Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy is a tender, flavorful comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. The beauty of this dish is its ability to combine rich flavors and convenience, making it an ideal choice for a family dinner or a cozy weekend meal. With just a few simple ingredients and a little time in your Instant Pot, you can create a dish that feels like a labor of love, but comes together quickly and effortlessly.
Imagine the aroma of beef slowly cooking in a savory blend of herbs, spices, and a rich gravy filling your kitchen. As the steam rises, you can almost taste the juiciness of the roast and the accompanying velvety sauce. Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy not only delivers on flavor but also provides a fulfilling experience, allowing you to gather around the table and share a satisfying meal with loved ones.
This recipe highlights the beauty of using the Instant Pot technology, where time and flavor work in harmony. It cuts down the cooking time while still resulting in incredibly tender beef that can be sliced with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this amazing recipe is foolproof and can become a staple in your culinary repertoire. In the following sections, we’ll explore why you’ll love this recipe, the preparation and cooking times, and of course, the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to bring this delightful dish to life.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy isn’t just a regular roast; it’s an extraordinary meal that brings comfort in every bite. Here are some compelling reasons why you’ll rave about this recipe:
1. Quick and Easy – The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

2. Flavorful and Tender – The pressure cooking process locks in moisture and flavor, resulting in a roast that is incredibly tender and succulent.
3. Minimal Cleanup – Using the Instant Pot means fewer pots and pans, making cleanup a breeze.
4. Versatile Serving Options – This dish pairs beautifully with various sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh bread. You can also turn leftovers into sandwiches, salads, or casseroles.
5. Impressive Presentation – A beautifully cooked roast with rich gravy makes for a stunning centerpiece on any dinner table.
6. Feed a Crowd – This recipe is perfect for gatherings and serves multiple people, making it an excellent choice for special occasions or family get-togethers.
With these reasons in mind, it’s easy to see why Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy is a favorite choice for home cooks everywhere. The combination of convenience, flavor, and flexibility truly makes this dish a winner!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy is efficient. The combined prep and cooking times average around 2 to 2.5 hours, but most of this is hands-off time while the Instant Pot works its magic. Here’s a breakdown:
– Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 90-120 minutes
– Natural Release Time: 10-15 minutes
These times may vary depending on the size of your roast and your specific Instant Pot model. Overall, in under two and a half hours, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve!

Ingredients

– 3-4 pounds beef roast (chuck or round)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups carrots, chopped
– 2 cups potatoes, cubed
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 4 tablespoons water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy is straightforward. Follow these steps for tender, delicious results:
1. Prepare the Roast: Season the beef roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the Beef: Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add olive oil and allow it to heat. Sear the beef roast for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent.
4. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and Italian seasoning. Scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze, ensuring any browned bits are incorporated into the broth.
5. Add the Roast Back: Place the seared roast back into the pot. Surround it with chopped carrots and potatoes.
6. Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” on high pressure for about 70 minutes.
7. Natural Release: Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before carefully turning the valve to release any remaining steam.
8. Thicken the Gravy: Remove the beef and vegetables from the pot. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode again. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2-3 minutes until the gravy thickens.
9. Slice the Roast: Once the roast has rested for a few minutes, slice it against the grain into thick pieces for serving.
10. Serve with Gravy: Pour generous amounts of gravy over the sliced roast and vegetables before serving.
By following these steps, you’ll create a comforting meal that delivers on flavor and satisfaction!

How to Serve

To elevate your dining experience with Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy, consider these serving suggestions:
1. Family Style: Serve the sliced roast and vegetables on a large platter, drizzling gravy on top for a stunning presentation.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery dinner rolls, or a fresh garden salad to complement the richness of the dish.
3. Garnish: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the top for a burst of color and flavor.
4. Leftover Magic: Use any leftovers creatively. Prepare beef sandwiches, savory beef stew, or even a casserole to turn your meal into something new and exciting.
5. Wine Pairing: A robust red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon can beautifully complement the flavors of the roast.
Incorporating these serving strategies transforms a simple meal into a delightful experience for you and your guests. Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy truly offers comfort and satisfaction, making it perfect for any occasion!

Additional Tips

– Use High-Quality Beef: For optimal flavor and tenderness, choose a well-marbled cut of beef such as chuck roast. The marbling contributes to juiciness and richness.
– Let It Rest: After cooking, let the roast sit for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
– Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves can add a wonderful depth of flavor.
– Enhance the Gravy: For a richer gravy, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar during the cooking process.

Recipe Variation

Spice up your meal with these variations:
1. Herb-Crusted Roast: Before searing, coat the beef with a mixture of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme for an aromatic crust.
2. Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with a hearty portobello mushroom or a combination of root vegetables for a robust plant-based dish.
3. Asian-Inspired: Modify the gravy by adding ginger, sesame oil, and green onions. Serve it with steamed jasmine rice for a different flavor profile.
4. Cajun Twist: Incorporate Cajun seasoning or spicy sausage into the broth for a kick of flavor. Pair with rice to soak up the rich gravy.
5. Spicy Version: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cooking liquid for some heat in your gravy.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to four days while staying fresh.
– Freezing: You can freeze the roast beef and gravy for up to three months. Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in portions to make reheating easier. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

To create the perfect Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy, consider having the following equipment:
– Instant Pot: A must-have for pressure cooking and sautéing in one pot.
– Cutting Board: For slicing the roast safely and efficiently.
– Sharp Knife: To ensure clean cuts of the tender beef.
– Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
– Mixing Bowl: Useful for preparing cornstarch slurry or mixing seasonings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a frozen roast?
Yes, you can use frozen meat, but increase the cooking time to about 90-100 minutes. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth, although beef broth provides the richest flavor.
How do I know when the roast is done?
Use a meat thermometer. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare to 145°F for medium.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but ensure your Instant Pot has enough capacity. You may need to increase the cooking time.
Is it necessary to brown the meat?
While it’s not mandatory, browning the meat enhances the flavor through the Maillard reaction, adding depth to the dish.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Roast Beef and Gravy is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with comfort and warmth. With its tender, succulent beef drenched in rich, flavorful gravy, this dish brings everyone together around the table. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a timeless classic that fits seamlessly into hectic schedules. As you savor each bite, you’ll appreciate the ease and convenience of making this incredible comfort food in your Instant Pot!