Imagine walking into your home after a long day, greeted by the irresistible aroma of a perfectly slow-cooked beef roast that's been simmering all day. This isn't just any ordinary meal - it's a culinary masterpiece that transforms a simple cut of meat into a tender, flavor-packed feast that will have everyone at your dinner table asking for the recipe. With minimal prep and maximum deliciousness, this Crock Pot Beef Roast and Gravy is about to become your new go-to comfort food that requires almost no effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds beef roast
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 cup beef broth
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 4 potatoes, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the beef roast from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. Pat the roast dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
- Season the beef roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides, ensuring even coverage.
- Optional: For enhanced flavor, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the roast on all sides until a golden-brown crust forms, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
- Chop carrots and potatoes into roughly 1-inch chunks, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
- Place the chopped vegetables in the bottom of the crock pot, creating an even layer.
- Carefully place the seasoned beef roast on top of the vegetables.
- Sprinkle the entire packet of onion soup mix evenly over the roast and vegetables.
- Pour the beef broth slowly around the sides of the roast, being careful not to wash off the seasoning.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat for 8 hours, allowing the meat to become tender and flavorful.
- After cooking, carefully remove the roast and vegetables from the crock pot. Let the meat rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- To create gravy, strain the remaining liquid and thicken with a cornstarch slurry if desired. Whisk 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water, then stir into the hot cooking liquid until thickened.
- Slice the roast against the grain and serve with the roasted vegetables and gravy.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Select a chuck roast or bottom round roast for the most tender results. Look for marbling, which helps keep the meat moist during slow cooking.
- Room Temperature Matters: Always let your roast sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Searing is Optional But Recommended: Taking an extra 10-15 minutes to brown the meat before slow cooking will dramatically enhance the flavor and create a beautiful crust.
- Don't Skimp on Seasoning: Be generous with salt and pepper. The onion soup mix adds flavor, but a good initial seasoning is crucial.
- Vegetable Placement is Key: Placing vegetables at the bottom of the crock pot ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the delicious meat juices.
- Low and Slow is the Secret: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. Eight hours on low heat will guarantee the most tender, fall-apart meat.
- Gravy Tip: For a lump-free, silky gravy, always mix your cornstarch with cold water before adding to hot liquid, and whisk continuously.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the meat rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is perfectly moist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
