How Long To Cook Pot Roast In Instant Pot

Introduction

Pot roast, a traditionally slow-cooked dish, has found new life thanks to the Instant Pot. The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time while delivering the same tender, flavorful results. Its popularity stems from its ease of use, convenience, and ability to transform a tough cut of beef into a comforting and satisfying meal. The speed at which the Instant Pot cooks is a significant draw, especially for busy individuals seeking a home-cooked dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Learning “how long to cook pot roast in instant pot” is a valuable skill for any home cook.

Ingredients

The key ingredients for a classic Instant Pot pot roast are:

Beef Chuck Roast: A 3-4 pound chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling, which renders during cooking, adding flavor and moisture.
Vegetable Oil: For searing the roast. Olive oil or canola oil work well.
Beef Broth: The cooking liquid, providing richness and depth of flavor. Low-sodium broth allows for better control of salt levels.
Onion: Adds sweetness and savory flavor. Yellow or white onions are commonly used.
Carrots: Contribute sweetness and color. Baby carrots can be used for convenience.
Celery: Adds an earthy, aromatic note.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well during pressure cooking.
Garlic: For pungent flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the umami flavor.
Tomato Paste: Adds richness and depth of flavor.
Dried Thyme and Rosemary: Classic herbs for pot roast, adding an earthy aroma.
Salt and Pepper: To season the roast and vegetables.
Optional: Cornstarch or Flour: For thickening the gravy.

Possible substitutions include using different cuts of beef (such as brisket or round roast, though cooking times may vary), vegetable broth in place of beef broth, or different root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is crucial for a flavorful pot roast:

Pat the Roast Dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the chuck roast. This allows for better searing.
Season Generously: Season the roast liberally with salt and pepper on all sides. Don’t be shy!
Chop Vegetables: Cut the onion, carrots, and celery into large, even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and don’t become mushy. Quarter the potatoes.
Mince Garlic: Mince the garlic finely for maximum flavor release.

Tip: Letting the seasoned roast sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before searing can help it sear more evenly.

Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to cook pot roast in an Instant Pot:

Sear the Roast: Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Saut” function. Add vegetable oil to the pot. Once the oil is hot, sear the chuck roast on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Searing adds depth of flavor and enhances the texture of the roast. Remove the roast and set aside.
Saut Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the Instant Pot. Saut for 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are softened. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Use a spatula to scrape the bottom of the pot, loosening any browned bits (fond). This prevents the “Burn” notice.
Add Roast and Vegetables: Place the seared roast back into the Instant Pot on top of the vegetables. Add the potatoes, thyme, and rosemary.
Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 60-75 minutes for a 3-4 pound roast. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the roast (approximately 20 minutes per pound).
Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 15-20 minutes. This helps the roast retain moisture. After 15-20 minutes, release any remaining pressure manually.
Check for Doneness: Carefully remove the roast from the Instant Pot. It should be fork-tender. If not, return it to the pot and pressure cook for another 10-15 minutes.
Make the Gravy (Optional): If desired, thicken the gravy. Select the “Saut” function. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch or flour with cold water to form a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering broth in the Instant Pot. Cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Shred the Roast: Shred the pot roast with two forks.

Temperature: The Instant Pot operates at high pressure, typically around 11-12 PSI, which translates to a cooking temperature of approximately 244-248F (118-120C).

Serving Suggestions

Pot roast is a versatile dish that can be served in numerous ways:

Classic Plating: Serve the shredded pot roast with the cooked vegetables and plenty of gravy.
Mashed Potatoes: A classic accompaniment to pot roast.
Creamy Polenta: Offers a comforting and flavorful alternative to mashed potatoes.
Crusty Bread: For soaking up the delicious gravy.
Side Salad: A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pot roast.
Sandwiches: Use leftover pot roast to make hearty sandwiches.

Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for added visual appeal.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Here are some tips to ensure a perfect Instant Pot pot roast:

Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the roast is crucial for developing flavor.
Deglaze Thoroughly: Scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot prevents the “Burn” notice and adds flavor to the gravy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: If necessary, cut the roast in half to ensure even cooking.
Natural Pressure Release is Key: Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for at least 15 minutes results in a more tender roast.
Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Adding the potatoes and carrots at the same time as the roast can result in overcooked vegetables. Consider adding them halfway through the cooking time.
Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking time depends on the size of the roast and the desired level of tenderness. Err on the side of undercooking, as you can always cook it longer.

Common Mistake: Not using enough liquid. Ensure there is at least 1 cup of liquid in the Instant Pot to prevent the “Burn” notice.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning “how long to cook pot roast in instant pot” opens the door to a world of flavorful, convenient meals. The result is a tender, satisfying dish, showcasing both the rich tradition of pot roast and the modern efficiency of the Instant Pot. Its adaptability makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Now that it is mastered, visit foodrecipestory.com to explore more cooking guides and discover your next culinary adventure. Enjoy bringing this comforting classic into your home!