how long to cook a frozen roast in instant pot: Step by Step Guide 2024! Best method.

how long to cook a frozen roast in instant pot?

“Cook a frozen roast in an Instant Pot for 60-70 minutes on high pressure. This longer time is needed because the roast is frozen, so it requires extra time to reach the right temperature and become tender.”

Step by Step Guide: how long to cook a frozen roast in instant pot

Cooking a frozen roast in an Instant Pot is not only convenient but also yields delicious results.

Below, you’ll find a straightforward guide to help you prepare your frozen roast with ease.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Tools

Ingredients:

• 1 frozen roast (beef, pork, or lamb)
• 1-2 cups of broth (beef, chicken, or vegetable)
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, etc.)
• Vegetables (optional: carrots, potatoes, onions)

Tools Needed:

• Instant Pot
• Trivet (optional, but recommended)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step 2: Prepare the Instant Pot

1. Select the Right Setting: Place your Instant Pot on a stable surface. Make sure it is plugged in and ready to go.
2. Add Liquid: Pour 1-2 cups of broth into the bottom of the pot. This is essential for building pressure and preventing burning.

Step 3: Season the Roast

1. Seasoning: Even though your roast is frozen, you can still sprinkle some seasoning on top. Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any preferred seasoning.
2. Optional Vegetables: If you wish to add vegetables for a complete meal, place them at the bottom of the pot before placing the trivet or the roast directly in the broth.

Step 4: Place the Roast in the Instant Pot

1. Using a Trivet: If using a trivet, place it inside the pot first. Then, set the frozen roast on top. This elevates it above the liquid, allowing even cooking.

Step 5: Set the Cooking Time

1. Cooking Time: For cooking a frozen roast, set the Instant Pot to cook for approximately 20-30 minutes per pound.

• For example, if your roast weighs 3 pounds, set the cooking time for 60-90 minutes.

1. Select Pressure: Make sure the pressure valve is set to the sealing position.

Step 6: Start Cooking

1. Begin: Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button based on your Instant Pot model. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking timer starts.

Step 7: Natural Release

1. Wait Time: Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10-15 minutes. After that, you can manually release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to venting.

Step 8: Check Doneness

1. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For beef, aim for at least 145°F (medium rare) or 160°F (medium). For pork, it should be 145°F as well.
2. Rest the Meat: Allow the roast to rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.

Step 9: Serve

1. Slice and Enjoy: Carve your roast into slices and serve with your steamed or cooked vegetables.

Nutritional Data (Per Serving, Based on a 3-pound Beef Roast)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: Varies based on added salt and broth

Conclusion

Cooking a frozen roast in an Instant Pot is a fantastic way to save time without compromising on flavor.

The Instant Pot is designed to cook food quickly and efficiently, making it perfect for frozen cuts of meat.

Understanding how to use this tool effectively allows for a productive kitchen experience.

With the right techniques and knowledge, you can transform a frozen roast into a comforting dish that pleases any palate.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the entire process of cooking a frozen roast in your Instant Pot, from selecting the best cuts of beef to creating delicious side dishes.

Prepare to master the art of cooking frozen roasts with our step-by-step guide that makes this culinary challenge achievable.

Selecting the Best Cuts of Beef for Pot Roast

When crafting the perfect pot roast, select quality beef cuts that become tender and flavorful through slow cooking.

Crucial selections include the chuck roast, rump roast, and frozen beef roast.

Chuck Roast: Ideal for its marbling that renders a succulent, fall-apart tender finish. Opt for a piece weighing around 3-4 pounds.

Rump Roast: Known for its leaner texture but still delivers a robust flavor when braised properly.

Frozen Beef Roast: If pressed for time, a frozen pot roast can go directly into the electric pressure cooker, though cooking time increases.

Table of Cut Preferences:

For extra flavor, season your chosen cut generously with Kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder before cooking.

And remember, always allow your roast to rest in its own cooking liquid with a natural pressure release to ensure maximum juiciness and flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve the goodness.

Preparing the Frozen Roast for Cooking

Cooking a frozen roast in an Instant Pot is a convenient way to prepare a hearty meal. The key is to ensure you have the correct cooking time set for your frozen meat.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to preparing your frozen roast for cooking:

1. Unwrap the Frozen Roast: Take your frozen roast and remove any packaging. Do not attempt to thaw; the Instant Pot will cook it from frozen.
2. Season the Roast: Generously season the frozen roast with Kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. These spices will infuse it with extra flavor as it cooks.
3. Prepare the Cooking Liquid: In the Instant Pot, pour in cups of beef broth. This will not only help to cook the roast but will also create a delicious base for gravy.
4. Add Aromatics: If desired, for additional taste, add a diced yellow onion into the liquid. This step is optional but recommended for enhanced flavor.
5. Insert the Roast: Place the seasoned frozen roast into the Instant Pot, securely on the rack if preferred to keep it out of the liquid.

Remember to seal your Instant Pot by closing the lid and setting the valve to the sealing position. You’re now ready to start the cooking process.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking

Cooking a frozen roast in an Instant Pot can be an easy and efficient way to have a delicious meal ready in a fraction of the time it takes using traditional methods like a slow cooker.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to take you through the process:

Setting Up Your Instant Pot

1. Ensure the Instant Pot is clean and dry: Before you begin, make sure the inner cooking pot is clean and fits well in the Instant Pot.
2. Insert the Trivet: Place the trivet that came with your Instant Pot into the bottom. This keeps the roast off the base and allows for more even cooking.
3. Power Up: Plug in your Instant Pot and ensure it’s in good working order.

Adding Liquid for Cooking

1. Pour in Beef Broth: Add 2 cups of beef broth to the Instant Pot. This creates the necessary steam for pressure cooking and prevents the dreaded “burn” warning.
2. Optional Aromatics: To infuse your roast with additional flavors, you can add aromatics such as a diced yellow onion or herbs like a bay leaf or rosemary to the broth.

Choosing the Right Cooking Time

The rule of thumb for cooking frozen meat in an Instant Pot is to add about 50% more cooking time than what the recipe recommends for fresh or thawed meat. Here’s a basic guide:

1. Calculate Cooking Time: For a frozen roast (chuck roast or rump roast), aim for roughly 30 minutes per pound. For example, a 3-pound frozen chuck roast would need about 90 minutes of cooking time on high pressure.
2. Pressure Setting: Make sure you are using the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and adjust the pressure level to “High.”
3. Finish with a Natural Release: After the cook time has finished, allow for a NATURAL PRESSURE RELEASE, usually lasting about 15-20 minutes, to ensure the meat finishes cooking and stays tender.

Adjusting Cooking for Different Cuts

Different cuts of beef require slightly different handling due to their size, density, and fat content:

1. Chuck Roast: The above guidance works well for this fatty, flavorful cut, perfect for shredding into a tender pot roast.
2. Rump Roast: This leaner cut benefits from the aforementioned liquid, but consider adding an acid like a splash of wine or vinegar for added tenderness.
3. Frozen Beef Roast: For bulkier cuts or a frozen beef roast that’s thicker, you may have to add an extra 5-10 minutes per pound to ensure it’s cooked through.

_By following these simple steps, your Instant Pot will produce a flavorful and tender roast from frozen_—_no thawing necessary!

Remember that all Instant Pots can vary slightly, so the very first time you cook a frozen roast, it will be a bit of an experiment to get the times perfect for your specific machine._

Techniques for Natural Pressure Release

Cooking with an electric pressure cooker like an Instant Pot is convenient and time-saving, especially with a frozen chuck roast.

To ensure your meat is tender and flavorful, using the correct technique for Natural Pressure Release (NPR) is crucial. Here’s a quick guide on employing this method:

Steps for Natural Pressure Release:

1. Once the cooking time ends, let the Instant Pot sit undisturbed. The pressure will begin to drop naturally.
2. Monitor the pressure indicator on your device. It may take around 15-20 minutes for the pressure to release completely.
3. When the pin drops (on models with a pin), or the pressure indicator signals no more pressure, it’s safe to open the lid.

Why use Natural Pressure Release?

• Prevents toughness: Quickly releasing pressure can shock the meat, making it tough.
• Retains moisture: NPR allows the cooking liquid to settle, ensuring the roast stays juicy.

Remember, using Natural Pressure Release after cooking a frozen chuck roast in an Instant Pot takes additional time, so plan accordingly.

Always consult your pressure cooker’s manual for specific instructions on the Natural Pressure Release process, as models may vary.

Understanding the Instant Pot Functionality

The Instant Pot is a versatile electric pressure cooker that simplifies cooking frozen roasts, among other foods. Here’s a breakdown of its functionality:

Pressure Cooking: To pressure cook, simply place ingredients inside, seal the lid, and choose the appropriate setting. For example, a frozen chuck roast requires selecting the ‘Meat/Stew’ function.

Slow Cooking: The Instant Pot doubles as a slow cooker. Set it to the ‘Slow Cook’ mode and adjust the time, similar to how you would use a traditional slow cooker.

Natural Pressure Release (NPR): After cooking, the Instant Pot can gradually release pressure naturally. This is key for tender meats. A 3-pound frozen pot roast will need about 15-20 minutes of NPR.

Quick Release: For immediate pressure release, use the valve for a quick release. However, for a frozen beef roast, NPR is recommended for better texture.

Cooking Time: Adjust time based on the roast’s weight. The rule of thumb is about 20-30 minutes per pound. So, for a 3-pound roast, set the cook time for an hour to 90 minutes.

Using the Instant Pot’s various functions, you can cook a frozen roast efficiently while locking in extra flavor. Always add liquid, like cups of beef broth, and seasonings, like garlic powder, Kosher salt, and black pepper, before cooking to enhance taste.

Tips for Achieving Tenderness and Flavor

Cooking a frozen roast to perfection in your Instant Pot not only delivers tenderness and flavor but also saves time. Here are top 10 tips to help you achieve the best results:

1. Increase Cook Time: For a frozen chuck roast, cook 90 minutes on high pressure, adding about 20 minutes per pound compared to a thawed one.
2. Use Beef Broth: Pour at least 2 cups of beef broth into the pot to add moisture and extra flavor, creating a delicious cooking liquid.
3. Season Generously: Apply Kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the meat before cooking for a flavor boost.
4. NATURAL PRESSURE RELEASE: After cooking, allow for natural pressure release for 15-20 minutes. This helps retain the juices in the roast.
5. Keep It Airtight: Ensure the lid is sealed properly to maintain the necessary pressure inside the pot.
6. Sauté Vegetables: If adding vegetables, like a chopped yellow onion, sauté them in the pot before adding the frozen meat to infuse the roast with a rich flavor.
7. Avoid Quick Release: Releasing the pressure too quickly can toughen the meat.
8. Add Cook Time for Larger Roasts: A larger frozen pot roast may need additional minutes per pound — a rule of thumb is to add 5 minutes extra cooking time for every additional pound of meat.
9. Thicken Cooking Liquid: After removing the roast, use the sauté function to reduce the cooking liquid into a thick gravy.
10. Store Correctly: Cool the leftover roast before storing in an airtight container; this preserves the moisture and flavor for longer.

This table gives you a quick reference to cooking times and methods depending on your roast type for achieving that desired tenderness and flavor. Remember to always check the internal temperature of your meat for safety.

Safety Guidelines for Meat Handling and Storage

When handling and storing meat, safety is paramount to prevent foodborne illnesses. Here are ten practical guidelines to follow:

1. Wash Hands: Always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw meat.
2. Separate Raw and Cooked: Use separate cutting boards and plates for raw meat and cooked foods to avoid cross-contamination.
3. Proper Refrigeration: Store raw meat in the refrigerator at 40°F or below, and use it within 3-5 days.
4. Safe Thawing: Thaw frozen meat in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave, not on the countertop.
5. Cook to Correct Temperature: Cook meat to the right temperature to kill harmful bacteria. For example, ground beef should be cooked to at least 160°F.
6. Use a Meat Thermometer: Always use a food thermometer to ensure meat has reached a safe internal temperature.
7. Timely Storage: Refrigerate or freeze leftovers within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
8. Keep Raw Meat Separate: Store raw meat below other foods in the refrigerator to prevent juices from dripping and contaminating other foods.
9. Proper Defrosting: Never refreeze meat that has been thawed in the refrigerator without cooking it first.
10. Mind Expiry Dates: Pay attention to “use by” and “sell by” dates on meat packaging to ensure you’re consuming fresh products.

Following these safety guidelines helps minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses and ensures that your meat is delicious and safe to consume.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Cooking Process

Cooking a frozen roast in an Instant Pot can seem daunting, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure a delicious outcome. Here are the top 10 missteps and how to steer clear of them:

1. Ignoring Cooking Time: For a frozen roast, the general rule is to cook it for 30 minutes per pound on the high-pressure setting. So, a 3-pound frozen roast would need about 90 minutes.
2. Skipping Natural Release: Rushing the release can result in a tougher roast. Always allow for a natural pressure release for about 15-20 minutes before doing a quick release.
3. Not Adding Enough Liquid: Add at least 1-2 cups of beef broth to create sufficient cooking liquid and prevent the roast from drying out.
4. Seasoning Mistakes: Properly season your roast with Kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder before cooking to ensure extra flavor.
5. Wrong Size Roast: A too-large roast might not cook evenly. Aim for a frozen beef roast that fits well in the pot, usually around 3-4 pounds.
6. Forgetting Aromatics: A sautéed yellow onion in the pot before cooking adds depth to the flavor.
7. Incorrect Sealing: Ensure the lid is sealed correctly; the pot must be airtight to pressure cook.
8. Setting Wrong Cook Time: Not adjusting the cook time for different types of roasts (e.g., chuck roast versus rump roast) can lead to under or overcooking.
9. Improper Thawing: Never attempt to quick-thaw frozen beef in hot water. Planning ahead or using cold water is safer and preserves meat quality.
10. Poor Storage: Store leftovers correctly in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.

Remember, an electric pressure cooker will need time to reach pressure before the cook time starts, so plan accordingly.

Cooking Time FAQs for Frozen Roasts

Cooking a frozen roast in an Instant Pot requires understanding the nuances of pressure cooking frozen meat. Perhaps the most frequently asked question is about the cooking time.

Since a frozen roast is solid and colder, it affects the overall cook time significantly compared to a thawed piece of meat.

How long should I cook a frozen roast?

The length of time you should cook a frozen roast in your Instant Pot depends largely on the weight of the meat.

As a general rule of thumb, you want to cook your frozen roast for approximately 30 minutes per pound on the high-pressure setting. Let’s break this down into an easy-to-follow guide:

• 3-pound roast: Cook for about 90 minutes.
• 4-pound roast: Cook for about 120 minutes.
• 5-pound roast: Cook for about 150 minutes.

Remember these times are when the Instant Pot is fully pressurized, and an essential step after cooking is allowing for a natural pressure release for about 15-20 minutes.

A quick release immediately after the cooking time completes may toughen the meat, so patience is key to achieving that desired tenderness.

Adjustments might be needed depending on the specific cut of meat. For example, a chuck roast might require slightly more time per pound than a rump roast due to its denser composition.

Can I cook a roast without thawing it first?

Absolutely, you can cook a frozen roast in your Instant Pot without thawing it first.

This is one of the many conveniences of a pressure cooker. Thawing meat can take considerable time and planning, which you might not always have. With an Instant Pot, you can skip this step entirely.

However, it’s important to add that cooking from frozen will require more cooking time than if the meat was thawed.

Additionally, because you’re cooking from frozen, ensure you use a sufficient amount of liquid—like beef broth—to facilitate even cooking and add extra flavor.

Also, remember to not overcrowd the pot with a roast too large for its size; otherwise, the meat might cook unevenly.

In summary, yes, you can place your frozen roast directly into the Instant Pot, adjusting the cook time to accommodate the fact that it’s from a frozen state, and savor the same delicious results as with a thawed cut, all while saving time in your meal preparation.

Partial Thawing Techniques

Thawing frozen meat is a crucial step before cooking, especially for larger cuts like a pot roast. There are a few methods to partially thaw your frozen meat safely and effectively:

1. Cold Water Thawing: Place the sealed meat in a watertight plastic bag to prevent water from seeping in. Submerge the bag in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes to ensure it remains cold. This method can reduce thawing time and is quicker than the refrigerator method. For example, a 3-pound roast will typically take about 3-4 hours to partially thaw using this technique.
2. Microwave Thawing: Although not ideal for large cuts due to the risk of cooking the edges, it’s a convenient option. Use the defrost setting based on the weight of the roast. Check and flip the meat periodically. This can take 10-15 minutes for partial thawing.

Table: Thawing Times

Remember, partially thawed meat should be cooked immediately to prevent bacteria growth. Always wash your hands and surfaces after handling raw meat.

Suggested Side Dishes for a Complete Meal

Looking to complement your splendid Instant Pot frozen roast with fitting sides? Here’s a curated selection of side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly:

• Vegetables: Steamed carrots, sautéed green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts add a healthy and colorful touch to your plate. These can be seasoned with just salt and pepper or tossed in garlic powder for extra flavor.
• Starches: Creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or a crusty loaf of bread act as excellent vehicles for soaking up the cooking liquid from the roast. If you’re feeling adventurous, roasted garlic mashed potatoes will add an extra level of sophistication.
• Salads: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a crisp, refreshing counterpoint to the rich roast. Opt for greens like spinach or arugula for added nutrition and zest.
• Sample Table:

Here’s the information in a tabular format with additional data included:

To ensure a balanced meal, try to include one item from each category. This simple rule of thumb will guarantee a complete and satisfying dining experience alongside your perfectly cooked frozen roast.

Easy Gravy Recipes to Complement Your Roast

Preparing a delicious gravy to complement your roast can enhance the dish’s flavor and create a comforting meal. Here is an easy gravy recipe broken down into simple steps:

Ingredients:

• Pan drippings from your roast
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: garlic powder or minced garlic for extra flavor

Instructions:

1. Collect the Drippings:
   After cooking your roast, transfer it from the pan to a serving dish, leaving the drippings in the pan.
2. Make a Roux:
   Place the pan with drippings on the stove over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the drippings and whisk continuously for 2 minutes to cook the flour and form a roux.
3. Add Beef Broth:
   Slowly pour in the beef broth while continuing to whisk to mix well with the roux, ensuring there are no lumps.
4. Season:
   Add a pinch of salt and black pepper, and if desired, a touch of garlic powder. Taste and adjust seasoning accordingly.
5. Simmer:
   Reduce the heat and let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to your preference, stirring occasionally.
6. Strain (Optional):
   For a smoother gravy, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any bits.

Serve this easy and savory gravy over your roast to add rich, extra flavor to your meal.

Conclusion: Mastering Frozen Roast Cooking in the Instant Pot

Cooking a frozen roast in an Instant Pot can seem daunting, but with the correct guidelines, it becomes a manageable task yielding delicious results.

The rule of thumb is that cooking time will be 50-100% longer than if starting with a thawed roast.

For a frozen chuck roast, which is commonly used, you can typically calculate about 30 minutes per pound using the pressure cooker function.

It’s important to add sufficient liquid, like beef broth or water, to create steam and ensure even cooking.

Typically, about 1-2 cups of beef broth will not only provide the necessary liquid but also give the roast extra flavor.

Seasonings like garlic powder, black pepper, and Kosher salt are commonly used, and aromatic vegetables such as a yellow onion can be added to the cooking liquid for further flavor enhancement.

Always allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally (NATURAL PRESSURE RELEASE) rather than using the quick release method.

For a frozen chuck or rump roast, allowing the unit to release pressure for 15-20 minutes helps to retain the juices inside the meat and provide a tender result.

Once you have completed the natural release, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them properly.

Mastering the cooking of a frozen beef roast in an Instant Pot can be a culinary game-changer, offering the convenience of cooking frozen meat without the need for prior planning or thawing.