Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast is the ultimate comfort food—tender, juicy beef infused with savory herbs, surrounded by perfectly cooked potatoes and carrots. The pressure cooker significantly reduces the cooking time while still delivering deep, slow-cooked flavor. It’s an easy one-pot meal ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chuck roast (boneless)olive oilyellow oniongarlic clovesbeef brothtomato pasteWorcestershire saucebalsamic vinegarthyme (dried or fresh)rosemary (dried or fresh)bay leafsalt and black pepperbaby potatoescarrotscornstarch (optional, for thickening)water (for slurry)

directions

Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and heat the olive oil.

Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

Sear the roast in the Instant Pot for 3–4 minutes per side, until browned. Remove and set aside.

Add chopped onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes, followed by the minced garlic. Stir until fragrant.

Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Stir to deglaze and scrape up any browned bits.

Pour in the beef broth and add thyme, rosemary, and a bay leaf. Return the roast to the pot.

Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode for 60 minutes.

After cooking, let the pressure naturally release for 10–15 minutes, then quick release the rest.

Add potatoes and carrots around the roast. Reseal and cook on high pressure for an additional 10 minutes.

Release pressure again naturally for 5 minutes, then quick release.

Remove the roast and vegetables. For a thicker gravy, turn on “Sauté,” add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water), and stir until thickened.

Slice or shred the roast and serve with vegetables and gravy.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6–8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesSearing and sautéing: 15 minutesPressure cooking time: 70 minutes (total)Natural release: 15–20 minutesGravy (optional): 5 minutesTotal time: 2 hours

Variations

Swap baby potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweeter touch.

Add parsnips or mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.

Use red wine instead of balsamic vinegar for a richer base.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

Use onion soup mix for added seasoning.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.For freezing, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, brisket or bottom round can also be used, but chuck roast is ideal for tenderness.

Can I skip the searing step?

You can, but searing adds important flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?

Use a cornstarch slurry or let the cooking liquid reduce on “Sauté” mode.

Can I make this recipe without potatoes and carrots?

Yes, just omit them or substitute with your preferred vegetables.

Why is my roast tough?

It likely needs more cooking time under pressure to fully break down the connective tissue.

Can I cook from frozen?

Yes, increase the pressure cook time to 90 minutes, but skip the searing step.

Do I need to cut the roast into pieces?

You can if your roast is too large for your Instant Pot; it may also cook slightly faster.

What size Instant Pot is best?

A 6-quart pot is ideal for a 3–4 lb roast, while an 8-quart is better for larger portions.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, as long as it fits in your Instant Pot without exceeding the max fill line.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Ensure your broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste are gluten-free, and use cornstarch for thickening.

Conclusion

Perfect Instant Pot Pot Roast is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and convenient. The pressure cooker transforms a traditionally long-cooked meal into a weeknight-friendly recipe without sacrificing flavor or tenderness. With a rich gravy, tender beef, and perfectly cooked vegetables, it’s a one-pot wonder you’ll want to make again and again.