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Cozy Slow Cooker Pot Roast Recipe with Rich Gravy

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A comforting and easy slow cooker pot roast with rich, flavorful gravy perfect for cozy dinners. Simple ingredients and set-and-forget convenience make it a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3–4 pounds beef chuck roast
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced
  • 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 3–4 fresh thyme sprigs or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch/arrowroot powder for gluten-free)

Instructions

  1. Pat the beef chuck roast dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. (5 minutes)
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When shimmering, add the roast and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms. Transfer the roast to the slow cooker. (10 minutes)
  3. In the same skillet, add sliced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, scraping browned bits off the bottom. (10 minutes)
  4. Pour in the red wine (if using) or a bit of beef broth, scraping the skillet to loosen stuck bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. (3 minutes)
  5. Pour this mixture over the roast in the slow cooker. Add the remaining beef broth along with fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves. (5 minutes)
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 8-9 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours until the beef is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. (4-9 hours depending on setting)
  7. Carefully remove the roast and veggies, setting them on a serving platter. Strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan, discarding herbs. Bring to a simmer. Mix 2 tablespoons flour with 3 tablespoons cold water until smooth. Whisk this slurry into the simmering liquid, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes. (10 minutes)
  8. Slice or shred the pot roast and spoon the rich gravy over the meat and vegetables. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired. (5 minutes)

Notes

Searing the roast before slow cooking adds depth of flavor and richness to the gravy. For gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder. If avoiding wine, use balsamic vinegar or extra beef broth. Let the roast rest before slicing to keep it juicy. Add broth to thin gravy if too thick.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker pot roast, pot roast recipe, slow cooker dinner, beef pot roast, rich gravy, comfort food, easy dinner

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/cozy-slow-cooker-pot-roast-recipe-with-rich-gravy-easy-and-perfect-for-dinner/