The Ultimate Crock Pot Pot Roast Recipe: Fall-Apart Tender Every Time
Are you ready to experience the ultimate comfort food? This crock pot pot roast recipe delivers melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and rich, savory flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest cooks.
- 3-4 lb beef chuck roast: Choose a roast with good marbling for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the savory gravy.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Provides a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds a subtle earthiness and complements the other vegetables.
- 1 cup beef broth: Creates a flavorful base for the gravy.
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional): Adds complexity and richness (can substitute with more broth).
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent aroma and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the roast (optional, but recommended).
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a warm, herbaceous note.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant, piney flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the roast.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): To thicken the gravy.
- 2 tablespoons cold water (optional): To mix with cornstarch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly cooked pot roast every time.
Step 1: Searing the Roast (Optional but Recommended)
- Pat the beef roast dry with paper towels. Searing the roast before slow cooking helps to develop a deeper, richer flavor and creates a beautiful crust.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until nicely browned. This step takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 2: Crock Pot Magic!
- Place the seared roast (or unseared if skipping that step) in your slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery around the roast.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the roast and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Slow Cooking Perfection
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the roast is fork-tender. The cooking time will depend on the size of your roast and your slow cooker.
Step 4: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, remove the roast from the slow cooker and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
- Bring the remaining liquid in the slow cooker to a simmer.
- Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Shred the roast with two forks.
- Serve the shredded pot roast over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish. Ladle the delicious gravy over everything.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a bay leaf to the slow cooker.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Add potatoes and other root vegetables directly to the slow cooker with the roast and vegetables.
- Leftovers: Store leftover pot roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It's even more delicious the next day!
This crock pot pot roast recipe is a guaranteed winner. Its ease of preparation and incredible flavor make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. Enjoy!
