Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast
So you’re craving something rich, tender, and dripping with flavor… but you don’t have eight hours to babysit a slow cooker? Same. We want melt-in-your-mouth beef without sacrificing our entire day.
Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast is bold, buttery, tangy, and ridiculously tender. It’s the kind of meal that makes people think you tried way harder than you actually did. Press a button, walk away, and let the magic happen.
Why This Recipe Is Awesome
First of all, it’s big flavor with minimal effort. Ranch seasoning, au jus mix, butter, and pepperoncini do the heavy lifting. You basically assemble and relax.
Second, the texture is unreal. Fork-tender beef that shreds like a dream. It’s basically idiot-proof. Even I didn’t mess it up.
Why you’ll love it:
- Ready faster than slow cooker versions
- Deep, savory flavor
- Perfect for sandwiches or mashed potatoes
- Crowd-pleasing every single time
And honestly? The leftovers might be even better.

Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3–4 pounds chuck roast – The star of the show.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For searing.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix – Flavor bomb.
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix – Savory depth.
- ½ cup beef broth – Helps pressure build.
- 4–5 pepperoncini peppers – Tangy kick.
- ¼ cup pepperoncini juice – Extra punch.
- 4 tablespoons butter – Yes, all of it.
- Black pepper to taste – Optional.
Optional add-ins:
- Sliced onions
- Mushrooms
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the roast.
Turn on sauté mode. Heat olive oil and sear roast on both sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Deglaze the pot.
Pour in beef broth and scrape up browned bits. This prevents burn notice.
3. Add the roast back.
Place roast into the pot. Sprinkle ranch and au jus seasoning evenly over the top.
4. Add peppers and butter.
Place pepperoncini around the roast. Pour in a little juice and add butter on top.
5. Pressure cook.
Seal lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Let natural release for 15 minutes, then quick release.
6. Shred and serve.
Shred beef with two forks and stir into the juices before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the sear.
It adds serious flavor.
Not deglazing the pot.
You’ll risk the dreaded burn notice.
Using a lean cut.
Chuck roast works best.
Quick releasing immediately.
Natural release keeps it tender.
Over-seasoning with extra salt.
Seasoning packets are already salty.
Alternatives & Substitutions
No ranch packet?
Mix dried dill, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Low-sodium option?
Use reduced-sodium broth and seasoning.
Spicier version?
Add extra pepperoncini or red pepper flakes.
No butter?
You can reduce it, but it affects richness.
Want veggies?
Add carrots and potatoes under the roast.
Serve differently?
Pile onto toasted sandwich rolls.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use frozen roast?
Yes, but increase cook time slightly.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. It reheats beautifully.
Why is my roast tough?
It may need more cooking time.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Technically yes, but butter gives better flavor.
Is it very spicy?
No, pepperoncini are more tangy than spicy.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, if it fits below the fill line.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast is rich, tender, and bursting with flavor. It’s comfort food that feels indulgent but takes surprisingly little effort.
Perfect for Sunday dinners, meal prep, or when you just want something hearty and satisfying. It’s bold, savory, and seriously addictive.
So sear that roast, press that button, and let your Instant Pot do the heavy lifting. Then grab a fork and dig into that melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Now go impress someone—or yourself—with your legendary pot roast skills. You’ve earned it. 🥩✨
