Slow Cooker Pot Roast
This slow cooker pot roast is a classic beef dinner recipe perfect for a comforting meal. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, resulting in tender, flavorful beef every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for slow cooking; look for a 3-4 pound roast.
- Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and onions are traditional. You can substitute with parsnips or celery for variety.
- Beef Broth: Essential for moisture and flavor. Vegetable broth can be used in a pinch.
- Seasonings: You’ll use a blend of common herbs and spices for a rich taste.
Ingredients
- 3-4 lb chuck roast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large carrots, peeled and roughly chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
- 2 tbsp cold water (for thickening, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 8 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Tools: Large slow cooker, large skillet (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Roast
Pat your chuck roast dry with paper towels. Season it generously all over with salt and pepper. This step helps create a flavorful crust.
2. Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended)
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. This adds depth of flavor to your beef dinner recipe.
3. Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker
Place the chopped carrots, potatoes, and onion at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the minced garlic over the vegetables. This forms a bed for the roast.
4. Place the Roast and Liquids
Transfer the seared roast to the slow cooker, placing it on top of the vegetables. Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the roast and vegetables.
5. Season Your Pot Roast
Sprinkle the dried thyme and dried rosemary over the roast and into the broth. Cover your slow cooker with the lid.
6. Cook Until Tender
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender. This slow cooking ensures a delicious beef dinner recipe.
7. Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker gravy, whisk together cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker liquid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Variation Ideas
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers along with the other vegetables.
- Stir in a can of diced tomatoes for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Serve over egg noodles or mashed potatoes instead of including potatoes in the slow cooker.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover slow cooker pot roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What kind of beef is best for pot roast? Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and ability to become tender during slow cooking, making it perfect for this beef dinner recipe.
- Do I have to sear the beef? While optional, searing adds a rich, caramelized flavor that significantly improves the final taste.
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, you can use frozen carrots and peas, adding them during the last hour of cooking.
- How do I know when the pot roast is done? The beef should be fork-tender and easily pull apart when gently prodded.
- Why is my pot roast tough? It likely hasn’t cooked long enough. Tough cuts of beef need extended cooking times to break down connective tissue.
- Can I cook this on the stove or in the oven? Yes, you can cook it in a Dutch oven on the stove or in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F/150°C) for a similar duration.
