Cooking a perfect roast can often feel like a long, daunting process. However, with the Instant Pot, you can now enjoy a tender, juicy roast with potatoes and vegetables in just about 90 minutes. This Instant Pot roast with potatoes recipe offers all the rich, comforting flavors of a traditional roast without the hours of waiting. Let’s dive into how you can create a mouth-watering meal that’s both quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal with your loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Roast Recipe
In a traditional pot roast recipe, the process of braising beef takes several hours. However, the Instant Pot reduces this cooking time dramatically, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks who still want to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal. The beauty of cooking a roast in the Instant Pot is that it locks in all the natural flavors and juices of the meat, leaving you with a delicious, tender roast that can be enjoyed in much less time.
The added vegetables, like carrots, celery, and baby potatoes, become tender and flavorful while cooking in the same pot, absorbing all the rich broth and seasonings. The result? A complete meal that’s perfectly cooked, packed with savory goodness, and ready in no time.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Roast with Potatoes
Before getting started, it’s important to gather your ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need for this recipe:
- Beef Roast: Sirloin tip roast or chuck roast are the best options for making a juicy pot roast. While the sirloin tip roast is leaner, the chuck roast offers more marbling, making it a bit richer and more flavorful.
- Beef Stock: Use low-sodium or unsalted beef stock to give your roast a rich base without overpowering the natural flavor. Beef broth can be substituted, though it will give a lighter taste.
- Vegetables: Classic mirepoix includes onions, carrots, and celery, which provide flavor and depth to the dish. Baby gold potatoes are perfect for this recipe as they hold up well during cooking and absorb all the delicious flavors from the beef.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add aromatic notes to the roast. They infuse the meat and vegetables with earthy flavors, making the meal even more comforting.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Instant Pot Roast with Potatoes
Here’s a detailed guide on how to prepare your Instant Pot roast with potatoes, ensuring that you get the best results:
Step 1: Sear the Beef
To begin, set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and allow it to preheat. While the pot is heating, generously season your roast with salt and pepper. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pot and sear the beef for about 1-2 minutes on each side until it’s browned. This step enhances the flavor by creating a nice crust on the beef, which helps to lock in juices.
Once the roast is browned on all sides, remove it from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the pot if needed, then toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and begin to release their natural sweetness. Once softened, turn off the sauté mode and add garlic to the pot. Cook for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Add ½ cup of beef stock to the Instant Pot and use a wooden spoon to scrape any brown bits off the bottom of the pot. This step is important as it helps incorporate all the flavors from the seared beef into the cooking liquid, which will contribute to the richness of the final dish.
Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Return the seared roast to the pot, along with any juices from the plate. Add the remaining beef stock, baby potatoes, fresh thyme, and rosemary. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
Step 5: Pressure Cook the Roast
Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 65 minutes if you are using a 3-pound roast. For larger roasts, add 10 minutes of cooking time per additional pound. During this time, the Instant Pot will build pressure and cook the roast and vegetables to perfection.
Step 6: Natural Pressure Release
After the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes. This helps keep the meat tender and juicy, so don’t skip this crucial step. Once the natural release is complete, carefully vent any remaining pressure and remove the lid.
Step 7: Prepare the Gravy
Remove the roast and vegetables from the Instant Pot and set them aside on a platter. To make the gravy, strain the cooking liquid using a mesh strainer to remove any vegetable bits and herbs. Return the liquid to the Instant Pot.
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode once more. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry. Add this mixture to the pot and stir to thicken the gravy. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the gravy has thickened, break the roast into chunks and pour the gravy over the meat and vegetables. Serve immediately, garnished with any remaining fresh herbs.
Variations and Substitutions for Instant Pot Roast with Potatoes
This Instant Pot roast with potatoes recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to make it your own with a few simple variations or substitutions. Whether you prefer a different cut of meat, want to adjust the level of flavor, or have specific dietary needs, here are some options to customize this meal to your liking:
1. Different Cuts of Beef
While this recipe uses a sirloin tip roast or chuck roast, you can also experiment with other cuts of beef to suit your preferences. Here are some options:
- Brisket: A great choice for a more intense beef flavor. Brisket is tougher than other cuts, but when cooked in the Instant Pot, it becomes tender and flavorful.
- Round Roast: A leaner option compared to chuck roast, but still provides good flavor and texture when cooked under pressure.
- Rump Roast: A lean cut that can be a bit drier than chuck, but still makes a great pot roast when cooked properly in the Instant Pot.
2. Vegetable Variations
The combination of carrots, celery, and baby potatoes is a classic in pot roast recipes, but you can switch things up based on what you have on hand:
- Root Vegetables: Swapping baby potatoes for parsnips, rutabaga, or turnips can add a more earthy flavor to the dish.
- Mushrooms: For an added savory touch, toss in some sliced mushrooms along with the other vegetables. Mushrooms pair beautifully with the beef and add a rich, umami flavor.
- Onions: If you’re not a fan of the classic onion, try shallots for a milder taste or pearl onions for a slightly sweet flavor.
3. Herb Alternatives
While thyme and rosemary are the go-to herbs for a pot roast, there are many others you can use to alter the flavor profile:
- Oregano: For a slightly Mediterranean twist, oregano adds a bold, savory flavor.
- Bay Leaves: Bay leaves impart a unique aromatic quality to the roast, and they can be added to the cooking liquid for a subtle hint of flavor.
- Parsley: Add fresh parsley after cooking for a burst of color and a slightly peppery flavor.
4. Spice it Up
If you like a bit of heat or extra warmth in your pot roast, you can add some spices or chili peppers to the mix:
- Cayenne Pepper: A pinch of cayenne pepper will give the roast a kick.
- Paprika: Adds a smoky flavor without being too spicy. Try smoked paprika for an even deeper flavor.
- Jalapeños: If you enjoy a spicy kick, you can add some sliced fresh jalapeños to the Instant Pot.
Storing Leftovers and Reheating Tips
One of the best things about this Instant Pot roast with potatoes recipe is that it makes great leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat your meal to enjoy it again:
Storing Leftovers
- Cool Down: Let the roast and vegetables cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation from building up inside the storage container.
- Storage: Place the leftover roast, vegetables, and gravy in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: If you’d like to store the leftovers for a longer period, this roast can be frozen. Just make sure to store the meat and vegetables in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When freezing, consider storing the gravy separately to prevent it from losing its texture upon thawing.
Reheating Leftovers
- On the Stovetop: To reheat on the stovetop, place the roast, vegetables, and gravy in a pot. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the gravy thickens too much during storage, add a bit of beef stock or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
- In the Microwave: Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Add a splash of broth or water to the gravy if it’s too thick.
- In the Instant Pot: You can also reheat the leftovers in your Instant Pot. Set the pot to sauté mode and stir occasionally until the roast and gravy are heated through. Add some broth or water if necessary to adjust the consistency of the gravy.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Roast with Potatoes
This Instant Pot roast with potatoes is a filling meal in itself, but there are a few simple side dishes that can complement it beautifully. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crisp, caramelized Brussels sprouts add a great contrast to the richness of the roast. You can toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven while the roast is cooking in the Instant Pot.
- Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds offer a nice crunchy texture and a slight nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the beef.
- Cauliflower Mash: If you’re looking for a lower-carb option to replace mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is a great substitute. It’s creamy and mild, making it the perfect companion for the rich beef and gravy.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up the savory gravy. Consider serving them with a little butter for an extra indulgent touch.
Expert Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Roast with Potatoes
Achieving the perfect Instant Pot roast with potatoes requires a few key techniques to ensure the beef is tender, the vegetables are cooked just right, and the gravy has the perfect consistency. Here are some expert tips to help you make the best pot roast every time:
1. Searing the Beef is Key
While the Instant Pot does an excellent job of cooking quickly, the searing step is still crucial. Browning the beef before pressure cooking helps develop deeper flavors through caramelization. Don’t rush this step—make sure to sear the roast on all sides until it’s well-browned.
2. Don’t Skip the Natural Pressure Release
Allowing the pressure to release naturally is essential for keeping the meat juicy and tender. If you’re in a hurry, you can do a quick release, but the natural release process ensures the beef stays moist and prevents it from drying out.
3. Adjust Cooking Time for Larger Roasts
The recipe calls for 65 minutes of cooking time for a 3-pound roast. If you are cooking a larger roast, you’ll need to add extra time. A good rule of thumb is to add 10 minutes per pound for roasts larger than 3 pounds. For example, a 5-pound roast should cook for 85 minutes.
4. Use Fresh Herbs for Better Flavor
Using fresh thyme and rosemary imparts a vibrant, aromatic flavor to the roast. Fresh herbs work best in the Instant Pot as they retain their flavor during the cooking process, while dried herbs can lose their potency.
5. Thicken the Gravy for a Perfect Finish
After cooking the roast and vegetables, make sure to thicken the gravy using a cornstarch slurry. This simple step will turn the rich cooking liquid into a velvety gravy that’s perfect for drizzling over your roast and potatoes.
FAQs On Instant Pot Roast with Potatoes
1. When should I add potatoes to my pot roast?
You should add the potatoes at the same time as the roast and other vegetables. This allows them to cook alongside the beef, absorbing all the rich flavors from the beef and broth. If you prefer your potatoes to be firmer, you can add them halfway through the cooking time. For a softer, creamier texture, add them at the beginning.
2. How long does it take for potatoes to soften in an Instant Pot?
Potatoes typically take around 10-15 minutes to become tender in the Instant Pot, depending on their size and the pressure setting. When cooking them alongside a roast in high pressure, they usually cook to a perfect softness in about 65 minutes for a 3-pound roast.
3. Why is my roast tough in Instant Pot?
If your roast is tough after cooking in the Instant Pot, it’s likely due to insufficient cooking time, especially for tougher cuts like chuck roast. Make sure you are following the right cooking times based on the size of the roast, and allow for a natural pressure release. Tough meat may also result from not using enough liquid, so ensure there’s adequate beef stock or broth to keep the roast moist during cooking.
4. Can I use frozen meat for Instant Pot pot roast?
Yes, you can cook frozen roast in your Instant Pot! However, you will need to skip the searing step and add an additional 30 minutes to the cooking time. For a 3-pound frozen roast, the total cooking time should be about 95 minutes.
5. Can I cook other vegetables in the Instant Pot along with my roast?
Absolutely! Besides carrots, potatoes, and celery, you can add other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or even mushrooms to the pot roast. Just keep in mind that firmer vegetables like carrots and potatoes should go in at the start, while more delicate ones like mushrooms can be added in the last few minutes of cooking or after pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Roast with Potatoes Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 3-pound sirloin tip roast (or chuck roast)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 stalk celery, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, rough chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 pound baby gold potatoes
- 3 cups beef stock
- 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and preheat. Season the roast with salt and pepper. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sear the beef for 1-2 minutes on each side until well-browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Deglaze the Pot: Add ½ cup of beef stock to the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Return the seared roast to the pot. Add the remaining beef stock, potatoes, thyme, and rosemary. Stir gently to combine.
- Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 65 minutes for a 3-pound roast.
- Natural Pressure Release: After the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes before venting any remaining pressure.
- Prepare the Gravy: Remove the roast and vegetables. Strain the cooking liquid, return it to the pot, and set the Instant Pot to sauté. Mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry and add it to the pot. Simmer until the gravy thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
- Serve: Break the roast into chunks, top with gravy, and serve with the vegetables.
Notes
- You can use other cuts of beef like brisket or round roast. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne or paprika to the roast.
- If you prefer firmer potatoes, add them halfway through the cooking time.
- This recipe is easily doubled; just adjust the cooking time accordingly for larger roasts.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 465 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 65g
- Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 161mg
- Sodium: 515mg
- Potassium: 1063mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Method: Pressure Cooking
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
