Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast

If you have a 3-4 lb chuck roast sitting in your fridge wondering what to do, let me introduce you to the Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast—a recipe that transforms this humble cut of meat into a melt-in-your-mouth marvel. This dish combines the robust flavor of ranch and au jus seasoning with garlic and onions to create an irresistibly savory, tender roast that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this 3-4 lb pot roast is a total game-changer that’s surprisingly easy to pull off and sure to impress every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keep it simple yet spectacular by using basic pantry staples and fresh aromatics that each play an essential role in building layers of flavor and depth in the dish.

• 3-4 lb Chuck Roast: This cut’s marbling is key for juicy, tender meat that falls apart beautifully after cooking.
• 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix (1 oz): Adds creamy, herby notes that give the roast its signature bite.
• 1 packet Au Jus Gravy Mix (1 oz): Brings a rich, savory essence that elevates the roast’s natural flavors.
• 1 cup Beef Broth: The cooking liquid that infuses moisture and savory depth into every bite.
• 1 medium Yellow Onion, peeled and quartered: Offers sweetness and a subtle sharpness that balances the richness.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: A small punch of aromatic garlic that livens up the entire dish.
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil (optional): Perfect for browning the roast, adding texture and that irresistible crust.
• Optional Vegetables (Potatoes, Carrots, Celery): Toss them in for extra color, texture, and nutrients if you like.

How to Make Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast

Step 1: Prepare the Chuck Roast

Start by patting your 3-4 lb chuck roast dry with paper towels—this little step helps achieve a better sear. Then, generously coat the roast with both the ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix, massaging the spices into every nook and cranny. This seasoning combo is what gives the roast that signature Mississippi flavor that everyone loves.

Step 2: Sear the Roast (Optional but Recommended)

Turn your Instant Pot on the “Sauté” setting and add a tablespoon of olive oil. When hot, add the roast and brown it on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This creates a beautiful golden crust and builds extra flavor from those caramelized edges. You can skip this if you’re short on time, but I promise it’s worth it.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Next, add the quartered yellow onion and minced garlic to the Instant Pot. These aromatics create a delicious bed for the roast and soften during cooking, adding sweetness and depth. Pour in 1 cup of beef broth to come about halfway up the sides of the roast; this liquid will help produce a luscious sauce as it cooks.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Place the roast carefully on top of the onions and garlic, ensuring it’s nestled in the broth. Secure the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Pressure cook on high for 90 minutes, allowing the Instant Pot to work its magic breaking down the meat’s connective tissue until it’s tender and ready to shred.

Step 5: Natural Pressure Release

Once the cooking time is up, resist the urge to open the lid right away. Let the pressure release naturally for 20 minutes—this slow release helps keep the meat juicy and tender instead of drying it out.

Step 6: Shred and Serve

Carefully remove the roast from the pot and shred it with two forks. Stir the shredded beef back into the cooking liquid to soak up every bit of that rich, flavorful gravy. Now you’re ready to serve a comforting, hearty meal that tastes way more complicated than it actually is.

How to Serve Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate this dish beautifully. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives over the shredded roast for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. A little cracked black pepper on top adds mild heat that complements the creamy ranch flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

This roast pairs fantastically with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the luscious gravy, or buttery egg noodles tossed with a bit of olive oil and garlic. Roasted or steamed green beans add a nice crisp contrast to the tender meat, making your plate as colorful as it is delicious.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, pile the shredded Mississippi pot roast onto soft slider buns along with pickles for a hearty sandwich. Or transform leftovers into a savory pot roast taco with some crispy onions and a drizzle of hot sauce for a flavor-packed weeknight meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, so you’ll find the taste even more intense the next day—perfect for an easy lunch or dinner.

Freezing

Freeze leftover shredded pot roast with its juices in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to ensure even warming and to keep the meat moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of meat than 3-4 lb chuck roast?

While the 3-4 lb chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and tenderness, you can also use other pot roast cuts like brisket or rump roast but keep in mind cooking times might vary slightly.

Do I have to sear the roast before pressure cooking?

Searing is optional but highly recommended for extra flavor and a lovely crust. If you’re pressed for time, you can skip this step, though the flavor won’t be quite as intense.

Can I add vegetables to the Instant Pot with the 3-4 lb roast?

Absolutely! Adding potatoes, carrots, or celery not only adds nutrition but also creates a complete meal in one pot. Just add them in the Instant Pot along with the broth before cooking.

Is it necessary to do a natural pressure release?

Yes, allowing a natural pressure release for 20 minutes ensures the roast stays tender and juicy, preventing the meat from drying out or becoming stringy.

How thick should I cut or shred the roast when serving?

For the classic Mississippi pot roast experience, shredding with forks is best to pull apart the meat into tender strands that soak up the gravy, but you can also slice if you prefer thicker chunks.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly soul-satisfying about making a 3-4 lb Mississippi Pot Roast in your Instant Pot—it’s like magic watching those simple ingredients come together to create incredible flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become your go-to comfort meal for busy nights or special occasions alike. Go ahead, give it a whirl and prepare to impress!

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