Fall-Apart Slow Cooker Pot Roast
When it comes to cozy comfort food, few meals compare to a hearty pot roast that melts in your mouth. Growing up, Sundays often meant the irresistible aroma of beef slowly simmering with carrots, onions, and potatoes until dinnertime. It’s the kind of meal that feeds the body and warms the soul.
This slow cooker version delivers all the classic flavors with very little effort. A simple chuck roast turns into tender, flavorful perfection, while the cooking juices transform into a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining, it’s comfort food made easy.
Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chuck roast (or beef shoulder) | 3–4 lb (1.4–1.8 kg) | Main protein |
| Vegetable or olive oil | 2 tbsp | For searing |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Seasoning |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Flavor |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp | Flavor |
| Thyme | 1 tsp dried or 2 sprigs fresh | Aromatic |
| Rosemary | 1 tsp dried or 2 sprigs fresh | Aromatic |
| Onion | 1 large, sliced | Sweetness |
| Carrots | 4, cut into large chunks | Classic pairing |
| Potatoes | 3–4 medium, cut into chunks | Hearty base |
| Beef broth | 3 cups | Liquid base |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tbsp | Depth of flavor |
| Tomato paste (optional) | 2 tbsp | Adds richness |
| Cornstarch | 2 tbsp | For gravy |
| Cold water | 2 tbsp | For slurry |
Instructions
1. Season and Sear (Optional but Recommended)
Pat the roast dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet and sear the beef until browned on all sides.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
Place carrots, potatoes, and sliced onion in the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Add Beef and Aromatics
Set the roast on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Add Liquids
Whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste (if using). Pour over the roast.
5. Slow Cook
Cover and cook on Low for 8–10 hours or High for 5–6 hours, until the beef is fall-apart tender.
6. Make the Gravy
Transfer the roast and vegetables to a platter. Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and bring to a simmer. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened.
7. Serve
Slice or shred the roast, spoon gravy over the top, and serve with the vegetables.
