Description
Nothing beats the rich, savory taste of a Slow Cooker Pot Roast after a long day. This tender, fall-apart beef roast is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy Sunday dinner. Whether you’re a fan of hearty slow cooker recipes or simply looking for a foolproof pot roast recipe, this guide will walk you through every step to ensure restaurant-quality results at home.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Roast:
- 3–4 lbs chuck roast (or bottom round roast)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
For the Gravy & Vegetables:
- 4 carrots, cut into chunks
- 3 potatoes, peeled & cubed
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening the gravy)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Roast
- Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels to help it sear properly.
- Season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the roast for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This helps lock in juices and adds deep flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Slow Cooker
- Place potatoes, carrots, onions, and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Lay the seared roast on top of the vegetables.
Step 4: Add the Cooking Liquid
- In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste.
- Pour over the roast and vegetables.
- Sprinkle thyme and rosemary for added aroma.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
- LOW for 8-10 hours (for extra tender meat).
- HIGH for 5-6 hours (if short on time).
Step 6: Make the Gravy
- Once cooked, remove the roast and vegetables.
- Mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with ¼ cup cold water to create a slurry.
- Stir into the slow cooker juices and cook on high for 5 minutes until thickened.
Notes
- For the best flavor, always sear the beef before slow cooking.
- Use a marbled chuck roast for a juicy, tender result.
- Avoid overcooking—check the roast at 8 hours on LOW to prevent dryness.
- Add mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
- Deglaze the pan after searing with a splash of red wine or beef broth to enhance richness.