Crock Pot Roast Recipe (with Gravy!)A Quick and Easy Recipe
There's nothing quite like a hearty, tender pot roast to bring warmth and comfort to your table. A Crock Pot roast, slow-cooked to perfection, is a culinary masterpiece that’s surprisingly easy to make.
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This recipe features melt-in-your-mouth beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, savory gravy that’s made right in the slow cooker. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a cozy weeknight meal, this Crock Pot roast is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive in!
Why Make Crock Pot Roast?
Effortless Cooking: With minimal prep and a set-it-and-forget-it approach, a Crock Pot roast is ideal for busy schedules.
Full of Flavor: Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together, creating a deeply satisfying meal.
Perfect for Leftovers: It’s just as delicious the next day and can be repurposed into sandwiches, stews, or shepherd’s pie.
Budget-Friendly: Uses a relatively inexpensive cut of meat that transforms into a tender delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Roast:
3-4 lbs chuck roast
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 cup beef broth (or water with bouillon)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
3-4 medium carrots, cut into chunks
3 medium potatoes, quartered
1 medium onion, cut into wedges
2-3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
1 bay leaf
For the Gravy:
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp cold water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Meat:
Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). This step locks in the flavor and adds depth to the dish.
2. Assemble the Crock Pot:
Place the carrots, potatoes, and onions at the bottom of the Crock Pot to create a bed for the roast.
Lay the seared chuck roast on top of the vegetables.
Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the roast. Add the thyme and bay leaf for extra flavor.
3. Cook Low and Slow:
Cover the Crock Pot and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-6 hours. The roast is done when it’s fork-tender and easily shreds.
4. Make the Gravy:
Remove the roast and vegetables from the Crock Pot and place them on a serving platter. Discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaf.
Strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Gradually stir the slurry into the simmering liquid, whisking constantly until the gravy thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve:
Slice or shred the roast and serve it with the vegetables, topped with the rich, homemade gravy.
Tips for Success
Choose the Right Cut: A chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling, which keeps the meat tender and juicy. Other great options include brisket or bottom round.
Searing is Key: Don’t skip searing the meat! It adds a layer of caramelized flavor that enhances the final dish.
Customize the Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms to make the dish your own.
Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid packing the Crock Pot too tightly to ensure even cooking.
Deglaze the Pan: After searing the roast, deglaze the skillet with a splash of beef broth or wine to scrape up any browned bits. Pour this liquid into the Crock Pot for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Recipe Without Searing the Roast?
Yes, you can skip searing, but it’s highly recommended for added depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, you can go straight to slow cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover roast, vegetables, and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months.
What If My Gravy is Too Thin?
If your gravy isn’t thick enough, add more cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp cold water) and simmer until it reaches the desired consistency.
Can I Use Frozen Meat?
It’s best to use thawed meat for even cooking. If you must use frozen, add an additional 1-2 hours to the cooking time and ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Add Red Wine?
Absolutely! Adding 1/2 cup of red wine to the broth enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
Perfect Pairings for Crock Pot Roast
Side Dishes: Pair with buttery mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Beverages: A robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a dark ale complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Dessert: End the meal with a classic apple pie or chocolate lava cake for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot roast with gravy is the epitome of comfort food. The slow cooking process ensures tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and a deliciously rich gravy that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Try it today and savor the joy of a warm, homemade meal!