Instant Pot Pork Roast with Herbs and Onion Gravy
This pressure cooker pork roast delivers restaurant-quality results in just over an hour. The meat is seared first to develop rich flavors, then pressure cooked with aromatic herbs, garlic, and onions that transform into a savory gravy. The high-pressure environment breaks down tough fibers while keeping the roast incredibly moist. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or Sunday family meals when you want tender, flavorful pork without hours of traditional roasting. The natural pressure release ensures the meat stays juicy and slices beautifully.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Season the pork roast with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary
- 2
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil
- 3
Sear the pork roast on all sides until browned, then remove and set aside
- 4
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the Instant Pot and sauté until softened
- 5
Pour in the broth and deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom
- 6
Return the pork roast to the Instant Pot
- 7
Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes
- 8
Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then do a quick release
- 9
Remove the pork roast from the Instant Pot and let it rest before slicing
- 10
Serve the pork roast with the onions and garlic from the pot as a gravy
Tips
Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute for easier slicing
Use the sauté function to brown the meat well - this creates deeper flavor in the final dish
Strain the cooking liquid and reduce it on sauté mode for a thicker gravy consistency
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days in airtight container. The meat stays moist and reheats well.
Can be cooked 1-2 days ahead and reheated gently. The flavors actually improve overnight.
Slice against the grain and serve with the onion gravy. Pairs well with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the searing step to avoid bland flavor
Ensure valve is set to sealing to avoid steam escape during cooking
Don't rush the natural pressure release to avoid tough, dry meat
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use a frozen pork roast?
Add 15-20 minutes to cooking time for frozen roast. No need to thaw first, but searing will be more difficult.
What if my roast is larger than 2 pounds?
Add 10-15 minutes cooking time per additional pound. Ensure roast fits comfortably in your Instant Pot.
How long will leftovers keep?
Properly stored leftovers keep 3-4 days refrigerated or up to 3 months frozen. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.