Name: Slow Cooker Pot Roast Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lbs chuck roast; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, sliced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks; 4 potatoes, peeled and quartered; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 1 tsp dried thyme

This Slow Cooker Pot Roast recipe delivers a tender, flavorful meal with minimal prep. It’s the perfect comfort food for a hassle-free dinner that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe transforms a simple chuck roast into a melt-in-your-mouth meal. The slow cooking process infuses the meat and vegetables with rich flavors, making it a go-to for cozy family dinners. Plus, the hands-off approach means I can set it and forget it, returning to a delicious, home-cooked meal.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 lbs chuck roast
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
4 potatoes, peeled and quartered
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 tsp dried thyme

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and browning the roast on all sides.
Then, I place the sliced onion in the bottom of the slow cooker and add the browned roast on top.
I arrange the garlic, carrots, and potatoes around the roast.
Next, I pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the meat and vegetables.
I season everything with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme.
I cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the roast is tender.
Finally, I remove the roast and vegetables from the slow cooker and let the meat rest before slicing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6 people. The total time is approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes, including 20 minutes of prep time and 8 hours of cooking on low heat.

Variations

I sometimes add other root vegetables like turnips or parsnips for variety. A splash of red wine can also deepen the flavor. If I prefer a thicker gravy, I blend some of the cooked vegetables with the juices before thickening.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the roast and vegetables in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or I use the microwave for a quicker option.

FAQs

How can I make the gravy thicker?

I mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and whisk it into the cooking juices over medium heat until thickened.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, I can use brisket or bottom round, but I find that chuck roast yields the most tender results.

Do I need to sear the meat before slow cooking?

While it’s not mandatory, I sear the meat to develop a deeper flavor in the final dish.

Can I cook this on high heat to save time?

Yes, I can cook on high for 4-5 hours, but I prefer the low setting for 8-10 hours for the most tender meat.

What can I serve with this pot roast?

I often serve it with crusty bread or a side salad to complement the hearty flavors.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Pot Roast is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. I enjoy the rich, tender meat and the way the flavors meld together during the slow cooking process. It’s a reliable recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.