How Long Should a Simple Oven 2 Pound Pot Roast Be In an Oven?

A meat thermometer is a useful tool when roasting cuts of meat.

General Guideline

According to "The Meatman" at Jackson Frozen Food Lockers, a good rule of thumb to follow when cooking a pot roast is to cook it for 35 minutes per pound at 325 degrees Fahrenheit. If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature of the roast should be 145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium rare, and 160 degrees Fahrenheit for medium.

The Cut Matters

The term "pot roast" encompasses many different types and cuts of meat. More tender cuts, like rib roasts, need less cooking time per pound, while tougher cuts, like chuck roasts, may need to have a liquid (stock, broth, wine, water, juice etc.) added to create a moist heat while cooking.

Bottom Line

Start with the general rule of 35 minutes per pound at 325 degrees Fahrenheit and go from there. Ask a butcher, or consult a meat cooking chart to determine if any special instructions are needed for a particular cut of meat.

References

• Ask The Meatman: Beef Cooking Times Chart
• Recipe Tips: Beef Cooking Times