This Slow Cooker Pot Roast is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a hearty dinner with minimal effort. With tender beef, aromatic herbs, and a rich, flavorful gravy, this dish is ideal for slow-cooked perfection. Whether you serve it with potatoes, carrots, or a simple side salad, this meal will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 (4-pound) beef roast (such as chuck, eye of round, etc.)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 onion, sliced (adds sweetness and depth)
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped (for a bold, aromatic flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 tablespoon dried rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 cup beef broth (adds moisture and flavor)
- 2 tablespoons flour (or rice flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a slight tang)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for umami flavor)
- 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Season the Roast
Begin by seasoning the 4-pound beef roast generously with salt and pepper to taste. This helps build the foundational flavor of the roast.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned roast in the slow cooker. Top the roast with sliced onion, chopped garlic, 1 tablespoon of rosemary, and 1 teaspoon of thyme. Pour in the 1 cup of beef broth, which will help keep the meat moist and flavorful as it slow-cooks.
Step 3: Cook the Roast
Cover the slow cooker and cook the roast on low for 8-10 hours, depending on your preferred texture:
- For a roast that is more sliceable, cook for 7-8 hours.
- For a roast that is fall-apart tender, cook for 9-10 hours.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
Once the roast is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and set it aside. Skim 4 tablespoons of fat from the juices in the slow cooker and transfer it to a saucepan over medium heat.
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour into the fat and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden brown. Slowly add the remaining liquid from the slow cooker, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
For added flavor, stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional), 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 2 teaspoons of coarsely ground black pepper. Simmer the gravy for another 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to your liking. Adjust the seasoning with salt to taste.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Slice the beef roast and serve it with the rich, flavorful gravy poured over the top.
Optional Additions and Tips:
- Brown the Beef: For even more flavor, brown the roast on all sides in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Saute the Onions and Garlic: For deeper flavor, sauté the onions and garlic in a little butter or oil before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Vegetable Options: Add 2 pounds of cubed potatoes and 2 pounds of sliced carrots to the slow cooker for a complete one-pot meal.
- Soy or Fish Sauce: For an extra depth of flavor, add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or fish sauce to the gravy.
- Slicing vs. Shredding: If you prefer a roast that’s more sliceable, cook for 7-8 hours. For a roast that’s fall-apart tender, aim for 9-10 hours.
Serving Suggestions:
This Slow Cooker Pot Roast pairs perfectly with:
- Mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the rich gravy.
- A side of steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli.
- Crusty bread to complement the savory flavors.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
Storing and Reheating:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth if needed to keep the roast moist.
- Freeze: Freeze any leftover roast and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
This Slow Cooker Pot Roast is a tender, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With minimal prep and a long, slow cooking process, you’ll end up with a hearty, comforting dish that’s full of flavor. Enjoy!