Instant Pot Pot Roast

Comfort food at its finest, this Instant Pot Pot Roast is a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich gravy, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to create a flavorful dish in less time than traditional cooking methods.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time without sacrificing flavor or tenderness.
• Fall-Apart Tenderness: The pressure cooking method ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender, making it easy to shred.
• One-Pot Meal: With everything cooked in one pot, you’ll save time on cleanup.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite root vegetables or herbs for added flavor.
• Hearty Gravy: The rich gravy made from the cooking juices adds an irresistible finish to the dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Instant Pot Pot Roast, gather your tools. Having everything ready helps streamline the process and makes cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This electric pressure cooker speeds up cooking while infusing flavors deeply into the meat and vegetables.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to chop ingredients uniformly, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

Comforting and hearty Instant Pot Pot Roast with fall apart tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and a flavorful gravy. This easy pot roast recipe is the perfect meal for Sunday dinner.

For the Beef:

• 3 pound boneless beef chuck roast
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Vegetables:

• 1 large sweet yellow onion (coarsely chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6 medium carrots (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1.5 pounds whole baby potatoes

For the Flavor:

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 ½ cups low sodium beef broth
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

Optional for Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening gravy)
• 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening gravy)

How to Make Instant Pot Pot Roast

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Cut the beef chuck roast in half.
2. Sprinkle the salt and pepper on all sides of the beef.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

1. Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté setting until hot.
2. Place the seasoned beef in the pot and brown on both sides for about 4 minutes each side. Do not move it until ready to turn.
3. After browning both sides, transfer it to a clean plate.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. With the Instant Pot still on sauté mode, add the onion to the pot.
2. Cook until softened and lightly browned, about 4 minutes while stirring often.
3. Stir in garlic and press cancel to turn off sauté mode.

Step 4: Add Flavor Enhancers

1. Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth to the pot.
2. Stir well while scraping up any browned bits stuck at the bottom.

Step 5: Pressure Cook Beef

1. Place the beef back in the pot along with thyme sprigs or dried thyme.
2. Close the lid and switch steam release valve to sealing position.
3. Cook on Manual/Pressure Cook at high pressure for 60 minutes.
4. Allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

1. Open the Instant Pot and add carrots and potatoes on top of the beef.
2. Close lid again and cook on high pressure for another 5 minutes using Manual/Pressure Cook function.
3. Once done, allow natural pressure release for another 10 minutes before quick releasing remaining pressure.

Step 7: Shred Beef

1. Remove beef and vegetables from Instant Pot while leaving juices behind.
2. Discard thyme stems if using fresh thyme; use two forks to shred roast into chunks.

Step 8: Thicken Gravy (Optional)

1. Turn Instant Pot back on sauté mode.
2. Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl before pouring it into liquid left in pot.
3. Stir occasionally until gravy has slightly thickened.

Step 9: Serve

Serve your delicious pot roast with plenty of gravy over it for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast

Serving your Instant Pot Pot Roast can elevate the meal experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting dish.

Classic Comfort Plate

• Serve the pot roast with a generous helping of the rich gravy poured over the beef and vegetables for a traditional feel.

Sandwiches

• Shred leftover pot roast and pile it high between slices of crusty bread, adding a bit of gravy or horseradish sauce for an extra kick.

Over Rice or Mashed Potatoes

• Spoon the tender beef and vegetables over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all the flavorful gravy.

Salad Topper

• Use shredded pot roast as a topping for a hearty salad, adding fresh greens, tomatoes, and your favorite dressing for a nutritious twist.

Family Style

• Place the whole pot roast and vegetables in the center of your table, allowing everyone to help themselves for a cozy family dinner experience.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast

To achieve a perfectly cooked Instant Pot Pot Roast, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose the Right Cut: Select a boneless beef chuck roast for ideal tenderness and flavor. This cut has enough marbling to stay juicy during cooking.

• Sear It Well: Browning the beef creates a deeper flavor. Don’t rush this step; let it get nice and brown on all sides before proceeding.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme adds an aromatic quality that enhances the overall taste of your pot roast. If using dried herbs, adjust the quantity as needed.

• Don’t Skip the Natural Release: Allowing pressure to release naturally helps keep the meat tender. Patience here pays off with better texture.

• Thicken Your Gravy: For a richer sauce, consider thickening the juices after cooking with cornstarch mixed with water. This step will enhance your meal’s presentation and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Pair your Instant Pot Pot Roast with delicious side dishes that complement its flavors perfectly. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic add a rich side that pairs beautifully with pot roast gravy.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor that balances well with hearty meat dishes.

3. Steamed Green Beans
   Freshly steamed green beans add color and crunch, providing a light contrast to the richness of pot roast.

4. Buttered Corn
   Sweet buttered corn is always a crowd-pleaser and adds a pop of sweetness alongside savory pot roast.

5. Cauliflower Rice
   For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs; it’s light yet satisfying next to meat dishes.

6. Coleslaw
   A zesty coleslaw brings tanginess that cuts through the richness of the pot roast, making for an excellent palate cleanser.

7. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes complements savory flavors while providing additional nutrients.

8. Crispy Dinner Rolls
   Soft and buttery dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up extra gravy from your pot roast—an irresistible combination!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Pot Roast, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef before cooking can result in less flavor. Always sear the meat to develop a rich, savory taste.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure you have enough space for steam circulation and even pressure cooking.
• Ignoring natural pressure release: Quickly releasing pressure instead of allowing it to release naturally can make the meat tough. Letting it naturally release for a while helps retain tenderness.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient broth or liquid can lead to burning on the bottom of the pot. Always follow the recipe and ensure there’s enough liquid for proper cooking.
• Neglecting vegetable timing: Adding vegetables at the wrong time may cause them to become mushy. Follow instructions carefully to maintain their texture.
• Failing to taste and adjust seasoning: Not tasting before serving can mean missing out on flavor adjustments. Always check and season your dish as needed before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Instant Pot Pot Roast in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Portion out leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It freezes well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place roast in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Instant Pot Pot Roast.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Pot Roast?

It takes about 60 minutes under high pressure, plus additional time for natural pressure release and cooking vegetables.

Can I use beef stew meat instead of chuck roast?

Yes, you can use beef stew meat as a substitute; just make sure it’s tender cuts for best results.

What should I serve with Instant Pot Pot Roast?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. These complement the hearty flavors beautifully.

Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Instant Pot Pot Roast is perfect for meal prep; it reheats well and tastes even better after a day in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Pot Roast is not only comforting but also versatile, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding different herbs or vegetables according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal that brings everyone together!