18 Hearty Pot Roast Crock Pot Recipes Delicious

Posted on November 4, 2025

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Savor the ultimate comfort food with these 18 hearty pot roast crock pot recipes! Perfect for busy home cooks, these slow-cooked wonders deliver tender, flavorful meals with minimal effort. From classic Sunday dinners to creative twists, you’ll find delicious inspiration to warm your family’s hearts and bellies. Let’s dive into these mouthwatering recipes that make dinner both easy and extraordinary!

Classic Beef Pot Roast with Carrots and Potatoes

Classic Beef Pot Roast with Carrots and Potatoes
Braising this classic beef pot roast always reminds me of Sunday dinners at my grandma’s house, where the entire house would fill with the most incredible savory aroma that made our stomachs growl in anticipation. I love how this simple, hearty meal brings everyone together around the table, and I still use her same well-seasoned Dutch oven that somehow makes everything taste better.

Ingredients

Beef chuck roast – 3-4 lbs
Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Yellow onion – 1 large
Garlic – 4 cloves
Beef broth – 2 cups
Worcestershire sauce – 1 tbsp
Carrots – 1 lb
Potatoes – 2 lbs
Salt – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Pat the beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels on all surfaces.
3. Season all sides of the roast evenly with salt and black pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
5. Sear the roast for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply browned, developing a rich crust.
6. Transfer the seared roast to a clean plate, leaving the drippings in the pot.
7. Chop the yellow onion into 1-inch pieces and add them to the hot drippings.
8. Sauté the onions for 5-6 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
9. Mince the garlic cloves and stir them into the onions for 30 seconds until fragrant.
10. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom.
11. Return the seared roast to the pot, nestling it into the liquid.
12. Cover the Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
13. Braise the roast for 2 hours at 325°F.
14. Peel the carrots and cut them into 2-inch chunks while the roast cooks.
15. Scrub the potatoes and cut them into 2-inch cubes, leaving the skins on for texture.
16. After 2 hours, carefully remove the pot from the oven and arrange the carrots and potatoes around the roast.
17. Submerge the vegetables in the cooking liquid, spooning some over the top.
18. Return the covered pot to the oven and continue braising for 1 more hour.
19. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the roast – it should pull apart easily.
20. Let the pot roast rest uncovered for 15 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Serving this pot roast always feels like serving pure comfort on a plate. The beef becomes incredibly tender and shreds with just a gentle pull of a fork, while the potatoes soak up all the rich, savory juices and the carrots develop a wonderful sweetness. I love serving it family-style right in the Dutch oven, or for a special touch, shredding the meat and serving it over creamy polenta with the vegetables arranged around the edges.

Garlic Herb Pot Roast with Red Wine Sauce

Garlic Herb Pot Roast with Red Wine Sauce
Finally, after years of testing different pot roast recipes, I’ve landed on this garlic herb version with a rich red wine sauce—it’s the cozy, one-pot wonder my family begs for on chilly Sundays. From searing the roast until it’s deeply browned to simmering it low and slow until it falls apart with a fork, this method delivers incredible flavor without fuss. Trust me, the aroma alone will have everyone hovering around the kitchen!

Ingredients

Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
Salt – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp
Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Garlic – 6 cloves
Fresh rosemary – 2 sprigs
Fresh thyme – 4 sprigs
Red wine – 1 cup
Beef broth – 2 cups
Flour – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Pat the beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels.
2. Season all sides of the roast evenly with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper.
3. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
4. Sear the roast for 4–5 minutes per side until a dark brown crust forms.
5. Remove the roast to a plate and reduce heat to medium.
6. Add 6 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Sprinkle 2 tbsp flour into the pot and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to form a roux.
8. Pour in 1 cup red wine, scraping the bottom to lift all browned bits.
9. Stir in 2 cups beef broth, 2 sprigs rosemary, and 4 sprigs thyme.
10. Return the seared roast and any accumulated juices to the pot.
11. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low.
12. Cook for 3–3½ hours until the roast shreds easily with a fork.
13. Remove the roast to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil.
14. Skim excess fat from the sauce and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to thicken.
15. Discard the herb sprigs and slice or shred the roast.
16. Serve the roast topped with the red wine sauce.

Velvety and rich, the meat practically melts under the fork, while the red wine sauce—infused with garlic and herbs—adds a deep, savory note that clings to every bite. For a cozy twist, pile it over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up every last drop of that glorious sauce.

Mississippi Pot Roast with Pepperoncini

Mississippi Pot Roast with Pepperoncini
This Mississippi Pot Roast has become my absolute go-to Sunday dinner—the kind of meal that fills the house with the most incredible aroma while practically cooking itself. There’s something magical about how just a handful of ingredients transform into the most tender, flavorful roast you’ll ever taste, and I love that it’s nearly impossible to mess up, even on my busiest days.

Ingredients

– Chuck roast – 3 lbs
– Au jus gravy mix – 1 packet
– Ranch dressing mix – 1 packet
– Unsalted butter – ½ cup
– Pepperoncini – ½ cup

Instructions

1. Place the 3 lb chuck roast in a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle 1 packet of au jus gravy mix evenly over the top of the roast.
3. Sprinkle 1 packet of ranch dressing mix evenly over the au jus layer.
4. Place ½ cup of unsalted butter on top of the seasoning mixes.
5. Pour ½ cup of pepperoncini (including 2 tablespoons of the brine from the jar) around the roast.
6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 hours.
7. After 8 hours, remove the lid and use two forks to shred the roast completely in the cooking liquid.
8. Let the shredded meat rest in the liquid for 15 minutes before serving.
9. Skim off any excess fat from the surface with a spoon if desired.
Here’s the magic: the pepperoncini brine tenderizes the meat while adding just enough tangy heat to balance the rich butter and savory seasonings. I love serving this shredded over creamy mashed potatoes or piled high on toasted buns for the most incredible roast beef sandwiches you’ve ever tasted.

Slow Cooker Balsamic Pot Roast

Slow Cooker Balsamic Pot Roast

Yesterday, I was craving that classic comfort food that fills the whole house with an incredible aroma, the kind that makes everyone ask “what’s for dinner?” hours before it’s ready. This slow cooker balsamic pot roast is my absolute go-to for a busy day when I want a spectacular meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
  • Balsamic vinegar – ½ cup
  • Beef broth – 1 cup
  • Onion – 1, sliced
  • Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
  • Dried thyme – 1 tsp
  • Salt – 1 tsp
  • Black pepper – ½ tsp
  • Cornstarch – 2 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Pat the 3 lb beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels on all sides.
  2. Sprinkle 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper evenly over the entire surface of the roast.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until a drop of water sizzles and evaporates immediately.
  4. Sear the seasoned roast for 4-5 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms, resisting the urge to move it while searing.
  5. Transfer the seared roast to your slow cooker insert.
  6. Scatter 1 sliced onion and 4 minced garlic cloves around the roast in the slow cooker.
  7. Pour ½ cup balsamic vinegar and 1 cup beef broth over the roast and vegetables.
  8. Sprinkle 1 tsp dried thyme evenly over the liquid.
  9. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW heat for 8 hours until the meat shreds easily with a fork.
  10. Carefully remove the roast from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board to rest.
  11. Whisk 2 tbsp cornstarch with ¼ cup cold water in a small bowl until completely smooth.
  12. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the hot cooking liquid in the slow cooker and whisk continuously.
  13. Cover the slow cooker and cook the gravy on HIGH for 15-20 minutes until thickened to your desired consistency.

Comforting doesn’t even begin to describe this pot roast—the meat becomes so incredibly tender it practically falls apart at the touch of a fork. That balsamic vinegar creates the most amazing sweet-tangy gravy that’s perfect for pouring over mashed potatoes or soaking up with crusty bread. I love serving this over creamy polenta for a twist on the classic, letting that rich gravy seep into every bite.

Onion Soup Mix Pot Roast

Onion Soup Mix Pot Roast
My family has been making this incredibly simple pot roast for generations, and it’s the one recipe I turn to when I want a comforting, no-fuss dinner that always impresses. There’s something magical about how just a few ingredients transform into such a flavorful, tender meal.

Ingredients

– Chuck roast – 3 lbs
– Onion soup mix – 1 packet
– Beef broth – 2 cups
– Carrots – 4, chopped
– Potatoes – 4, cubed
– Olive oil – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels on all sides.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
4. Sear the chuck roast for 4-5 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms.
5. Sprinkle the entire packet of onion soup mix evenly over the top of the roast.
6. Pour beef broth around the roast, being careful not to wash off the seasoning.
7. Add chopped carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot, arranging them around the roast.
8. Cover the Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
9. Roast for 3 hours without opening the lid to maintain consistent temperature.
10. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the roast—it should twist easily with no resistance.
11. Remove the pot from the oven and let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
12. Transfer the roast to a cutting board and slice against the grain into ½-inch thick pieces.
From my experience, letting the roast rest ensures the juices redistribute, making every slice incredibly moist. For an extra flavor boost, I sometimes deglaze the pan with a splash of broth after searing to capture all those browned bits. And don’t skip the searing step—it creates that beautiful crust that adds so much depth to the final dish.
Finally, serve this masterpiece over mashed potatoes or with crusty bread to soak up the rich, savory gravy. The meat falls apart with just a fork, and the vegetables soak up all that wonderful onion soup flavor, making every bite pure comfort.

Red Wine Braised Pot Roast with Mushrooms

Red Wine Braised Pot Roast with Mushrooms
Cooking a pot roast always reminds me of rainy Sundays at my grandmother’s house, where the aroma would fill every corner and promise comfort in every bite. This red wine braised version with earthy mushrooms has become my go-to for special family dinners or when I simply need that deep, soul-warming satisfaction. I love how the long, slow cooking transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary.

Ingredients

Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
Salt – 2 tsp
Black pepper – 1 tsp
Flour – ¼ cup
Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Yellow onion – 1 large
Carrots – 3 medium
Garlic – 4 cloves
Cremini mushrooms – 8 oz
Red wine – 1 cup
Beef broth – 2 cups
Fresh thyme – 4 sprigs

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Pat the beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels.
3. Season all sides of the roast evenly with salt and black pepper.
4. Dredge the seasoned roast in flour, shaking off any excess.
5. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
6. Sear the roast for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply browned.
7. Transfer the seared roast to a plate.
8. Chop the yellow onion into 1-inch pieces.
9. Peel and slice the carrots into 2-inch chunks.
10. Mince the garlic cloves.
11. Add the chopped onion and carrot slices to the Dutch oven.
12. Sauté the vegetables for 6-8 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
13. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
14. Slice the cremini mushrooms into quarters.
15. Add the mushrooms to the pot and cook for 5 minutes until they release their liquid.
16. Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
17. Simmer the wine for 3 minutes until reduced by half.
18. Return the seared roast to the Dutch oven.
19. Add the beef broth and fresh thyme sprigs.
20. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
21. Cover the Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid.
22. Transfer to the preheated oven and braise for 3 hours.
23. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
24. Skim any excess fat from the surface of the braising liquid.

What makes this dish so special is how the beef becomes fork-tender while the mushrooms absorb all the rich wine flavors. The resulting gravy is so deeply flavored you’ll want to serve this over creamy mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up every last drop. Leftovers, if you’re lucky enough to have any, make incredible sandwiches the next day.

BBQ Pot Roast with Sweet Potatoes

BBQ Pot Roast with Sweet Potatoes
Oof, nothing warms up a chilly November afternoon quite like the smell of a pot roast slow-cooking in the oven. I first made this BBQ version for a casual family gathering, and now it’s my go-to when I want something hearty with minimal prep. The sweet potatoes soak up all those savory juices, making every bite absolutely comforting.

Ingredients

Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
Sweet potatoes – 2 large
BBQ sauce – 1 cup
Beef broth – 1 cup
Onion – 1 medium
Garlic – 4 cloves
Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Salt – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Pat the beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels.
3. Season all sides of the roast evenly with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper.
4. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5. Sear the roast for 4–5 minutes per side until deeply browned.
6. Transfer the seared roast to a plate.
7. Chop 1 medium onion into ½-inch pieces.
8. Mince 4 cloves of garlic.
9. Add the chopped onion to the Dutch oven and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
10. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
11. Pour in 1 cup beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
12. Return the seared roast to the Dutch oven.
13. Peel and cube 2 large sweet potatoes into 1-inch pieces.
14. Arrange the sweet potato cubes around the roast in the Dutch oven.
15. Pour 1 cup BBQ sauce evenly over the roast and sweet potatoes.
16. Cover the Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid.
17. Place in the preheated oven and cook for 3 hours.
18. Check for doneness—the meat should shred easily with a fork.
19. Let rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Zesty and tender, this roast falls apart at the touch of a fork while the sweet potatoes become meltingly soft. The BBQ sauce creates a sticky, caramelized glaze that’s perfect spooned over mashed potatoes or stuffed into warm tortillas for a fun twist.

Beer-Braised Pot Roast with Root Vegetables

Beer-Braised Pot Roast with Root Vegetables

Nothing warms up a chilly autumn afternoon quite like the rich aroma of beer-braised pot roast filling the kitchen. I first learned this recipe from my grandfather, who swore by adding root vegetables to soak up all those incredible flavors. Now it’s my go-to Sunday dinner when I want something comforting yet impressively hearty.

Ingredients

  • Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
  • Olive oil – 2 tbsp
  • Yellow onion – 1 large
  • Garlic – 4 cloves
  • Dark beer – 12 oz
  • Beef broth – 2 cups
  • Carrots – 4 medium
  • Potatoes – 3 large
  • Salt – 1 tsp
  • Black pepper – ½ tsp
  • Fresh thyme – 3 sprigs

Instructions

  1. Pat the 3 lbs beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Season all sides of the roast evenly with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper.
  3. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Sear the roast for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply browned, developing that rich flavor base.
  5. Transfer the seared roast to a clean plate, leaving the drippings in the pot.
  6. Add 1 large chopped yellow onion to the pot and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
  7. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  8. Pour in 12 oz dark beer, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  9. Add 2 cups beef broth and 3 sprigs fresh thyme to the liquid.
  10. Return the seared roast to the pot, ensuring it’s mostly submerged in liquid.
  11. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover tightly.
  12. Braise the roast for 2 hours at a gentle simmer, checking occasionally to maintain temperature.
  13. Peel and chop 4 medium carrots into 2-inch pieces after the initial 2 hours.
  14. Peel and chop 3 large potatoes into 2-inch chunks.
  15. Add the chopped carrots and potatoes to the pot around the roast.
  16. Continue braising covered for another 45-60 minutes until the vegetables are fork-tender.
  17. Remove the roast and vegetables to a serving platter, tenting loosely with foil.
  18. Skim excess fat from the braising liquid and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
  19. Slice the roast against the grain into ½-inch thick pieces.
  20. Serve the sliced roast and vegetables with the reduced braising liquid spooned over top.

Rich, fork-tender beef practically melts apart, while the root vegetables soak up that malty beer essence beautifully. I love shredding any leftovers into the remaining sauce for incredible next-day sandwiches that taste even better than the original meal.

Crock Pot Italian Pot Roast

Crock Pot Italian Pot Roast
Growing up in an Italian-American household, I learned early that the best meals are the ones that practically cook themselves while filling your home with incredible aromas. This Crock Pot Italian Pot Roast has been my go-to comfort food for busy weeks—it reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where patience and simplicity always paid off.

Ingredients

– Chuck roast – 3 lbs
– Olive oil – 2 tbsp
– Onion – 1 large, chopped
– Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
– Canned crushed tomatoes – 28 oz
– Dried oregano – 1 tsp
– Salt – 1 tsp
– Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Pat the chuck roast completely dry with paper towels on all sides.
2. Season all sides of the roast evenly with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper.
3. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
4. Sear the roast for 4–5 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms.
5. Transfer the seared roast to the Crock Pot insert.
6. Add 1 chopped onion and 4 minced garlic cloves to the same skillet.
7. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
8. Pour the onion and garlic mixture over the roast in the Crock Pot.
9. Add 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes and 1 tsp dried oregano directly over the roast.
10. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours until the meat shreds easily with a fork.
11. Remove the roast to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes before shredding.
12. Skim excess fat from the sauce in the Crock Pot using a spoon.
13. Return the shredded meat to the sauce and stir to combine.
14. Serve immediately over polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. The roast becomes incredibly tender, soaking up the rich tomato and herb flavors. Try piling it into hoagie rolls for a next-day sandwich that’s even better than the first serving.

Slow Cooker Ranch Pot Roast

Slow Cooker Ranch Pot Roast
Very few things make me feel more accomplished than walking into my kitchen after a busy day and being greeted by the incredible aroma of a perfectly cooked pot roast. I started making this slow cooker version years ago when my kids’ soccer schedules got crazy, and it quickly became our family’s favorite comfort meal. There’s just something magical about how the ranch seasoning transforms this humble cut of beef into something truly special.

Ingredients

Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
Ranch seasoning mix – 1 oz packet
Cream of mushroom soup – 10.5 oz can
Beef broth – 1 cup
Baby carrots – 2 cups
Yellow potatoes – 1.5 lbs
Salt – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Pat the 3 lb beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels on all sides. 2. Rub the entire surface of the roast with 1 tsp salt, making sure to cover all areas evenly. 3. Sprinkle the entire 1 oz packet of ranch seasoning mix over the salted roast, pressing gently to help it adhere. 4. Place the seasoned roast directly into your slow cooker insert. 5. Pour 1 cup beef broth around the roast, being careful not to wash off the seasoning. 6. Spoon the entire 10.5 oz can of cream of mushroom soup over the top of the roast. 7. Arrange 2 cups baby carrots around the edges of the roast in the slow cooker. 8. Cut 1.5 lbs yellow potatoes into 2-inch chunks and add them to the slow cooker. 9. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on LOW heat for 8 hours. 10. Check that the internal temperature of the roast reaches 195°F using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part. 11. Carefully transfer the roast to a cutting board and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. 12. Use a slotted spoon to remove the carrots and potatoes, arranging them on a serving platter. 13. Pour the remaining cooking liquid into a fat separator or skim off excess fat with a spoon. 14. Serve the sliced roast with vegetables and drizzle with the reserved cooking liquid as gravy. What I love most about this finished dish is how the beef becomes incredibly tender and shreds easily with just a fork, while the potatoes soak up all that rich, creamy ranch flavor. The carrots maintain just enough bite to provide a nice textural contrast to the melt-in-your-mouth meat. We often serve it over mashed cauliflower for a low-carb option, or pile it high on crusty rolls for the most amazing roast beef sandwiches the next day.

Spicy Chipotle Pot Roast

Spicy Chipotle Pot Roast
Getting cozy with a hearty pot roast has always been my go-to comfort food, especially when the weather turns chilly. I recently discovered that adding chipotle peppers transforms this classic into something truly special with just the right amount of smoky heat. Trust me, once you try this spicy twist, you’ll never go back to plain pot roast again.

Ingredients

Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Yellow onion – 1 large, chopped
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Chipotle peppers in adobo – 2 peppers, minced
Beef broth – 2 cups
Salt – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Pat the beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels.
3. Season all sides of the roast evenly with salt and black pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5. Sear the roast for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply browned.
6. Transfer the seared roast to a clean plate.
7. Add chopped yellow onion to the same pot and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
8. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
9. Stir in minced chipotle peppers and cook for 30 seconds to release their flavor.
10. Pour in beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift all the browned bits.
11. Return the seared roast to the pot, nestling it into the liquid.
12. Cover the Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
13. Braise for 3 hours until the meat is fork-tender and easily shreds.
14. Remove the pot from the oven and let the roast rest in the liquid for 15 minutes before serving. For perfectly tender meat, don’t skip the resting time—it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the roast. When searing, make sure your oil is hot enough that it sizzles immediately when the meat touches it for that beautiful crust. Always scrape up those browned bits from the bottom of the pot—they’re packed with flavor that makes the sauce incredible.
Finally, this spicy chipotle pot roast falls apart with just a gentle tug of your fork, revealing moist, deeply flavored meat. The chipotle adds a smoky warmth that builds gradually without overwhelming the dish. I love serving it over creamy polenta or stuffing it into warm tortillas with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a completely different meal experience.

Pot Roast with Creamy Mushroom Gravy

Pot Roast with Creamy Mushroom Gravy
Venturing into comfort food season always brings me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the scent of slow-cooked pot roast would fill the entire house—I still make it every Sunday to keep that tradition alive, and this creamy mushroom version has become my family’s new favorite.

Ingredients

Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
Salt – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp
Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp
Yellow onion – 1 large, chopped
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Cremini mushrooms – 8 oz, sliced
Beef broth – 2 cups
Heavy cream – ½ cup
All-purpose flour – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Pat the beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels.
3. Season all sides of the roast evenly with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper.
4. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5. Sear the roast for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply browned, developing a flavorful crust.
6. Transfer the seared roast to a clean plate, leaving drippings in the pot.
7. Add the chopped onion to the hot drippings and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
8. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
9. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until they release their liquid and begin to brown.
10. Sprinkle 2 tbsp flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
11. Gradually pour in 2 cups beef broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
12. Return the seared roast to the pot, nestling it into the mushroom gravy.
13. Cover the Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
14. Braise for 3 hours until the meat is fork-tender and easily shreds.
15. Remove the pot from the oven and transfer the roast to a cutting board.
16. Stir ½ cup heavy cream into the mushroom gravy until fully incorporated.
17. Simmer the gravy over medium heat for 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
18. Slice the roast against the grain into ½-inch thick pieces.
19. Arrange the sliced meat on a serving platter and ladle the creamy mushroom gravy over top.

Every bite melts in your mouth with the rich, earthy mushroom gravy complementing the tender beef perfectly—I love serving this over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce, and it makes incredible next-day sandwiches too.

Honey Garlic Pot Roast with Carrots

Honey Garlic Pot Roast with Carrots

Having spent years perfecting Sunday dinners for my family, I can confidently say this honey garlic pot roast has become our absolute favorite comfort meal. Honestly, there’s something magical about how the sweet honey and savory garlic transform an ordinary chuck roast into something extraordinary.

Ingredients

  • Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
  • Olive oil – 2 tbsp
  • Garlic – 6 cloves
  • Honey – ¼ cup
  • Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
  • Beef broth – 1 cup
  • Carrots – 1 lb
  • Salt – 1 tsp
  • Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

  1. Pat the beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Season all sides of the roast evenly with salt and black pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Sear the roast for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply browned, creating a flavorful crust.
  5. Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Whisk together honey, soy sauce, and beef broth in a small bowl.
  7. Pour the liquid mixture around the roast, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  8. Arrange peeled and chopped carrots around the roast in the Dutch oven.
  9. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then immediately reduce heat to low.
  10. Cover the Dutch oven tightly and cook for 3 hours at 300°F until the meat is fork-tender.
  11. Remove the roast and carrots from the pot, letting the meat rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

When you slice into this roast, the meat should practically fall apart with just a gentle tug of your fork. The carrots soak up all that incredible honey garlic sauce, becoming sweet and tender while the roast develops the most amazing melt-in-your-mouth texture. We love serving this over mashed potatoes to soak up every last drop of that rich, savory-sweet sauce.

Slow Cooker Guinness Pot Roast

Slow Cooker Guinness Pot Roast
This cozy slow cooker pot roast has become my go-to Sunday dinner, especially during football season when I want something hearty waiting after the game. There’s something magical about how the Guinness tenderizes the beef while adding this incredible depth of flavor that makes the whole house smell amazing.

Ingredients

Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
Flour – ¼ cup
Salt – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp
Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp
Yellow onion – 1 large
Carrots – 4 medium
Potatoes – 2 lbs
Guinness beer – 12 oz
Beef broth – 1 cup

Instructions

1. Pat the 3 lb beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels.
2. Combine ¼ cup flour, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper in a shallow bowl.
3. Dredge the entire roast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
4. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5. Sear the roast for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply browned, creating a flavorful crust.
6. While the roast sears, chop 1 large yellow onion into 1-inch pieces.
7. Peel and chop 4 medium carrots into 2-inch chunks.
8. Cut 2 lbs potatoes into 2-inch cubes, leaving the skins on for better texture.
9. Transfer the seared roast to your slow cooker.
10. Arrange the chopped onion, carrots, and potatoes around the roast.
11. Pour 12 oz Guinness beer and 1 cup beef broth over everything.
12. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours until the beef shreds easily with a fork.
13. Carefully remove the roast and vegetables to a serving platter using a slotted spoon.
14. For thicker gravy, whisk 2 tbsp of the cooking liquid with 1 tbsp flour until smooth, then stir back into the remaining liquid.

Keep this incredible pot roast in mind for your next gathering—the beef becomes so tender it practically melts, while the Guinness adds this rich, slightly bitter note that balances the sweet carrots and potatoes perfectly. I love serving it over creamy mashed potatoes or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that amazing gravy.

Herbed Pot Roast with Thyme and Rosemary

Herbed Pot Roast with Thyme and Rosemary

My grandmother’s herbed pot roast was the star of every Sunday dinner, filling the house with the cozy scent of thyme and rosemary that still takes me right back to her kitchen. I’ve tweaked her recipe over the years, but that comforting, slow-cooked flavor remains the heart of it—perfect for chilly evenings when you want a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients

  • Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
  • Olive oil – 2 tbsp
  • Yellow onion – 1 large, chopped
  • Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
  • Beef broth – 2 cups
  • Fresh thyme – 2 tbsp
  • Fresh rosemary – 1 tbsp
  • Salt – 1 tsp
  • Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
  2. Pat the beef chuck roast dry with paper towels to help it brown evenly.
  3. Season the roast on all sides with salt and black pepper.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  5. Sear the roast for 4–5 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms.
  6. Transfer the roast to a plate and reduce the heat to medium.
  7. Add the chopped yellow onion to the pot and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
  8. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  9. Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits for extra flavor.
  10. Return the roast to the pot and sprinkle fresh thyme and rosemary over the top.
  11. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
  12. Braise for 3 hours until the meat is fork-tender and easily shreds.
  13. Remove the pot from the oven and let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Perfectly tender and infused with aromatic herbs, this roast pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the rich, savory juices. Leftovers make incredible sandwiches the next day—just shred the meat and pile it high on a roll.

Pot Roast with Cranberry Sauce

Pot Roast with Cranberry Sauce
Winters in our house mean one thing: the incredible aroma of pot roast filling every corner. I first discovered this cranberry twist when I ran out of red wine for my usual recipe and grabbed cranberry juice instead—now it’s become our family’s most requested cold-weather comfort food.

Ingredients

Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
Salt – 1 tbsp
Black pepper – 2 tsp
Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp
Yellow onion – 1 large
Carrots – 4 medium
Cranberry juice – 2 cups
Beef broth – 1 cup
Fresh cranberries – 1 cup
Brown sugar – ¼ cup

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Pat the beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels.
3. Rub the salt and black pepper evenly over all surfaces of the roast.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5. Sear the roast for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply browned.
6. Transfer the seared roast to a plate.
7. Chop the yellow onion into 1-inch pieces.
8. Peel and slice the carrots into 2-inch chunks.
9. Add the onion and carrots to the Dutch oven.
10. Cook the vegetables for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
11. Pour in the cranberry juice and beef broth.
12. Return the seared roast to the Dutch oven.
13. Cover the Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid.
14. Place the covered Dutch oven in the preheated oven.
15. Roast for 3 hours without opening the lid.
16. Remove the Dutch oven from the oven.
17. Transfer the roast to a cutting board.
18. Stir the fresh cranberries and brown sugar into the cooking liquid.
19. Simmer the sauce over medium heat for 10 minutes until cranberries burst.
20. Slice the roast against the grain into ½-inch thick pieces.

So the meat practically melts at the touch of your fork, while the cranberry sauce provides this incredible sweet-tart balance that cuts through the richness. I love serving this over creamy mashed potatoes, letting the vibrant sauce create beautiful pink swirls throughout the plate.

Slow Cooker Coffee-Rubbed Pot Roast

Slow Cooker Coffee-Rubbed Pot Roast
There’s something magical about coming home to a house filled with the rich aroma of coffee and spices after a long day—it’s my ultimate comfort food hack. This slow cooker coffee-rubbed pot roast has become my go-to Sunday meal prep that makes weekday dinners feel special without any fuss.

Ingredients

Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
Ground coffee – 2 tbsp
Brown sugar – 1 tbsp
Garlic powder – 1 tsp
Onion powder – 1 tsp
Salt – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp
Beef broth – 1 cup
Carrots – 4 medium
Potatoes – 4 medium

Instructions

1. Pat the beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels on all sides.
2. Combine ground coffee, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
3. Rub the coffee spice mixture evenly over all surfaces of the beef roast.
4. Place the seasoned beef roast in the slow cooker insert.
5. Peel and chop carrots into 2-inch pieces.
6. Peel and chop potatoes into 2-inch chunks.
7. Arrange carrots and potatoes around the beef roast in the slow cooker.
8. Pour beef broth evenly over the vegetables and roast.
9. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
10. Cook on LOW heat setting for 8 hours.
11. Check the internal temperature of the roast with a meat thermometer—it should read 195°F for perfect tenderness.
12. Remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest on a cutting board for 15 minutes.
13. Slice the roast against the grain into ½-inch thick pieces.
14. Serve the sliced roast with the cooked vegetables and cooking liquid.

My favorite part is how the coffee rub creates this incredible crust that gives way to melt-in-your-mouth tender beef. The deep, earthy flavors pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or tucked into warm tortillas for next-day beef tacos—trust me, you’ll want to make extra for leftovers!

Asian-Inspired Soy Ginger Pot Roast

Asian-Inspired Soy Ginger Pot Roast

During my college years, my roommate’s Korean grandmother taught me that the secret to tender meat isn’t fancy techniques—it’s patience and soy sauce. I’ve been perfecting this Asian-inspired pot roast ever since, and it’s become my go-to Sunday comfort food that fills the house with the most incredible aroma.

Ingredients

  • Beef chuck roast – 3 lbs
  • Soy sauce – ½ cup
  • Fresh ginger – 2 tbsp grated
  • Garlic – 4 cloves minced
  • Brown sugar – ¼ cup
  • Beef broth – 1 cup
  • Carrots – 4 large chopped
  • Onion – 1 large sliced

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
  2. Pat the beef chuck roast completely dry with paper towels—this helps with browning.
  3. Season all sides of the roast generously with salt and pepper.
  4. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat for 2 minutes until hot.
  5. Sear the roast for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply browned.
  6. Remove the roast from the pot and set aside on a plate.
  7. Add sliced onion to the same pot and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
  8. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  9. Pour in soy sauce, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom—those flavor bits are gold!
  10. Stir in brown sugar until dissolved.
  11. Return the seared roast to the pot.
  12. Add chopped carrots around the roast.
  13. Pour beef broth over everything until the liquid comes halfway up the roast.
  14. Cover the pot tightly with a lid.
  15. Transfer to the preheated oven and braise for 3 hours.
  16. Check for doneness—the meat should pull apart easily with two forks.
  17. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Velvety tender meat practically melts against the sweet-savory soy ginger sauce, while the carrots soak up all that incredible flavor. I love serving this over jasmine rice to catch every drop of the rich cooking liquid, or shredding the leftovers for amazing Asian-style beef sandwiches the next day.

Summary

These 18 hearty pot roast recipes prove your slow cooker can create incredible comfort food with minimal effort. Whether you prefer classic flavors or creative twists, there’s a perfect pot roast waiting for your family table. Try one this week and let us know which recipe becomes your new favorite in the comments below! Don’t forget to share these delicious ideas with fellow home cooks on Pinterest.

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