Classic Pot Roast – Tender, Flavorful Comfort Meal

Few dishes define comfort food like a Classic Pot Roast. Slowly cooked to perfection, this recipe produces tender, juicy beef with a rich, flavorful gravy and hearty vegetables. Perfect for cozy family dinners or a weekend meal, it fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma and offers a satisfying, homey experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tender, juicy beef cooked to perfection
• Hearty vegetables and rich, savory gravy
• Slow-cooked flavor with minimal effort
• Perfect for cozy dinners and special occasions
• Classic, timeless comfort food that pleases everyone

Ingredients

• 3–4 lb beef chuck roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, cut into chunks
• 4 celery stalks, cut into chunks
• 4 medium potatoes, quartered
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the beef roast generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear roast on all sides until browned, about 4–5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the roast and sauté onion and garlic in the same pot until fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
5. Stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
6. Pour in beef broth and water, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Return the roast to the pot.
7. Cover and bake in the oven for 2.5–3 hours, until meat is fork-tender.
8. Add carrots, celery, and potatoes, cover, and bake another 45 minutes to 1 hour.
9. Optional: Remove the roast and vegetables, and thicken the gravy with flour by whisking it into simmering liquid.
10. Slice roast and serve with vegetables and rich gravy.

Tips & Variations

• Use a well-marbled chuck roast for the most tender results.
• Substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist.
• Add mushrooms for additional earthy flavor.
• Make ahead: roast can be cooked a day before and reheated; flavors improve overnight.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the oven; add extra broth if needed.
• Freeze: Roast and vegetables can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up gravy.
• Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme for extra aroma and color.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook this pot roast in a slow cooker instead of the oven?

Yes! Sear the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours until tender.

How can I make the gravy thicker?

Mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then whisk into simmering cooking liquid until thickened.

What’s the best cut of beef for pot roast?

Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and connective tissue, which breaks down into tender, flavorful meat.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Root vegetables like parsnips or turnips work well, and green beans or peas can be added at the end for color.

Ready to Make It?

This Classic Pot Roast is the ultimate comfort food, tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich, savory gravy. It’s perfect for cozy nights or a special family dinner. Try this timeless recipe and enjoy the warmth and flavor of a true home-cooked meal.

You Might Also Like

• Cinnamon Baked Apples – Warm baked apples filled with cinnamon and brown sugar for a cozy dessert
• Creamy Salmon Risotto – Rich, creamy risotto with tender salmon and bright lemon notes
• Baked Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni – Pasta tubes filled with spinach and ricotta, baked in tomato sauce
• Classic French Madeleines – Delicate buttery sponge cakes in the iconic shell shape, perfect with tea

Print