Pot Roast with Carrots & Potatoes

There’s something so cozy and comforting about a pot roast, don’t you think? The rich, savory aroma wafting through the kitchen as it slowly braises—it’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re being wrapped in a warm blanket. Pot roast with carrots and potatoes is one of those classic dishes that’s perfect for a Sunday dinner or a family gathering. It’s tender, flavorful, and satisfying with a perfect balance of meat, veggies, and gravy. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Why You’ll Love Pot Roast with Carrots & Potatoes

This recipe isn’t just about a great meal—it’s about creating that special feeling that only a slow-cooked pot roast can give. Here’s why it’s so irresistible:

Flavor-packed: The beef gets super tender and soaks up all the seasonings while the vegetables cook right in the same pot, absorbing all that savory goodness.

Hearty and comforting: There’s something incredibly satisfying about digging into a plate full of tender roast, sweet carrots, and creamy potatoes. It’s the ultimate comfort food.

One-pot wonder: Everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. You get all the flavor with none of the hassle!

Perfect for leftovers: Pot roast just gets better the next day! Whether you’re making sandwiches or using it in a stew, it’s the gift that keeps on giving.

Family-friendly: It’s a dish that’s loved by everyone—from the kids to the adults. The soft veggies and juicy roast are always a hit.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring all those delicious flavors together:

Chuck Roast: The star of the show! Chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking because it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender as it simmers in all those flavors.

Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots add a slight earthiness and pair beautifully with the roast. They soak up all the savory juices and become deliciously flavorful.

Potatoes: Classic red or Yukon gold potatoes are perfect for this dish. They cook to a creamy texture while holding their shape and complementing the beef wonderfully.

Onions: Onions bring a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the roast. They soften as they cook, adding even more richness to the dish.

Garlic: A few cloves of garlic elevate the savory profile and add that irresistible aroma as it simmers.

Beef Broth: This is what makes the perfect gravy! It helps the roast stay moist and provides that savory base to cook everything in.

Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme bring a fragrant, earthy touch to the dish that takes it to the next level. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried will work too!

Salt and Pepper: For seasoning, salt and pepper are essential to bringing out the natural flavors of the meat and vegetables.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into how to make this incredible pot roast with carrots and potatoes.

Sear the Roast: Start by seasoning your chuck roast with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the roast and sear it on all sides until it’s beautifully browned. This step helps develop flavor!

Sauté the Vegetables: Remove the roast from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until softened and fragrant. This will give your roast even more depth of flavor.

Add the Broth and Herbs: Pour in the beef broth and add the rosemary and thyme. Scrape up any brown bits on the bottom of the pot (they’re packed with flavor!).

Return the Roast to the Pot: Place the roast back into the pot, ensuring it’s sitting in the flavorful broth.

Add the Carrots and Potatoes: Arrange the carrots and potatoes around the roast. Season with a little more salt and pepper.

Slow Cook: Cover the pot with a lid and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours (or until the meat is fall-apart tender). If you’re using a slow cooker, set it on low and cook for 6-8 hours.

Serve: Once everything is tender and cooked through, remove the roast from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it against the grain and serve with the carrots and potatoes. Don’t forget to spoon some of that savory broth over the top for extra flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3-4 hours (or 6-8 hours in a slow cooker)
Total Time: 3.5-4.5 hours (or 6.5-8.5 hours in a slow cooker)

How to Serve Pot Roast with Carrots & Potatoes

This dish is amazing all on its own, but here are a few ways to enhance your meal:

With Fresh Bread: Serve with a crusty loaf of bread to soak up all the delicious gravy. A warm, buttery roll would be perfect!

With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great contrast to the rich and savory pot roast. Try a simple mixed greens salad with a lemony dressing.

Extra Gravy: If you love gravy (and who doesn’t?), make sure to serve this dish with extra beef gravy. You can easily thicken the leftover broth for a more luxurious sauce.

Mashed Potatoes: If you’re a mashed potato lover, why not add a side of creamy mashed potatoes to go with your pot roast? Double the potatoes, double the flavor!

Roasted Veggies: Add a variety of roasted vegetables like parsnips or Brussels sprouts for a beautiful, colorful plate.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips for making this dish perfect:

Sear the Meat Well: Don’t rush the searing step! It’s important to brown the roast on all sides to lock in that flavor.

Low and Slow: The key to a tender pot roast is cooking it low and slow. Patience is your best friend here.

Use a Dutch Oven: A Dutch oven works best for this recipe as it evenly distributes heat and keeps the roast tender. If you don’t have one, a large pot with a tight-fitting lid works fine too.

Make It a Day Ahead: Pot roast is one of those dishes that gets even better after a day or two. Make it ahead, and just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Add Wine: If you’re looking to elevate the flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth for a deeper, richer flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A1: While chuck roast is ideal for this recipe, you can also use other cuts like brisket or round roast. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the cut’s tenderness.

Q2: Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
A2: Yes! You can cook the pot roast in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. It’ll turn out just as tender and delicious.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to the pot?
A3: Absolutely! You can add root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or even sweet potatoes. Just add them around the same time as the carrots and potatoes.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q5: Can I freeze the pot roast?
A5: Yes! Pot roast freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Q6: How do I make gravy with the leftover broth?
A6: To make gravy, strain the broth and simmer it in a saucepan. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and whisk it into the simmering broth until it thickens.

Q7: Can I cook this on high heat for a faster result?
A7: It’s best to cook pot roast low and slow to get that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. High heat can lead to tougher meat.

Q8: What if my roast is too tough after cooking?
A8: If your roast isn’t tender after cooking, it might need more time. Just let it cook longer on low heat until it’s fork-tender.

Q9: Can I make this without beef broth?
A9: You can substitute the beef broth with water, though it won’t have the same depth of flavor. For more richness, you can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as alternatives.

Q10: How do I know when the roast is done?
A10: The roast is done when it’s fork-tender and easily shreds apart. If you’re unsure, you can check the internal temperature—it should be around 190°F (88°C) for optimal tenderness.

Conclusion

Pot Roast with Carrots & Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. The slow-cooked beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the carrots and potatoes soak up all the savory goodness. This dish is sure to warm your heart and leave your family or guests asking for seconds. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and a true crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients and get ready for a meal that’s as cozy as it is delicious!

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