Name: Frozen Roast in Instant Pot with Herb Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-497231H18M50S
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 lbs beef roast; 1 cup broth; 1 onion, sliced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 sprig fresh thyme; 1 sprig fresh rosemary; 2 carrots; 2 celery sticks; 1 tbsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 3 c roast drippings; 3-4 tbsp flour (can use gluten-free); 1 cup cold water; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 11 reviews

If you are searching for a comforting, hands-off meal that does not require hours to prep, this Frozen Roast in Instant Pot with Herb Gravy Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine sliding a frozen beef roast straight into your Instant Pot and ending up with a tender, juicy centerpiece surrounded by a rich, fragrant herb gravy that you made all in one pot. This recipe transforms a frozen cut of beef into a hearty, flavorful dinner that tastes like you slaved away for hours, all while freeing you up to do other things. It is such a clever way to enjoy a classic roast without the fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or when you forget to thaw ahead.

Ingredients You'll Need

A white plate holds a serving of three main layers: on the left, a smooth, creamy layer of mashed potatoes covered with rich brown gravy sprinkled lightly with black pepper; in the center top, three whole cooked carrots with a soft texture and a bright orange color, also lightly seasoned with black pepper; on the right side, a pile of dark brown shredded beef with a tender, moist texture, garnished with a few sprigs of thyme, with a woman’s hand holding a golden fork embedded in the beef. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Frozen Roast in Instant Pot with Herb Gravy Recipe lies in its simplicity and the straightforwardness of its ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role, either building layers of flavor or adding depth and texture that make this dish feel truly special.

3-4 lbs beef roast: The star of the dish, use a good quality cut that will tenderize beautifully in the Instant Pot.
1 cup broth: Adds richness and moisture for the roast to cook in, boosting the overall flavor of the gravy.
1 onion, sliced: Brings sweetness and a subtle aromatic base that complements the beef wonderfully.
4 garlic cloves, minced: A classic flavor enhancer that packs gentle heat and aroma into every bite.
1 tablespoon kosher salt: Vital for seasoning and drawing out the roast’s natural flavors.
¼ teaspoon freshly-ground pepper: Adds a slight kick and balances the savory profile perfectly.
1 sprig fresh thyme: Offers earthy notes that pair beautifully with the hearty beef.
1 sprig fresh rosemary: Infuses the dish with a fragrant pine-like aroma that lifts the flavor.
2 carrots: Provide sweetness and a tender texture, enriching the vegetable medley alongside the roast.
2 celery sticks: Add crisp freshness and subtle bitterness to balance the richness.
3 c roast drippings: This naturally flavorful liquid forms the base of your amazing herb gravy.
3-4 Tablespoon flour (can use gluten free): The thickening agent that turns those drippings into a luscious gravy.
1 cup cold water: Used to dissolve the flour smoothly, avoiding lumps in the gravy.
Salt and pepper to taste: Final seasoning adjustments to customize the gravy.

How to Make Frozen Roast in Instant Pot with Herb Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Place the Roast

Start by rubbing the frozen roast thoroughly with kosher salt; this seasoning step helps to enhance the meat's natural juices as it cooks. Place the salted roast directly into your Instant Pot's pressure cooker insert. Add the sliced onions, minced garlic, fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, and broth around the roast, ensuring even flavor distribution. This step sets the stage for a deeply savory roast and infuses the cooking liquid with aromatic herbs and sweet onion notes.

Step 2: Pressure Cook the Frozen Roast

Seal your Instant Pot and cook the roast on high pressure. Because it is frozen, allocate 90 to 120 minutes of cooking time to achieve ideal tenderness. Be sure to allow a natural pressure release once cooking completes; this gentle cooldown is critical to keeping the meat juicy and tender rather than tough or dry, which can sometimes happen with rushed releases.

Step 3: Prepare the Herb Gravy

After the roast is cooked, carefully remove it along with the vegetables, setting them aside to rest. Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and bring the collected roast drippings to a boil. In a separate bowl, dissolve the flour in the cold water to create a smooth slurry, then slowly whisk it into the boiling drippings. Continue whisking as the gravy thickens. If needed, add a bit more flour slurry for your preferred consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste and keep the gravy at a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until ready to serve.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the roast against the grain to maximize tenderness. Arrange slices on your serving platter and generously spoon the fresh herb gravy over the top. The savory juices combined with the tender meat will be irresistible and create a perfect meal centerpiece.

How to Serve Frozen Roast in Instant Pot with Herb Gravy Recipe

A white plate holds a frozen piece of dark red meat with white frost on it, placed on the corner of a wooden cutting board. On the cutting board, there are three bright orange carrots, a bunch of light green celery stalks with leaves, two whole light brown onions, some white onion rings and slices, a whole garlic bulb, and fresh green sprigs of rosemary and thyme. A clear glass measuring cup containing light golden liquid is also on the board, slightly overlapped by the vegetables. All items are set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme leaves not only adds a vibrant green pop of color but also enhances the herbaceous notes of the gravy. For an extra touch of elegance, you can add a few roasted garlic cloves or caramelized onions on the side. These simple garnishes elevate the dish visually and bring a subtle flavor boost.

Side Dishes

This Frozen Roast in Instant Pot with Herb Gravy Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up every bit of the luscious gravy. Roasted root vegetables or buttered green beans are also excellent choices, providing contrasting textures and fresh flavors that lighten the meal. For a hearty option, buttery dinner rolls or crusty bread work beautifully to scoop up any remaining sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you're feeling whimsical, serve thin slices of the roast atop a bed of buttery polenta or wild rice for an extra layer of texture and flavor. You can also transform leftovers into a stunning roast beef sandwich with horseradish mayo and fresh greens. Another fun idea is to make a warm beef and veggie hash using the roast and cooking liquids—delicious and full of comforting flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover roast and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping the meat and gravy together ensures the roast remains moist and flavorful for your next meal.

Freezing

This Frozen Roast in Instant Pot with Herb Gravy Recipe also freezes well. Portion your leftovers into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months to enjoy the convenience of a ready-made comfort meal anytime.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to evenly warm the gravy and roast. Adding a splash of broth or water can help revive the gravy’s silky texture if it has thickened too much in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use a thawed roast instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you have a thawed 3 to 5-pound roast, reduce the cooking time to 60-90 minutes in the Instant Pot, and be sure to allow a natural pressure release to keep the meat tender and juicy.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary?

You can substitute dried herbs, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh herbs, however, do provide a brighter, fresher flavor.

Can I make the gravy without flour?

If you prefer a gluten-free option or want a lighter gravy, you can thicken it with cornstarch mixed with cold water or use a reduction method by simmering the drippings until thickened.

Is it safe to cook a frozen roast in the Instant Pot?

Yes, one of the Instant Pot’s advantages is its ability to cook large frozen cuts safely and efficiently. Just ensure you adjust your cooking time accordingly and always allow a natural pressure release.

How do I know when the roast is done?

The best indicator is tenderness; the meat should be easily pierced with a fork and have a rich, deep color. Using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should ideally reach around 145°F for medium rare or higher for more well-done preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Frozen Roast in Instant Pot with Herb Gravy Recipe is a total game changer if you want a hassle-free yet impressive meal that feels homemade with all the warm flavors you love. Give it a try and discover how effortlessly you can create a comforting roast dinner that brings everyone to the table with smiles. Once you make this, it might just become your go-to solution for busy days that call for big, bold taste without the big effort.