Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe

Are you looking for a mouthwatering, tender pot roast that you can make in just a fraction of the time? This Instant Pot Pot Roast recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave a hearty meal but don’t have hours to spare. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the juiciest, most flavorful pot roast in your Instant Pot, with tips on ingredients, substitutions, variations, and even expert presentation ideas. Read on for everything you need to know to make the best Instant Pot Pot Roast you’ve ever had!

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What Is Pot Roast?

Pot roast is a classic comfort food, usually made by slowly braising a tough cut of beef like chuck roast until it becomes tender. Traditionally, this process can take several hours in a slow cooker or oven, but with the Instant Pot, you can achieve the same result in a fraction of the time. The Instant Pot uses pressure cooking to break down the tough fibers in the meat, making it fall-apart tender without the need for hours of cooking. The end result is a juicy, flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with vegetables and gravy.

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Ingredients List for Instant Pot Pot Roast

To make the perfect pot roast in your Instant Pot, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 to 4 lbs chuck roast (or any well-marbled cut of beef)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
• 1 large onion (sliced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 large carrots (peeled and cut into chunks)
• 4 to 5 medium-sized potatoes (cut into halves or quarters)
• 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for gravy, optional)

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Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of a pot roast recipe is that it can be customized in many different ways to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Beef Substitutes: If you don’t have chuck roast, you can use other tough cuts like brisket or round roast. For a leaner option, sirloin tip roast can be used, but it might not be as tender.
• Vegetable Options: You can swap out or add to the vegetables in this dish. Parsnips, celery, or sweet potatoes work well as alternatives. Root vegetables generally hold up well in the pressure cooker and absorb all the delicious flavors.
• Broth Variations: Beef broth gives the most robust flavor, but you can use vegetable or chicken broth in a pinch. For an extra layer of flavor, try substituting a cup of red wine for part of the broth.
• Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano, parsley, or bay leaves. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add some heat, and a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar can introduce a touch of acidity.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free. For the gravy, use a gluten-free thickener like arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make the best Instant Pot Pot Roast ever? Follow these simple steps for a delicious, tender result every time.

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Start by prepping your vegetables. Peel and chop the carrots, slice the onion, and cut the potatoes into quarters. Mince the garlic.
2. Season the Meat: Generously season your chuck roast with salt and pepper on all sides. This is key to developing that deep, savory flavor.
3. Sear the Meat: Turn your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function and add the olive oil. Once hot, sear the roast for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. This step locks in the juices and adds flavor. After searing, remove the meat and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (they add flavor).
5. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine and scrape up any remaining browned bits. Add the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir well.
6. Add the Roast and Vegetables: Place the seared roast back into the pot. Arrange the carrots and potatoes around the meat.
7. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to "Sealing." Select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" setting and set the time to 60 minutes for a 3 lb roast, or 70 minutes for a 4 lb roast.
8. Natural Release: Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 15 minutes. This helps retain the juices. Afterward, turn the valve to "Venting" to release any remaining pressure.
9. Thicken the Gravy (Optional): Remove the roast and vegetables. Turn the Instant Pot to "Sauté" again and stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to thicken the liquid into a gravy. Let it cook for a few minutes until thickened.
10. Shred and Serve: Shred the pot roast with forks, and serve with the vegetables and gravy.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Sear: Don’t skip searing the meat! Searing adds a depth of flavor that you’ll miss if you go straight to pressure cooking.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: If you like your vegetables to have more bite, cook them separately and add them to the pot after the meat is done. Pressure cooking can make them quite soft.
• Rushing the Release: Always allow for a natural release of pressure. If you do a quick release, the meat may not be as tender.
• Not Enough Seasoning: Don’t be shy with seasoning! The beef and vegetables can handle plenty of salt, pepper, and herbs. Taste as you go to ensure everything is well-seasoned.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

A beautifully cooked pot roast deserves thoughtful presentation. While this is a comfort dish, a little extra care in serving can make it feel restaurant-quality.

How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Family Style: Place the shredded roast on a large platter with the vegetables arranged around it. Serve the gravy in a separate gravy boat for easy pouring.
• Individual Plates: For a more elegant presentation, slice the roast instead of shredding it. Plate it with the vegetables on the side and drizzle the gravy over the top.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the top of the roast can add a fresh pop of color and flavor.

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Presentation Ideas for Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Rustic Style: Serve your pot roast in a cast iron skillet or a rustic wooden board with a small ramekin of gravy on the side.
• Elegant Plating: Use white plates to make the rich colors of the roast and vegetables stand out. Slice the meat and fan it out on the plate with a small stack of vegetables on the side.
• Layered Serving: For a creative touch, you can layer the shredded pot roast over mashed potatoes, and then top it with carrots, potatoes, and a drizzle of gravy.

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Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe Tips

• Choosing the Right Cut of Meat: Look for a chuck roast with good marbling. This fat will render down during cooking, making the meat incredibly tender.
• Timing the Vegetables: If you prefer firmer vegetables, consider adding them halfway through the cooking time or even cook them separately in a stovetop pan while the meat cooks.
• Make Ahead: Pot roast tastes even better the next day! Prepare the pot roast ahead of time and refrigerate it. The flavors will deepen, and the gravy will thicken.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen beef for Instant Pot Pot Roast?
A: Yes, you can cook a frozen roast in the Instant Pot! Just add an additional 20-30 minutes to the cooking time. Note that you won’t be able to sear a frozen roast, but it will still turn out tender.

Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, you can double the recipe if your Instant Pot is large enough. Just make sure not to exceed the maximum fill line, and the cooking time remains the same.

Q: How can I make the roast even more tender?
A: If your roast isn't as tender as you'd like, let it cook for another 10-15 minutes on the pressure cooking setting.

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Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, foolproof Instant Pot Pot Roast recipe that will satisfy your comfort food cravings! By following these steps and tips, you’ll have a meal that’s tender, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're serving it to family or guests, this pot roast will undoubtedly impress. Don’t forget to experiment with substitutions and variations to make this recipe truly your own. Happy cooking!

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