious Instant Pot pot roast, gather your tools and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: The star of the show! This electric pressure cooker speeds up the cooking process while infusing flavors.
• Chef’s Knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining seasonings before applying them to the roast.

Ingredients

For this mouthwatering Instant Pot pot roast, you’ll need:

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 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 evenly coat all sides.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

Turn the Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Once hot, add the oil and sear the seasoned roast for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove the roast and set 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. 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 done, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. Then do 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 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 needed.

Step 9: Serve

Plate shredded pot roast with veggies and smother with gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.

How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast

Serving your Instant Pot pot roast is a delightful experience that can turn any meal into a celebration. The rich flavors and tender texture make it a versatile dish suitable for various occasions.

Classic Comfort Bowl

• Serve the pot roast over mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
• Add a side of roasted vegetables to enhance the flavors and textures.

Sandwich Delight

• Shred the leftover pot roast and pile it onto crusty bread or rolls.
• Top with your favorite barbecue sauce or horseradish for an extra kick.

Salad Topping

• Use sliced pot roast as a protein-packed topping on mixed greens.
• Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette for a fresh, zesty flavor combination.

Family-Style Platter

• Arrange the shredded roast and vegetables on a large platter.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an inviting presentation.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast

To achieve the ultimate Instant Pot pot roast, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out flavorful and tender every time.

• Choose the right cut: A boneless beef chuck roast is ideal, as it becomes tender during cooking while maintaining flavor.
• Sear for flavor: Taking time to sear the roast enhances its taste by creating a rich crust that adds depth to the gravy.
• Use quality broth: Opt for low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels while still infusing great flavor into your dish.
• Natural release: Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure helps maintain moisture in the meat, resulting in a juicier roast.
• Adjust cooking times: Keep in mind that larger or frozen roasts may require additional cook time; always check for doneness before serving.
• Make extra gravy: Save some broth after cooking and thicken it with cornstarch to create more gravy, ensuring everyone gets enough to enjoy.

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Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot pot roast can elevate the meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make the perfect bed for your savory pot roast.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots – Sweet carrots complement the richness of pot roast while adding a pop of color to the plate.
4. Green Beans Almondine – Crisp green beans sautéed with almonds deliver crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with beef.
5. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb option that absorbs flavors beautifully, making it an excellent accompaniment to any sauce or gravy.
6. Buttered Corn – Simple yet delightful, buttered corn provides sweetness and balances the savory notes of the roast.
7. Dinner Rolls – Soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up leftover gravy, adding a comforting touch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making an Instant Pot pot roast, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your roast turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your roast can lead to bland flavors. Always rub your spices thoroughly over the entire surface before cooking.
• Overcrowding the pot: Filling the Instant Pot with too many ingredients can prevent proper cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for steam to circulate around the roast and vegetables.
• Not deglazing the pot: Failing to scrape up those tasty browned bits can result in a burnt taste. Always deglaze with broth after searing the meat to enhance flavor.
• Ignoring cook times: Different sizes of roasts require varying cook times. Use a meat thermometer and follow recommended times for best results.
• Rushing pressure release: Quick-releasing pressure too soon can make your roast tough. Allow for natural pressure release whenever possible to keep it tender.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to let the pot roast cool before sealing it.

Freezing Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and warm for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding broth if necessary, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

The cooking time varies based on the size of your roast. A 3-pound roast takes about 60 minutes, while a 4-5 pound roast may need 80-90 minutes.

Can I use frozen meat for Instant Pot pot roast?

Yes! If using frozen meat, skip searing and add an extra 20-30 minutes to the cooking time for best results.

What should I serve with Instant Pot pot roast?

You can serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. The rich gravy also pairs nicely with bread.

How do I know if my pot roast is tender?

After cooking, shred the meat with forks; it should pull apart easily without much effort. If not tender enough, you may need additional cook time.

Can I customize my Instant Pot pot roast recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables like parsnips or turnips, or adjust seasonings according to your preferences for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot pot roast is not just juicy and tender; it’s also versatile and perfect for family dinners or special occasions. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or spices. Try this comforting dish today and enjoy its rich flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals!

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