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Classic Slow Cooker Pot Roast: A Comfort Food Favorite for Cozy Evenings

A heartwarming classic, this slow cooker pot roast is the perfect comfort food for chilly days or family dinners. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it’s a one-pot meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4 pounds chuck roast

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

  • 3 to 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into large pieces

  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups beef broth

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

  • 2 bay leaves

  • Optional: 1/2 cup red wine

  • Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

  • Optional: 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)

Instructions

  • Pat the chuck roast dry and season it with salt and pepper.

  • In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.

  • Place the carrots, potatoes, and onions in the bottom of a slow cooker.

  • In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, garlic, red wine (if using), and balsamic vinegar (if using).

  • Pour the liquid mixture over the vegetables in the slow cooker.

  • Place the seared roast on top and add the bay leaves.

  • Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shredded.

  • For a thicker gravy, remove the roast and vegetables, then transfer the liquid to a saucepan. Whisk in a slurry of flour and water, bring to a boil, and simmer until thickened.

  • Serve roast with vegetables and drizzle with the thickened gravy if desired.

Notes

  • Searing the meat is optional but adds extra flavor.

  • Use large vegetable chunks to prevent them from getting mushy.

  • Substitute cornstarch for flour to make it gluten-free.

  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.