This Slow Cooker Pot Roast is a cozy dish with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions all cooked slowly in flavorful broth. It’s perfect for a comforting meal with little effort.
I like how I can set it in the morning and come home to a delicious smell. My dog thinks I made a special treat for her too!
For easier serving, I break apart the beef with a fork and add a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s simple and makes dinner feel special without much work.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it becomes tender and flavorful. I suggest choosing a well-marbled roast for juiciness. If unavailable, brisket or round can work, but cook longer to tenderize.
Onions and Garlic: These aromatics add depth. Use fresh onions and garlic for the best flavor. If in a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder can substitute, but fresh ingredients give a brighter taste.
Carrots & Potatoes: They add sweetness and texture. Feel free to swap in parsnips or turnips if you want a twist; just cut them into chunks so they cook evenly.
Beef Broth & Worcestershire Sauce: This combo creates the flavorful gravy. Use low-sodium broth to control salt. For a similar taste, soy sauce mixed with a bit of balsamic can stand in, but keep salt in check.
How do I sear the beef without it drying out?
Searing adds flavor but can dry out meat if done wrong. I suggest patting the beef dry first to prevent steaming. Use a hot skillet with oil, then sear each side for 3-4 minutes until browned. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.
- Ensure the skillet is very hot before adding the beef.
- Pat the meat dry with paper towels to get a good sear.
- Don’t move the meat around too much; let it form a crust.
- Sear each side until deep brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pot Roast?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roast
- 3 to 4-pound beef chuck roast
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Vegetables
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
For the Sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 15 minutes. Cooking: 8 hours. Resting: 10 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Roast
Season the beef with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 4 minutes per side.
2. Add Vegetables
Place carrots, celery, and onion in the slow cooker. Then, add the seared roast on top of the vegetables.
3. Mix the Sauce
Combine beef broth, garlic, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Pour over the roast and vegetables in the slow cooker.
4. Cook the Roast
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender and easily pulls apart.
5. Rest and Serve
Remove the roast from the slow cooker. Let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice and serve with vegetables and gravy.
