Classic Crock Pot Beef Pot Roast

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🥩 Classic Crock Pot Beef Pot Roast

A Classic Crock Pot Beef Pot Roast is the ultimate comfort food—tender, slow-cooked beef infused with savory herbs, vegetables, and a rich, hearty gravy. This recipe is perfect for busy days, family dinners, or meal prep, delivering deep flavor with minimal effort.

📋 Recipe Overview

  • Cuisine: American

  • Method: Slow Cooker / Crock Pot

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 8–9 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)

  • Total Time: Up to 9 hours

🧾 Ingredients

For the Pot Roast

  • 3–4 lb chuck roast (best cut for slow cooking)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for depth)

Vegetables

  • 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

  • 4–5 medium potatoes, quartered

  • 1 large onion, sliced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs

  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)

  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)

  • 2 bay leaves

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Season the Beef:
    Pat the chuck roast dry. Season all sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

  2. Sear (Optional but Recommended):
    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. This adds rich flavor.

  3. Layer the Crock Pot:
    Place potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.

  4. Add the Roast:
    Place the seared beef on top of the vegetables.

  5. Add Liquid & Seasonings:
    Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Add herbs and bay leaves.

  6. Cook:

    • Low: 8–9 hours

    • High: 4–5 hours
      Cook until the beef is fork-tender.

  7. Serve:
    Remove bay leaves and herb stems. Slice or shred the beef and serve with vegetables and gravy.

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 6–8 people

💡 Notes

  • Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling, which becomes tender during slow cooking.

  • Avoid lifting the lid during cooking—it releases heat and extends cook time.

  • If gravy is too thin, thicken with a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).

🔥 Tips for Best Results

  • Searing the beef enhances flavor but can be skipped for convenience.

  • Cut vegetables into large chunks so they don’t overcook.

  • For extra richness, add ½ cup red wine with the broth.

  • Let the roast rest 10 minutes before slicing for juicier meat.

🧮 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 420–450 kcal

  • Protein: 38 g

  • Fat: 22 g

  • Carbohydrates: 20 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Sodium: 620 mg

(Values vary based on cut of beef and portion size.)

🌿 Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Supports muscle repair and satiety.

  • Iron-Rich: Helps maintain healthy blood cells.

  • Vegetables Provide Fiber: Aids digestion and fullness.

  • Slow Cooking Preserves Nutrients: Gentle heat retains minerals.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this without potatoes?
A: Yes, substitute with turnips, parsnips, or simply add more carrots.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Q: Why is my roast tough?
A: It likely needs more time. Tough cuts soften as collagen breaks down during longer cooking.

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes, brisket or bottom round works, but chuck roast gives the best texture.

Q: How do I make it gluten-free?
A: Ensure your Worcestershire sauce and broth are gluten-free.

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