Name: Instant Pot Pot Roast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 80 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 3 to 4 pound chuck roast (excess fat trimmed); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or olive oil); 1 medium yellow onion (diced); 2 cups beef broth (or beef stock); 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 bay leaves bay leaves; 1 pound baby potatoes (halved); 3 large carrots (peeled and cut into thick chunks); 3 tablespoons cornstarch (mixed with 3 tablespoons of cold water)

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When I think of comfort food, one dish that instantly comes to mind is Instant Pot Pot Roast. There’s something so satisfying about a hearty roast that fills the house with aroma, making it feel warm and inviting. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly winter evening, and I craved something that would not only nourish my body but also my soul. The kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and ignites stories and laughter. With the convenience of the Instant Pot, this recipe transforms what could be an all-day affair into a quick yet delicious feast. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 35 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
80 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
40 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Instant Pot

What’s Great About This Instant Pot Pot Roast

1. It’s Incredibly Flavorful

The magic of Instant Pot Pot Roast lies in the depth of flavor that develops during cooking. The combination of spices, vegetables, and broth creates a rich gravy that envelops the beef. Each bite is infused with layers of taste, thanks to the high-pressure cooking that locks in the juices.

2. Quick and Convenient

Who has time for a long cooking process? With the Instant Pot, this recipe cuts cooking time down significantly. What traditionally takes hours in the oven is ready in just over an hour with the Instant Pot, making it a perfect solution for busy families.

3. One-Pot Wonder

No one enjoys doing dishes after a long day. The Instant Pot Pot Roast is a one-pot wonder. You sear the meat, sauté the vegetables, and cook everything together, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish is perfect for meal prep. Not only does it reheat wonderfully, but the flavors deepen even more after a day in the fridge. You can easily batch-cook this roast on a Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week.

5. Versatile for Different Occasions

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, Instant Pot Pot Roast fits the bill. It’s a dish that can impress guests while also being comforting enough for a family dinner.

Ingredients Required for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious Instant Pot Pot Roast. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. From the rich broth to the tender vegetables, these ingredients work harmoniously together to create a mouth-watering meal that everyone will love.

3 to 4 pound chuck roast – This is the star of the dish, known for its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked low and slow.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a gentle kick to the roast.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil – Used for searing the roast to develop that beautiful golden crust.
1 medium yellow onion, diced – Provides sweetness and depth to the dish.
2 cups beef broth or beef stock – The flavorful base for the braising liquid.
1 tablespoon tomato paste – Introduces a rich, slightly sweet tomato flavor.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a savory complexity to the dish.
1 teaspoon dried rosemary – Infuses an aromatic earthiness.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Complements the other herbs and adds warm flavor.
2 bay leaves – Adds depth to the broth during cooking.
1 pound baby potatoes, halved – Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
3 large carrots, peeled and cut into thick chunks – Adds sweetness and texture to the meal.
3 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons of cold water – Used to thicken the gravy before serving.

How to Cook Instant Pot Pot Roast

Cooking the Instant Pot Pot Roast is a straightforward yet rewarding process. With just a few steps, you’ll be on your way to creating a flavorful meal that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details!

Cut the beef into three portions, approximately one pound each. This helps to ensure even cooking throughout.
Season the beef generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial, as it sets the foundation for flavor.
Set the Instant Pot to the SAUTE setting. When the display shows HOT, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, sear the roast on all sides for two to three minutes per side until browned. This browning process is key for flavor development.
Remove the roast from the pot and add the diced onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, about three to five minutes. This will add sweetness and a savory depth to the dish.
Deglaze the pot by adding the beef broth and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. This process not only cleans the pot but also incorporates all those flavorful bits into your dish.
Switch off the SAUTE setting, then stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Give everything a quick stir to combine.
Return the roast back into the pot, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid as much as possible.
Secure the lid and set the vent to SEALING. Select the PRESSURE COOK/MANUAL setting and set the cooking time to sixty minutes at high pressure. Note that the Instant Pot will take about seven to eight minutes to come to pressure before cooking starts.
Once the cooking time is complete, quickly release the steam by turning the vent to VENTING. This will allow the pressure to drop.
Carefully remove the lid, add the baby potatoes and carrots, then secure the lid again. Set the vent to SEALING and select PRESSURE COOK/MANUAL for an additional ten minutes at high pressure.
When the time is up, allow the pressure to naturally release for ten minutes, then quickly release any remaining steam.
Remove the beef and vegetables onto a serving platter. Shred the beef into large pieces, making it easier to serve.
To thicken the sauce, switch the Instant Pot back to the SAUTE setting. Add the cornstarch slurry and whisk until thickened. This will create a luscious gravy to pour over the beef.
Spoon the gravy over the shredded beef and garnish with chopped parsley leaves. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Choose Quality Meat: Always opt for fresh marbled beef for the best flavor and tenderness.
Cut Against the Grain: When cutting the chuck roast, ensure you slice against the grain to shorten the fibers, making the meat more tender.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to four days. It also freezes well for up to a month.
Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste the gravy before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want a little more salt or pepper.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added flavor!

Tips and Tricks about Instant Pot Pot Roast

Perfecting your Instant Pot Pot Roast takes a little know-how. Below, I’ve compiled some advice to help you create the best possible dish. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, these tips will elevate your cooking experience.

Storage: Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezing: This dish freezes wonderfully! Make sure to cool it down completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to a month.
Pairing: Serve your Instant Pot Pot Roast with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad.
Adjusting Cooking Times: If your roast is larger than four pounds, you may need to extend the cooking time by ten to fifteen minutes to ensure it’s tender.
Garnishing: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme make a beautiful and flavorful garnish before serving.

How to Enjoy Instant Pot Pot Roast

Serving your Instant Pot Pot Roast is just as important as cooking it. Here are some delightful ways to present this hearty meal:

Accompany with Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy. It’s the perfect way to enjoy every bit of flavor.
Pair with Seasonal Vegetables: Add seasonal vegetables on the side, such as steamed green beans or sautéed Brussels sprouts, for a balanced plate.
Occasions: This dish is ideal for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or any winter celebration.
Make it a Feast: A wonderful centerpiece for your holiday table; just double the recipe to serve a larger crowd.
Storing Leftovers: Ensure any leftovers are stored properly in the fridge or freezer to maintain freshness.

FAQ

Absolutely! While this recipe is traditionally made with beef, you can also use other proteins such as chicken or turkey. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the meat you choose. Adjust the pressure cooking times accordingly to ensure your meat is tender and cooked through.

To enhance the flavor of your Instant Pot Pot Roast, you can marinate the meat beforehand or add additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar. Don’t skip the browning step; this is crucial for developing a rich flavor in the dish!

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a simple garden salad. You can also serve warm crusty bread to soak up the flavorful gravy. Feel free to customize your side dishes based on your preferences!

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Pot Roast stands out as the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors and tender textures that everyone loves. I encourage you to try making it for your next family dinner or gathering; you won’t regret it. It’s a dish that not only fills the belly but warms the heart, creating lasting memories around the table.