Melt-in-Your-Mouth Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast
This easy Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast recipe is an easy dump and cook recipe, perfect for hectic evenings. Simply combine the ingredients in your Instant Pot and within the hour you will have deliciously tender, melt in your mouth meat that pairs wonderfully with creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
Reader Summary
What You’ll Learn in This Recipe:
- How to make tender, fall-apart Mississippi pot roast in the Instant Pot
- The simple dump-and-go method that makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights
- The exact ingredients you need for rich, savory flavor with minimal prep
- How long to pressure cook your roast for the best melt-in-your-mouth texture
- Easy ingredient swaps and flavor variations to customize the recipe
- The best ways to serve pot roast for a comforting, family-style meal
- How to store and freeze leftovers for easy future dinners
If you love using your instant pot to create easy weeknight dinners for your family, you will also love these other recipes from the blog: Cozy Instant Pot Butter Chicken, Instant Pot Pork Carnitas with Mexican Corn Salsa, or for more of a traditional version of this recipe, try Easy and Tender Instant Pot Pot Roast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Perfect Comfort Food Meal
Right now in the Midwest, temperatures are well below the freezing mark. We have actually had some good snowfall so far which is surprising because we don’t seem to get much anymore. When the days are shorter and the temperatures drop, nothing is more comforting than starting a fire, lighting a candle, and having something warm and hearty cooking in the kitchen.
This recipe is full of protein, with meat that is tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. Serve it warm over mashed potatoes and a slice of made from scratch sourdough and it is the perfect cold weather meal.
Quick and Easy to Make
This recipe is wonderful on an evening that you don’t want to spend an hour in the kitchen. This simple one pot recipe is dump and go – meaning you just dump all of the ingredients into the pressure cooker, set it, and walk away. Your meal will be ready in less than an hour and cleanup is a breeze.
It Makes Great Leftovers
Not only does this melt in your mouth Mississippi Pot roast reheat well, you can also utilize the meat in other recipes. The meat tastes great in tacos, quiche, enchiladas, and sliders!
What You’ll Need for Melt in Your Mouth Mississippi Pot Roast
- Chuck Roast or Pork Shoulder
- Butter
- Onion
- Hidden Valley Ranch Packet (I use my own)
- Au Jus Packet
- Pepperoncini Peppers and Juice
- Optional- Baby carrots and Honey Gold Bite Sized Potatoes
- Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker
How To Make This Recipe
Sear Meat
Set the Instant Pot to SAUTE, drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil into the bottom, and sear the meat on all sides. This helps to hold in the juices and creates a bolder flavor. This step in optional but it does make a difference!
Layer the Ingredients
After searing, it is time to layer the ingredients. Place the meat flat into the pot. Slice the butter and place directly on the meat. Next, add your ranch packet and your Au Jus packet. Remove 2 or 3 peperoncini peppers and place on top of the roast. Pour 1/4 cup of the juice over the meat. Top with onion slices and place the lid on your Instant Pot.
Pressure Cook
Turn the pressure valve to the sealed position. Set your Instant Pot to Pressure Cook on HIGH for 45 minutes to an hour depending on the size of your roast.
Let the steam naturally release for 10 minutes before releasing the rest of the pressure. The meat should be tender and easily coming apart. If not, simply pressure cook in 10 minute increments until it is ready.
If you are adding in the carrots and potatoes, add to the pot after cook time is up and pressure cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Melt in Your Mouth Mississippi Pot Roast
Equipment
- 1 Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs Chuck Roast or Pork Shoulder
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 4 Tbsp Unsalted Butter
- 1 Medium Onion
- 1 Packet Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing Mix
- 1 Packet Au Jus
- 3-4 Peperoncini Peppers
- 1/4 C Peperoncini Juice
- 1 Bag Baby Carrots (Optional)
- 1 Bag Honey Gold Bite Sized Potatoes (Optional)
Instructions
- Set the Instant Pot to SAUTE, drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil into the bottom, and sear the meat on all sides. This helps to hold in the juices and creates a bolder flavor. This step in optional but it does make a difference!
- After searing, it is time to layer the ingredients. Place the meat flat into the pot. Slice the butter and place directly on the meat. Next, add your ranch packet and your Au Jus packet. Remove 2 or 3 peperoncini peppers and place on top of the roast. Pour 1/4 cup of the juice over the meat. Top with onion slices and place the lid on your Instant Pot.
- Turn the pressure valve to the sealed position. Set your Instant Pot to Pressure Cook on HIGH for 45 minutes to an hour depending on the size of your roast.
- Let the steam naturally release for 10 minutes before releasing the rest of the pressure. The meat should be tender and easily coming apart. If not, simply pressure cook in 10 minute increments until it is ready.
- If you are adding in the carrots and potatoes, add to the pot after cook time is up and pressure cook for an additional 10 minutes. Serve and Enjoy!
Notes
Flavor Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about Mississippi pot roast is how flexible it is. With just a few simple swaps or additions, you can completely change the flavor profile while still keeping that tender, fall-apart texture.
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes. While chuck roast is the classic choice, you can also use:
- Pork shoulder for a slightly sweeter, milder flavor
- Bottom round roast for a leaner option (just expect a firmer texture)
- Rump roast if that’s what you have on hand
Chuck roast will always give you the richest, most tender result, but the recipe is forgiving.
Can I make it less salty?
Yes, and this is a common adjustment. The ranch packet and au jus mix already contain salt, so you can:
- Use low-sodium au jus mix if available
- Add only half the ranch packet for a lighter flavor
- Skip added salt entirely (you won’t need it)
You can also balance the saltiness by serving it with unsalted mashed potatoes or rice.
Can I make it spicier?
If you like a little heat, this recipe is easy to adjust:
- Add extra pepperoncini juice for more tangy heat
- Toss in a few sliced jalapeños
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes before cooking
It keeps the same comforting base but adds a nice kick.
Can I add vegetables to Mississippi pot roast?
Yes, and it turns it into a full one-pot meal. Try:
- Baby carrots for natural sweetness
- Baby gold potatoes for creamy texture
- Pearl onions for extra savory depth
For firmer vegetables, add them on top of the roast. For softer vegetables, cook everything together from the start in the Instant Pot.
What can I serve with Mississippi pot roast?
This dish is traditionally served over something that soaks up the rich gravy. Some great options include:
- Creamy mashed potatoes (most popular)
- Rice or Creamy Baked Parmesan Herb Rice for some added flare
- Egg noodles
- Crusty sourdough bread or dinner rolls for dipping
It also pairs well with simple green vegetables like green beans or roasted broccoli to balance the richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Mississippi pot roast in an Instant Pot?
Yes! This is one of the easiest ways to make Mississippi pot roast. Using an Instant Pot cuts the cook time down significantly while still giving you that tender, fall-apart beef texture. It’s a true dump-and-go style meal once everything is layered in.
How long do you cook Mississippi pot roast in the Instant Pot?
For a 3 to 4 pound roast, cook on high pressure for about 60–70 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for at least 10–15 minutes. This helps keep the meat extra tender and juicy.
What cut of meat is best for Mississippi pot roast?
The most common cut is chuck roast, because it becomes very tender and shreds easily after pressure cooking. However, pork shoulder also works if you prefer pork instead of beef. Both will give you a rich, flavorful result.
Why is my Mississippi pot roast tough?
If your roast turns out tough, it usually just needs more cooking time. Pot roast gets more tender the longer it cooks under pressure. Also, make sure you’re doing a natural release instead of a quick release, which can tighten the meat.
Can I add vegetables to Mississippi pot roast in the Instant Pot?
Yes! Baby carrots, potatoes, and onions work really well. If you want firmer vegetables, add them on top of the roast or halfway through cooking. For softer vegetables, cook everything together from the start.
How do you store leftover Mississippi pot roast?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavor actually gets even better the next day as everything continues to meld together.
Can you freeze Mississippi pot roast?
Yes, it freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I serve with Mississippi pot roast?
This dish is delicious served over mashed potatoes, rice, or even egg noodles. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple side salad for a balanced meal.
In Closing
There’s something special about a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth Mississippi Pot Roast that makes even the simplest weeknight dinner feel cozy and very comforting. Whether you’re serving it over creamy mashed potatoes, pairing it with warm bread from the oven, or enjoying leftovers the next day, this cozy, flavor-packed pot roast is the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table. I hope this becomes one of those reliable, family-loved meals you reach for all season long, simple, hearty, and always satisfying.
XO, Bri
More Cozy Dinner Ideas to Warm Your Table
If you loved this tender and flavorful Mississippi Pot Roast, you’ll enjoy these other cozy dinner recipes that are simple, hearty, and perfect for feeding your family on busy weeknights or slow, comfort-filled weekends. These easy, home-cooked meals bring warmth, nourishment, and big flavor to your table.
Finish Your Meal with These Cozy Dessert Recipes
From warm baked treats to simple, sweet homemade favorites, these comforting dessert recipes are the perfect way to end your meal. Each one is easy to make, family-friendly, and filled with those nostalgic flavors that make every bite feel like home.
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I printed this to try. I don’t have an Instant Pot but will make in a casserole dish in the oven. Sounds so good.
The pressure cooker just makes it faster but you can most definitely slow roast this in the oven or even in a crock pot! That is the method I used before I got my Instant Pot as a Christmas gift a few years ago. Let me know what you think! 🙂