Instant Pot Roast with Mashed Potatoes

Instant Pot Roast with Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food—tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef paired with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. This hearty dish is packed with flavor and is perfect for cozy family dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions. The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time while delivering the rich, slow-cooked taste we all love.

This one-pot wonder makes cleanup a breeze and allows the flavors of the roast, vegetables, and seasonings to meld together perfectly. The addition of homemade mashed potatoes completes the dish, making it a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to pressure cooking, this recipe is simple, foolproof, and delivers restaurant-quality results. From the savory aroma that fills your kitchen to the tender roast and creamy potatoes on your plate, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless Cooking:

With the Instant Pot, you can achieve tender, juicy roast beef in a fraction of the time it would take in a slow cooker or oven.

2. One-Pot Convenience:

The Instant Pot handles everything—roasting, cooking vegetables, and preparing the mashed potatoes—saving you time and minimizing dishes.

3. Versatile and Customizable:

This recipe allows you to switch up the vegetables, seasonings, and sides to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion:

From a casual weeknight dinner to a comforting holiday centerpiece, this roast recipe fits the bill every time.

5. Family-Friendly Comfort Food:

The combination of rich gravy, tender beef, and creamy mashed potatoes is universally loved and sure to please everyone at the table.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including natural pressure release)
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 portion (approximately 6 ounces of roast and 1 cup of mashed potatoes)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Roast:

• 3–4 pounds beef chuck roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 medium potatoes, quartered
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 large russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Gravy (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot

Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

Once the oil is hot, add the chuck roast. Sear on each side for 4–5 minutes until browned. This step locks in flavor. Remove the roast and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the Instant Pot. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce (if using). Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits.

Step 5: Add the Roast and Seasonings

Return the seared roast to the Instant Pot. Add the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Secure the lid and set the valve to “sealing.” Pressure cook on high for 60 minutes.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables

Once the timer is up, allow a 10-minute natural release, then manually release the remaining pressure. Open the lid, add the carrots and quartered potatoes, and cook on high pressure for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the roast and vegetables cook, boil the mashed potato chunks in a separate pot of salted water until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and mash with butter, cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 8: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)

Remove the roast and vegetables from the Instant Pot. Turn the sauté function back on and bring the liquid to a simmer. Mix the cornstarch and water into a slurry, then whisk it into the liquid to thicken.

Step 9: Serve

Slice the roast into portions and serve with the carrots, potatoes, and mashed potatoes. Drizzle with gravy, if desired, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Ingredient Background

Beef Chuck Roast:

A well-marbled cut that becomes tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow.

Potatoes:

Russet potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes due to their starchy texture, while Yukon golds offer a creamy finish.

Tomato Paste:

Adds depth and richness to the broth, creating a robust flavor base for the gravy.

Aromatics:

Onions and garlic infuse the dish with savory notes, elevating the flavor profile.

Technique Tips

• Sear for Flavor: Browning the roast before pressure cooking enhances the flavor and creates a deeper sauce.
• Natural Release: Allowing the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes prevents the meat from drying out.
• Mash Like a Pro: Use a potato ricer or hand masher for fluffy mashed potatoes without lumps.
• Gravy Perfection: Stir cornstarch slurry into boiling broth for a smooth and glossy gravy.

Recipe Variations

• Herb-Crusted Roast: Coat the roast with a mixture of fresh herbs before searing for an aromatic twist.
• Spicy Version: Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Replace beef with a mix of hearty vegetables and use vegetable broth.
• Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: Add grated Parmesan and roasted garlic to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration:

Store leftover roast and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Freezing:

Freeze the cooked roast and gravy in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Mashed potatoes can also be frozen but may require extra cream when reheating to regain their creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Weeknight Dinner:

Turn a busy weeknight into a cozy, satisfying meal by serving the roast alongside steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Add a crusty roll or warm biscuit to soak up the flavorful gravy, making it an all-around balanced and comforting dinner for the family.

Holiday Centerpiece:

Make this roast the star of your holiday table. Place the beef on a large, decorative platter surrounded by vibrant roasted carrots, golden potatoes, and fresh herbs for a stunning visual appeal. Drizzle with a rich, glossy gravy, and garnish with a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch. Pair with cranberry sauce or a side of cornbread stuffing to complete the holiday feast.

Meal Prep:

For a no-stress week of lunches, portion out the roast, mashed potatoes, and vegetables into individual meal prep containers. Include a small container of gravy to drizzle over before reheating. This makes for a hearty, protein-packed meal that reheats beautifully and keeps you fueled throughout the day.

Potluck Contribution:

Transport the roast and vegetables in a slow cooker to keep them warm and ready to serve at a potluck. Add a gravy ladle and a garnish station with fresh parsley or chives to elevate the presentation. Place the dish near bread rolls or rice pilaf for guests to create their perfect plate.

Special Equipment

Instant Pot:

This appliance is essential for transforming a tough cut of beef into a tender, flavorful roast in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. Its pressure-cooking function locks in moisture and flavor while cooking the vegetables to perfection.

Potato Masher:

A good-quality potato masher ensures your mashed potatoes are smooth, creamy, and free of lumps. For even silkier potatoes, consider using a ricer or food mill.

Tongs:

Tongs are indispensable for handling the seared roast without puncturing the meat, which helps retain its juices. They’re also useful for transferring cooked vegetables and arranging them on the platter.

Ladle:

A sturdy ladle is perfect for serving the gravy without spills. Its deep bowl makes it easy to drizzle the savory sauce over the roast, vegetables, and mashed potatoes for the ultimate finishing touch.

Gravy Separator (Optional):

If you want to remove excess fat from the gravy, a gravy separator is a handy tool. It ensures your sauce remains rich but not overly greasy, resulting in a polished final presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
   Yes, brisket or bottom round roast can be used but may require slightly longer cooking times for tender results.
2. Can I skip searing the roast?
   Searing enhances flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
3. What can I substitute for heavy cream in the mashed potatoes?
   Milk, half-and-half, or unsweetened almond milk can be used as lighter alternatives.
4. How do I prevent my roast from drying out?
   Ensure you use enough liquid in the Instant Pot and avoid overcooking.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
   Yes, parsnips, celery, and turnips make excellent additions.
6. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
   Use olive oil or dairy-free butter for the mashed potatoes, and skip the heavy cream.
7. How do I thicken the gravy without cornstarch?
   Flour or arrowroot powder can be used as substitutes.
8. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead?
   Absolutely! Cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 4–6 hours.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Roast with Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food that brings people together. The tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes create a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

This recipe combines the ease of modern pressure cooking with the timeless flavors of a classic roast, ensuring you can enjoy a homemade dinner without the long wait. From busy weeknights to festive holiday tables, this dish is versatile, reliable, and undeniably delicious.

Give this recipe a try and watch it become a family favorite that you’ll return to time and again. Its simplicity, rich flavors, and universal appeal make it a true kitchen hero.