Instant Pot Pot Roast

Comforting and hearty, this Instant Pot Pot Roast is the perfect meal for Sunday dinner. With its fall-apart tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich gravy, it’s a dish that brings warmth to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family night, this pot roast is sure to impress with its incredible flavor and ease of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can have a delicious pot roast ready in just over two hours.
• Tender Meat: The pressure cooking method ensures the beef is incredibly tender and flavorful.
• One-Pot Meal: This recipe minimizes cleanup by cooking everything in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings according to your taste.
• Hearty Comfort Food: This pot roast is ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, offering a satisfying meal everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, make sure you have the right tools at hand. These kitchen essentials will help you create the perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker not only speeds up the cooking process but also locks in flavors and moisture.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes preparing your ingredients quick and easy, ensuring even cuts for even cooking.
• Mixing Bowl: Useful for combining ingredients like cornstarch and water when thickening your gravy.

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.

Ingredients:
– 3 pound boneless beef chuck roast
– 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large sweet yellow onion (coarsely chopped)
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 ½ cups low sodium beef broth
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
– 6 medium carrots (cut into 1-inch pieces)
– 1.5 pounds whole baby potatoes
– 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, about 4 minutes per side. Do not move the beef until you are ready to turn it; once it has seared it should easily release from the bottom of the pot.
3. After browning the beef on 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, stirring often and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—about 4 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and press cancel to turn off the Instant Pot.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

1. Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir well and scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
2. Place the beef back in the pot along with fresh thyme sprigs or dried thyme.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

1. Close the Instant Pot lid and move the steam release valve to sealing position.
2. Cook on Manual/Pressure Cook at high pressure for 60 minutes.
3. When cook time ends, allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure by moving valve to venting position.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

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

Step 7: Shred Beef & Thicken Gravy

1. Remove beef and vegetables from Instant Pot while leaving juices inside.
2. Discard thyme stems if using fresh thyme; shred meat using two forks into chunks.
3. To thicken juices (optional), turn Instant Pot onto sauté mode; stir together cornstarch and water in a small bowl then pour into liquid in pot.
4. Cook while stirring occasionally until gravy has thickened slightly.

Step 8: Serve

1. Serve pot roast with rich gravy poured over top.

Enjoy your deliciously comforting Instant Pot Pot Roast!

How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast

Serving your Instant Pot Pot Roast can elevate the dining experience, making it a memorable meal for family and friends. Here are some delicious suggestions to enhance your pot roast dish.

Classic Plate

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the savory gravy from the pot roast.
• Steamed Green Beans: Fresh green beans add a crunchy texture and a pop of color to your plate.

Comfort Bowl

• Pot Roast Over Rice: Serve the shredded pot roast over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious juices.
• Vegetable Medley: Include steamed carrots and peas for a nutritious and colorful addition.

Sandwich Style

• Pot Roast Sandwich: Shred the beef and serve it on a hearty bun with a drizzle of gravy for an easy lunch option.
• Open-Faced Sandwiches: Layer shredded pot roast on toasted bread and top with gravy for a comforting open-faced delight.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast

To achieve the most tender and flavorful Instant Pot Pot Roast, follow these handy tips.

• Choose the Right Cut: Select a boneless beef chuck roast for optimal tenderness; it’s perfect for pressure cooking.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; proper seasoning enhances the overall flavor of your dish.
• Sear Properly: Searing the beef creates a rich flavor base. Make sure to let it brown without moving it too soon.
• Natural Pressure Release: Allowing natural pressure release helps keep the meat moist and tender after cooking.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme adds aromatic depth; if using dried herbs, adjust quantities as they are more potent.
• Thicken Gravy Wisely: If you prefer thicker gravy, combine cornstarch with cold water before adding it to hot liquids, stirring continuously until thickened.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Pot Roast can enhance flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up gravy and adds a delightful crunch.
2. Creamed Spinach: This rich side dish complements the savory flavors of pot roast beautifully.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges provide a nice contrast to the tender meat and potatoes.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of the pot roast.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with savory dishes like pot roast while adding color to your plate.
6. Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb alternative, cauliflower mash is creamy and complements pot roast nicely without heavy carbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Instant Pot Pot Roast can be easy, but certain mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common errors to avoid.

• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too much meat or vegetables can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Skipping the Searing Step: Not browning the beef can lead to a less flavorful roast. Take the time to sear for enhanced taste and texture.
• Ignoring Natural Pressure Release: Quick releasing pressure can result in tough meat. Allow for natural release to keep your roast tender.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient liquid can cause burning. Always ensure there’s enough broth or water for proper cooking.
• Using Low-Quality Meat: Choosing inexpensive cuts may yield tough results. Opt for a good quality beef chuck roast for maximum tenderness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pot roast in a covered dish and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short bursts until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pan, adding a splash of broth if necessary, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Cooking time is typically 60 minutes at high pressure, followed by additional time for vegetables.

Can I use different vegetables in my Instant Pot Pot Roast?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with other vegetables like parsnips or turnips based on your preference.

What type of beef is best for Instant Pot Pot Roast?

A boneless beef chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness when cooked under pressure.

Can I make Instant Pot Pot Roast ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Pot Roast is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. With tender beef and flavorful gravy, it’s perfect for family dinners. Experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to make this dish uniquely yours!