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Classic Beef Pot Roast with Vegetables

Fork-tender beef braised low and slow with carrots, onions and a rich, savory gravy — pure comfort in a pot.

Prep25 min
Cook3 hr 30 min
Total3 hr 55 min
Serves6
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Classic Beef Pot Roast with Vegetables

About This Recipe

Pot roast is the dish many of us remember from Sunday dinners at a grandparent's table. A humble chuck roast is seared until deeply browned, then braised slowly with onions, carrots and broth until it is so tender it falls apart with a fork.

Most of the cooking time is completely hands-off, which makes this an ideal recipe for a cool weekend afternoon. Serve it over mashed potatoes with plenty of gravy, and it tastes even better the next day.

Tips for Success

  • Chuck roast is the best cut for pot roast — its marbling melts during long cooking and keeps the meat moist.
  • If the meat is not yet tender, it simply needs more time. Keep cooking and check every 20 minutes.
  • To make in a slow cooker, sear the meat and soften the onions first, then cook on Low for 8 to 9 hours.

Classic Beef Pot Roast with Vegetables

Fork-tender beef braised low and slow with carrots, onions and a rich, savory gravy — pure comfort in a pot.

Prep: 25 minCook: 3 hr 30 minTotal: 3 hr 55 minServes: 6Level: Easy

Ingredients

For the roast

For the gravy

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 325°F. Pat the roast dry and season all over with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 4 to 5 minutes per side until deeply browned. Transfer to a plate.
  3. Lower the heat to medium. Add the onions and cook for 5 minutes, then stir in the garlic and tomato paste and cook 1 minute more.
  4. Pour in the wine, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. Add the broth, Worcestershire sauce, herbs and bay leaves. Return the roast and any juices to the pot. The liquid should come about halfway up the meat.
  6. Cover and transfer to the oven. Braise for 2 hours.
  7. Add the carrots and potatoes around the roast, cover, and continue cooking for 1 to 1½ hours, until the meat is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.
  8. Transfer the roast and vegetables to a platter. Remove the herb stems and bay leaves. Bring the cooking liquid to a simmer on the stove, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water, and simmer until thickened. Season to taste and serve with the beef.

Recipe by Flavor Ora · https://flavorora.site/classic-beef-pot-roast.html

Questions & Answers

Can I make pot roast without wine?

Yes. Replace the wine with an equal amount of beef broth plus 1 teaspoon of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for depth.

Can I freeze pot roast?

Yes. Freeze the meat and gravy together in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Potatoes can become grainy, so they are best enjoyed fresh.

Cook's note

Always check ingredient labels for allergens, and follow safe food-handling practices. Cooking times can vary with your oven and equipment. See our Disclaimer.

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