There’s something timeless about a slow cooker pot roast with potatoes and carrots. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with a cozy aroma, brings everyone to the table, and reminds you that simple food can be deeply satisfying.
This recipe is a classic for a reason — it turns a humble beef chuck roast into a flavorful, fork-tender dinner with just a few basic ingredients. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t need fancy steps or rare spices, just slow cooking and patience.
I’ve been making this for years for Sunday dinners and family get-togethers. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect when you want something filling without spending all day in the kitchen. Just load up your slow cooker in the morning and come back to a meal that practically serves itself.
Whether it’s a weekend dinner, a holiday meal, or meal prep for the week, this slow cooker pot roast is a dish that never fails to please.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Pot Roast:
- 3–4 lbs beef chuck roast (boneless, well-marbled)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet dry onion soup mix (or 1 tablespoon homemade mix)
- 1 cup beef broth (or ½ cup broth + ½ cup water)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 carrots, peeled and cut into thick pieces
- 1 onion, sliced or quartered
- 2 celery stalks, cut into chunks
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
Optional Additions:
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste for a deeper flavor
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced, for a heartier dish
- ½ cup red wine instead of broth for a richer taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Roast
- Pat the beef roast dry and season it with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- This helps the seasoning stick and gives better browning.
2. Brown the Meat (Optional but Recommended)
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the roast for 3–4 minutes per side until nicely browned.
- Transfer it to your slow cooker.
3. Add Vegetables
- Place potatoes, carrots, onions, celery, and garlic around the roast.
- Sprinkle the onion soup mix over the top.
4. Add Liquid
- Pour beef broth (or red wine) around the sides of the meat.
- Add a bay leaf for flavor.
5. Cook
- On Low: 8–9 hours
- On High: 4–5 hours
- The roast is ready when it’s easy to pull apart with a fork.
6. Make Gravy (Optional)
- Remove the roast and vegetables and keep warm.
- Skim excess fat from the liquid.
- Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir into the slow cooker juices.
- Cook on high for 5–10 minutes until thickened.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Choose the right cut: A chuck roast with marbling gives the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t rush the cook time: Low and slow gives you that fall-apart tenderness.
- Layer wisely: Vegetables go on the bottom; meat goes on top to keep it juicy.
- Let it rest: After cooking, let the roast sit for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Use leftovers: Shred any leftover beef for sandwiches or stews the next day.
Variations
1. Traditional Sunday Roast
Stick to the basics — chuck roast, carrots, and potatoes — for a truly old-fashioned version that tastes like grandma’s kitchen.
2. Red Wine Pot Roast
Add ½ cup of dry red wine in place of broth for a richer flavor. It’s especially nice for holidays or dinner parties.
3. Vegetable-Packed Pot Roast
Add parsnips, mushrooms, or green beans to make it a one-pot meal with extra veggies.
4. Instant Pot Adaptation
If you’re short on time, see the FAQs below for Instant Pot cook times.
Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker pot roast is a full meal on its own, but you can make it even better by serving it with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles
- Steamed peas, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts
- Homemade dinner rolls or buttermilk biscuits to soak up the gravy
It’s perfect for:
- Sunday family dinners
- Comfort meals on cold evenings
- Meal prepping for easy lunches
Serve the roast family-style on a large platter with vegetables arranged around it and gravy drizzled on top.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze:
Freeze roast and gravy separately for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheat:
Warm in a covered pan over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Make Ahead:
You can assemble everything in the slow cooker insert the night before, refrigerate, and cook the next day. It’s a great time-saver for busy mornings.
Health & Nutrition Notes
- Calories: ~410 per serving
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 24g
Nutritional Highlights:
- Chuck roast is rich in iron and protein.
- Carrots and potatoes provide fiber and vitamins A and C.
- Using broth instead of gravy base reduces sodium.
FAQs
How to cook a pot roast in a slow cooker?
Cooking a pot roast in a slow cooker is one of the easiest ways to get tender, flavorful meat with minimal effort.
Start by seasoning your beef chuck roast with salt, pepper, and herbs. Brown it in a hot pan for a few minutes per side to seal in the flavor, then place it in your slow cooker with potatoes, carrots, onions, and broth.
Cook on Low for 8–9 hours or High for 4–5 hours, until the beef pulls apart easily with a fork. The slow, steady heat breaks down the fibers and creates a rich, homemade gravy right in the pot.
How to make pot roast in a slow cooker?
To make a classic pot roast in a slow cooker, you’ll need beef chuck roast, vegetables (like carrots and potatoes), and a flavorful liquid such as broth or red wine.
Layer the vegetables at the bottom, place the meat on top, and pour the broth around it. Add herbs like thyme and rosemary for aroma.
Cover and let it cook slowly — this gentle method gives you the traditional Sunday-style roast that’s soft, moist, and full of flavor.
You Might Also Enjoy
Try more family favorites from Flavors and Recipes:
- Instant Pot Chuck Roast Recipe, Ready in Under 90 Minutes
- Perfect Chuck Roast Recipe: Tender, Juicy, and Full of Flavor
Conclusion
A classic slow cooker pot roast is more than just a meal — it’s comfort, nostalgia, and home-cooked love in one dish. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dinner your family will look forward to every time.