Instant Pot Pot Roast

This juicy and tender Instant Pot pot roast with potatoes and rich gravy is the ultimate family-friendly comfort food! It’s perfect for cozy dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe combines ease of preparation with incredible flavor, making it a standout choice for busy weeknights or special celebrations.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Roast
• For the Vegetables
• For the Broth
• For Thickening
• For Garnish
• How to Make Instant Pot Pot Roast
• Step 1: Season the Roast
• Step 2: Sear the Roast
• Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
• Step 4: Add Ingredients
• Step 5: Pressure Cook
• Step 6: Release Pressure
• Step 7: Shred the Roast
• Step 8: Make the Gravy
• Step 9: Serve
• How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast
• Plate It with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Bread
• Accompany with Vegetables
• Create a Sandwich
• How to Perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast
• Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Pot Roast
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Instant Pot Pot Roast
• Reheating Instant Pot Pot Roast
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How long does it take to cook an Instant Pot pot roast?
• Can I use frozen meat for Instant Pot pot roast?
• What can I serve with Instant Pot pot roast?
• What should I do if my gravy is too thin?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: The Instant Pot cooks the roast quickly, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal in about an hour.
• One-Pot Wonder: All ingredients are cooked together, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful Gravy: The rich gravy made from the drippings enhances the dish and is perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or bread.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste.
• Family Favorite: This comforting dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Instant Pot pot roast, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the cooking process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: The star of this recipe! It allows for quick cooking while infusing flavors into the meat and vegetables.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping veggies and preparing the roast.
• Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining spices before applying them to the meat.
• Whisk: Used to combine ingredients for a smooth gravy without lumps.

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

• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup water

For Thickening

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Instant Pot Pot Roast

Step 1: Season the Roast

In a small bowl, mix together 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 on your Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Once hot, add oil and sear the seasoned roast for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the roast and set it aside.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, using 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 baby red potatoes, carrots, and diced onions around it.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Lock the lid in place and set the vent to Sealing. Pressure Cook on High for:
1. 60 minutes for a 3 lb roast
2. 80-90 minutes for a 4-5 lb roast

Step 6: Release Pressure

Once cooking time is complete, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. Then perform a controlled quick release for any remaining steam.

Step 7: Shred the Roast

Carefully remove the lid and 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 simmering, whisk in this slurry until thickened. Adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.

Step 9: Serve

Plate shredded pot roast with veggies and generously smother with rich gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast

Serving Instant Pot pot roast is a delightful experience that brings comfort to the table. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its rich flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Plate It with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pot roast for a pop of color and freshness.
• Thyme Leaves: Add a few thyme leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the savory gravy.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve slices of warm, crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious gravy.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Accompany with Vegetables

• Steamed Green Beans: A light and crunchy side that balances the richness of the pot roast.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and seasonings, they add a lovely caramelized flavor.

Create a Sandwich

• Pot Roast Sandwiches: Use leftover meat to make hearty sandwiches topped with cheese and pickles.
• Open-Faced Sandwiches: Layer shredded roast on toasted bread with gravy for a comforting meal.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast

Perfecting your Instant Pot pot roast can take your cooking skills to the next level. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve tender, flavorful results every time.

• Use a Quality Cut: A boneless beef chuck roast is ideal for tenderness and flavor, making it perfect for this recipe.
• Sear Properly: Searing the roast before pressure cooking develops a rich flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Deglaze Thoroughly: Scrape up all browned bits from the bottom of the pot after searing; they add depth to the gravy.
• Natural Pressure Release: Allowing natural pressure release helps keep the meat juicy and tender.
• Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Always taste your gravy before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for perfect flavor balance.

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Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Complementing your Instant Pot pot roast with delicious side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some classic options you might consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair perfectly with rich gravy.
2. Creamed Spinach: A smooth and savory side that adds a touch of elegance to your plate.
3. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the tender meat.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds brightness and sweetness, making it an ideal summer side.
5. Buttered Noodles: Simple noodles tossed in butter are comforting and great at soaking up gravy.
6. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that serves as a great base for enjoying leftover gravy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot pot roast, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Searing Step: Many people skip searing the roast. This step develops flavor and creates a rich crust. Always take a few minutes to sear for the best taste.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for steam circulation by following the ingredient guidelines.
• Ignoring Natural Pressure Release: Not allowing for natural pressure release can lead to tough meat. Always let the pot sit undisturbed for at least 10 minutes after cooking.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold vegetables or broth can affect cooking time. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before adding them to the pot.
• Not Adjusting Cook Time for Size: Different roast sizes require different cook times. Always consult the guidelines based on your specific roast weight.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Place cooled pot roast in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the pot roast with foil and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of beef broth or water and reheat covered until hot, stirring occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing Instant Pot pot roast.

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

Cooking an Instant Pot pot roast typically takes around 60-90 minutes depending on its weight. Be sure to check your specific roast size for accurate timing.

Can I use frozen meat for Instant Pot pot roast?

Yes, you can use frozen meat! Just skip the searing step and increase your cook time by 20-30 minutes for best results.

What can I serve with Instant Pot pot roast?

Instant Pot pot roast pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with sides!

What should I do if my gravy is too thin?

If your gravy is too thin after cooking, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the simmering liquid until thickened.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot pot roast is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep—give it a try!

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