Instant Pot Chuck Roast – Tender, Juicy, and Full of Flavor

This Instant Pot Chuck Roast is a game-changer for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. With its tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef and flavorful gravy, this dish captures the essence of comfort food. Cooking chuck roast in an Instant Pot allows for a juicy, rich meal in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. Perfectly seasoned and accompanied by hearty vegetables, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why this Instant Pot Chuck Roast recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. First, the flavors are deep and satisfying; the combination of beef broth, garlic, and herbs infuses the meat with deliciousness, while the Instant Pot locks in moisture, creating a succulent roast. Second, the ease of cooking cannot be overstated. In just over an hour, you can have a complete meal ready for your family with minimal hands-on time. Lastly, this recipe is versatile and fits well into various dietary lifestyles, making it a hit for both traditional eaters and those looking for hearty, wholesome meals.

Tips and Tricks

To achieve the best results with this recipe, here are a few tips and tricks:

• Sear the Meat: Don’t skip the browning step! Searing the chuck roast gives it a beautiful crust and enhances the overall flavor.
• Use the Right Cut: Chuck roast is ideal for this recipe due to its marbling, which keeps the meat tender and juicy. Avoid lean cuts that can dry out.
• Add Vegetables Wisely: If you like your veggies tender but not mushy, add heartier vegetables like carrots and potatoes halfway through cooking.
• Thicken the Gravy: If you desire a thicker gravy, make a slurry with cornstarch and water and stir it in after pressure cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing this Instant Pot Chuck Roast, be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Overcooking: While the Instant Pot cooks quickly, overcooking can lead to dry meat. Always follow the recommended cooking times.
• Ignoring the Natural Release: After cooking, allow for a natural pressure release to keep the meat juicy. Quick release can toughen it.
• Skipping the Searing: As mentioned, searing is crucial. If you skip this step, you miss out on a lot of flavors.
• Not Deglazing the Pot: After searing, be sure to deglaze the pot. The browned bits at the bottom add fantastic flavor to the gravy.

Make Ahead Tips

For those who love to meal prep, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. You can:

• Marinate the Chuck Roast: A dry rub or marinade can be applied the night before for enhanced flavor. Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator.
• Prep Vegetables: Chop your onions, carrots, and potatoes a day in advance and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for easy assembly.
• Store Leftovers: Cooked chuck roast can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to switch things up with these variations:

• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of the typical bay leaves.
• Different Liquids: Swap beef broth for red wine for a richer flavor or use a vegetable broth for a lighter option.
• Alternate Cooking Methods: If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Just increase the cooking time to 6-8 hours on low.

How to Serve

To serve your delicious chuck roast, slice it against the grain and arrange it on a large platter with the vegetables nestled around it. Drizzle the flavorful gravy over the top and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the gravy or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting touch.

Pairing Suggestions

Enhance your meal experience with these pairing suggestions:

• Wine: A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complements the richness of the beef.
• Cocktails: A classic Old Fashioned offers a delightful contrast to the savory roast.
• Side Dishes: Consider pairing it with roasted Brussels sprouts or a fresh garden salad for balance.
• Dessert: A warm apple pie or chocolate cake makes for a comforting finish.

How to Store

To store leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Place leftover chuck roast in an airtight container, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, wrap the roast tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Reheat: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Equipment Needed

You’ll need an Instant Pot for this recipe, but if you don’t have one, a stovetop pressure cooker can also work. Additionally, having a good set of kitchen knives for slicing and a cutting board will make your prep easier.

Dietary Adaptations

To make this recipe more inclusive:

• Gluten-Free: Ensure your broth and any sauces are gluten-free.
• Paleo: Omit any non-paleo vegetables or add more root vegetables.
• Vegan: Substitute the chuck roast with a hearty plant-based protein like jackfruit or tempeh and use vegetable broth.

Seasonal Adaptations

Adapt the recipe based on seasonal availability:

• Spring: Use fresh spring vegetables like asparagus or peas.
• Summer: Incorporate zucchini or bell peppers for a lighter meal.
• Fall: Add root vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a cozy autumn dish.
• Winter: Use hearty winter greens such as kale or collard greens for added nutrition.

Cost Breakdown

This recipe is budget-friendly, with an estimated cost of around $3 per serving. Chuck roast is often an economical cut of beef, and using seasonal vegetables can help keep costs down. Substitute with frozen vegetables if fresh ones aren’t available, which are often cheaper.

Kitchen Hacks

Here are some kitchen hacks to streamline your cooking:

• Quick Garlic Peeling: Smash cloves with the flat side of a knife for easy peeling.
• Effortless Onion Chopping: Chill onions in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before chopping to reduce tears.
• Easy Gravy: Use an immersion blender to quickly smooth out your gravy after cooking.

Recipe FAQs

• Can I substitute chuck roast with another cut of meat? Yes, but keep in mind that leaner cuts may not be as tender.
• What if I don’t have beef broth? You can use chicken broth or even water in a pinch, but the flavor will be less rich.
• How long should I cook a 3-pound chuck roast? For a 3-pound roast, cook for about 60 minutes with a natural release.
• Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Just be mindful of cooking times; add delicate veggies later in the cooking process.

Yield: 8

Instant Pot Chuck Roast

Print

This Instant Pot Chuck Roast is a game-changer for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. With its tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef and flavorful gravy, this dish captures the essence of comfort food. Cooking chuck roast in an Instant Pot allows for a juicy, rich meal in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 1 hour

Additional Time 15 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds chuck roast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, cut into chunks
• 4 potatoes, diced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Begin by seasoning the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper.
2. Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and add olive oil. Once hot, sear the roast on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side).
3. Remove the roast and set it aside. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until fragrant.
4. Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and lift any browned bits.
5. Return the chuck roast to the pot, adding the carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
6. Close the lid, set to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 60 minutes. Ensure the pressure valve is closed.
7. Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural release for at least 15 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
8. Remove the roast and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with the vegetables and gravy.

Nutrition Information

Yield

8

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 652Total Fat 37gSaturated Fat 15gTrans Fat 2gUnsaturated Fat 20gCholesterol 188mgSodium 455mgCarbohydrates 22gFiber 3gSugar 2gProtein 59g

Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.

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Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Chuck Roast recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to any gathering. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s a dish that showcases the beauty of comfort food. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite!