Name: Instant Pot Perfect Pot Roast Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 lb chuck roast; 2 lbs potatoes; carrots (optional); 1 onion diced; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1/2 cup cold water

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If you’re looking for a hearty meal that brings the whole family together, look no further than this Instant Pot Perfect Pot Roast recipe. This classic pot roast delivers tender beef, flavorful gravy, and veggies cooked to perfection—all in a fraction of the time it would take in a slow cooker or oven. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a delicious pot roast on the table in no time.

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Ingredients for Pot Roast Recipe

2 lb chuck roast
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 cups beef bone broth
1 onion, diced
2 lbs potatoes (red potatoes or baby potatoes)
Carrots (optional)
Garlic cloves (optional)
2 tbsp cornstarch
1/2 cup cold water

Equipment

Instant Pot (with sauté and pressure cooking functions)
Wooden spoon
Tongs
Small bowl (for cornstarch slurry)
Cutting board
Knife (for dicing onions and cutting potatoes)
Serving platter (for the roast and vegetables)
Measuring spoons
Measuring cup
Whisk (for mixing the cornstarch slurry)

Optional Supplies

Gravy boat (for serving the gravy on the side)
Foil (for covering the roast while it rests)

Instructions for Pot Roast

Prepare the Chuck Roast

Begin by taking the 2 lb chuck roast out of the refrigerator and allowing it to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the meat cook more evenly.
Pat the roast dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear on the meat, which contributes to the final flavor of the dish.

Season the Roast

In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Rub the seasoning mix evenly over the entire surface of the chuck roast, ensuring that all sides are well-coated. This seasoning blend is simple yet effective, enhancing the natural flavors of the beef without overpowering it.

Sauté the Roast in the Instant Pot

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Once the display reads “Hot,” add 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, spreading it around to coat the bottom of the pot.
Carefully place the seasoned chuck roast into the pot. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as the meat hits the hot butter. Sear the roast for about 3 minutes on each side. Use a pair of tongs to turn the roast, making sure to brown all sides evenly.
Browning the meat not only locks in the juices but also creates those essential brown bits (fond) at the bottom of the pot. These browned bits will add a depth of flavor to the gravy.

Deglaze the Pot

Once the roast is browned on all sides, remove it from the Instant Pot and set it aside on a plate.
With the pot still on the sauté function, add 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar to the pot. The vinegar will quickly bubble up as it hits the hot surface, loosening the browned bits stuck to the bottom.
Use a wooden spoon to gently scrape the bottom of the pot, ensuring all the flavorful bits are incorporated into the cooking liquid. This step is crucial for creating a rich, flavorful base for your pot roast.

Add Cooking Liquid and Vegetables

Pour 2 cups of beef bone broth into the pot, stirring it to combine with the deglazed bits and vinegar.
Return the browned chuck roast to the Instant Pot, placing it in the center. The broth should cover about halfway up the roast.
Add the diced onion around the roast, spreading it evenly across the surface. The onion will infuse the broth with sweetness and help create a delicious, savory gravy.
Next, add the potatoes. If using baby potatoes, you can leave them whole. If using larger potatoes like red potatoes, cut them into large chunks to ensure they cook evenly. Place the potatoes around the roast, nestling them into the broth.
For an extra touch of sweetness and color, you can add baby carrots or large chunks of regular carrots. These are optional but recommended, as they pair perfectly with the tender beef and gravy.

Pressure Cook the Roast

Secure the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the pressure valve is set to the “Sealing” position. This prevents steam from escaping during cooking.
Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and set the timer for 20 minutes per pound of roast. For a 2 lb chuck roast, you should cook for 40 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 12 minutes. This natural pressure release ensures that the beef remains tender and juicy. After 12 minutes, carefully switch the pressure valve to the “Venting” position to release any remaining pressure.

Remove and Rest the Roast

Open the Instant Pot lid and use tongs to carefully remove the roast and vegetables. Place them on a serving platter. Allow the roast to rest for 5-10 minutes, loosely covered with foil. Resting the meat allows the juices to redistribute throughout the roast, making it more tender when sliced.

Make the Gravy

With the Instant Pot still on, switch to the “Soup” mode and bring the remaining cooking liquid to a boil. This liquid will become the base for your gravy.
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of cold water to create a cornstarch slurry. Stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved, creating a smooth mixture with no lumps.
Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the boiling liquid, whisking constantly to prevent clumps from forming. Continue to cook and stir the gravy until it thickens to your desired consistency. The gravy should be rich and velvety, perfect for drizzling over the roast and vegetables.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the rested chuck roast into thick pieces and arrange them on a serving platter. Surround the roast with the potatoes and any other vegetables you cooked, like carrots.
Generously pour the thickened gravy over the meat and vegetables, or serve it on the side in a gravy boat for those who like extra gravy.
This Instant Pot Perfect Pot Roast is now ready to serve! Pair it with your favorite side dishes, such as green beans, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, for a complete and comforting meal.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Pot Roast

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

For the most tender and flavorful pot roast, opt for a chuck roast. It’s the best cut of meat for this recipe because of its marbling, which breaks down during cooking and makes the beef incredibly tender. If you prefer leaner meat, a rump roast is a good alternative.

Adding Extra Flavor

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a spoonful of tomato paste to the cooking liquid. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can also enhance the overall taste.

Making It Ahead of Time

This recipe can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, making the leftovers even better.

Using Frozen Roast

Forgot to defrost your roast? No problem! The Instant Pot can handle a frozen roast, though you’ll need to increase the cooking time. Simply add about 10-15 minutes per pound to ensure it cooks through.

Gravy Consistency

If you like your gravy thicker, you can add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch to the slurry. For a thinner gravy, reduce the amount of cornstarch or add more beef broth.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pot roast with classic side dishes like green beans, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to complete the meal. A crusty loaf of bread is also great for soaking up the flavorful gravy.

FAQs

What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Gravy?

The cornstarch slurry is the best way to thicken the gravy. Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the cooking liquid. This method ensures a smooth, lump-free gravy every time.

Can I Make This in a Crock Pot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker pot roast. Follow the same steps but cook on low for 8-10 hours instead of using the high pressure setting on the Instant Pot.

What Are Some Good Side Dishes?

This tender pot roast pairs well with side dishes like green beans, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The hearty meal is versatile and works with many side dishes.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Perfect Pot Roast is the ultimate comfort food. With tender beef, rich gravy, and perfectly cooked vegetables, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can enjoy this classic dish in much less time, without losing any of the great flavors. Whether it’s for a special Sunday dinner or just a cozy family meal, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again. So, grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for more.