[Full Guide] How Long To Cook Roast In Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking, making it easier and quicker to prepare delicious meals. One of the standout dishes that can be made in the Instant Pot is roast, a hearty and satisfying meal that is a staple in many households. Cooking roast in the Instant Pot can result in tender, flavorful meat with a fraction of the time it takes to cook in the oven or slow cooker. This comprehensive guide will take you through the process of selecting, preparing, and cooking roast in an Instant Pot, ensuring that you achieve a succulent and delectable dish every time.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Roast In Instant Pot

The cooking time for a roast in an Instant Pot can vary depending on the size and type of meat, as well as personal preferences for doneness. However, as a general guideline, a 3-pound roast typically requires around 45-60 minutes of cooking time under high pressure.

Selection

When it comes to cooking roast in an Instant Pot, the cut of meat plays a crucial role in the final outcome. While there are various cuts that can be used, some of the most popular choices include chuck roast, round roast, and brisket. These cuts have a good amount of marbling, which lends richness and tenderness to the meat when cooked.

Additionally, it’s essential to consider the size of the roast in relation to the capacity of your Instant Pot. Ensure that the roast comfortably fits in the pot with a little room around the sides for the heat and pressure to circulate effectively.

Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to prepare the roast adequately. This includes seasoning the meat and potentially searing it to enhance the flavor and create a delectable crust. Consider the following steps for preparation:

Seasoning

Season the roast generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. This step is crucial for infusing the meat with flavor throughout the cooking process.

Searing

While searing the meat is not mandatory, it can significantly enhance the overall flavor and texture of the roast. To do this, heat some oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté function and sear the seasoned roast on all sides until it develops a rich brown crust. This step adds depth to the flavor profile of the dish.

Adding Aromatics

For additional flavor, consider adding aromatics such as onions, garlic, and herbs to the Instant Pot. These will infuse the meat with delightful fragrances and taste during the cooking process.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Roast

The cooking times for roast in the Instant Pot can vary depending on the specific cut of meat and desired level of doneness. Here are approximate cooking times for various sizes of roast:

• Small Roast (2-3 lbs): 45-60 minutes
• Medium Roast (4-5 lbs): 60-75 minutes
• Large Roast (6-7 lbs): 75-90 minutes
• Please note that these times are based on cooking the roast under high pressure.

How To Cook Roast In Instant Pot

Once the roast is seasoned and prepared, it’s time to cook it in the Instant Pot. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfectly cooked roast:

Step 1: Preparing The Instant Pot

• Begin by ensuring that the sealing ring is properly in place and the inner pot is clean and dry.
• Plug in the Instant Pot and add 1-2 cups of liquid to the inner pot. This liquid can be water, broth, or a combination of both.

Step 2: Inserting The Trivet

• Place the trivet that came with your Instant Pot into the inner pot. The trivet will elevate the roast and prevent it from sitting in direct contact with the liquid.

Step 3: Adding The Roast

• Carefully lower the seasoned roast into the Instant Pot, ensuring that it sits securely on the trivet.

Step 4: Setting The Cooking Time

• Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the vent to the sealing position.
• Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting, depending on the model of your Instant Pot.
• Use the plus and minus buttons to adjust the cooking time based on the size of the roast and desired doneness.

Step 5: Natural Release

• Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10-15 minutes. This helps the meat retain its juices and tenderness.

Step 6: Carving And Serving

• Carefully remove the roast from the Instant Pot and transfer it to a cutting board.
• Let the roast rest for a few minutes before carving it against the grain into slices.
• Serve the succulent roast with your choice of side dishes and enjoy!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Meat Tough And Dry

If the roast turns out tough and dry, it may have been overcooked. To prevent this, consider reducing the cooking time slightly, especially for leaner cuts of meat.

Insufficient Flavor

If you find that the roast lacks flavor, ensure that you season it adequately before cooking. Additionally, consider incorporating flavorful rubs or marinades into the preparation process.

Inconsistent Doneness

To achieve consistent doneness throughout the roast, try to choose a cut of meat that is uniform in thickness. Additionally, consider tying the roast with kitchen twine to help it maintain its shape during the cooking process.

Burn Notice

If you encounter a "burn" notice on your Instant Pot, it may be due to food sticking to the bottom of the pot. To avoid this, ensure that the inner pot is adequately deglazed after searing the meat, and add enough liquid to create steam and pressure during cooking.

Cooking roast in an Instant Pot can streamline the process of preparing a delicious and satisfying meal for you and your family. By carefully selecting the right cut of meat, preparing it with flavorful seasonings, and following the appropriate cooking times and techniques, you can achieve a tender and mouthwatering roast in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional cooking methods. With the guidance provided in this comprehensive guide, you can confidently embark on your Instant Pot roast cooking journey, impressing your loved ones with delectable, succulent dishes time and again.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen Roast

Cooking a roast in an Instant Pot can save you time and effort while still delivering a delicious and tender result. The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, and more. It uses high pressure and steam to quickly cook food, making it an ideal choice for cooking roasts.

One of the great advantages of the Instant Pot is its ability to cook frozen meat. This means you can start the cooking process without having to wait for the meat to thaw, saving you time and ensuring a juicy and flavorful result. Here are some general guidelines for cooking frozen roasts in the Instant Pot:

• Beef Roast: For a frozen beef roast, you can cook it for 20-30 minutes per pound for a rare to medium-rare result. For a well-done roast, increase the cook time to 35-40 minutes per pound.

• Pork Roast: A frozen pork roast can be cooked for 25-35 minutes per pound for a tender and juicy result.

• Lamb Roast: For a frozen lamb roast, you can cook it for 25-30 minutes per pound for a medium-rare to medium result. Increase the cook time to 30-35 minutes per pound for a well-done roast.

It is important to note that these cook times are general guidelines and may vary depending on the size and thickness of the roast. It is always recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure the roast reaches the desired internal temperature.

Achieving Perfect Texture

To achieve a perfect texture when cooking a roast in the Instant Pot, there are a few key steps to follow:

1. Sear the Roast: Before placing the roast in the Instant Pot, it is recommended to sear it on all sides. This will help to develop a flavorful crust and seal in the juices. To sear the roast, heat some oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté function, then add the roast and cook for a few minutes on each side until browned.

2. Add Liquid: Adding liquid to the Instant Pot is essential for the cooking process. It helps to create steam, which builds pressure and cooks the roast quickly. You can use a combination of broth, wine, or even water, depending on your preference and the flavor profile you want to achieve.

3. Use the Pressure Cook Function: Once the roast is seared and the liquid is added, it’s time to cook the roast using the pressure cook function of the Instant Pot. Select the appropriate cook time based on the guidelines mentioned earlier and set the pressure to high.

4. Natural Release vs. Quick Release: After the cooking time is complete, you have two options for releasing the pressure in the Instant Pot. Natural release means allowing the pressure to subside slowly on its own, which takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Quick release involves manually venting the pressure using the valve on the Instant Pot. The choice between the two methods depends on personal preference and the recipe you are following. Natural release is recommended for roasts, as it allows the meat to rest and retains more moisture.

5. Rest the Roast: Once the pressure has been released, it is important to let the roast rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and flavorful roast.

Flavor Infusion

One of the great advantages of cooking a roast in an Instant Pot is the ability to infuse it with flavors. Here are some ways to enhance the flavor of your roast:

1. Aromatic Vegetables: Adding aromatic vegetables such as onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the Instant Pot can greatly enhance the flavor of the roast. These vegetables release their flavors during the cooking process and add depth to the dish.

2. Herbs and Spices: Use a combination of herbs and spices to season the roast before cooking. Popular choices include rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasonings generously on all sides of the roast to ensure even flavor distribution.

3. Deglaze the Pot: After searing the roast, deglaze the Instant Pot by adding a liquid such as broth or wine and scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits of flavor. This will add richness and depth to the final dish.

4. Marinating: If you have time, you can marinate the roast before cooking it in the Instant Pot. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and results in a more flavorful roast. You can marinate the roast in a mixture of herbs, spices, and your choice of liquid for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Roast

In addition to pressure cooking, the Instant Pot offers other cooking methods that can be used to cook a roast:

1. Slow Cooking: The Instant Pot has a slow cook function that allows you to cook the roast at a lower temperature over a longer period of time. This method is great for achieving a fall-apart tender roast. Simply place the seared roast, liquid, and any desired seasonings in the Instant Pot, select the slow cook function, and set the desired cook time.

2. Sautéing: As mentioned earlier, searing the roast before pressure cooking is an important step. The Instant Pot has a sauté function that allows you to sear the roast directly in the pot. This function also comes in handy for reducing sauces and achieving a caramelized finish.

3. Roasting: The Instant Pot can also be used as a roasting oven. You can use the Instant Pot’s stainless steel insert as a roasting pan and cook the roast in the oven or under the broiler for a few minutes after pressure cooking. This will help to brown and crisp up the exterior of the roast.

Instant Pot Tips For Roast

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when cooking a roast in the Instant Pot:

1. Size of Instant Pot: Make sure you have the right size Instant Pot for the size of your roast. The pot should be big enough to hold the roast comfortably without overcrowding the pan. This will ensure even cooking and allow space for the liquid to circulate.

2. Meat Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the roast. This will ensure that the roast is cooked to the desired level of doneness. The USDA recommends a safe minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for beef roasts and 145°F (63°C) for pork roasts.

3. Quality of Meat: Choose a high-quality cut of meat for the best results. Look for well-marbled beef roasts, tender pork roasts, and flavorful lamb roasts. The quality of the meat will greatly impact the taste and texture of the final dish.

4. Browning: Take the time to properly sear the roast before pressure cooking. This step helps to develop a flavorful crust and adds depth to the final dish.

5. Liquid Amount: Use the appropriate amount of liquid as mentioned in the recipe or guidelines. Insufficient liquid can lead to burning or undercooking, while too much liquid can dilute the flavors.

6. Layering: If you are cooking vegetables along with the roast, it is important to layer them correctly. Place the denser vegetables at the bottom of the pot closer to the heat source and the more delicate vegetables on top. This will ensure that all the vegetables cook evenly.

7. Adjust Seasonings: After the roast is cooked, taste the liquid and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.

Creative Instant Pot Roast Recipes And Variations

Now that you know the basics of cooking a roast in the Instant Pot, here are some creative recipes and variations to try:

1. Italian Pot Roast: Sear a beef chuck roast in the Instant Pot, then add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, garlic, onion, and beef broth. Pressure cook for the recommended time, then serve with mashed potatoes or pasta.

2. BBQ Pulled Pork: Season a pork shoulder roast with your favorite BBQ rub, then sear it in the Instant Pot. Add BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, onion, and garlic. Pressure cook until the meat is tender and easily shredded. Serve on buns with coleslaw.

3. Greek Lamb Roast: Marinate a boneless leg of lamb in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, and oregano. Sear the lamb in the Instant Pot, then add chicken broth and cook until tender. Serve with roasted potatoes and a Greek salad.

4. Mexican Carnitas: Season a pork butt roast with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sear the roast in the Instant Pot, then add orange juice, lime juice, onion, garlic, and jalapeños. Pressure cook until the meat is fall-apart tender. Serve in tacos or burritos with your favorite toppings.

5. Mushroom Pot Roast: Sear a beef chuck roast in the Instant Pot, then add mushrooms, onions, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Pressure cook until the meat is tender. Serve with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.

These are just a few examples of the many delicious roast recipes that can be made in the Instant Pot. Feel free to experiment with different flavors, herbs, and spices to create your own unique variations.

Conclusion

Cooking a roast in an Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient way to achieve a tender and flavorful result. Whether you’re cooking beef, pork, or lamb, the Instant Pot offers various cooking methods and flavor infusion techniques to enhance the taste of your roast. Remember to sear the roast, add liquid, and use the appropriate cook times to achieve the perfect texture. With the Instant Pot’s versatility, you can easily experiment with different recipes and create your own delicious variations. So, why not give it a try and enjoy a succulent roast with minimal effort and maximum flavor!

FAQS

What Cut Of Meat Is Best For Cooking A Roast In An Instant Pot?

Generally, tougher cuts of meat like chuck roast, round roast, or brisket work best for cooking in an Instant Pot as the high pressure and steam helps to tenderize the meat.

How Long Should I Cook A Roast In An Instant Pot For?

The cooking time for a roast will vary depending on the size and cut of the meat. As a general rule, you should cook a 2-3 pound roast for 20 minutes per pound using the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" function on your Instant Pot.

Do I Need To Add Liquid To The Instant Pot When Cooking A Roast?

Yes, you will need to add at least a cup of liquid, such as water, broth, or a combination of both, to the Instant Pot before cooking the roast. This will help to create steam and prevent the meat from drying out.

Can I Brown The Roast Before Cooking It In The Instant Pot?

Yes, browning the roast before cooking can add additional flavor to the meat. To do this, use the "Saute" function on the Instant Pot to sear the meat on all sides before pressure cooking it.

How Do I Know When The Roast Is Done Cooking In The Instant Pot?

To ensure the roast is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For beef, the recommended temperature is 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for well done. Allow the roast to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.