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Slow Cooker Pot Roast Recipe

Tender, flavorful slow cooker pot roast with vegetables and a rich gravy—an effortless one-pot meal perfect for cozy dinners.

Equipment

  • Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
  • Large skillet (optional, for searing)
  • Tongs
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 3-4 lbs chuck roast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing, optional
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 4 large carrots peeled and cut into chunks
  • 3-4 potatoes peeled and quartered
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1/4 cup red wine optional
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch for gravy
  • 2 tablespoons water for gravy

Instructions
 

  • Prep the Roast:
  • Season the chuck roast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary.
  • Sear the Roast (Optional):
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side). This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
  • Layer the Ingredients:
  • Place the chopped onion and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the carrots and potatoes around the edges. Place the seasoned roast in the center.
  • Make the Sauce:
  • In a small bowl, mix the beef broth, red wine (if using), and tomato paste. Pour the mixture over the roast and vegetables.
  • Cook:
  • Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the roast is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
  • Make the Gravy:
  • Once the roast is done, remove it and the vegetables from the slow cooker. Skim any fat from the liquid. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water into a slurry. Stir the slurry into the liquid in the slow cooker and cook on high for 5-10 minutes until the gravy thickens.
  • Serve:
  • Slice or shred the pot roast and serve with the vegetables, drizzling the gravy over the top.