Instant Pot Pot Roast

This Instant Pot pot roast is the perfect dish for any family gathering or cozy weeknight dinner. With its succulent meat and rich gravy, it embodies comfort food at its finest. The quick cooking time in the Instant Pot makes it a convenient choice for busy days while still delivering deep flavors that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Pot Roast

This pot roast recipe stands out for several reasons:

• Quick Cooking: The Instant Pot drastically reduces cooking time without sacrificing flavor.
• One-Pot Wonder: You can cook everything in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful Gravy: The cooking process creates a rich gravy that’s perfect for drizzling over the meat and vegetables.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the veggies or seasonings to suit your family’s preferences.
• Comforting Meal: This dish is sure to please everyone at the table, making it ideal for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This electric pressure cooker reduces cooking time significantly while infusing flavors.
• Cutting board & Sharp knife: These ensure safe and efficient preparation of vegetables and meat.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining spices or making slurry for gravy.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing cornstarch with water to achieve a smooth gravy.

Ingredients

For this delicious Instant Pot pot roast, you will 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

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 on all sides.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

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

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

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

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:
– 60 minutes for a 3 lb roast
– 80-90 minutes for a 4-5 lb roast

Step 6: Release Pressure

Once cooking is complete, let your Instant Pot naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes. After that, 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 using tongs. Shred or cut the roast into chunks with two forks.

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. When liquid starts simmering, whisk in this slurry until thickened. Adjust seasoning as needed with extra salt or pepper.

Step 9: Serve

Plate your shredded pot roast alongside roasted vegetables and generously smother everything 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 can elevate your family meal experience. With its rich flavors and tender texture, this dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes.

Classic Presentation

• Plated with Gravy: Serve the shredded pot roast on a plate, generously smothered with thick gravy for a comforting look.
• Vegetable Medley: Arrange the cooked carrots and potatoes around the roast for a colorful presentation.

Garnishing Options

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme on top for a fresh touch that enhances flavor.
• Cracked Pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper adds an extra layer of taste.

Accompaniments

• Bread Rolls: Pair your pot roast with soft dinner rolls to soak up the delicious gravy.
• Salads: A simple green salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast

To achieve the ultimate Instant Pot pot roast, focus on technique and timing. Here are some tips to ensure your roast is perfectly cooked every time.

• Bold Seasoning: Season your roast well before cooking. This enhances flavor throughout the meat as it cooks.
• Proper Searing: Take time to sear the roast on all sides. This step adds depth and richness to the final dish.
• Natural Pressure Release: Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for at least 10 minutes. This helps retain moisture in the meat.
• Quality Beef Broth: Use high-quality beef broth for better flavor in both the roast and gravy.
• Thicken Your Gravy: Make sure to whisk your cornstarch slurry well before adding it to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth gravy.
• Adjust Seasoning After Cooking: Taste and adjust seasoning after cooking, as flavors develop during pressure cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot pot roast can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this hearty dish.

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up gravy and balancing flavors.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a delightful crunch and slight bitterness that contrasts nicely with the rich roast.
3. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds provide a fresh, crunchy side that lightens up the meal.
4. Creamed Spinach: Rich and creamy spinach offers a classic touch that pairs beautifully with beef dishes.
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is an excellent option to balance savory flavors while adding texture.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, making it a great counterpoint to the tender pot roast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot pot roast, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips on how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the roast well can lead to bland flavors. Always rub your roast with a mix of salt and spices for maximum taste.
• Not deglazing the pot: Leaving browned bits in the pot can affect the gravy’s flavor. Be sure to scrape up those bits with broth before adding your ingredients.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many vegetables can prevent proper cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for steam to circulate around the roast.
• Ignoring cook time variations: Different roast sizes require different cooking times. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your roast reaches the right internal temperature.
• Underestimating natural pressure release: Quick releasing steam can result in tough meat. Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for at least 10 minutes for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pot roast in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Place cooled pot roast in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pot roast in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Cut into smaller pieces and microwave on medium power, checking regularly until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The total time is about 1 hour and 40 minutes, which includes prep, cooking, and pressure release.

Can I use frozen meat for Instant Pot pot roast?

Yes! If using frozen meat, skip searing and add an extra 20-30 minutes of cooking time.

What should I serve with my Instant Pot pot roast?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables that complement the hearty flavors of the dish.

Can I make this recipe without potatoes?

Absolutely! You can omit potatoes or substitute them with other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.

How do I know when my Instant Pot pot roast is done?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare and up to 160°F (71°C) for medium.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot pot roast is simple yet incredibly delicious, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting meal that brings everyone together!