Classic Pot Roast Recipe
A pot roast is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This slow-cooked classic is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, as it delivers tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and a rich gravy that ties everything together. Follow this recipe to create a perfectly braised pot roast with melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep, hearty flavors.
Ingredients
For the Pot Roast:
- 3–4 pounds (1.4–1.8 kg) chuck roast or brisket
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups (475 ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) red wine (optional; substitute with beef broth if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
For the Vegetables:
- 4 large carrots, cut into chunks
- 3–4 medium potatoes, cut into quarters (Yukon gold or russet work well)
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup pearl onions (optional, peeled)
For the Gravy (optional):
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prepare the Roast:
Start by patting the chuck roast dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides. Drying the meat helps it sear better, which adds depth to the flavor. - Sear the Meat:
Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it heat until shimmering. Carefully place the roast in the pot and sear it for 4–5 minutes on each side, ensuring a deep brown crust. Once browned, remove the roast and set it aside. - Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened, about 2–3 minutes. Scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pot—this is where much of the flavor is concentrated. - Deglaze the Pot:
Pour in the red wine (or additional beef broth) and stir to loosen any remaining browned bits. Let the liquid simmer for 2–3 minutes to slightly reduce and concentrate the flavor. - Build the Braising Liquid:
Add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary to the pot. Stir everything together, then return the seared roast to the pot. - Add Vegetables:
Arrange the carrots, potatoes, celery, and pearl onions around the roast. The vegetables should be partially submerged in the liquid but not fully covered, ensuring they braise rather than boil. - Slow Cook:
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to the oven. Let it cook for 3–4 hours, checking every hour or so to ensure the liquid hasn’t evaporated too much (add more broth if needed).Alternatively, you can cook the pot roast in a slow cooker on low for 8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours. - Check for Doneness:
The pot roast is ready when the meat is fork-tender and pulls apart easily. Remove the pot from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Optional: Make the Gravy
- Remove the roast and vegetables from the pot, leaving the liquid behind. Skim off any excess fat from the surface.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
- Place the pot with the braising liquid over medium heat and bring it to a simmer. Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry, stirring until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the pot roast against the grain and serve it with the braised vegetables. Drizzle the rich gravy over the top for added flavor. Pair this comforting dish with warm dinner rolls or buttered bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Tips for Success
- Choose the right cut: Chuck roast, brisket, or round roast are ideal for pot roast due to their marbling and connective tissue that breaks down during slow cooking.
- Low and slow is key: Cooking at a lower temperature for a longer time ensures tender, flavorful meat.
- Customize your vegetables: Feel free to add parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for variety.
Conclusion
This classic pot roast recipe is a foolproof way to create a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors, tender meat, and wholesome vegetables will have everyone reaching for seconds!
