Slow Cooker Pot Roast

INTRODUCTION

Slow Cooker Pot Roast is one of those cozy meals that warms your heart and soul. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a quiet evening at home. The pot roast cooks low and slow in the slow cooker, making the beef tender and full of flavor. The mix of vegetables and herbs makes it not just a meal, but a complete experience. The best part is that you can prepare it in no time, and let the slow cooker do the hard work for you.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this Slow Cooker Pot Roast for many reasons. First, it’s extremely easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special. Second, the slow cooking process allows the flavors to blend wonderfully, resulting in a rich and savory dish. Third, using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it. This gives you the freedom to go about your day while your dinner cooks. Finally, everyone loves a classic pot roast, and this recipe is sure to impress family and friends.

HOW TO MAKE Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Making Slow Cooker Pot Roast is very simple. Just follow these easy steps to create a delicious meal.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make this delightful Slow Cooker Pot Roast, you will need:

• A large pot for browning the roast
• A slow cooker
• A fine mesh strainer (optional, for gravy)
• A small saucepan for heating gravy
• Cooking utensils like spatulas and tongs

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 (3 lb) chuck roast
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 medium yellow onion, peeled, halved, and cut into thick slices
• 5 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 1/2 Tbsp)
• 1 1/4 cups beef broth
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh thyme
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh rosemary
• 2.5 lbs small Yukon gold potatoes, left whole
• 5 medium carrots (about 1 lb), peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 1/2 Tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 Tbsp beef broth (optional, for thickening gravy)
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Heat Oil: Start by heating 1 Tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

2. Prepare the Roast: Dab the roast dry with paper towels. Season it all over with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

3. Sear the Roast: Sear the roast in the pot until it is nicely browned on both sides, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes for each side.

4. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Once browned, transfer the roast to the slow cooker.

5. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the remaining 1/2 Tbsp olive oil to the pot. Add the onion and sauté for 2 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.

6. Add to Slow Cooker: Pour the onion and garlic mixture over the roast in the slow cooker.

7. Deglaze the Pot: Return the pot to the heat. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 15 seconds, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

8. Layer Vegetables: Remove from heat and layer the potatoes and carrots over the onion layer in the slow cooker.

9. Pour Broth: Pour the beef broth mixture evenly over the top and season with more salt and pepper to taste.

10. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for about 8 to 9 hours until the roast and vegetables are tender.

11. Shred the Roast: Once done, remove the roast and vegetables. Shred the roast (discard any fat) and cut the potatoes if desired.

12. Make Gravy (Optional): If you want to thicken the broth and make a gravy, pour the broth from the slow cooker through a fine mesh strainer into a small saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat. Whisk the cornstarch with 3 Tbsp of beef broth, then pour it into the saucepan. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, and let it simmer for 30 to 60 seconds.

13. Serve: Plate the roast and vegetables, pour gravy over the top, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.

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HOW TO SERVE Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Serve your Slow Cooker Pot Roast hot, right from the slow cooker. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the flavorful gravy. You can also serve it with a fresh green salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal. Everyone at your table will look forward to enjoying this hearty dish.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Leftovers of Slow Cooker Pot Roast can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure the pot roast is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in a microwave.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

This pot roast goes well with a variety of sides. Some great serving suggestions include:

• Mashed potatoes for an extra creamy texture.
• Roasted vegetables for more flavor and color on the plate.
• A side of coleslaw for some crunch.
• Bread to soak up the gravy.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to customize your Slow Cooker Pot Roast. Here are some variations you can try:

• Different Cuts of Meat: Instead of chuck roast, you can use brisket or round roast.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to toss in celery, parsnips, or turnips for more flavor.
• Use Different Herbs: If you don’t have thyme or rosemary, you can use herbs like oregano or basil.
• Spicy Version: Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.

FAQs

1. Can I cook pot roast on high heat?

Yes, you can. If you choose to cook it on high, it will generally take about 4 to 5 hours instead of 8 to 9 hours.

2. What can I substitute for beef broth?

You can use vegetable broth or even chicken broth as a substitute if you prefer lighter flavors.

3. How do I know when the roast is done cooking?

The roast is done when it is fork-tender and easily shreds apart. Check around the 8-hour mark on low heat.

4. Can I add wine to the recipe?

Absolutely! Adding a cup of red wine to the broth can enhance the flavor of the pot roast.

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MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Slow Cooker Pot Roast

If you want to prepare your Slow Cooker Pot Roast in advance, you can do a few things:

• Prep Ingredients: You can chop and prep the vegetables the night before and store them in the fridge.
• Season the Roast: You can also season the roast and let it marinate in the fridge overnight for extra flavor.
• Assemble Ahead of Time: You can combine the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover it, and place it in the fridge. On the day you want to cook it, just take it out and set it on the counter for about 30 minutes before turning it on.

With these tips, you can enjoy a delicious Slow Cooker Pot Roast with minimal effort on the day you want to serve it! Enjoy your meal!

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