If you're searching for a comforting, hearty meal that can be made quickly and effortlessly, look no further than this Instant Pot Pot Roast recipe! With tender, flavorful meat and perfectly cooked vegetables, this classic dish is ready in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner looking to make a foolproof dish, this recipe is perfect for you. Read on to discover the best way to prepare a delicious pot roast using your Instant Pot, along with tips and tricks to ensure success every time!
What is an Instant Pot Pot Roast?
An Instant Pot Pot Roast is a modern take on a classic beef roast dish traditionally cooked low and slow in an oven or slow cooker. The Instant Pot, a multifunctional pressure cooker, allows you to cook this meal in much less time while still achieving tender, juicy meat and perfectly cooked vegetables. The combination of beef, aromatic vegetables, broth, and seasonings creates a flavorful and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients List for Instant Pot Pot Roast
To make the perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Beef Chuck Roast (3-4 lbs) – This cut of meat is ideal for pot roast as it becomes incredibly tender when cooked under pressure.
- Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings to enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For searing the beef to lock in flavor.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Adds a rich, savory flavor.
- Onion (1 large, diced) – A key aromatic for a flavorful base.
- Carrots (4 large, cut into chunks) – Adds sweetness and balance to the savory roast.
- Potatoes (4 medium, cut into chunks) – Choose Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the best texture.
- Beef Broth (2 cups) – Provides moisture and depth of flavor.
- Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Adds richness and a slight tang to the dish.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) – Enhances the savory flavors of the meat.
- Bay Leaves (2) – For subtle, earthy flavor.
- Thyme (1 tsp, dried or fresh) – Complements the meat and vegetables beautifully.
Ingredients List for Seasonings and Extras
In addition to the main ingredients, there are a few extra seasonings and optional add-ins that can take your pot roast to the next level:
- Rosemary (1 tsp, dried or fresh) – A fragrant herb that pairs well with thyme.
- Red Wine (optional, ½ cup) – Adds richness and depth to the broth, though you can skip this if you prefer an alcohol-free version.
- Mushrooms (optional, 1 cup sliced) – If you love mushrooms, adding them can give the dish an earthy complexity.
- Cornstarch Slurry (optional, 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoon water) – To thicken the gravy if you like a thicker sauce.
- Parsley (for garnish) – Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish.
Substitutions and Variations
Don't worry if you don't have all the exact ingredients listed above. There are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to customize your pot roast:
- Meat Substitutions: If you don’t have chuck roast, you can use brisket or even pork shoulder for a slightly different flavor and texture.
- Vegetable Variations: Swap out the carrots and potatoes for parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for a twist on the traditional pot roast.
- Broth Substitution: If you don’t have beef broth on hand, chicken or vegetable broth will work as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly lighter.
- Gluten-Free Option: The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your Worcestershire sauce is certified gluten-free. You can skip the cornstarch slurry if you want to avoid processed starches.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it's time to prepare the perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast! Follow these steps for a mouthwatering dish:
- Sear the Beef: Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function and add the olive oil. Once hot, season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Place the roast in the Instant Pot and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until it forms a brown crust. This step locks in the flavor of the meat. Remove the roast and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. If using mushrooms, add them at this stage and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the beef broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This step adds tremendous flavor to the final dish. If using red wine, add it now and allow it to simmer for a minute or two to cook off the alcohol.
- Add the Rest of the Ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Place the seared roast back into the pot, nestling it into the liquid. Add the carrots and potatoes around the roast.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the "Sealing" position. Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Once done, let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure.
- Optional Gravy Thickening: If you prefer a thicker gravy, remove the roast and vegetables and set the Instant Pot to "Sauté" again. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let it simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
How to Cook Instant Pot Pot Roast: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Meat and Vegetables: Trim any excess fat from the beef, and chop the vegetables into large, bite-sized pieces. Season the meat generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Meat: Use the "Sauté" function to brown the meat on all sides.
- Sauté Aromatics: Cook onions and garlic until softened, enhancing the flavor base.
- Add Liquid and Seasonings: Pour in broth and deglaze, then add the roast back to the pot.
- Pressure Cook: Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.
- Finish and Serve: Thicken the gravy if desired, then slice the roast and serve with vegetables.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Searing Step: Searing the meat adds significant flavor. Don’t skip it, even if you’re in a hurry.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Be sure to cut the vegetables into large chunks. Small pieces can become too soft during pressure cooking.
- Not Using Enough Liquid: Ensure you have enough broth to cover the bottom of the Instant Pot. This prevents burning and ensures a flavorful broth.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving your Instant Pot Pot Roast, simplicity is key. However, with a little attention to presentation, you can make this humble dish look beautiful.
- How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast: Arrange the sliced pot roast on a platter and surround it with the cooked vegetables. Drizzle the rich gravy over the top, ensuring every bite is covered in flavorful juices. Serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes on the side for an extra hearty meal.
- Presentation Ideas for Instant Pot Pot Roast: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve on a rustic wooden platter for a homestyle feel, or plate individually for a more refined presentation.
Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe Tips
- Make it Ahead: Pot roast tastes even better the next day. You can make it ahead of time and reheat it gently in the Instant Pot using the "Sauté" function.
- Rest the Meat: Let the roast rest for a few minutes before slicing to ensure the juices redistribute through the meat, making it extra tender.
- Freeze for Later: Leftovers freeze well. Simply store in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the Instant Pot or microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a frozen roast in the Instant Pot?
Yes! You can use a frozen roast, but you will need to increase the cooking time by about 20-30 minutes. - What if my roast is tough?
If your roast comes out tough, it may need more cooking time. Pressure cook it for an additional 10-15 minutes to tenderize the meat further. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add parsnips, celery, or even green beans towards the end of the cooking time. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot Pot Roast recipe is perfect for anyone looking to make a hearty, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a rich, savory gravy, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The Instant Pot takes all the hard work out of the equation, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions. So, go ahead and try this recipe – you won’t be disappointed!
Enjoy your delicious meal!
PrintInstant Pot Pot Roast Recipe
This Instant Pot Pot Roast recipe is a savory, tender beef dish cooked with carrots, potatoes, and onions in a rich gravy. The quick-cooking method enhances the flavors while saving time, making it an ideal choice for a hearty weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 4 potatoes, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for gravy)
Instructions
- Set Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Season beef with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides.
- Remove the roast, and sauté onions, garlic, and tomato paste for 2 minutes.
- Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and return the beef to the pot.
- Layer carrots and potatoes on top of the beef. Close lid and set to manual pressure for 60 minutes.
- Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
- Remove roast and vegetables. For gravy, mix cornstarch with cold water, then stir into the pot juices on sauté mode until thickened.
Notes
- To make the meat more tender, allow the pressure to naturally release fully.
- Add more vegetables like mushrooms or parsnips for variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750 mg
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