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James Andrew

Tender Pot Roast (Crockpot Meal Prep Favorite)

Prep Time 20 minutes
5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.2 – 1.5 kg beef chuck roast
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
Vegetables
  • 3 –4 medium carrots cut into large chunks
  • 3 medium potatoes quartered
  • 1 large onion thickly sliced
  • Optional: celery stalks
Cooking Liquid
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme optional
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary optional

Equipment

  • Crockpot / slow cooker
  • Large skillet or pan
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Mixing bowl (optional)
  • Serving spoon

Method
 

Step 1: Season the Beef
  1. Begin by patting the beef chuck roast dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps achieve better browning.
  2. Season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub the seasoning evenly across all sides.
Step 2: Sear the Meat (Highly Recommended)
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the roast into the pan.
  2. Sear each side for 2–3 minutes until a deep golden-brown crust forms. This step is optional but strongly recommended because it adds significant flavor.
  3. Remove from heat once browned.
Step 3: Prepare the Crockpot Base
  1. Place carrots, potatoes, and onion slices into the slow cooker. These vegetables act as a natural rack for the meat and absorb juices during cooking.
  2. Lay the seared roast on top of the vegetables.
Step 4: Add Cooking Liquid
  1. In a small bowl, combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and herbs.
  2. Pour gently into the crockpot. Avoid pouring directly over the roast to preserve seasoning.
Step 5: Slow Cook
  1. Cover and cook:
  2. Low setting: 7–8 hours (best results)
  3. High setting: 4–5 hours (acceptable alternative)
  4. Avoid frequently opening the lid, as this releases heat and prolongs cooking time.
Step 6: Check for Tenderness
  1. The roast is done when it easily pulls apart with a fork. Properly cooked pot roast should be extremely tender, not firm.
  2. If needed, cook slightly longer.
Step 7: Serve or Portion for Meal Prep
  1. Remove roast carefully and slice or shred. Spoon vegetables and broth alongside.

Notes

Nutritional Facts and Total Calories (Approximate)

Per serving (based on 4 servings):
  • Calories: ~500–650 kcal
  • Protein: ~40–50g
  • Carbohydrates: ~25–35g
  • Fat: ~25–35g
Values vary depending on portion size and ingredients.