Cooking with an Instant Pot makes family meals easier than ever, and a pork roast is the perfect centerpiece thanks to its versatility and rich flavor. It's an easy way to create a hearty, well-rounded meal without spending hours in the kitchen or dealing with a pile of dishes. So, whether you're new to pressure cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights.
Read on for step-by-step instructions to prepare slow cooker pork roast, including helpful tips and tricks to make sure it turns out just right.
An Instant Pot recipe for easy family dinners
An Instant Pot pork roast is your go-to solution for easy fall family dinners. It cuts cooking time, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying cozy evenings together. Plus, this dish is loaded with fall flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg and rosemary, bringing the season right to your table. The best part? The Instant Pot or slow cooker does it all — searing, pressure-cooking and steaming in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. And if you have leftovers, they're perfect for sandwiches, tacos or stir-fries later in the week. Quick and versatile, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.
Simple steps to prepare Instant Pot pork roast at home
Serves: 4-5
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min (+10-15 min natural release)
Ingredients
- 1 pack Hatfield® Tuscan Herb Boneless Pork Roast.
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil.
- 1 yellow onion, chopped.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced.
- 2 large carrots, cut into chunks.
- 2 medium potatoes, cut into chunks.
- 1 cup unsalted chicken broth (or water).
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary.
- 1 Tbsp. cornstarch mixed with 2 Tbsp. water (optional thickener).
Step-by-step instructions to make pork roast in an Instant Pot
- Step 1: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add your olive oil. Let it heat for one to two minutes until the oil shimmers.
- Step 2: Place the pork roast in the pot and sear it on all sides for two to three minutes per side, until golden brown. Once seared, remove the pork and set it aside on a plate.
- Step 3: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for two to three minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
- Step 4: Pour in one cup of unsalted chicken broth (or water) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits with a spoon to prevent burning. Place the pork back into the pot and arrange the carrots and potatoes around the meat. Then, add the sprigs of rosemary on top.
- Step 5: Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 60 minutes.
- Step 6: When the cooking cycle finishes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes. If any pressure remains, carefully do a quick release. Open the lid and use a meat thermometer to confirm the pork's internal temperature has reached 145°F.
- Step 7 (Optional): For a thicker sauce, remove the pork and vegetables from the pot. Switch the Instant Pot to Sauté mode, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for two to three minutes until the liquid thickens into a sauce.
- Step 8: Slice the pork and serve it with the carrots, potatoes and sauce or gravy drizzled on top.
Ready to jump in? You can head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
Tips for perfecting your pork roast every time
Whether you're a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef, a few key tips can make all the difference in your pork roast. Here are some helpful hints to keep in mind:
- Brown the roast: Be sure to sear the pork roast in the Instant Pot before pressure cooking. This not only adds flavor but also gives you an irresistible crust.
- Season generously: Don't hold back on the seasoning. A generous rub or marinade — whether you prefer a sweet touch with brown sugar or a spicy kick from chili powder — will bring out the best flavors, making your dish a family favorite. And don't forget, you can elevate it even further by topping it with your favorite sauce, like gravy or Worcestershire sauce.
- Use a meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to make sure your roast hits that sweet spot of 145°F. This ensures safe consumption and optimal juiciness.
- Natural pressure release: After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before switching to quick release. This simple step helps keep the meat moist and tender.
- Get creative with leftovers: Have fun with any leftover pork. Toss it on top of nachos, whip up some quesadillas or make a savory pork hash. It keeps meals fresh and exciting all week long!
Answering Instant Pot pork roast FAQs
Have any questions about making the perfect Instant Pot pork roast? We've got you covered! Check out these answers to common FAQs, so you're all set to achieve delicious results every time:
Can I use frozen pork roast in the Instant Pot?
Yes! Your Instant Pot or slow cooker can cook frozen pork roast, but you'll need to increase the cooking time. Simply add 10-15 minutes per pound of meat and skip the searing step since the frozen roast won't brown properly.
Can I use different types of pork for this Instant Pot recipe?
Absolutely. While pork roast or pork shoulder is ideal for its rich marbling, you can also use pork loin or pork tenderloin for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that leaner cuts may cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.
What sides pair well with Instant Pot pork roast?
Classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables or steamed green beans with butter go great with pork roast. For a fall twist, you might try pairing it with butternut squash, sautéed apples or a fresh spinach salad with cranberries and walnuts.
How can I use up my leftover pork?
Got leftovers? Perfect! You can repurpose this versatile ingredient into pork fried rice, hearty breakfast hash or stuffed quesadillas for easy next-day meals. Or, try tossing it into a hearty soup or making pulled pork sliders for a quick lunch.
How do I adjust the cooking time for a larger or smaller roast?
Adjusting the time is simple: Add 10-12 minutes per additional pound, or reduce time for a smaller roast. For perfectly cooked pork, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Can I add vegetables to the pot with pork roast?
Yes! Carrots, potatoes and onions are great options to cook alongside the pork. Be sure to cut them into larger chunks so they don't overcook.
What can I use as a cooking liquid for this recipe?
Chicken broth, chicken stock, beef broth or plain water all work well. Want to switch things up? Try adding apple juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra punch of flavor.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to four days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months.
Embrace fall flavors with Hatfield® pork
As we embrace the cozy vibes of fall, nothing quite compares to the warmth of an Instant Pot pork roast. This comforting, hearty meal is perfect for the whole family. With its rich flavors and hassle-free prep, you can get creative with ingredients and seasonings, so it always suits your loved ones' tastes and dietary needs.
When you're ready to dive in, Hatfield® offers a diverse range of high-quality pork products, including expertly pre-seasoned pork roast. With Hatfield® pork, you can savor the flavors of the season and enjoy delicious meals with confidence in food safety.
Looking to whip up unforgettable family meals this fall? Head to your local grocery store and pick up your favorite Hatfield pork products today!
