How Long to Cook Brisket
Technically a pot-roast-style braise for flat brisket. Cut against the grain after cooking.
Pick an Appliance
All Cook Times
| Temp | State | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 300°F149°C | refrigerated | 300–420 min |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does pot roast take in a slow cooker?
+
A 3–4 lb chuck roast takes 8–10 hours on LOW or 4–6 hours on HIGH. Low-and-slow gives the most tender, fall-apart texture — it's worth the extra time.
How long does pot roast take in the oven?
+
A chuck roast in a covered Dutch oven at 325°F takes about 1 hour per pound. A 4 lb roast takes 3–4 hours. Sear the meat first, then braise in beef broth with aromatics, lid on.
Can I cook pot roast from frozen?
+
The Instant Pot handles frozen pot roast best — add 30 minutes to your standard pressure-cooking time. Slow cooker is not recommended from frozen because the meat stays in the bacterial danger zone too long.
What internal temperature should pot roast reach?
+
195–205°F internal. Pot roast is done when a fork slides in with no resistance — the meat should shred, not slice. This is well past USDA safe (145°F); the extra cooking is what develops the tender texture.