There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a rich pot roast simmering away in the kitchen, infusing the air with warmth and comfort. When I first tried making Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast, I was amazed by how effortlessly this delectable dish came together, turning a normally time-consuming recipe into a simple, weeknight delight. The tender chunks of beef, drenched in a buttery and tangy sauce made with pepperoncini and ranch seasoning, created a meal that my whole family couldn’t get enough of.
On those busy days when fast food seems tempting, this pot roast swoops in to save the day. In just about an hour, you can have a mouthwatering dinner ready that feels like a special occasion. Best served over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, this meal is not just satisfying but also a charming way to bring everyone to the table. So grab your Instant Pot, and let’s dive into the art of crafting this comforting masterpiece!
Why is Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast a Must-Try?
Tender beef in a buttery sauce: This recipe guarantees melt-in-your-mouth chunks of beef that soak up incredible flavor.
Quick prep time: Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can whip up a delicious, hearty meal in about an hour—perfect for busy weekdays!
Savory richness: The combination of ranch seasoning and pepperoncini juice brings an addictive tang that enhances every bite.
Versatile serving options: Whether it’s creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, this dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Family-approved: This comforting pot roast is sure to become a household favorite, making even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds!
For even more ideas, check out our section on variation ideas.
Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast Ingredients
• Prepare for culinary delight with these essential ingredients for your Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast!
For the Roast
- Chuck Roast – The star of the dish, providing tender meat after cooking; cut into larger chunks (2″ pieces) for even cooking.
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing to enhance flavor; can be substituted with vegetable oil if needed.
For the Sauce
- Pepperoncini Juice – Adds that signature tangy flavor essential for the sauce; a splash of vinegar can be used if you’re out.
- Beef Broth – Creates a savory base for the roast; opt for low or no sodium versions for a healthier choice.
- Ranch Seasoning – The secret to flavor complexity; try a homemade blend of herbs if you prefer a personal touch.
- Onion Soup Mix – Provides sweetness and depth; diced onions with additional seasonings can be an alternative.
- Pepperoncini Peppers – Imparts a mild heat; feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
- Butter – Increases richness and flavor; unsalted is recommended, but you can omit it for a lighter version.
For Thickening
- Cornstarch – Essential for making a velvety gravy; if unavailable, flour or arrowroot powder mixed with water works too.
- Water – Used to create a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce effectively.
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, you can look forward to serving a delightful, comforting meal that your family will adore!
How to Make Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast
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Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté setting. Brown the chuck roast pieces on all sides for about 3-4 minutes, developing wonderful flavor while ensuring the meat doesn’t fully cook.
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Deglaze the Pot: Pour in pepperoncini juice and beef broth, scraping the bottom to lift browned bits with a wooden spoon. This step prevents the burn notice and incorporates delicious flavors into your sauce.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Add ranch seasoning, onion soup mix, and pepperoncini; stir well to ensure the beef is evenly coated. Top with sliced butter for that lovely richness.
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Pressure Cook: Lock the lid tightly, seal the valve, and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Once the cooking time elapses, allow the pot to naturally release pressure for 15 minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining steam.
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Shred and Thicken Sauce: Transfer the cooked beef to a bowl and shred it using two forks. In the pot, whisk cornstarch with water until smooth, then stir this slurry into the cooking liquid until it thickens to your desired consistency. Mix in the shredded beef to coat well.
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Serve: Dish out the pot roast with creamy mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice, ensuring to ladle generous amounts of the thick, tangy sauce over the top.
Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley for extra color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast Variations
Feeling creative? Let’s explore some delightful ways to customize your pot roast experience!
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Lean & Delicious: Swap the chuck roast for pork tenderloin for a leaner, equally flavorful option. It will still be tender and juicy!
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Vegetarian Twist: Replace meat with hearty mushrooms like portobello or a mix of bell peppers and zucchini for a vibrant, plant-based dish.
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Spicy Kick: Add additional jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mix to turn up the heat, giving your pot roast a spicy twist that will excite your taste buds.
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Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme while cooking for an aromatic upgrade that elevates the overall flavor profile of the dish.
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Comforting Veggies: Include chopped carrots and baby potatoes at the beginning of cooking for a wholesome, all-in-one meal that packs color and nutrition in every bite.
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Zesty Option: Mix in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for an unexpected zesty flavor that complements the tanginess of the pepperoncini.
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Creamy Style: Add in a splash of heavy cream right before serving to create a luxurious, creamy sauce that transforms your pot roast into an indulgent treat.
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Savoury Gravy: Enhance the richness by making a quick gravy with the pot drippings and a bit of flour after shredding the beef; serve it on top of your favorite starch.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast?
There’s nothing like a comforting dinner to gather everyone around the table, and serving suggestions can elevate your meal to a whole new level.
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Buttery Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture and rich flavor perfectly soak up the tangy sauce, creating a blissful harmony on your plate.
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Fluffy Rice: A lighter option that complements the pot roast’s savory richness while allowing each bite to shine.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and onions roasted to perfection add a caramelized sweetness and texture that balances the dish beautifully.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing side with a crunchy texture that provides a pleasant contrast to the moist tender beef, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful gravy, a warm loaf or rolls is an irresistible addition, turning your meal into a cozy feast.
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Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness, offering a palate-cleansing bite after the rich pot roast.
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Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine accentuates the savory notes of the dish while enriching the dining experience with its depth.
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Chocolate Dessert: Finish with a small slice of chocolate cake or brownies—its sweetness offers a wonderful contrast to the savory meal, leaving everyone satisfied.
Make Ahead Options
You can easily prep components of the Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast ahead of time to save valuable moments on busy weeknights! Start by cutting the chuck roast into 2-inch pieces and seasoning it with the ranch seasoning and onion soup mix up to 24 hours before cooking. Store the seasoned meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator to boost flavor. Additionally, you can mix the pepperoncini juice and beef broth in advance and keep it ready for use. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply sauté the meat in the Instant Pot, deglaze, and proceed with cooking for tender perfection—just like freshly made, but with less effort!
Expert Tips
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Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the browning step; this will create a depth of flavor and a beautiful crust that enhances your Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast.
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Watch for the Burn Notice: Always scrape the bottom of the pot while deglazing. This step is crucial to prevent burning and ensures you capture all the savory bits.
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Use a Proper Seal: Make sure the Instant Pot lid is secured correctly and the valve is sealed. This prevents undercooking and ensures the pot roast turns out tender and juicy.
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Taste Before Serving: The sauce should be tangy and flavorful. Adjust seasonings as needed before thickening to achieve the perfect balance.
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Thickening Tips: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer on sauté mode after adding the cornstarch slurry, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast
Fridge: Store leftover pot roast in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making each bite even more delicious!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the pot roast in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months. Lay the bags flat for efficient space-saving.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting for quicker results.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to maintain moisture while warming up your flavorful Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast.
Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast?
I recommend using a chuck roast for this recipe as it provides the most tender and flavorful results. The marbling in the chuck roast helps keep the meat juicy during cooking, making it melt-in-your-mouth delicious after being pressure cooked. Aim for a roast that has a nice red color with some fat marbling—this will ensure optimal flavor and tenderness.
How should I store leftovers from the Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast?
Store your leftover pot roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, transfer the leftovers to a freezer-safe bag and lay it flat in the freezer for up to 3 months. Remember, letting the flavors meld overnight in the fridge will only enhance their tantalizing taste!
Can I freeze my Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the pot roast to cool completely, then portion it into airtight freezer bags. Squeeze out any excess air, and label the bags with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting. This meal makes it easy to prepare delicious dinners in a pinch!
What should I do if my pot roast is tough after cooking?
If your roast doesn’t turn out as tender as expected, it’s likely due to undercooking or not enough time in the pressurization stage. Ensure that the lid is sealed correctly and try increasing the cooking time by an additional 10-15 minutes. If you encounter this issue, don’t hesitate to pressure cook it again—just be sure to check thoroughly for doneness. The beef should shred easily and feel fork-tender.
Is Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast safe for pets?
While the ingredients used in this recipe are not inherently harmful, it’s essential to remember that dogs and cats should not consume foods high in salt, like broth or seasoning mixes. Always check with your veterinarian before sharing any meals with your furry friends. Stick to plain, cooked meats without sauces or seasonings if you decide to treat them.
Can I modify the recipe to make it healthier?
Definitely! You can substitute the chuck roast with leaner cuts of beef, such as sirloin or round roast, which will reduce the overall fat content. Additionally, using low-sodium broth and omitting butter can help make this delicious meal healthier without sacrificing flavor. Just remember, seasoning is key—don’t forget to adjust your herbs and spices for the best results!
Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast - Tangy, Juicy & Easy Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté setting. Brown the chuck roast pieces on all sides for about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in pepperoncini juice and beef broth, scraping the bottom to lift browned bits.
- Return the beef to the pot. Add ranch seasoning, onion soup mix, and pepperoncini; stir well.
- Lock the lid tightly, seal the valve, and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
- Allow the pot to naturally release pressure for 15 minutes, then do a quick release.
- Transfer the cooked beef to a bowl and shred it using two forks. In the pot, whisk cornstarch with water, then stir it into the cooking liquid.
- Dish out the pot roast with creamy mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice, and ladle the sauce over the top.