why make this recipe
This pot roast is simple, hands-off, and full of flavor. You get tender meat and soft vegetables with little work. It is great for family dinners and leftovers.
introduction
This Best Ever Pot Roast uses a chuck roast and common pantry items. You brown the meat, add vegetables and broth, then let the crock pot do the rest. If you want a warm side, try something like these balsamic roasted mushrooms with herby kale mashed potatoes for more veggie ideas.
how to make Best Ever Pot Roast
Start by searing the roast to lock in flavor. Put carrots, potatoes, and onion in the crock pot, then add the roast on top. Mix the broth, Worcestershire, garlic, and thyme and pour over everything. Cook low for many hours until the meat falls apart. For small recipe ideas using a crock pot, check simple meals like 5-ingredient chicken crock pot recipes.
Ingredients :
3-4 lb chuck roast, 4 carrots, peeled and chopped, 4 potatoes, peeled and chopped, 1 onion, chopped, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 2 cups beef broth, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp olive oil
Directions :
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chuck roast generously with salt and pepper, and then sear it on all sides until it’s beautifully browned. This step adds incredible flavor!, 2. In your trusty crock pot, layer the chopped carrots, potatoes, and onion at the bottom., 3. Place the seared chuck roast right on top of those lovely veggies., 4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Pour this delicious concoction over the roast., 5. Now, cover it up and let it work its magic. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until that meat is fork-tender and shreds like a dream., 6. Serve hot alongside those flavorful veggies, and enjoy every bite!
how to serve Best Ever Pot Roast
Slice or shred the roast and spoon juices over the meat. Serve with the cooked carrots, potatoes, and onions. This roast goes well with bread or rice. For a full meal idea, pair it with a simple breakfast-for-dinner roll or light side like a warm salad — you can see quick hearty ideas like this best ever breakfast burrito for inspiration on simple family meals.
how to store Best Ever Pot Roast
Cool the roast to room temperature for no more than two hours. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove or in the oven.
tips to make Best Ever Pot Roast
- Sear the roast well to build flavor before slow cooking.
- Cut vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Do not lift the crock pot lid often; it slows cooking.
- If sauce is thin at the end, remove meat and veggies, and simmer the liquid in a pan to reduce. See simple crock pot tips and tricks from other slow-cooker recipes like 5-ingredient chicken crock pot recipes.
variation (if any)
- Add mushrooms or parsnips with the other vegetables.
- Use red wine (1/2 cup) with the beef broth for richer flavor.
- Swap thyme for rosemary if you prefer.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes. Brisket or round roast will work but may change cook time and texture.
Q: Do I have to sear the meat?
A: No, but searing adds more flavor. If short on time, you can skip it.
Q: How do I thicken the gravy?
A: Remove some cooking liquid, mix 1-2 tbsp cornstarch with cold water, then stir into the simmering liquid until it thickens.
Q: Can I cook this in the oven instead?
A: Yes. Place in a covered ovenproof pot at 325°F (160°C) for about 3 hours or until tender.
Conclusion
For another trusted pot roast method and extra tips, see the Classic Pot Roast Recipe – Chef Billy Parisi.
Best Ever Pot Roast
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper and sear on all sides until browned.
- Layer the chopped carrots, potatoes, and onion at the bottom of the crock pot.
- Place the seared chuck roast on top of the vegetables.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Pour this mixture over the roast.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
- Slice or shred the roast and spoon juices over the meat. Serve with the cooked carrots, potatoes, and onions.