Nothing quite says home-cooked comfort like a rich, flavorful Old-School Pot Roast. This timeless dish combines tender, slow-cooked beef with hearty vegetables and a savory, velvety gravy. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, Sunday meal, or even a special gathering, this recipe guarantees a melt-in-your-mouth roast with very little effort. It's a true testament to the magic of slow cooking.
With simple ingredients and an easy process, this recipe stands out for its bold flavor and fork-tender texture. Follow along for step-by-step instructions, tips, and serving suggestions to perfect your next pot roast.
Ingredients for Old-School Pot Roast
Here’s what you need for this irresistible pot roast and why each ingredient matters:
- 2 pounds chuck roast – This cut is perfect for slow cooking because of its marbling. The fat slowly breaks down, creating an ultra-tender and flavorful roast.
- 2 cloves garlic – Adds aromatic depth to the dish. You can mince or leave them whole for a subtle infusion.
- 8 oz baby carrots – Sweet and tender, these complement the savory flavors of the roast.
- 16 oz gold potatoes (halved or quartered if large) – Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape beautifully during slow cooking and soak up all the delicious gravy.
- 1/2 cup red wine – Elevates the flavor profile with a rich, robust depth. If preferred, you can substitute with extra beef broth.
- 1 tablespoon herb and garlic seasoning – A blend of herbs and garlic brings a well-rounded, savory flavor to the roast.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter – Used for browning the roast, this combination adds a golden sear and enhances flavor.
- 1/2 sweet yellow onion – Provides a subtle sweetness to balance the savory components.
- 3 cups beef broth – Forms the flavorful base for the cooking liquid and gravy.
- 1/4 cup tapioca pearls – These help naturally thicken the gravy as the roast cooks. Tapioca pearls are a traditional choice for pot roast.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch – Used for making a slurry to thicken the gravy further to perfection.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Adds a rich, umami flavor to deepen the savory notes of the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Gravy
1. Season the Chuck Roast
Generously coat the chuck roast with herb and garlic seasoning on all sides. This step ensures every bite is flavorful.
2. Brown the Roast
- Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat in a skillet or multi-cooker.
- Add the seasoned roast and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms. Browning is optional but highly recommended as it locks in flavor and gives the roast a deeper taste.
3. Transfer to the Slow Cooker
Place the browned roast into the slow cooker. Add the baby carrots, gold potatoes, and sliced onion around the meat for even cooking.
4. Prepare the Gravy Base
- In a medium bowl, create a slurry by whisking 1/4 cup cornstarch with 1/4 cup water until smooth.
- Combine the slurry with beef broth, red wine (or extra broth), tapioca pearls, and tomato paste. Whisk until fully incorporated.
5. Pour and Cook
- Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the roast and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours until the roast is fork-tender. Avoid cooking on high, as it may make the meat tougher.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: With a slow cooker doing most of the work, you’ll enjoy a stress-free, hands-off cooking process.
- Tender, Juicy Beef: The chuck roast turns incredibly soft and succulent after hours of slow cooking.
- One-Pot Meal: Veggies and meat cook together, making this an easy, hearty dish.
- Rich, Thick Gravy: Thanks to the cornstarch slurry and tapioca pearls, the gravy is perfectly thickened and flavorful.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pot Roast
- Searing the Roast: While optional, browning the meat first enhances the flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step if you want the most flavor.
- Low and Slow: Always cook on LOW heat for best results. High heat can dry out or toughen the meat.
- Tapioca Pearls: These traditional pearls not only thicken the sauce but add a slightly silky texture to the gravy. If unavailable, you can omit them.
- Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with additional beef broth. The dish will still turn out flavorful.
- Test for Tenderness: Check the roast around the 8-hour mark. If the meat easily shreds with a fork, it’s ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
This Old-School Pot Roast pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
- Freshly Baked Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes – If you prefer more potatoes, serve the roast with a creamy mash.
- Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus – Add a fresh, vibrant vegetable side to balance the richness.
- Garden Salad – A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
For a cozy winter meal, pair this dish with a glass of red wine or a warm cup of apple cider.
Conclusion: The Perfect Old-School Pot Roast
This Old-School Pot Roast is everything a comfort food lover could ask for – tender, juicy beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a rich, flavorful gravy. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, it’s a dish that’s timeless, irresistible, and perfect for busy days when you want a hearty, satisfying meal.
Make this recipe once, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether for a weekend dinner, holiday gathering, or just a comforting meal at home, this classic pot roast will bring warmth and joy to your table. Don’t miss out – save this recipe and make it a staple in your kitchen!
Enjoy your perfect pot roast, and happy cooking! 😊