Few dinners deliver cozy comfort like a hearty Instant Pot Pot Roast. We’re talking fall-apart tender beef, sweet carrots, perfectly cooked potatoes, and a savory, spoon-coating gravy that brings them all together. This version makes the most of your electric pressure cooker, squeezing out maximum flavor in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re craving Sunday supper vibes on a busy Tuesday or hosting friends, this is the kind of meal that instantly feels like home!

Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Instant Pot Pot Roast so special? It’s the combination of everyday pantry staples and fresh produce that work in perfect harmony. Each ingredient adds something unique: flavor, richness, color, or texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Beef Chuck Roast: The star of our show, this well-marbled cut becomes unbelievably tender and flavorful after pressure cooking.
Oil: For searing the meat to a gorgeous, caramelized crust that builds depth in the finished dish.
Salt: Brings out the natural savory flavors of both the roast and the vegetables.
Onion Powder: Adds a hint of sweetness and savory complexity without extra chopping.
Garlic Powder: Infuses the dish with classic garlic warmth—perfect for enhancing the broth.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked is best for a little heat and earthiness.
Smoked Paprika (optional): A subtle smoky note that elevates the entire pot roast, but skip it if you prefer classic flavors.
Baby Red Potatoes: These hold their shape beautifully and absorb all the savory juices while cooking.
Carrots: Their sweetness balances the savory beef; you can use baby carrots for convenience or chop whole ones for big, rustic pieces.
Yellow Onion: Adds aromatic flavor and softens into the background for that perfect, comforting taste.
Beef Broth: The foundation for a rich, flavorful cooking liquid and, later, a delicious gravy.
Worcestershire Sauce: Just a splash adds tang, depth, and umami—the secret to a craveable gravy.
Water: Needed for the cornstarch slurry that thickens our luscious gravy.
Cornstarch: Creates a silky, glossy gravy for smothering all that beef and veggies.
Chopped Parsley or Thyme (optional): A fresh, herby finish that brightens each plate.

How to Make Instant Pot Pot Roast

Step 1: Season the Beef

First things first, let’s give our roast some love! In a small bowl, mix together salt, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Completely coat your chuck roast with this blend, pressing the seasoning into every nook and cranny. This step sets the stage for a flavorful roast from the very first bite to the last.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

Turn your Instant Pot on to the Saute setting and drizzle in a little oil. Once it’s shimmering, carefully lower in your seasoned beef. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes—don’t rush! This creates that irresistible crust and adds a base layer of bold flavor to your Instant Pot Pot Roast. Once browned all over, set the roast aside for just a minute.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

With beef juices and browned bits lining the bottom, it’s time to pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Give it a good stir, scraping up every bit of caramelization (that’s where the magic lives!). This step ensures you don’t trigger the dreaded burn notice and infuses your broth with incredible flavor.

Step 4: Add Veggies and Beef

Gently nestle the seared roast back into the pot. Surround it with your potatoes, carrots, and diced onion, tucking them in around the beef. They’ll cook alongside, absorbing all those savory juices and transforming into the perfect tender sides for your Instant Pot Pot Roast.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid and set your valve to Sealing. Choose Pressure Cook (or Manual) on High: 60 minutes for a 3 lb roast, 80-90 minutes for something larger. This is where the magic happens, infusing every ingredient with deep, slow-cooked flavor—only so much faster!

Step 6: Natural Release

When time’s up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before carefully venting any remaining steam. This brief pause keeps the roast juicy and tender, preventing it from “seizing up” after cooking.

Step 7: Shred and Rest

Open the lid (the aroma is irresistible, right?). Gently transfer the roast and veggies to a platter. Grab two forks and pull the beef apart into chunky, satisfying pieces. Let everything sit while you whip up the gravy—it’ll stay warm and soak in even more flavor.

Step 8: Make the Gravy

Turn the Instant Pot to Soup/Broth mode. Bring the cooking liquid to a simmer, then whisk together water and cornstarch in a small bowl to form a slurry. Pour this into the simmering broth, whisking constantly until the gravy thickens up to your preferred consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning—maybe an extra pinch of salt or hint of garlic powder if you’re feeling bold.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Now comes the reward: pile the shredded pot roast and veggies onto plates, and ladle over that glossy, rich gravy. Don’t forget a final flourish of chopped parsley or fresh thyme for a bright, herby finish. Your Instant Pot Pot Roast is ready to steal the show!

How to Serve Instant Pot Pot Roast

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme instantly lifts the dish with color and freshness. You could also top with a few grinds of black pepper or a light dusting of flaky sea salt to make each plate feel restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

Classic choices never miss: a slice of crusty bread for sopping up gravy, or a side of buttery green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for a hit of color and contrasting texture. Serve atop creamy mashed potatoes (even double up on potatoes!) if you want extra indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform leftovers into beef sandwiches with crusty rolls and a drizzle of gravy or pile the shredded roast onto a bed of rice for a satisfying bowl dinner. Alternatively, serve mini portions in individual bowls for cozy, elegant dinner party starters—the possibilities for your Instant Pot Pot Roast are endless.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Instant Pot Pot Roast tasting its best, transfer cooled leftovers into airtight containers. Store the beef and veggies in one, and the gravy separately (if possible). Kept in the refrigerator, everything should stay delicious for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Got more roast than you can eat? No problem! Instant Pot Pot Roast actually freezes well. Cool everything completely, then pack beef, veggies, and gravy into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3 months; just label the date so you don’t lose track.

Reheating

For best texture, reheat gently on the stovetop or in your microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the gravy. Heat until piping hot and serve with your favorite garnishes to revive that fresh-cooked flavor in minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a frozen roast for this Instant Pot Pot Roast?

Absolutely! Just skip the searing step and add about 20-30 extra minutes to the pressure cook time. The final texture is still wonderfully tender, though the flavors are a bit less caramelized than with a fresh sear.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Nope! Baby red potatoes have thin skins that become almost creamy and add extra nutrients. Just give them a good scrub before adding to your pot roast.

What if I want a thicker gravy?

Add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch to your slurry for a heartier gravy, or simmer the sauce a little longer after adding the slurry to reduce it further. Always whisk well to avoid lumps!

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Feel free to toss in parsnips, celery, or turnips with your potatoes and carrots for extra flavor. Just make sure not to overcrowd the Instant Pot, so everything cooks evenly.

Is it okay to prep this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can season and sear the roast a day in advance, storing it covered in the fridge with cut veggies. When ready to cook, simply pop everything in the Instant Pot and follow the directions as written.

Final Thoughts

If you’re hunting for a meal that brings big comfort with minimal fuss, Instant Pot Pot Roast is what you need. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into something special. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a classic family favorite—just faster and tastier than ever!