Simple Beef Pot Roast Recipe

Table of Contents
Simple Beef Pot Roast
Nothing beats the comfort of a homemade beef pot roast. This classic dish is rich, hearty, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect meal for a cozy dinner with family or a special occasion. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious and tender roast that practically falls apart with every bite.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this foolproof beef pot roast recipe will have you serving up a meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
- Prep Time:15 mins
- Cook Time:3 hrs 15 mins
- Total Time:3 hrs 30 mins
- Servings:6
Ingredients
To make this simple beef pot roast, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 to 4 pounds chuck roast (or a similar cut of beef)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large carrots, cut into chunks
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, for enhanced flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening the gravy)
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
Instructions
1: Preparing the Beef
Start by patting the chuck roast dry with paper towels. Season the meat generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. This enhances the flavor of the roast as it cooks.
2: Searing the Meat
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef and sear it on all sides until browned. This step locks in the juices and adds a rich depth of flavor to the roast.
3: Adding Vegetables and Liquid
Remove the beef and set it aside momentarily. In the same pot, add sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about two minutes until fragrant. Return the beef to the pot and add the chopped carrots and potatoes around it.
Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), and Worcestershire sauce. Add the bay leaves for extra flavor. Ensure the liquid covers at least half of the beef to allow even cooking.
4: Slow Cooking
Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the beef to simmer for 3 to 4 hours, or until it becomes fork-tender. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours.
5: Thickening the Gravy (Optional)
For a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Remove the beef and vegetables from the pot, then stir in the slurry to the cooking liquid. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6: Serving the Pot Roast
Slice or shred the beef and serve with the vegetables, spooning the rich gravy over the top. Enjoy with warm dinner rolls or mashed potatoes for an extra hearty meal.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
The following nutrition values are approximate and based on a single serving:
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 5g
Featured Edits
For added variation, consider the following adjustments:
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh rosemary or oregano can enhance the flavors.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap potatoes for cauliflower or turnips.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free or use tamari sauce instead.
- Vegetable-Rich: Add mushrooms, celery, or bell peppers for more depth.
Cn: Simple Beef Pot Roast
This simple beef pot roast recipe is a time-tested dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a wholesome, home-cooked meal that’s both nutritious and deeply flavorful. Try this recipe today, and make it a staple in your home cooking routine!
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