here is nothing quite like the aroma of a slow cooked pot roast filling your kitchen especially on a cold day This classic comfort food features melt in your mouth beef paired with tender flavorful vegetables in a rich savory broth
Ingredients
- Three pounds chuck roast
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Two tablespoons olive oil
- One large onion sliced
- Four cloves garlic minced
- Four large carrots cut into two inch pieces
- One pound baby potatoes halved
- Two cups beef broth
- One cup red wine optional for added depth
- Two tablespoons tomato paste
- One tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- One teaspoon dried thyme
- One teaspoon dried rosemary
- Two bay leaves
- Two tablespoons cornstarch optional for thickening
- Two tablespoons water optional for thickening
Step by Step Instructions
Step One Prepare the Roast
Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides
Step Two Sear the Meat Optional but Recommended
In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium high heat Sear the roast for three to four minutes per side until browned This step helps lock in juices and enhances flavor
Step Three Layer the Vegetables
Place the sliced onions carrots and potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker
Step Four Add the Roast and Flavors
Place the seared roast on top of the vegetables
Add minced garlic beef broth red wine if using tomato paste Worcestershire sauce thyme rosemary and bay leaves to the slow cooker
Step Five Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for eight to ten hours or on high for four to five hours until the roast is fork tender and the vegetables are soft
Step Six Optional Gravy For a Thicker Sauce
Once the roast is done remove the beef and vegetables to a serving platter Cover with foil to keep warm
In a small bowl mix two tablespoons cornstarch with two tablespoons water to create a slurry
Pour the liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan Bring to a boil then stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for two to three minutes until thickened
Step Seven Serve
Slice the roast and serve with the vegetables Drizzle with thickened gravy if desired
Pro Tips for the Best Pot Roast
- Searing the meat before slow cooking adds depth of flavor
- Use low sodium beef broth to control salt levels
- For extra richness add a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving
- Leftovers taste even better the next day Store in an airtight container for up to three days
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce
- Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal
- Enjoy with buttery mashed potatoes for extra comfort