Instant Pot Pot Roast & Potatoes

Imagine a chilly Sunday afternoon, the aroma of tender beef steeping in spices wafting through your home. It beckons you to the kitchen, inviting you to sit down for a warm, hearty meal with your loved ones. Instant Pot pot roast and potatoes is more than just food; it’s a moment, a memory waiting to unfold around the dinner table. As the tenderness of the beef melts in your mouth and the potatoes soak up the savory broth, your worries seem to fade away. In a world obsessed with fast meals, this dish embodies the comfort of home-cooked goodness, effortlessly prepared in your Instant Pot, making it a perfect fit for the busy yet nostalgic season.

I still remember the first time I made pot roast in my Instant Pot. I was skeptical, having always prepared it the traditional way—slow, low, and full of patience. But as I slid the lid on my Instant Pot that afternoon, I couldn’t help but feel a thrill of excitement. The infusion of flavors and textures, coupled with the time saved, transformed my family dinners forever. It’s no surprise that this comforting classic has seen a resurgence in popularity, especially as families are looking for quicker ways to prepare classic meals without sacrificing quality. Plus, with the holidays approaching, what better dish to share than one that is hearty, fulfilling, and brimming with nostalgia?

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs chuck roast – This cut is marbled, ensuring tenderness and flavor when cooked low and slow.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds richness and aids in browning the meat, enhancing the overall taste.
• 1 onion, chopped – Brings sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Provides aromatic flavor that makes your mouth water.
• 4 cups beef broth – Helps to keep the meat moist and adds savory richness.
• 2-3 carrots, chopped – Adds natural sweetness and colorful appeal.
• 2-3 potatoes, quartered – Starchy goodness that absorbs the delicious broth.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Infuses the dish with an earthy fragrance.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors.

For a healthier option, consider substituting the chuck roast with a leaner cut, such as sirloin, however, it may require additional cooking time for optimal tenderness. If you’re gluten-conscious, choose a gluten-free broth, easily found in most stores.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by seasoning your chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. This enhances the meat’s natural flavors and prepares it for browning. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function, adding olive oil. Once hot, carefully sear the roast for about 4–5 minutes on each side until it develops a nice brown crust. Don’t skip this step; it adds a beautiful depth of flavor.

After searing, remove the roast and set it aside. In the remaining oil, toss in your chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until they’re fragrant and translucent. This step is crucial, as the caramelization helps build layers of flavor.

Next, deglaze the pot with a splash of beef broth. Scrape up any delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom—they hold rich flavors! Return the roast to the pot and add the rest of the broth, carrots, potatoes, and thyme. Ensure the ingredients are well-mixed.

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, seal the valve, and select the manual pressure cook setting for 60–70 minutes, depending on the size of your roast. Once the cooking time is up, let it naturally release for about 15 minutes before carefully venting any remaining pressure.

Open the lid, and the glorious aroma will envelop you! The meat should be fork-tender, and the vegetables perfectly cooked. Serve it all up, ensuring to spoon some of that rich broth over the top for extra flavor.

Expert Tips

For the juiciest roast, ensure it’s at room temperature before you start cooking. This helps it cook evenly. If you like a deeper flavor, consider marinating the roast the night before with your favorite spices and a splash of balsamic vinegar.

If your roast isn’t as tender as you’d like after the cooking time, simply reseal the lid and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes. Don’t worry if you don’t have fresh herbs; dried ones work just as well. Just make sure to adjust your quantities, as dried herbs are usually more potent.

When serving, let the roast rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is as juicy as possible! For personal style, feel free to add your favorite spices or even a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for a flavor kick.

Storage & Substitutions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool them completely before placing them in freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot, which helps maintain the meat’s tenderness. You can also repurpose leftovers into tasty pot pies or soups if you want to mix things up!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, pot roasts often taste even better the next day. Feel free to prepare it a day ahead, let it sit in the fridge, and then gently reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with pot roast?

This savory dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even some roasted vegetables. The bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth!

Can I cook this recipe without an Instant Pot?

If you prefer a slower method, you can easily adapt this recipe to a slow cooker. Just follow similar steps, but allow for an 8-hour cook time on low or 4 hours on high.

What’s the best cut of meat for pot roast?

Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling, giving it fantastic flavor and tenderness when cooked correctly. However, brisket and round cuts are also great alternatives.

How do I ensure my pot roast is tender?

The key to a tender roast lies in the cooking method and time. Cooking it under pressure helps break down the tough connective tissues, making the meat super tender. Always allow for a natural release, as this helps keep the meat juicy.

As you gather around the table, know that this Instant Pot pot roast and potatoes recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of togetherness. Invite comments about your attempts, share your variations, and even save the recipe for a busy weeknight. There’s nothing quite like that comforting feeling of home that each forkful embodies. What memories will you create with this dish?

Print