Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe

If you're looking for a quick and easy way to make a delicious, tender pot roast, you've come to the right place. This Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe will give you the rich flavors of a slow-cooked meal in a fraction of the time. From tender beef to perfectly cooked vegetables, this recipe has it all. Keep reading to discover the secrets to making the perfect Instant Pot pot roast, and learn how to avoid common mistakes, adapt the recipe to your tastes, and serve it in style!

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What is an Instant Pot Pot Roast?

An Instant Pot Pot Roast is a hearty, savory dish made with a large cut of beef—typically chuck roast—cooked in the Instant Pot pressure cooker along with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions. The Instant Pot allows the roast to become incredibly tender in just a short amount of time, all while infusing the meat and veggies with rich, deep flavors. If you’re new to using an Instant Pot or just want a foolproof way to make a delicious pot roast, this recipe is a must-try!

Ingredients List for Instant Pot Pot Roast

Here are the core ingredients you'll need to make a flavorful Instant Pot Pot Roast:

For the Pot Roast:

• 3–4 pounds of chuck roast (or beef brisket)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil (for searing)
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4–5 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Optional Thick Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ cup cold water

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is flexible enough to allow for substitutions and variations based on your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Meat Options: If you don’t have chuck roast on hand, you can use a brisket, rump roast, or even beef shank. Each cut offers slightly different textures, but they’ll all work beautifully in the Instant Pot.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap out vegetables. Try using sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even butternut squash for a twist. You can also add celery or mushrooms for additional flavor.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the potatoes and replace them with more low-carb veggies like cauliflower, turnips, or zucchini.
• Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have thyme and rosemary on hand, you can substitute with Italian seasoning or Herbes de Provence.
• Red Wine: For added depth of flavor, substitute one cup of beef broth with red wine for a more sophisticated taste.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing all your ingredients. Season your chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Chop the onions, carrots, and potatoes into large chunks, as they will be pressure-cooked later and smaller pieces may become too soft. Mince the garlic and measure out the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté setting. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, place the seasoned chuck roast in the pot and sear it on all sides until a nice golden-brown crust forms. This step helps to lock in the flavor and improve the texture of the final dish. Once seared, remove the roast and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Without cleaning the pot, add the onions to the Instant Pot and sauté them for about 3–4 minutes until they start to caramelize. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and a splash of beef broth to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This deglazing process ensures that all the flavors from searing the meat are incorporated into the dish and prevents burning during pressure cooking.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

Return the seared roast to the Instant Pot, nestling it into the onion mixture. Add the chopped carrots and potatoes around the roast. Pour the remaining beef broth over the top and add the dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to the "Sealing" position. Select the Pressure Cook or Manual setting, and set the timer for 60–70 minutes (depending on the size of your roast). Once the timer is up, allow the Instant Pot to do a Natural Pressure Release for about 10–15 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Make the Gravy (Optional)

Once the pot roast is done, remove the meat and vegetables and set them aside on a serving platter. If you want to make a gravy, turn the Instant Pot back to the Sauté setting. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup of cold water. Stir this mixture into the liquid in the pot and let it simmer for 5–10 minutes until it thickens into a delicious gravy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Searing the Meat: Skipping the searing step can lead to a less flavorful roast. Searing helps lock in juices and adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the final dish.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: To prevent your vegetables from becoming mushy, cut them into large chunks and place them around the roast rather than directly under it.
• Using the Wrong Cut of Meat: Leaner cuts like sirloin or round roast won't be as tender as fattier cuts like chuck roast. Always choose a cut with good marbling for the best results.
• Not Deglazing the Pot: After searing, there will be flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of your pot. Failing to deglaze can result in the "Burn" notice during cooking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving your Instant Pot pot roast can be as simple or elegant as you like. This dish is perfect for both casual family dinners and more formal gatherings. Here are some tips:

• Family-Style: Serve the pot roast on a large platter with the vegetables arranged around it. Drizzle some of the gravy over the top and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
• Individual Plates: For a more formal presentation, slice the pot roast and serve individual portions on plates. Add a few pieces of each vegetable and a ladle of gravy over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs.

How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast

Pot roast is typically served as a one-dish meal since it already includes both meat and vegetables. However, you can elevate the meal by serving it with a side of buttered rolls, mashed potatoes, or even a light green salad to balance the richness of the roast. Leftovers make great sandwiches, or you can repurpose the meat into a hearty beef stew or tacos.

Presentation Ideas for Instant Pot Pot Roast

For an impressive presentation, arrange the sliced pot roast in the center of a large serving dish. Surround the beef with the vegetables and ladle some of the rich gravy over everything. For a rustic touch, serve the roast in the Instant Pot insert itself, placing it on a trivet at the dinner table. This keeps the meal warm while adding a modern, casual twist.

Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can prep the vegetables and season the meat the night before to save time. Simply store everything in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.
• Freezing Leftovers: Pot roast freezes exceptionally well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or red wine to the broth for an added depth of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen beef, but you'll need to increase the pressure cooking time by about 10–15 minutes. Keep in mind that you won’t be able to sear the frozen meat, so the final dish may lack that rich caramelized flavor.

Q: Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?
A: Absolutely! Baby carrots work well in this recipe and don’t require peeling or chopping, making them a convenient option.

Q: How long does it take to cook a 3-pound roast in the Instant Pot?
A: A 3-pound roast typically takes around 60 minutes of pressure cooking, followed by a 10-15 minute natural pressure release.

Q: Can I cook this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, this recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 5–6 hours until the meat is tender.

Conclusion

The Instant Pot pot roast is a game-changer for anyone who loves a traditional pot roast but doesn’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. With this Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe, you can enjoy all the comfort and flavor of a slow-cooked meal in a fraction of the time. Whether you're serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Give it a try, and don't forget to experiment with the variations and tips for a personalized touch. Happy cooking!

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