A Crock Pot pot roast is the ultimate comfort food—juicy, tender beef that falls apart at the touch of a fork, nestled among flavorful vegetables and rich broth. This easy recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal with minimal effort. Simply set it and forget it, and your house will be filled with the irresistible aroma of a home-cooked dinner. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this slow cooker pot roast is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Pot Roast:
- 3-4 lb chuck roast (or beef shoulder roast)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 carrots (peeled and cut into chunks)
- 4 large potatoes (peeled and quartered)
- 3 celery stalks (cut into chunks)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, or use additional beef broth)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For Thickening (Optional):
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
Preparation
Season and Sear the Roast
- Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 3-4 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms. This step enhances the flavor of the pot roast.
Prepare the Vegetables
- Place the onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and celery in the bottom of the Crock Pot.
Assemble the Pot Roast
- Lay the seared chuck roast on top of the vegetables.
- Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle the thyme, rosemary, and add the bay leaf.
Slow Cook
- Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
- For a thicker gravy, remove 1 cup of the cooking liquid and whisk with cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Stir it back into the Crock Pot and cook for an additional 15 minutes until thickened.
Variations
- Herb Blend: Add fresh herbs like parsley, sage, or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic for a more robust taste.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap potatoes for turnips or cauliflower for a lower-carb version.
Cooking Notes
- Cutting Vegetables: Cut the vegetables into large chunks to prevent them from becoming too soft during long cooking times.
- Browning Optional: While searing the roast is optional, it adds a deeper, richer flavor to the dish.
- Liquid Substitution: You can replace the red wine with extra beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your Crock Pot pot roast with a side of buttered dinner rolls or mashed potatoes for an even heartier meal.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Pair with a glass of red wine or a light green salad to balance the richness of the roast.
Tips
- Make-Ahead Meal: This pot roast tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked pot roast in individual portions for easy future meals. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat Gently: Reheat pot roast over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) / 4-6 hours (high)
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes – 10 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you can use brisket or bottom round roast for similar results, though they may require slightly longer cooking times for tenderness.
Do I need to add wine?
Wine adds depth and richness, but it’s optional. You can replace it with additional broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.
Why is my pot roast tough?
If your roast is tough, it likely needs more time to cook. Keep the slow cooker on low and give it another hour to break down the connective tissues.
Conclusion
This easy Crock Pot pot roast recipe is a stress-free way to enjoy a classic, hearty meal with minimal prep. Perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or a cozy Sunday supper, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Give it a try, and enjoy the tender, flavorful comfort of a home-cooked pot roast with ease.