Short Description
Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast is a flavorful, tender dish that practically melts in your mouth. This comforting classic is infused with garlic, aromatic herbs, and a rich, savory gravy. With minimal prep and effortless cooking, itโs perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepareย โ Simply season, sear, and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Rich and Flavorfulย โ The combination of garlic, herbs, and slow-cooked beef creates an irresistible taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prepย โ Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
- Versatileย โ Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
- Great for Gatheringsย โ A hearty dish that feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 3-4 lb beef chuck roast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 large carrots, cut into chunks
- 3-4 potatoes, cut into chunks
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Directions
- Sear the Roastย โ In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef roast on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side).
- Prepare the Slow Cookerย โ Place the sliced onions, carrots, and potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add Seasoningย โ Place the seared roast on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle with garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the Liquidย โ Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the roast.
- Cook Low and Slowย โ Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-6 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
- Thicken the Gravy (Optional)ย โ Remove 1 cup of the cooking liquid and whisk with cornstarch. Return to the slow cooker and stir.
- Serveย โ Shred the roast and serve with the vegetables and gravy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
- Total Time: Up to 10 hours
Variations
- Spicy Kickย โ Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat.
- Red Wine Additionย โ Substitute 1/2 cup of beef broth with red wine for deeper flavor.
- Creamy Versionย โ Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream at the end for a rich gravy.
- Different Proteinsย โ Try with pork shoulder or lamb for a twist.
- Low-Carb Optionย โ Swap potatoes for turnips or cauliflower.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerationย โ Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezingย โ Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheatingย โ Warm in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
How do I know when the pot roast is done?
The meat should be fork-tender and easily pull apart when ready.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, brisket or round roast works well, though chuck roast is best for tenderness.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, but for the best results, low and slow cooking yields the most tender meat.
What if my gravy is too thin?
Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
Can I skip searing the meat?
Yes, but searing enhances the flavor and texture of the roast.
What vegetables work best?
Carrots, potatoes, onions, celery, and parsnips all complement the dish well.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Use three times the amount of fresh herbs for the same effect.
How do I prevent my roast from drying out?
Make sure to use enough liquid and cook on low for the best moisture retention.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, use the pressure cook setting for about 60-75 minutes with natural release.
What should I serve with pot roast?
Mashed potatoes, rice, crusty bread, or a fresh salad make excellent pairings.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast is the ultimate comfort foodโtender, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers every time. Try it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal!
Print
Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-9 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This tender pot roast is infused with garlic and fresh herbs, slow-cooked to perfection with hearty vegetables. It’s an easy, comforting meal that practically makes itself.
Ingredients
- 3–4 pounds boneless beef chuck roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
- 20 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 large yellow onion, cut into wedges
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions
- Prepare the Roast:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Season the roast with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
- Brown the roast on all sides, starting with the fat side down.
- Assemble in Slow Cooker:
- Place the browned roast into a 5 or 6-quart slow cooker, fat side up.
- Add the beef broth and smashed garlic cloves around the roast.
- Arrange the baby potatoes, carrots, and onion wedges around the meat.
- Place the rosemary and thyme sprigs on top.
- Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-9 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Prepare Gravy (Optional):
- Once the roast is done, remove it and the vegetables from the slow cooker and keep them warm.
- Strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ยผ cup of water until smooth.
- Bring the strained liquid to a simmer over medium heat.
- Whisk in the cornstarch mixture and continue to cook until the gravy thickens.
- Serve:
- Shred the roast and serve it alongside the cooked vegetables.
- Drizzle with the prepared gravy.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can deglaze the skillet used for browning the roast with a splash of red wine before adding the contents to the slow cooker.
- Feel free to substitute or add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.
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