3 Packet Pot Roast Instant Pot Recipe: A Simple, Savory Delight for Your Busy Weekdays

If you’re craving a mouthwatering pot roast but don’t have the time to slow-cook it for hours, the 3 Packet Pot Roast Instant Pot Recipe is your new best friend. This recipe simplifies the traditional pot roast by using three easy-to-find seasoning packets and cooking it in the Instant Pot for a quick, flavorful meal. Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot user or just getting started, this recipe guarantees a tender, juicy roast packed with delicious flavors. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for 3 Packet Pot Roast Instant Pot Recipe

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients for this easy pot roast recipe:

• 3-4 lbs beef chuck roast (or any roast of your choice)
• 1 packet ranch seasoning (dry mix)
• 1 packet Italian dressing seasoning (dry mix)
• 1 packet brown gravy mix (dry mix)
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
• 2-3 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 3-4 medium potatoes (quartered)
• 1 onion (quartered)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make 3 Packet Pot Roast in an Instant Pot

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients Start by preparing your vegetables. Peel and chop your carrots, and quarter your potatoes and onion. Set them aside.

Step 2: Sear the Roast Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, season the beef roast with salt and pepper and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until browned. This step helps seal in the flavors and juices.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings Once the roast is browned, remove it from the Instant Pot and set it aside. Add the ranch seasoning, Italian dressing seasoning, and brown gravy mix to the pot, followed by 1 cup of beef broth. Stir the seasonings and broth together to create a flavorful sauce.

Step 4: Layer the Vegetables Return the roast to the pot, then layer the chopped carrots, potatoes, and onion around the meat. This helps the flavors meld together while cooking.

Step 5: Cook the Roast Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting, then set the timer for 60 minutes on high pressure. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Once the pressure is fully released, open the Instant Pot lid and carefully remove the roast and vegetables. Slice or shred the roast, and serve it with the vegetables and the rich, savory gravy from the pot.

Recipe Notes

• Use a Chuck Roast: The best cut for pot roast is a chuck roast, which becomes tender and juicy when cooked under pressure. You can also use brisket or round roast if you prefer.
• Seasoning Variations: Feel free to adjust the seasoning packets to your taste. If you like a bit of spice, try adding a packet of taco seasoning for a different twist.
• Slow Cooker Option: If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can cook this recipe in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.
• Add Mushrooms: For added flavor, you can include sliced mushrooms with your vegetables for a richer taste.

Time and Serving

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour (including pressure buildup and natural release)
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Serving Size: Serves 6-8

How to Serve 3 Packet Pot Roast Instant Pot Recipe

This dish is versatile and can be served in several ways:

• Classic Style: Serve the roast and vegetables as is with a side of crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious gravy.
• Over Mashed Potatoes: For an extra hearty meal, serve the pot roast and vegetables over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.
• In Tacos: If you have leftovers, shred the roast and serve it in soft tacos with a bit of sour cream and salsa for a fun twist.
• With Rice: Pair it with steamed rice for a filling, comforting dinner.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Instant Pot (or pressure cooker)
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cup
• Serving platter

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

• In the Refrigerator: Store leftover pot roast in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This recipe freezes beautifully. Let the pot roast cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the Instant Pot using the “Sauté” function until heated through.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Health Benefits of 3 Packet Pot Roast Instant Pot Recipe

While this pot roast is a comfort food classic, it does offer a few health benefits as well:

• Protein-Packed: The beef roast provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in Nutrients: The potatoes and carrots add a variety of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A and C, as well as dietary fiber.
• Low-Carb Option: If you skip the potatoes, this meal can be a low-carb, high-protein option perfect for those on a keto or paleo diet.

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect

• Use Cold Broth: If you’re using broth instead of water, use cold broth when you add it to the Instant Pot. It helps prevent the Instant Pot from giving a “burn” notice.
• Don’t Skip the Searing: While it may seem optional, searing the meat enhances the flavor and helps lock in juices, making your roast even more tender.
• Double the Vegetables: If you want to stretch this meal further, add extra vegetables such as celery, parsnips, or turnips to the mix for more flavor and nutrition.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

The 3 Packet Pot Roast Instant Pot Recipe is a game-changer for busy families looking for a comforting, flavorful meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare. With minimal ingredients and just a little prep, you can enjoy a tender, savory roast with perfectly cooked vegetables. Whether you’re new to using an Instant Pot or a seasoned pro, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to meals. Enjoy it with family, friends, or just a cozy night in!