Name: Ultimate Slow Cooker Pot Roast Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488105H11M48S
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4–5 lb chuck roast; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp coarse ground black pepper; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks; 2 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp cold water; Parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

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A tender, flavorful chuck roast slow-cooked with carrots, potatoes, and garlic in a rich beef broth, finished with a thick, savory gravy. This classic American comfort food is perfect for family dinners, offering a set-and-forget cooking method for stress-free meals.

Ultimate Slow Cooker Pot Roast Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly tender meat that falls apart with a fork.
One-pot cooking — meat, potatoes, and vegetables all cook together.
Minimal hands-on time thanks to the slow cooker.
Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
Classic flavors that appeal to all ages.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4–5 pound chuck roast
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water
Parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

directions

Season chuck roast with salt, pepper, and thyme. Adjust salt to taste if preferred.
Heat a pan or slow cooker insert over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil.
Brown roast for 4–5 minutes on each side until deeply caramelized.
Place carrots, potatoes, and garlic in the slow cooker.
Lay browned beef on top, pour in beef broth, and cover.
Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 5 hours.
In the last hour of cooking, mix cornstarch and cold water, then stir into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
- Alternatively, remove the meat and vegetables, transfer cooking liquid to a saucepan, add the slurry, and simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
Pour gravy over the roast, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 8 hours (low) or 5 hours (high)
Total time: 8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Add onions and celery for extra flavor.
Use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon Golds for a sweeter taste.
Swap beef broth with mushroom broth for a deeper umami flavor.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a covered dish in the oven at 160°C (325°F) or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for pot roast?

Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, cook in a covered Dutch oven at 160°C (325°F) for 3–4 hours until tender.

Do I need to brown the meat first?

Browning enhances flavor, but you can skip it if short on time.

Can I cook on high instead of low?

Yes, cook for about 5 hours on high.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

Simmer the cooking liquid with cornstarch slurry until it reaches the desired consistency.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, parsnips, turnips, or green beans work well.

Is it possible to overcook pot roast in a slow cooker?

Yes, but it’s forgiving. Cooking beyond 10 hours may cause the meat to become mushy.

Can I use frozen beef?

It’s not recommended; thaw fully before cooking for food safety.

What can I serve with pot roast?

It’s a full meal, but you can add bread, salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I prepare it the night before?

Yes, season and brown the meat, prep vegetables, and refrigerate. Start cooking the next day.

Conclusion

This Ultimate Slow Cooker Pot Roast is a hearty, family-friendly dish that delivers rich flavors and tender textures with minimal effort. Perfect for busy days or Sunday dinners, it combines juicy chuck roast, savory vegetables, and a silky gravy into one comforting meal. Serve hot and enjoy the taste of a classic home-cooked favorite.