Craving a warm, satisfying meal that doesn’t derail your low-carb goals? This Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot recipe is your go-to solution. It delivers that slow-cooked depth of flavor and fork-tender texture—without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few pantry staples and an Instant Pot, you can create a hearty roast that’s both wholesome and indulgent.
This isn’t just any pot roast. It’s been carefully adapted for the keto lifestyle—no hidden starches, no sugary shortcuts, just rich, savory flavor and satisfying fats. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend centerpiece, this Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot version checks all the boxes: ease, taste, and nutrition.
For even faster low-carb meals, check out our quick weeknight keto dinners using ground beef.
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Why You’ll Love This Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot
- Quick & Convenient
Unlike traditional roasts that demand all-day simmering, this Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot method brings you to melt-in-your-mouth perfection in just under 90 minutes. It’s a weeknight hero when time’s tight but flavor still matters. - Rich, Deep Flavors
Searing the chuck roast locks in juices and builds a foundation of bold, meaty flavor. Add to that a mix of herbs, a splash of red wine (or broth), and you’ve got layers of savory goodness without sugar or starch. - Versatile & Customizable
This recipe bends to your cravings. Prefer rosemary over thyme? Add it. Want to swap carrots for celery or radishes to stay lower carb? Go for it. The Instant Pot handles it all.
Whether you’re keto for life or just dabbling in low-carb meals, this Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot recipe makes it easy to eat well and feel good.
Ingredients for Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot
Before you fire up your Instant Pot, make sure you’ve got these keto-friendly ingredients on hand. Each one plays a role in building deep flavor while keeping carbs low.
Main Ingredients
- 4–5 lbs. chuck roast – Well-marbled and perfect for pressure cooking.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – The basic but necessary seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil – For searing the meat.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth.
- ½ lb. carrots (optional) – Use sparingly or omit for stricter keto.
- 1 cup dry red wine (or extra broth) – Adds body to the sauce.
- 2 cups beef broth – The rich liquid base.
Herbs & Spices
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground thyme
- 3-inch sprig rosemary, chopped (or 2 tsp dried)
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (optional; skip for Whole30)
For Thickening the Sauce (Optional)
- ½ teaspoon xanthan gum – Low-carb thickener.
- 1 teaspoon melted butter or oil – Helps blend the xanthan gum.
Low-Carb Vegetable Add-In
- 1½ cups radishes, quartered – A great potato swap.
This curated list ensures your Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot is both rich in flavor and low in carbs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Roast
Begin by seasoning your chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Let it rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes while you prep your other ingredients.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Once hot, add oil and carefully place the roast inside. Sear on all sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. This step builds the base of that deep, savory flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Remove the roast and set it aside. Add the chopped onions (and carrots if using) to the pot. Sauté until soft and slightly caramelized—this adds subtle sweetness.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the red wine or beef broth and scrape up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. This prevents the burn warning and pulls in all that delicious fond from the bottom.
Step 5: Add Seasonings and Roast
Stir in the parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, and Worcestershire sauce. Return the roast to the pot, nestling it atop the vegetables. Add in the radishes if using.
Step 6: Pressure Cook
Seal the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on high pressure for 75 minutes. Let the Instant Pot do its thing while your house starts to smell incredible.
Step 7: Natural Release
Once the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10–20 minutes. This step helps the meat stay tender and juicy.
Step 8: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
Transfer the roast and veggies to a serving dish. Set the pot to “Sauté,” whisk xanthan gum with melted butter, then stir into the cooking liquid. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Helpful Tips for the Best Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot
Want to get the most out of your pot roast? These tips will help make your dish shine:
1. Choose the Right Cut
Stick with a well-marbled chuck roast. The fat ensures tenderness and richness—perfect for low-carb, high-fat cooking.
2. Searing Matters
Don’t skip the sear. Browning the meat before pressure cooking creates a crust that locks in juices and boosts flavor.
3. Deglaze Thoroughly
After searing and sautéing, deglaze the pot properly to lift all those caramelized bits off the bottom. This keeps your pot from throwing a burn warning and adds layers of savory depth.
4. Adjust Your Veggies
For stricter keto, skip the carrots and swap in celery, turnips, or even extra radishes. These maintain texture without adding too many carbs.
5. Thicken Like a Pro
If you want a thicker sauce without the carbs, xanthan gum does the job with minimal effort. Whisk it with melted butter before adding to avoid clumping.
This section keeps your Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot foolproof and flexible—ideal for new cooks and seasoned pros alike.
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Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot Recipe: 5 Secrets to a Tender, Flavorful Roast
- Total Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8 1x
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
4–5 lbs chuck roast
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
1 medium onion, chopped
½ lb carrots (optional)
1 cup dry red wine (or substitute more broth)
2 cups beef broth
Herbs & Spices:
2 tbsp dried parsley
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp ground thyme
3-inch sprig rosemary, chopped (or 2 tsp dried)
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Low-Carb Add-Ins:
1½ cups radishes, quartered
Optional Thickener:
½ tsp xanthan gum
1 tsp melted butter or oil
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Roast:
Season roast with salt and pepper. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
Step 2 – Sear:
Set Instant Pot to “Sauté.” Add oil and brown roast on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 3 – Sauté Aromatics:
Add onion (and carrots if using) to pot. Sauté until soft.
Step 4 – Deglaze:
Pour in red wine or broth. Scrape bottom of pot to loosen browned bits.
Step 5 – Add Seasonings & Roast:
Stir in herbs, Worcestershire, and return roast to pot. Add radishes.
Step 6 – Pressure Cook:
Seal lid. Cook on high pressure for 75 minutes. Natural release 10–20 minutes.
Step 7 – Thicken Sauce (Optional):
Remove roast. Set pot to “Sauté.” Whisk xanthan gum with butter, stir into juices until thickened.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot / Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~1 cup meat + sauce and vegetables
- Calories: ~460 per serving
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
What to Serve with Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot
Your Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot is a star on its own but pairing it with the right sides can turn dinner into a feast. Here are some keto-friendly favorites that match beautifully:
1. Cauliflower Mash
Creamy, buttery, and just as satisfying as mashed potatoes without the carbs. Add a touch of garlic and ghee for extra richness. Try this creamy cauliflower mash as the perfect low-carb companion.
2. Steamed Green Beans
Crisp-tender green beans offer a clean contrast to the savory meat. Top with slivered almonds or lemon zest for flair.
3. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)
These spiralized strands soak up that luscious roast gravy like a charm. A quick sauté in olive oil keeps them firm and flavorful.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Caramelized edges and nutty flavor make these a hearty, low-carb companion. Roast with olive oil, salt, and a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat.
5. Side Salad with Olive Oil Dressing
A fresh green salad with arugula, cucumber, and avocado keeps the meal light and fiber-rich. A drizzle of olive oil and vinegar pulls it all together.
Each side complements the deep flavor of your Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot while keeping your carb count in check.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! While chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and tenderness, you can also use brisket or bottom round another fall-apart tender cut that cooks beautifully under pressure. Just note, they may be slightly leaner and require extra care not to overcook.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
Store your leftover Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or microwave gently to avoid drying it out.
Q3: Can I freeze the pot roast?
Absolutely. Cool the roast completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Include the juices to lock in flavor and moisture. It will keep for up to 3 months.
Q4: Is it necessary to use xanthan gum?
Not at all! Xanthan gum is just one option to thicken your sauce. You can skip it entirely or substitute with arrowroot powder or a bit of pureed cauliflower for a natural thickener.
These answers ensure your Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot turns out right—whether it’s your first time or a weekly staple.
Storage & Storage & Maintenance
Keeping your Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot recipe fresh for leftovers or meal prep is simple with a few key tips:
- Refrigeration: Let the pot roast cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container with its cooking juices to preserve moisture. It stays good in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze portions with sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date and enjoy within 3 months for the best flavor.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then gently warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Avoid boiling to prevent drying out the beef.
Whether you’re batch cooking or saving a weeknight dinner, this Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot recipe holds up beautifully and reheats like a dream.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply comforting about a warm, slow-simmered roast. Explore our traditional slow-simmered comfort food options for more cozy ideas.
This recipe offers the best of both worlds: rich, fall-apart beef in a savory herb-infused sauce—all while keeping it low-carb and keto-friendly. Whether you’re serving it up on a chilly Sunday evening or prepping meals for the week, the Keto Pot Roast Instant Pot recipe is hearty, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying.
From searing to pressure cooking to plating, every step brings you closer to a dish that feels like home—with none of the carb guilt.
