Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pressure Cooker Pot Roast is the ultimate shortcut to a melt-in-your-mouth, fork-tender beef dinner. With just one pot and a fraction of the time, you get all the cozy, slow-cooked flavors of classic pot roast—rich beef, soft carrots, and silky potatoes in a savory, herby gravy. It’s the perfect weeknight comfort meal with Sunday-style satisfaction.

Ingredients

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

• 3–4 lb chuck roast

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1/2 cup broth

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried rosemary

• 1.5 lbs baby potatoes

• 4 large carrots, cut into chunks

• 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for slurry)

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Season and Sear: Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Set your pressure cooker to ‘Sauté’ mode and add olive oil. Sear the roast on all sides until browned. Remove the roast and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional minute.

3. Deglaze and Add Liquids: Deglaze the pot with the broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary.

4. Cook the Roast: Return the roast to the pot. Lock the lid, set the pressure cooker to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ on high, and cook for 60 minutes.

5. Quick Release and Add Vegetables: Perform a quick release of the pressure. Add the baby potatoes and carrots, then cook on high pressure for another 10 minutes.

6. Thicken the Gravy: Remove the meat and vegetables. Set the pressure cooker to ‘Sauté’ mode again. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

7. Serve: Slice or shred the roast and serve with the potatoes, carrots, and gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Different Cuts of Meat: While chuck roast is ideal for tenderness, you can use brisket or round for a leaner option.

• Slow Cooker Version: If you don’t have a pressure cooker, cook on low in a slow cooker for 8 hours instead.

• Richer Flavor: Swap the tomato paste with a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a deeper, more complex flavor.

• Vegetable Options: Add other vegetables like parsnips, celery, or turnips to the mix for more variety.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze the meat and vegetables together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to loosen the gravy if necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brisket or round for the chuck roast, though chuck is preferred for its tenderness when pressure-cooked.

2. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add additional vegetables like parsnips, celery, or even turnips to make the meal heartier.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the roast ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently when ready to serve.

4. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the broth for a spicy kick.

5. How do I ensure the roast is fork-tender?

Be sure to cook the roast for the full 60 minutes on high pressure, and let it naturally release for the best tenderness.

6. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables like peas or pearl onions, but be sure to add them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

7. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker by cooking it on low for 8 hours.

8. Can I make this dish without cornstarch?

Yes, you can skip the cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thinner gravy, or you can use flour instead to thicken the sauce.

9. Can I make this without Worcestershire sauce?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute with soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Pressure Cooker Pot Roast is the ultimate shortcut to a comforting, tender, and flavorful dinner. With just one pot and minimal time, you’ll enjoy a melt-in-your-mouth roast with all the classic fixings—perfect for weeknights when you want the satisfaction of a Sunday dinner without the wait. The savory beef, soft vegetables, and thick gravy will have everyone coming back for more!