This Slow Cooker Pot Roast is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Made with a tender chuck roast, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, this recipe avoids processed ingredients, delivering a wholesome, delicious dish every time. The slow-cooking process ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the savory gravy ties everything together beautifully.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Roast and Vegetables:

1 (8-ounce) can no-salt tomato sauce (or 1 cup fire-roasted crushed tomatoes)
¼ cup dry red wine (recommended: Cabernet Sauvignon)
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or beef stock
2 tablespoons whole wheat flour (or gluten-free 1:1 flour)
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)
1 bay leaf
2 tablespoons avocado or olive oil
1 (2-3 pound) chuck or rump roast, trimmed of visible fat
Steak seasoning (or substitute with salt and pepper)
1 large onion, diced (1 to 1½ cups)
4–5 celery stalks, chopped (1 to 1½ cups)
3 garlic cloves, minced
4–5 large carrots, sliced into ½-inch pieces (2–3 cups)
1½ pounds baby gold or baby red potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces (if necessary)
2–4 sprigs of fresh thyme (optional)

Directions

Mix the Sauce:
- In the slow cooker, whisk together the tomato sauce, red wine, chicken broth, flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add the bay leaf.
Sear the Roast:
- Pat the roast dry with paper towels and season all sides with steak seasoning. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the roast on all sides (about 1 minute per side). Set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion and celery for 4 minutes until tender. Add garlic during the last 30 seconds, stirring to avoid burning.
Assemble and Cook:
- Add the sautéed vegetables, carrots, potatoes, and optional thyme to the slow cooker. Stir to coat with the sauce. Nestle the roast into the vegetables. Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the meat shreds easily with a fork.
Shred the Roast and Serve:
- Remove the roast from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Stir the shredded meat back into the sauce and vegetables, or serve it separately.
Optional:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Nutrients

Serving Size: 1 portion (out of 6 servings)
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 480mg

This Slow Cooker Pot Roast is a flavorful and wholesome one-pot meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, full of hearty ingredients, and ideal for serving a crowd or prepping ahead for busy weeknights! Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides. 🥩🥕

Why Choose Slow Cooker Pot Roast?

Slow Cooker Pot Roast is a standout meal for several reasons, making it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced cooks alike:

Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe allows you to create a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Perfect for Busy Days: The long, slow cooking process gives you the freedom to focus on other tasks while dinner practically cooks itself.
Balanced and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, nutrient-rich vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this dish is as wholesome as it is delicious.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether paired with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or enjoyed on its own, this pot roast adapts to your preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for feeding a family or hosting guests, the generous portions and rich flavors ensure everyone leaves the table satisfied.

The Key Ingredients That Make It Special

This pot roast recipe stands out by using fresh, simple ingredients to create layers of flavor:

Chuck Roast: Known for its marbling, a chuck roast becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked, making it the perfect cut for pot roast.
Vegetables: A mix of carrots, potatoes, celery, and onion not only adds texture and flavor but also ensures the meal is well-rounded and nutritious.
Homemade Sauce: The combination of tomato sauce, red wine, chicken broth, and flour creates a rich, savory gravy that ties all the elements together.
Herbs and Seasonings: Italian seasoning, bay leaf, thyme, and a hint of garlic infuse the dish with aromatic complexity.

Health Benefits of This Slow Cooker Pot Roast

While pot roast is often considered an indulgence, this recipe strikes a balance between flavor and nutrition:

High in Protein: Each serving provides 38 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Rich in Fiber: The vegetables contribute dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and promoting satiety.
Low in Processed Ingredients: By using fresh ingredients and avoiding pre-packaged mixes, this recipe minimizes added sodium and artificial flavors.
Balanced Macros: With 450 calories per serving, it’s a satisfying meal that fits well into most dietary plans.

Tips for Making the Perfect Pot Roast

Achieving a tender, flavorful pot roast requires a few key techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

Sear the Meat: Browning the roast before slow cooking adds depth and locks in the juices, creating a richer flavor.
Layer Thoughtfully: Place the vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker and the meat on top to ensure even cooking and better flavor distribution.
Use the Right Liquid Ratio: The combination of tomato sauce, broth, and red wine provides enough moisture to keep the roast tender while creating a flavorful base for the gravy.
Cook Low and Slow: For the best results, use the LOW setting on your slow cooker. This allows the collagen in the meat to break down fully, resulting in a fork-tender texture.
Rest Before Shredding: Allow the roast to rest briefly after cooking to make shredding easier and retain its juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

Slow Cooker Pot Roast is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.
Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread to mop up every last bit of sauce.
Steamed Green Beans: Add a pop of color and freshness with lightly steamed or sautéed green beans.
Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty roast.
Grain Options: Substitute potatoes with brown rice, quinoa, or farro for a healthier twist.

Customizing Your Pot Roast

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs:

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, increase the amount of broth and add a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a hint of heat and smokiness.
Swap the Protein: Try this recipe with lamb, pork shoulder, or even chicken thighs for a unique twist.
Vegan Option: Substitute the roast with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, cauliflower, or jackfruit and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Slow Cooker Pot Roast is a timeless dish that has been reinvented to align with modern tastes and health-conscious cooking. By using fresh, wholesome ingredients and avoiding processed shortcuts, this recipe delivers the same rich flavors you’d expect from a traditional pot roast while being more nutritious. Its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal make it a standout choice for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Pot Roast is the epitome of comfort food—rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying. By combining tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a savory homemade sauce, it delivers a balanced and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any season. The convenience of the slow cooker makes it a stress-free option, while the customizable elements allow you to tailor it to your preferences. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing for a cozy family dinner, this pot roast is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy the timeless flavors of this classic dish, reimagined for the modern kitchen!

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