Name: Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 pounds beef chuck roast; 3 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1.5 cups beef broth

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There’s something special about the aroma that fills the kitchen when you’re making Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast. It brings back memories of family gatherings, laughter, and the joy of sharing a hearty meal. On chilly winter evenings, I love to gather around the table with loved ones, and this dish is always the star of the show. The tender, juicy meat combined with rich flavors creates a comforting experience that warms the soul. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water, and it’s the perfect way to bring everyone together after a long week. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare with the Instant Pot, making it a go-to recipe for busy Sundays.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 20 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
65 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
420 kcal

Protein:
50 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Instant Pot, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon

Why This Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast Stands Out

1. It’s a Time-Saver

One of the best things about the Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast is how quickly it cooks. You can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal in a fraction of the time it would normally take in the oven. This means more quality time spent with family and less time slaving away in the kitchen!

2. Flavor Explosion

The combination of spices like garlic powder and onion powder really enhances the flavor of the beef. When you sauté the meat, it caramelizes beautifully, creating a rich depth of flavor that seeps into the broth and makes every bite incredibly satisfying.

3. Tender and Juicy

Cooking in the Instant Pot ensures that your roast will be fall-apart tender. The high pressure cooks the meat evenly and retains moisture, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone craves.

4. Versatile Servings

This roast is perfect for Sunday dinner but also makes for excellent leftovers during the week. You can slice it for sandwiches, or serve it with your favorite sides—it’s a dish that keeps on giving!

5. One-Pot Wonder

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also a one-pot wonder. You can sauté, cook, and serve all from the Instant Pot, which means less clean-up and more time for you to relax and enjoy!

What You Need for Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making a perfect Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast. Each component plays a vital role in developing the dish’s rich flavors and comforting texture. Key players like the beef chuck roast and beef broth are essential for that savory base, while garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme add a delightful aromatic punch that takes the dish to the next level.

1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing, it enhances the flavor of the meat and adds richness.
2 pounds beef chuck roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking and results in tender meat that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
3 teaspoons garlic powder: Adds a robust flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
2 teaspoons onion powder: Enhances the savory elements of the dish, making it even more delicious.
2 teaspoons dried thyme: This herb brings a warm, earthy flavor to the pot roast.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Contributes to the richness of the broth and adds depth to the overall flavor.
1 1/2 cups beef broth: The base for your cooking liquid, providing moisture and flavor.

How to Prepare Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast

Preparing the Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast is as easy as it gets. With just a few steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the cooking process!

Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and select high heat. Heat the olive oil until shimmering. This is crucial for achieving that wonderful sear on the meat.
Season all sides of the beef chuck roast generously with garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Press the spices into the meat for maximum flavor.
Carefully place the roast in the hot oil and sear each side until it’s browned and crispy. This step is key to locking in the juices, so don’t rush it! The meat will not be fully cooked at this stage.
Once nicely browned, remove the roast from the pot and set it aside. Add the beef broth to the pot, stirring to scrape any browned bits from the bottom—these add incredible flavor!
Turn off the Instant Pot and place the cooking rack inside. Put the roast back on the rack, then spread the tomato paste evenly over the top.
Seal the lid and ensure the valve is set to sealed. Set the Instant Pot to Manual mode at high pressure and adjust the timer to 90 minutes. This is where the magic happens!
Once the cooking time is completed, allow for natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, then perform a manual release to let out any remaining steam.
Carefully remove the lid and transfer the roast to a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Serve the roast with the flavorful broth, and enjoy the compliments!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking times can vary based on the size of the roast. Make sure yours is fully cooked by checking for an internal temperature of at least 145°F.
Letting the roast rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
For best results, store leftovers in the broth to keep the meat moist.
Experiment with additional herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile to your taste!

Customization Ideas

If you’re looking to switch things up with your Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast, here are some great customization ideas to enhance your meal:

Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique twist.
Add Vegetables: Toss in carrots and potatoes during cooking for a complete meal in one pot.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you enjoy a spicy profile.
Thickening the Gravy: After cooking, remove the roast and set the pot to sauté. Whisk in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the broth.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the roast on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting pairing.
Garnishing: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten the dish when sprinkled on top before serving.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What Goes Well With This Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast

Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing, they soak up the delicious gravy perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, brussels sprouts, or any seasonal vegetables complement the savory flavors.
Rice: Serving the pot roast over rice can be a delightful change.
Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a nice contrast to the rich roast.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for mopping up the tasty gravy!
Occasional Serving: This dish is perfect for Sunday family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any special occasion.

FAQ

The best cut of meat for pot roast is typically beef chuck roast. This cut has a good amount of marbling, which makes it tender and flavorful when cooked slowly. Other cuts like brisket or round can also work, but they may not be as tender as chuck roast. When choosing your meat, look for a cut with some fat and good marbling to ensure a juicy roast.

Yes, you can use frozen meat for the Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast. The Instant Pot can handle frozen meat quite well. However, make sure to increase the cooking time by about 10 to 15 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to reach at least 145°F for safe consumption. Cooking from frozen may result in a slightly different texture, but it will still be delicious!

The best way to know when your pot roast is done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F for medium-rare. For a more tender texture, you may want to cook it to around 190°F to 205°F. This allows the connective tissues to break down, making it fork-tender. If you don’t have a thermometer, a good sign that the roast is done is when it easily pulls apart with a fork.

Leftovers from your Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the leftovers. You can slice the roast and use it in sandwiches, or serve it over rice or in tacos for a delicious, easy meal. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Sunday Pot Roast is truly a family favorite, bringing people together with its rich flavors and heartwarming aroma. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy it brings to your table. You won’t regret it, and your loved ones will be asking for seconds. So don’t wait—make it tonight and create some wonderful memories around your dinner table!