Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe

Looking for a mouth-watering pot roast recipe that’s not only delicious but also quick and easy? You’re in the right place! This Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe brings the rich, savory flavors of a traditional pot roast but slashes the cooking time in half, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through creating the perfect pot roast that will impress your family and friends. Keep reading for all the details, tips, and tricks to ensure your pot roast turns out tender, juicy, and full of flavor!

this Recipe

What is Pot Roast?

Pot roast is a classic comfort food, often associated with slow-cooked family meals. Traditionally made by braising a tough cut of meat like chuck roast with vegetables, herbs, and broth, it turns into a tender, fall-apart roast after long hours of cooking. The Instant Pot speeds up this process, making it possible to enjoy the same rich flavors and tender textures in much less time.

Ingredients List for Instant Pot Pot Roast

To make a delicious pot roast, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Roast:

• 3-4 pounds of beef chuck roast: This cut of beef is perfect for pot roast due to its marbling and texture, which becomes tender when cooked.
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil: For searing the beef.
• 1 large onion, roughly chopped: Adds a base flavor to the dish.
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic enhances the richness of the roast.
• 3 cups of beef broth: The liquid used to pressure-cook the roast, which also turns into a delicious gravy.
• 1 cup of red wine (optional): Adds depth and richness to the flavor of the broth.
• 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme: For a fresh, aromatic touch.
• 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary: Complements the thyme with its earthy fragrance.
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste: Helps enrich the broth with a subtle tomato flavor.
• 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce: Adds a slightly tangy, umami flavor.

For the Vegetables:

• 4 large carrots, cut into large pieces: Adds sweetness and texture to the pot roast.
• 4 medium potatoes, quartered: Potatoes soak up the broth’s flavor and provide a hearty side.
• 2-3 celery stalks, roughly chopped: For added flavor and texture.

Substitutions and Variations

This Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few common substitutions and variations:

• Meat substitution: While chuck roast is the best choice for pot roast, you can use brisket, rump roast, or even a shoulder roast. These cuts also work well in the Instant Pot, but the texture may vary slightly.
• Wine substitute: If you prefer not to cook with wine, you can substitute the red wine with more beef broth, apple juice, or cranberry juice for a touch of sweetness.
• Vegetable swaps: You can easily swap out the traditional potatoes and carrots for other root vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or turnips. For a more nutritious boost, add baby spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Spices and herbs: Feel free to adjust the seasoning. You can add a bay leaf, smoked paprika, or even a bit of cumin for a unique twist on the classic pot roast flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let's dive into the process of making the Instant Pot Pot Roast. These instructions will guide you step by step to ensure your roast turns out perfect every time.

How to Cook Instant Pot Pot Roast: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Chop the vegetables, mince the garlic, and prepare the fresh herbs.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

Set the Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function and heat up the olive oil. Once hot, sear the beef roast on all sides until it develops a deep, golden-brown crust. This step is crucial for locking in flavor. Once seared, remove the roast from the Instant Pot and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions and garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. If needed, add a little more olive oil. Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for another minute to deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the red wine (if using) or extra beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This step adds incredible flavor to the dish and prevents the roast from sticking during cooking.

Step 5: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Place the roast back into the pot. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme, and rosemary. Then, arrange the potatoes, carrots, and celery around the roast. Make sure there is enough liquid to come about halfway up the sides of the roast.

Step 6: Pressure Cook the Roast

Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" setting and set the cooking time for 60-70 minutes on high pressure, depending on the size of your roast. Once the time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10-15 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Rest the Roast

Carefully remove the roast and vegetables from the pot. Let the roast rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and juicy.

Step 8: Make the Gravy

(Optional) For a thicker gravy, you can use the sauté function to simmer the remaining liquid until it reduces. If you want an even thicker consistency, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry, then stir it into the simmering liquid until it thickens.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the searing step: Searing the roast before pressure cooking is crucial for building flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Overcooking vegetables: Adding vegetables too early can make them mushy. To avoid this, you can add them halfway through the cooking process or reduce their size to ensure they hold up.
• Releasing pressure too soon: Let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for about 10-15 minutes. A quick release might result in a tougher roast.
• Not deglazing the pot: Always deglaze the pot to avoid a “burn” notice from your Instant Pot and to maximize flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A beautifully cooked Instant Pot Pot Roast deserves to be served with style. The following tips will help you elevate your meal from simple to stunning.

How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast

Slice the pot roast against the grain for the most tender texture. Serve it with the vegetables alongside and drizzle the beef with the delicious gravy from the Instant Pot. You can also pair the pot roast with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the roast.

Presentation Ideas for Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Rustic family-style: Serve the pot roast on a large platter with the vegetables arranged around the meat. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
• Individual plates: Plate each serving individually with slices of pot roast, a side of vegetables, and a drizzle of gravy over everything.
• Garnish: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the roast for a beautiful and aromatic garnish.

Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe Tips

• Room temperature roast: For the best results, let the roast sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
• Cut vegetables evenly: Make sure the carrots and potatoes are cut into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
• Taste the gravy: Before serving, always taste the gravy and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce for balance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but the cooking time will need to be extended. Add about 20-30 minutes of pressure cooking time if using a frozen roast.

2. Can I make this pot roast without an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can make this recipe in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, but the cooking time will be much longer. In a slow cooker, cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. On the stovetop, simmer for 3-4 hours in a Dutch oven.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the pot roast for up to 3 months.

4. How can I reheat the pot roast without drying it out?
Reheat the pot roast in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the Instant Pot using the “Sauté” function with a bit of extra broth or water.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe is the perfect solution for anyone craving a hearty, comforting meal without the long wait. With tender beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and rich, flavorful gravy, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite ingredients and follow the tips provided to ensure the best results every time. Enjoy!

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