Why Make This Recipe
Easy Slow Cooker Pot Roast is a comforting meal that brings family and friends together. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or a relaxed weekend gathering. The combination of tender beef, savory gravy, and vegetables makes it a satisfying dish that warms the heart. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy your time without the fuss of constant monitoring.
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Ingredients:
- cooking spray
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 (2 1/2 pound) boneless beef chuck roast
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 (1.2 ounce) package dry beef gravy mix
- 1 (1 ounce) package ranch dressing mix
- 1 (.7 ounce) package dry Italian-style salad dressing mix
- 0.5 cup water, or as needed
- 5 whole peeled carrots
Directions:
- Spray the inside of a slow cooker with cooking spray. Spread onion slices in the bottom of the cooker.
- Pat the roast dry and sprinkle all over with salt and pepper. Spread flour onto a work surface and roll the roast in flour to coat all sides. You can use your hands or a small sturdy plate to pound the flour into the meat. Place the floured roast into the slow cooker on top of the onions.
- In a bowl, whisk together the beef gravy mix, ranch dressing mix, and Italian dressing mix. Add water and whisk until smooth. Pour this mixture over the roast. Distribute the carrots around the meat.
- Cover the slow cooker, set it to Low, and cook until the roast is tender and the gravy has thickened, about 8 hours.
How to Serve Easy Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Once the pot roast is done, it’s ready to serve! You can slice the meat and plate it with the carrots, pouring some of the gravy over everything. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
How to Store Easy Slow Cooker Pot Roast
If you have leftovers, allow the pot roast to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Easy Slow Cooker Pot Roast
- Use a good quality beef chuck roast for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or celery for more variety.
- For extra flavor, consider searing the roast in a pan before placing it in the slow cooker.
- Start the recipe in the morning to enjoy a warm meal by dinner time.
Variation
You can switch up the seasonings by using different dry mixes or even fresh herbs. Adding red wine or beef broth instead of water can also enhance the flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I cook this pot roast on high instead of low?
A: Yes, if you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for about 4 hours instead of the 8 hours on low.
Q: Can I use frozen beef roast?
A: It’s best to thaw the roast before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly. A frozen roast may not reach a safe cooking temperature in a slow cooker.
Q: Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
A: Yes! You can cook it in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 3 hours. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or a lid.