Instant Pot Pot Roast

This tender and flavorful Instant Pot pot roast is the perfect comfort food. With juicy beef, hearty potatoes, carrots, and a rich, savory gravy, this meal is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Unlike traditional pot roast recipes that take hours to cook, the Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time while maintaining deep, slow-cooked flavor.

Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy weekend meal, this one-pot recipe is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – The Instant Pot cuts down cooking time while delivering the same rich flavors.
• Tender and Juicy – Pressure cooking ensures fall-apart beef every time.
• One-Pot Meal – Less cleanup and all ingredients cook together seamlessly.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for meal prepping or storing leftovers.
• Customizable – Adjust the seasoning, vegetables, or cooking time to fit your preferences.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot (6-quart or larger) – Needed for pressure cooking.
• Tongs – Helpful for flipping and removing the roast.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Used for deglazing the pot.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board – Essential for chopping vegetables.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Ensures accurate seasoning and liquid measurements.

Preparation Tips

• Pat the roast dry with a paper towel before seasoning to help achieve a better sear.
• Cut vegetables into large chunks to prevent them from overcooking.
• Have all ingredients prepped before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
• Use room-temperature beef for even cooking.

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Ingredients

For the Pot Roast:

• 3-5 pound boneless beef chuck roast
• 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or olive oil)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 pound baby red potatoes
• 4 large carrots, chopped into 2-inch pieces (or 1 pound baby carrots)

For the Broth & Gravy:

• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh chopped parsley or thyme

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Season the Roast

• In a small bowl, mix together salt, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
• Rub the seasoning all over the roast to ensure deep, even flavor.

2. Sear the Roast

• Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add oil.
• Once hot, sear the roast for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Remove the roast and set it aside.

3. Deglaze the Pot

• Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
• Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom (this prevents a burn warning).
• Turn off Sauté mode.

4. Add Ingredients & Cook

• Place the roast back into the Instant Pot.
• Arrange the potatoes, carrots, and onions around the roast.
• Secure the lid and set the vent to Sealing.
• Pressure Cook on HIGH for:
  • 60 minutes for a 3 lb roast
  • 80-90 minutes for a 4-5 lb roast

5. Release Pressure

• Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then perform a controlled quick release.

6. Shred the Roast

• Transfer the roast and veggies to a serving platter.
• Use two forks to shred the beef into large chunks.

7. Make the Gravy

• Turn the Instant Pot to Soup/Broth mode.
• In a small bowl, mix water and cornstarch into a slurry.
• Once the liquid simmers, whisk in the slurry and stir until thickened.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

8. Serve & Garnish

• Plate the pot roast with the veggies.
• Drizzle with gravy and garnish with parsley or thyme.

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Cooking Tips & Variations

• For a thicker gravy, add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
• For a deeper flavor, add a splash of red wine when deglazing the pot.
• For a more herby aroma, toss in a sprig of rosemary or thyme while cooking.
• To cook from frozen, skip searing and add 20-30 minutes to the pressure cooking time.
• If using baby carrots, reduce the cook time by 10 minutes, then add them in and cook for 10 more minutes.

This Instant Pot pot roast is the perfect way to enjoy a classic comfort meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With juicy, tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich gravy, it’s a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

Now that your Instant Pot pot roast is ready, it’s time to think about the best ways to serve it. This dish is already a complete meal with beef, potatoes, and carrots, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the meal even more.

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Serving Suggestions

Here are a few ideas to enhance the presentation and flavor of your pot roast:

• Slice or Shred the Beef – Some prefer slicing, while others enjoy the meat shredded. Either way, make sure to drizzle the roast with gravy for extra flavor.
• Serve on a Platter – Arrange the shredded beef in the center with the vegetables around it. This makes for a beautiful presentation.
• Use a Large Bowl for Comfort Style Serving – A deep bowl with the roast, vegetables, and gravy together creates a cozy and hearty meal.
• Pair with Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme over the top for color and a fresh taste.

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Side Dish Recommendations

While this dish is already hearty, adding a few sides can bring balance and variety to the meal. Here are eight great options:

1. Mashed Potatoes

Even though this dish already has potatoes, serving mashed potatoes on the side allows for more gravy absorption and an extra creamy texture.

2. Buttered Green Beans

Steamed or sautéed green beans with a touch of butter and garlic add a bright, fresh contrast to the richness of the roast.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Crispy and slightly caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a slightly bitter and nutty flavor that pairs well with the deep richness of the pot roast.

4. Garlic Bread

A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the gravy.

5. Caesar Salad

A crisp, tangy Caesar salad adds a refreshing contrast to the heavy dish and provides a light, crunchy element.

6. Cornbread

Soft, slightly sweet cornbread is a great Southern-inspired pairing that complements the savory flavors of the roast.

7. Mac and Cheese

A creamy, cheesy side dish makes for the ultimate comfort food combination.

8. Steamed Asparagus

A healthy and simple side that adds a mild, earthy flavor to balance the richness of the roast and gravy.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even with a simple recipe like Instant Pot pot roast, small mistakes can impact the final result. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

1. Skipping the Searing Step

Why it matters: Searing locks in juices and builds deep flavor in the roast.
Fix: Always brown the meat before pressure cooking for the best results.

2. Not Deglazing the Pot Properly

Why it matters: Leftover bits stuck to the bottom of the pot can trigger a burn warning.
Fix: After searing, pour in the broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the browned bits.

3. Overcooking or Undercooking the Roast

Why it matters: Undercooked meat will be tough, while overcooked meat can dry out.
Fix: Follow the recommended cook times carefully and allow for natural pressure release.

4. Releasing Pressure Too Soon

Why it matters: A quick release can cause the meat to seize up and become tough.
Fix: Let the Instant Pot release naturally for at least 10 minutes before doing a quick release.

5. Cutting Vegetables Too Small

Why it matters: Small pieces of carrots and potatoes will become mushy after pressure cooking.
Fix: Cut vegetables into large chunks so they hold their shape.

6. Using the Wrong Cut of Meat

Why it matters: Not all cuts of beef are suitable for pressure cooking.
Fix: Use chuck roast, brisket, or round roast for the best texture and flavor.

7. Not Making the Gravy Correctly

Why it matters: A watery or lumpy gravy can affect the overall dish.
Fix: Make sure to mix cornstarch with water before adding it to the pot, and whisk well to prevent lumps.

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With the right serving ideas, side dishes, and cooking techniques, your Instant Pot pot roast will turn out perfect every time.

Making Instant Pot pot roast is simple, but knowing how to store and reheat leftovers properly will ensure the best flavor and texture. In this section, we will cover the best ways to store, reheat, and answer common questions about the dish.

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Recipe Tips for the Best Instant Pot Pot Roast

• Use a well-marbled chuck roast for the most tender and flavorful results.
• Let the roast rest for a few minutes before shredding to allow the juices to redistribute.
• Adjust seasoning after cooking since flavors develop more intensely during pressure cooking.
• For a deeper flavor, add red wine to the deglazing step before pressure cooking.
• If you prefer a thicker gravy, add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

• Allow the pot roast to cool completely before storing.
• Store the meat, vegetables, and gravy in separate airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• If storing together, keep everything submerged in the gravy to prevent the meat from drying out.

Freezing

• Pot roast freezes well for up to 3 months.
• Place shredded or whole roast in an airtight container with the gravy.
• For best results, freeze in portioned containers to make reheating easier.

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Reheating Instructions

Stovetop

• Place the meat and gravy in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
• Add a splash of beef broth if needed to prevent drying out.
• Heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Microwave

• Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely.
• Heat on medium power in one-minute intervals, stirring in between.

Instant Pot

• Use the Sauté mode and warm with a little extra broth for about 5 minutes.

Oven

• Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place the pot roast and gravy in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20-25 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe with a frozen roast?

Yes, but you will need to skip the searing step and add 20-30 minutes to the pressure cooking time.

What is the best cut of meat for pot roast?

Chuck roast is the best option because it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked under pressure. Other good options include brisket or bottom round roast.

How do I prevent the vegetables from getting too soft?

To keep carrots and potatoes from becoming mushy, cut them into large chunks or add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Why is my pot roast tough?

A tough roast usually means it hasn’t cooked long enough. The collagen in the meat needs time to break down. If it’s still tough, pressure cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Can I use a slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot?

Yes, follow the same steps but cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours in a slow cooker.

What other vegetables can I add?

Parsnips, celery, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes are great additions that complement the flavors.

How do I make this recipe Whole30 or Keto-friendly?

To make it Whole30, omit the Worcestershire sauce and use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch. For a keto-friendly version, reduce the number of carrots and replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips.

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Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot pot roast is the perfect way to enjoy a classic comfort meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich gravy make this a family favorite that is easy to prepare, meal-prep friendly, and packed with flavor.

With proper storage and reheating, leftovers will taste just as good as the first serving. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, this pot roast is a versatile and satisfying dish for any occasion.