Classic Pot Roast with Easy Vegetables

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Classic Pot Roast with Easy Vegetables: A Comfort Food Favorite

Is there anything more satisfying than a perfectly cooked pot roast? This Classic Pot Roast with Easy Vegetables delivers tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory gravy that warms the soul. Perfect for Sunday dinners or special occasions, this recipe is a timeless favorite in households everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Flavorful: Infused with herbs, garlic, and wine (optional), this dish has layers of deliciousness.
  • Hearty Comfort Food: A complete meal of tender beef and perfectly cooked vegetables.
  • Easy to Make: Whether in a slow cooker, Dutch oven, or oven, it’s mostly hands-off cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Roast:

  • 1 boneless beef chuck roast (3-4 pounds): Well-marbled for the most tender results.
  • Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing.

For the Aromatics and Gravy:

  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth: For depth of flavor.
  • 1 cup red wine (optional): Adds a luxurious richness. Substitute with more broth if preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Enhances the sauce’s umami.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory tang.
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 2 bay leaves

For the Vegetables:

  • 4-5 medium carrots: Peeled and cut into chunks.
  • 4-5 medium potatoes: Peeled and cut into chunks.
  • 2-3 celery stalks: Cut into chunks.

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare and Sear the Roast

  • Pat the chuck roast dry and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
  • Transfer the roast to a slow cooker or Dutch oven.

2. Cook the Aromatics

  • In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until softened and fragrant.
  • Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to develop its flavor.
  • Deglaze the skillet with beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping up browned bits for extra flavor.
  • Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary, then pour this mixture over the roast.

3. Add the Vegetables

  • Arrange the carrots, potatoes, and celery around the roast in the slow cooker or Dutch oven.
  • Add bay leaves for an aromatic touch.

4. Cook the Pot Roast

For a Slow Cooker:

  • Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart.

For the Oven:

  • Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
  • Cover the Dutch oven and bake for 3-4 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.

5. Serve

  • Remove the bay leaves and discard.
  • Shred the roast, if desired, or serve in slices.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve with the vegetables and gravy spooned over the top. Enjoy warm!

Tips for Success

  1. Brown the Meat: Don’t skip searing the roast; it adds a deep, caramelized flavor to the dish.
  2. Control the Liquid: For a thicker gravy, reduce the amount of broth slightly or add a cornstarch slurry at the end.
  3. Customize the Vegetables: Add parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms for variety.
  4. Don’t Rush It: Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become fall-apart tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes! Brisket or round roast can work, though chuck roast remains the best option for tenderness.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen after resting. Reheat in the oven or stovetop with some broth to keep it moist.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze the shredded meat and vegetables with gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Conclusion

This Classic Pot Roast with Easy Vegetables is a recipe you’ll come back to time and again. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful gravy, it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Try It Today!

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