The Best Ever Instant Pot Roast with Vegetables: A Flavorful Family Favorite

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Roast

• Season the chuck roast on all sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add olive oil and sear the roast for 3–4 minutes per side until browned. This step locks in the juices and enhances flavor. Remove the roast and set aside.

2. Sauté the Onions

• Add the quartered onion to the pot and sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (those bits add flavor!).

3. Build the Broth

• Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Mix well, ensuring the tomato paste is fully dissolved.

4. Pressure Cook the Roast

• Return the roast to the pot and add the thyme and bay leaves.
• Lock the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Cook on High Pressure for 60–70 minutes, depending on the size of your roast.

5. Add the Vegetables

• Once the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
• Open the lid and add the carrots and potatoes around the roast. Close the lid and cook on High Pressure for another 10 minutes.

6. Make the Gravy (Optional)

• Remove the roast and vegetables from the pot and place them on a serving platter.
• Switch the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode. Mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry and stir it into the broth. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the gravy thickens.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Slice the roast against the grain and serve it alongside the vegetables, drizzled with the savory gravy.

Tips for the Best Instant Pot Roast

1. Choose the Right Cut: Chuck roast is ideal for pot roast due to its marbling, which results in tender, flavorful meat.
2. Don’t Skip Searing: Browning the meat adds depth to the overall flavor.
3. Cut Vegetables Uniformly: This ensures they cook evenly during the final stage.
4. Natural Pressure Release is Key: Allowing the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes helps retain the roast’s tenderness.

Variations to Try

• Herb Swap: Use rosemary or parsley instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.
• Add Mushrooms: Stir in sliced mushrooms for added earthy richness.
• Sweet Twist: Add parsnips or sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls.
• Light and Fresh: Pair with a side salad or roasted asparagus.
• Leftover Magic: Shred leftover roast for sandwiches, tacos, or stir it into soups.