There is nothing more comforting than a tender, flavorful pot roast paired with hearty vegetables. This classic dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply as a cozy meal on a chilly evening. The slow-cooked chuck roast becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the vegetables absorb the rich, savory juices. Whether prepared in the oven or a slow cooker, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 3.5 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs chuck roast
- 1 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into chunks
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs
- 2 bay leaves
instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). If using a slow cooker, set it to low.
2. Sear the Meat:
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the roast on all sides until browned (approximately 3-4 minutes per side). This step locks in the flavor. Once seared, remove the roast from the pot and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
- Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Combine Ingredients:
- Return the seared roast to the pot. Add the potatoes, carrots, beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. If using a slow cooker, transfer everything to the slow cooker at this stage.
6. Cook:
- Oven method: Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and place it in the preheated oven. Cook for 3-3.5 hours, or until the roast is fork-tender.
- Slow cooker method: Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
7. Check and Adjust:
- Halfway through cooking, check the roast and stir the vegetables. If necessary, add more broth to ensure the ingredients stay moist.
8. Serve:
- Remove the thyme, rosemary sprigs, and bay leaves before serving. Slice the roast against the grain for the most tender results. Serve with the vegetables and ladle some of the rich broth over the top.
Tips for Success
- Choose the right cut: Chuck roast is ideal for this dish because of its marbling and ability to become tender during slow cooking.
- Don’t skip the sear: Browning the meat before slow cooking adds a depth of flavor that’s worth the extra step.
- Customize the vegetables: Add parsnips, celery, or mushrooms for variety.
- Wine substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, replace it with an additional cup of beef broth.
This hearty pot roast with vegetables is a timeless recipe that brings people together around the dinner table. The tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs create a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re preparing this for a family gathering or as a comforting meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every bite of this classic comfort dish!