Slow Cooker Pot Roast

This slow cooker pot roast combines tender chuck roast infused with herbs and garlic alongside hearty vegetables, all cooked low and slow until perfectly soft. Paired with creamy mashed potatoes enriched with tangy goat cheese and warm cream, this dish brings satisfying comfort and rich flavors to your table. The initial browning of the beef adds a deep, savory crust that elevates the overall taste, while ranch and gravy seasonings create a luscious sauce that complements every bite. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights, this meal offers both ease and indulgence.

I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted a makeahead meal that felt special but was fussfree. The kids loved every bite so much that it quickly became a staple on our dinner rotation.

Ingredients

• Chuck roast: Offers rich flavor and becomes tender when slow cooked Look for cuts with good marbling for juiciness
• Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth Choose firm onions with tight skin
• Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color Medium carrots work best for even cooking
• Celery: Adds aromatic base to the sauce Select fresh stalks with no blemishes
• Garlic: Gives aromatic punch and savory notes Use fresh cloves for best flavor
• Tomato paste: Adds body and subtle acidity Opt for a deep red color and consider squeeze tubes for convenience
• Beef stock: Infuses deep, meaty taste Use low sodium to retain control over seasoning
• Worcestershire sauce: Provides umami and complexity Use a classic variety if possible
• Rosemary and thyme: Offer fresh herbaceous notes Choose fragrant fresh sprigs
• Granulated garlic and onion powder: Amplify the aromatics and deepen flavor
• Paprika: Gives color and mild smokiness Use freshly ground paprika for vibrant taste
• Oregano: Adds subtle earthy hints Use dried leaves that are still vibrant
• Bay leaves: Contribute a delicate layer of flavor
• Ranch seasoning powder: Brings a tangy, creamy element that makes the sauce special Look for blends without fillers
• Brown gravy powder: Thickens and enriches the sauce
• Salt and pepper: Finish the seasoning Adjust to taste at the end
• Oil for searing: Use neutral oil with a high smoke point
• Russet potatoes: Make fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes Pick firm potatoes without sprouts
• Heavy cream: Adds luxurious smoothness Warm before adding for best texture
• Butter: Enriches mashed potatoes Use European style for extra richness if available
• Goat cheese: Adds creamy tang to the potatoes Choose a mild variety for balance

Instructions

Sear the Chuck Roast:

Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear Then generously season both sides with salt and pepper Heat oil in a large skillet over mediumhigh until it shimmers Place the roast in the skillet and sear for four to five minutes per side without moving it This step builds a deep golden crust and layers of flavor that cannot be rushed

Mix the Sauce:

While the roast cooks, blend the tomato paste beef stock Worcestershire sauce granulated garlic onion powder paprika oregano ranch seasoning and brown gravy powder in a bowl Stir until fully incorporated This sauce will infuse the meat with rich savory notes during slow cooking

Add to Slow Cooker:

Transfer the browned roast to the slow cooker pot Place carrots celery onion around and on top of the roast Then tuck in rosemary thyme and bay leaves Pour the sauce evenly over everything Cover the cooker and set it to high for five hours or low for eight to nine hours The goal is tender beef and softened but intact vegetables

Check Seasoning and Shred:

After cooking remove any visible fat from the roast Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper if necessary With two forks gently shred or slice the beef as preferred Leave the slow cooker on warm to keep everything ready while you finish the potatoes

Make Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes:

Peel and quarter the russet potatoes Place them in a large pot and cover with cold salted water Bring the water to a boil then reduce heat and simmer until they are fork tender Drain the potatoes thoroughly Return them to the pot and add butter Allow it to melt while you warm the heavy cream separately Pour in half the cream and mash the potatoes until smooth Fold in goat cheese and the remaining cream Continue mashing to creamy consistency Season generously with salt to taste

Serve It Up:

Scoop a generous portion of goat cheese mashed potatoes onto each plate Top with plenty of tender pot roast and ladle a good amount of sauce over everything Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately for best experience

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Goat cheese mashed potatoes are my favorite twist here because they add a creamy tang that lifts the whole dish I remember when I first added goat cheese the whole family was intrigued and impressed It quickly became a requested addition every time I make this roast

Storage Tips

Store leftover pot roast and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers to preserve the best textures Keep refrigerated for up to four days Reheat pot roast with sauce gently on the stove or microwave to prevent drying Freezing works well for the pot roast and sauce in freezersafe bags Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for most tender results

Ingredient Substitutions

No goat cheese You can use cream cheese or a bit of sour cream for a similar creamy tang Fresh herbs can be swapped for dried but reduce amounts since dried are more concentrated If you don’t have ranch or gravy powder substitute with your favorite spices and add a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce to your liking

Serving Suggestions

Perfect as a comforting Sunday dinner centerpiece Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted brussels sprouts for a meal with bright texture and flavor Leftovers make excellent hearty sandwiches on toasted bread or as a filling for a pot pie

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This slow cooker pot roast with goat cheese mashed potatoes is an easy, comforting meal that shines for family dinners. Leftovers freeze well and often taste even better the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Why sear the chuck roast before slow cooking?

Searing caramelizes the meat’s surface, locking in flavor and creating a rich, golden crust that deepens the dish’s taste.

→ Can I omit the goat cheese in the mashed potatoes?

Yes, though goat cheese adds a unique tang and creaminess. Substitutes like cream cheese or extra butter work too.

→ How do I keep vegetables from becoming mushy?

Cut the carrots, onions, and celery into large chunks to maintain texture during long cooking times.

→ What thickens the gravy in this dish?

Brown gravy powder is used to thicken the sauce, but cornstarch mixed with cold water can be added near the end for extra thickness.

→ When should the beef be seasoned?

Season the beef generously with salt and pepper before browning, and adjust seasoning after cooking to taste.