Introduction
Slow cooked comfort food has a special place in home kitchens, and pot roast remains one of the most loved meals across generations. Cooking pot roast in an Instant Pot brings the same deep flavor and tenderness in a fraction of the time, making it perfect for busy days without sacrificing taste.
Rich beef, soft vegetables, and a savory broth come together to create a meal that feels warm and satisfying. The pressure cooking method locks in moisture, allowing the meat to become fork tender while absorbing every layer of seasoning.
An Instant Pot pot roast is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. Simple ingredients and a straightforward process make it accessible for beginners while still delivering restaurant quality results at home.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a complete ingredients table with approximate calorie values. Calories may vary based on brands and portion sizes.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories Approx |
|---|---|---|
| Beef chuck roast | 2 pounds | 1600 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Onion chopped | 1 large | 60 |
| Garlic minced | 4 cloves | 20 |
| Beef broth | 2 cups | 40 |
| Carrots sliced | 3 medium | 75 |
| Potatoes cubed | 4 medium | 520 |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | 30 |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon | 15 |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon | 10 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon | 6 |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | 3 |
| Dried rosemary | 1 teaspoon | 3 |
| Bay leaf | 1 | 2 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Add olive oil and allow it to heat for one minute.
- Season the beef chuck roast evenly with salt and black pepper on all sides.
- Place the beef into the hot pot and sear each side for about two to three minutes until a deep brown crust forms. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Add chopped onion to the pot and sauté for two minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for thirty seconds while stirring continuously.
- Add tomato paste and mix well, allowing it to cook for one minute to deepen the flavor.
- Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Return the beef roast to the pot and place it in the liquid.
- Add carrots, potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary around the meat.
- Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing.
- Select pressure cook on high and set the timer for sixty minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for fifteen minutes.
- Carefully release any remaining pressure and open the lid.
- Remove the beef and vegetables. Slice or shred the meat as desired.
- Optional step for gravy: Switch to sauté mode and simmer the liquid until thickened.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
• Add mushrooms for deeper earthy flavor
• Use red wine instead of part of the broth for richness
• Add paprika or smoked paprika for warmth
• Replace potatoes with sweet potatoes for variation
• Add peas at the end for color and freshness
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional values per serving based on six servings.
| Nutrient | Amount Approx |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 42 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 28 grams |
| Fat | 26 grams |
| Fiber | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Pot roast made in the Instant Pot pairs beautifully with crusty bread or dinner rolls. Serve it with a side salad for balance or spoon the rich gravy over mashed potatoes for an extra comforting meal.
Leftovers taste even better the next day and can be used in sandwiches, wraps, or rice bowls. The flavors deepen overnight, making it an excellent option for meal prep or next day lunches.
Conclusion
Instant Pot pot roast delivers the classic comfort of slow cooked beef with modern convenience. Tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth come together in one pot for a meal that feels both hearty and effortless.
Preparing pot roast this way saves time while preserving tradition. Each bite offers warmth, depth, and satisfaction, making it a reliable recipe that earns a permanent place in any home kitchen.
