Instant Pot Pot Roast

If you’re craving a hearty, melt-in-your-mouth dinner that comes together with ease, the Instant Pot Pot Roast is your new best friend. Combining rich, savory flavors with tender, juicy beef and perfectly cooked veggies, this recipe transforms a classic comfort food into a quick weeknight winner. You’ll love how the Instant Pot intensifies the taste while drastically cutting down the cooking time, making every bite pure bliss without hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy cooking: The Instant Pot cooks a traditional pot roast in a fraction of the time, perfect for busy evenings.
• Exceptional tenderness: Pressure cooking breaks down the fibers, delivering a roast that’s juicy and effortlessly shreddable.
• One-pot convenience: Meat, veggies, and sauce all cook together, minimizing cleanup.
• Rich flavor development: The sealed environment locks in juices and intensifies the classic pot roast taste.
• Flexible ingredients: Easily swap vegetables or seasonings to match your pantry or preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the delicious layers of flavor and texture in your Instant Pot Pot Roast. From the choice of beef to the aromatic vegetables, these simple components combine to create a dish that’s anything but ordinary.

• Chuck roast: A well-marbled cut is key for a tender, flavorful pot roast.
• Vegetables: Carrots, onions, and potatoes add natural sweetness and heartiness.
• Beef broth: Provides the savory base for the rich cooking liquid.
• Garlic and herbs: Fresh garlic, thyme, and rosemary elevate the flavor profile.
• Tomato paste: Adds depth and a subtle tang to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the dish.
• Olive oil: Used for browning the roast and enhancing flavor.

Variations for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Feel free to customize your Instant Pot Pot Roast to fit dietary needs or personal taste. This recipe offers plenty of room for tweaks that keep the essence while refreshing the dish.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chipotle powder for a gentle heat boost.
• Low-carb version: Replace potatoes with turnips or cauliflower for fewer carbs.
• Wine-infused: Swap half the broth for a dry red wine to deepen flavors.
• Vegetarian twist: Use seitan or mushrooms and vegetable broth instead of beef.
• Herb variations: Experiment with sage, oregano, or bay leaves based on your preference.

How to Make Instant Pot Pot Roast

Step 1: Prep and Season the Roast

Pat your chuck roast dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This initial step locks in flavor and helps develop a lovely crust during browning.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function, add olive oil, and sear the roast for about 4 minutes per side until browned all over. This step caramelizes the meat, enhancing the overall taste and texture.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Remove the roast and add chopped onions and garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened and fragrant, stirring regularly to avoid burning and to catch the flavorful browned bits from the searing step.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in beef broth and tomato paste, using a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits stuck to the bottom. This deglazing adds rich, concentrated flavor to your cooking liquid and prevents burning during pressure cooking.

Step 5: Add Vegetables and Cook

Place the roast back into the Instant Pot, then add carrots and potatoes around it. Tuck in herbs like thyme and rosemary. Seal the lid, set to pressure cook on high for 60 minutes, and let the magic happen.

Step 6: Natural Release and Serve

Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure. This resting time helps the juices redistribute inside the roast for maximum tenderness. Then, slice, shred, or serve as preferred.

Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Use room temperature meat: Let the roast sit out for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Brown well: Take your time searing—it’s the foundation of flavor.
• Don’t skip deglazing: The browned bits add umami and prevent burn warnings on your Instant Pot.
• Let it rest: Natural pressure release helps keep the meat juicy and tender.
• Thicken the sauce: Use a slurry of cornstarch and water after cooking to make a glossy gravy.

How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast

Garnishes

Finish your pot roast with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of chopped chives for a burst of color and a touch of freshness that balances the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

This pot roast shines alongside creamy mashed potatoes, buttery dinner rolls, or simple steamed green beans for a satisfying, classic meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the pot roast over buttery egg noodles or spoon the rich sauce over a bed of creamy polenta for an elegant twist on comfort food.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow leftovers to cool, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The roast and veggies will stay flavorful and tender.

Freezing

Portion the pot roast with its vegetables and cooking liquid into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep the pot roast moist and tender.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of meat for Instant Pot Pot Roast?

Yes! While chuck roast is ideal for its marbling, you can use brisket, round roast, or even shoulder. Just be aware cooking time and tenderness might vary slightly.

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

The actual pressure cooking time is usually around 60 minutes, but with natural pressure release and prep, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes total.

Can I add red wine to this recipe?

Absolutely! Replacing half the broth with a dry red wine can add beautiful depth and complexity to the sauce.

Is it possible to make Instant Pot Pot Roast gluten-free?

Yes! Make sure your broth and tomato paste are gluten-free, and avoid adding any thickening agents that contain gluten, or opt for cornstarch instead.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

After pressure cooking, remove the meat and veggies, then turn the pot to sauté and add a cornstarch slurry—mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the pot until the sauce thickens.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Pot Roast is truly a game changer for busy cooks who crave a comforting, flavorful meal without the wait. With its juicy, tender meat and vibrant veggies, this recipe is sure to become a dinner table favorite. Give it a try and discover how easy comfort food can be with just a little help from your Instant Pot!

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