Instant Pot Pot Roast

This Instant Pot pot roast is the epitome of comfort food, serving up tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich gravy all in one pot. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish brings a nostalgic warmth that everyone will appreciate. With the convenience of an Instant Pot, you can whip up this classic meal in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: The Instant Pot drastically reduces cooking time while ensuring your pot roast is juicy and flavorful.
• One-Pot Meal: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked together in the Instant Pot, minimizing dishes.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of seasonings and beef broth creates a rich gravy that enhances the taste of the roast and veggies.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite root vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your family’s preferences.
• Family Favorite: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a great choice for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing this recipe simple and enjoyable. Below are essential items you’ll need to create the perfect Instant Pot pot roast.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: The star of the show! It cooks food quickly under pressure while preserving flavors and nutrients.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and cutting meat.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for even cooking and easier preparation of ingredients.

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 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

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 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 from the pot 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 of the pot. Turn off the Sauté function after deglazing.

Step 4: Add Ingredients

Place the seared roast back into the pot. Scatter your 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:
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, 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 your 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 as needed with extra salt or pepper.

Step 9: Serve

Plate your shredded pot roast with veggies on top and smother with rich gravy. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.

How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast

Serving your Instant Pot pot roast is a delightful experience that brings comfort to the dinner table. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

Classic Plate-Up

• With Mashed Potatoes: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the rich gravy.
• On a Bed of Rice: Place the pot roast over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal.

Sandwich Style

• Pot Roast Sandwich: Shred the roast and pile it high on crusty bread with a drizzle of gravy.
• Open-Faced Sandwich: Top slices of toasted bread with shredded pot roast and a generous pour of gravy.

Soup Option

• Pot Roast Soup: Use leftover pot roast in a delicious soup with broth, veggies, and noodles for a comforting bowl.

Salad Addition

• Chopped Salad: Add shredded pot roast to a fresh salad for added protein and flavor. Pair with a zesty dressing.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast

Making the perfect Instant Pot pot roast requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for best results!

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with your spices. A well-seasoned roast enhances flavor significantly.
• Bold Searing: Take the time to sear your roast properly. This locks in juices and adds depth through caramelization.
• Bold Liquid Choices: Use quality beef broth and Worcestershire sauce for richer flavor profiles in the gravy.
• Bold Pressure Cooking: Ensure you follow timing closely based on your roast size for optimal tenderness.
• Bold Resting Time: Letting the roast rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute, making it more succulent.
• Bold Gravy Making: Don’t skip the gravy! It elevates the entire dish and ties all flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Pairing sides with your Instant Pot pot roast can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy accompaniment that’s perfect for soaking up gravy.
2. Steamed Green Beans: Fresh green beans add color and lightness, balancing out the richness of the roast.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These slightly charred sprouts provide a nutty flavor that complements the meat wonderfully.
4. Creamed Spinach: Rich and creamy spinach is an indulgent side that pairs well with beef dishes.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the pot roast.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to savory pot roast, making it a favorite pairing.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances out savory flavors while adding nutrition.
8. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that still provides creaminess and comfort.

These serving suggestions and side dishes will make your Instant Pot pot roast meal memorable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make a few common mistakes when preparing an Instant Pot pot roast. Avoiding these can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the roast properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to rub the seasoning all over the roast before cooking for a more flavorful outcome.
• Bold searing: Skipping the searing step can result in a less rich taste. Always sear the roast until browned to lock in juices and flavor.
• Bold timing: Overcooking or undercooking can ruin your meal. Follow the recommended cooking times based on the weight of your roast for perfect tenderness.
• Bold liquid amount: Not adding enough liquid can lead to burning at the bottom. Ensure you have enough broth or water to create steam and prevent sticking.
• Bold pressure release: Ignoring proper pressure release methods may affect your roast’s texture. Always allow for natural pressure release followed by controlled quick release as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Allow the pot roast to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for storage.
• The pot roast can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of broth and reheat until warm, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making an Instant Pot pot roast.

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

Cooking times vary based on the size of your roast. Generally, it takes about 60 minutes for a 3 lb roast and 80-90 minutes for larger roasts.

Can I use frozen meat for Instant Pot pot roast?

Yes, you can use frozen meat! Just skip searing and add additional cooking time of about 20-30 minutes.

What is the best cut of beef for Instant Pot pot roast?

A boneless beef chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling, which makes it tender when cooked under pressure.

How do I make gravy from my Instant Pot pot roast?

After cooking, use the remaining liquid in your pot to make gravy by adding cornstarch mixed with water. Simmer until thickened.

Can I customize vegetables in my Instant Pot pot roast?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like parsnips or turnips along with potatoes and carrots.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot pot roast is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables and spices according to your preference. Give this hearty dish a try; it’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in!