This easy crock pot pot roast is a family favorite! With tender meat and rich, tasty gravy, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Just throw everything in the pot and let it cook all day!
Who doesn’t love coming home to a warm, home-cooked meal? The smell alone makes my stomach growl! I usually pair it with some mashed potatoes for a meal that hits the spot.
I love how simple this pot roast recipe is! Just set it and forget it, while you go about your day. The result is a delicious dinner that feels like a big hug on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes tender and flavorful. If chuck roast isn’t available, you can use brisket or round roast as alternatives.
Red Wine: It adds depth to the gravy, but you can skip it if you prefer. Extra beef broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar can replace the wine without losing flavor.
Vegetables: While this recipe uses carrots and celery, feel free to add potatoes, parsnips, or even mushrooms for extra taste. Mixing different veggies can make this dish even better!
Cornstarch: Used for thickening the gravy, you can substitute it with flour if needed, but you may need to cook it longer to eliminate the raw taste.
How Do You Achieve a Perfectly Searing Beef Roast?
Searing your beef roast is a crucial step before adding it to the crock pot. It locks in flavors and gives that nice brown color. Here’s how you can do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding olive oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If your roast is large, work in batches.
- Brown the roast on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side for best flavor.
This little step makes a big difference in taste! It’s worth the extra time for a delicious final dish.
Easy Crock Pot Pot Roast with Delicious Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 stalks celery, cut into chunks
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional; can substitute with additional beef broth)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy pot roast takes about 30 minutes of prep time, followed by a long cooking time of 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high. Just set it up in the morning, and you’ll have a warm, hearty meal waiting for you by dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Roast:
Start by patting your beef roast dry with paper towels. This helps to create a nice sear. Season all sides generously with salt and black pepper for flavor!
2. Searing the Roast:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the roast in the skillet and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes for each side. This step adds great flavor! Once browned, transfer the roast to your crock pot.
3. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Then, transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the crock pot on top of the roast.
4. Adding the Vegetables:
Now surrounding the roast with the chunks of carrots and celery in your crock pot. This not only adds flavor but also makes a delicious veggie side!
5. Pouring in the Liquid:
Next, pour the beef broth, red wine (if you’re using it), and Worcestershire sauce into the crock pot. This will create a lovely gravy as it cooks!
6. Seasoning It Up:
Sprinkle the dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves over the top of everything in the crock pot. This will infuse the dish with so much flavor as it cooks.
7. Cooking Time:
Cover the crock pot and let it cook. If you’re cooking on low, it will take about 8-10 hours, or if you’re in a hurry, set it to high for 4-6 hours. The meat should be tender and easily shreddable when it’s ready.
8. Finishing Touches:
When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the roast and veggies from the crock pot and keep them warm on a platter. Discard the bay leaves and then let’s make that gravy!
9. Making the Gravy:
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Pour the cooking liquid from the crock pot into a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until the gravy thickens.
10. Serving:
Slice or shred the roast and serve it with the carrots, celery, and gravy poured generously over the top. Enjoy this delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Pot Roast with Delicious Gravy
Can I Use Frozen Beef Roast?
It’s best to thaw the beef roast before cooking for even results. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or using the cold water method. Cooking from frozen can increase the cooking time and may not cook as evenly.
What Substitutions Can I Make for the Vegetables?
If you’re out of carrots and celery, you can add potatoes, parsnips, or even green beans. Just make sure to adjust cook times slightly, as denser veggies like potatoes may take longer to cook.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can sear the roast and sauté the vegetables the night before, then store them separately in the fridge. In the morning, just place everything in the crock pot and let it cook! This makes dinner prep super easy!
