When it comes to heartwarming comfort food, nothing beats a classic Instant Pot Pot Roast. This dish is a medley of tender, juicy beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a savory gravy that ties it all together. The beauty of using an Instant Pot is its ability to turn what traditionally takes hours into a one-pot, one-hour masterpiece. Whether you’re looking for a family dinner or an easy dish to impress guests, this pot roast recipe guarantees a showstopper meal every time.
Ingredients and Their Roles
For the Roast:
- 3-4 pound chuck roast: The star of the dish, chuck roast becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after pressure cooking.
- 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the beef.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil: Helps sear the meat to lock in juices and flavor.
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced): Adds depth and sweetness to the dish.
For the Broth:
- 2 cups beef broth or stock: The base for a rich and flavorful gravy.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Introduces a subtle tanginess and deepens the sauce color.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory umami kick.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary and 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Classic herbs that complement the roast.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuses earthy, aromatic flavors.
For the Vegetables:
- 1 pound baby potatoes (halved): Creamy and tender when cooked under pressure.
- 3 large carrots (peeled and cut into thick chunks): Adds sweetness and color to the dish.
For the Gravy:
- 3 tablespoons corn starch mixed with 3 tablespoons cold water: Thickens the sauce to create a luscious gravy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Roast
- Cut the chuck roast into three equal portions for even cooking.
- Generously season each piece with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Meat
- Set your Instant Pot to the SAUTE setting. Wait until the display reads "HOT."
- Add the oil and sear each piece of beef for 2-3 minutes per side, until a golden crust forms. This step locks in flavor.
- Remove the beef and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onion
- Add the diced onion to the pot. Cook until it turns translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Deglaze the Pot
- Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any stuck bits (fond). This step ensures rich flavor and prevents burning.
5. Build the Base
- Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Mix well.
6. Pressure Cook the Beef
- Place the seared beef back into the pot. Secure the lid, set the vent to SEALING, and select the PRESSURE COOK/MANUAL setting. Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
- Allow the pot to come to pressure (about 7-8 minutes) before the cooking time starts.
7. Add the Vegetables
- After the initial cooking cycle, perform a quick release of pressure. Remove the lid and add the halved potatoes and carrot chunks.
- Reseal the lid and cook on high pressure for an additional 10 minutes.
- When done, allow for a 10-minute natural pressure release, then perform a quick release.
8. Thicken the Gravy
- Remove the beef and vegetables from the pot, placing them on a serving platter.
- Switch the Instant Pot to the SAUTE setting. Add the corn starch slurry to the cooking liquid, whisking until the gravy thickens.
9. Serve
- Shred the beef or slice it into chunks. Drizzle with the savory gravy and garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve alongside crusty bread to mop up the sauce, or pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pot Roast
- Choose the right cut: Chuck roast is ideal for pot roast due to its marbling and ability to tenderize under pressure.
- Sear for flavor: Don’t skip searing the beef—it creates a rich, caramelized crust.
- Deglaze thoroughly: Scraping up browned bits ensures your gravy has deep, complex flavors.
- Layer wisely: Add vegetables after cooking the beef to avoid over-softening them.
Serving Suggestions
This Instant Pot Pot Roast shines as the centerpiece of your meal. Pair it with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes for a decadent twist.
- Steamed green beans for a pop of color and crunch.
- A robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the hearty flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Instant Pot Pot Roast brings the ultimate comfort food to your table with minimal effort. The tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich gravy make it a crowd-pleaser. Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can achieve slow-cooked perfection in a fraction of the time. Easy, delicious, and foolproof—this recipe is destined to become your go-to for cozy family dinners or special occasions.
Get ready to enjoy a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate!