Nans Knockout Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a proper Sunday dinner? Me too! This Ultimate Slow Cooker Pot Roast is pure comfort food. Honestly, the rich gravy and fall apart meat? Oh my gosh! It’s what dreams are made of.
Brief Overview
The Crockpot Roast is a classic for a reason. Its hearty and heartwarming. This recipe is easy, taking about 25 minutes to prep, then 8- 10 hours in the slow cooker.
This Easy Pot Roast Dinner serves 6-8 people.
Main Benefits
This Fall Apart Pot Roast is packed with protein and nutrients from the beef and vegetables. It's perfect for a family gathering or a cosy night in.
What makes it special? A touch of balsamic vinegar that adds unbelievable depth.
Okay, let's get this sorted!
Ready to get started? This recipe for Slow Cooker Roast is just like me Nan used to make. You know? I've tweaked it a bit over the years, making it even easier and tastier.
Trust me, this Pot Roast Crock Pot Recipes will become a family favourite.
The secret to a Tender Pot Roast Recipe is low and slow cooking. Don't rush it! This allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become incredibly tender.
This Pot Roast Slow Cooker recipe practically melts in your mouth.
Here is what we need for our version of Nan's Knockout Slow Cooker Pot Roast (or, The Ultimate Comfort Food)
Ingredients & Equipment
Okay, let's get this sorted! We're diving into the heart of Ultimate Slow Cooker Pot Roast . Proper comfort food starts with the right gear and ingredients.
Trust me, getting this right makes all the difference. It's not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating something special.
Main Ingredients for your Fall Apart Pot Roast
- Chuck Roast: 3 lbs (1.36 kg). Look for good marbling; it melts down and makes the roast super tender. Seriously, don’t skimp on the cut of meat.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). Any good quality will do.
- Yellow Onion: 1 large , chopped (about 1 cup, 150g). Go for a nice, firm one.
- Carrots: 2 , peeled and chopped (about 1 cup, 125g). No need for fancy organic ones here.
- Celery Stalks: 2 , chopped (about ½ cup, 75g).
- Garlic: 3 cloves , minced (about 1 tablespoon). Fresh is best, but jarred minced garlic will do in a pinch.
- Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon (15 ml).
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon (5 ml). Adds that lovely earthy flavour.
- Dried Rosemary: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml). Just a hint of this is enough.
- Beef Broth: 4 cups (950 ml). Low sodium is your friend.
- Balsamic Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). This gives it a lovely tang.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: 2 lbs (900g), peeled and quartered. These hold their shape well.
- Baby Carrots: 1 lb (450g). Or chopped regular carrots.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons (30 ml), optional, for gravy.
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Don’t be shy with these!
For the Rub
- Kosher Salt: 2 Tablespoons
- Black Pepper: 1 Tablespoon
- Garlic Powder: 1 Teaspoon
- Onion Powder: 1 Teaspoon
- Paprika: 1/2 Teaspoon
Seasoning Secrets for this Crock Pot Roast
Thyme and rosemary are a classic combo. Balsamic vinegar adds a subtle sweetness. If you're feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little kick.
If you don't have balsamic, Worcestershire sauce works too.
Essential Equipment for the Best Pot Roast Gravy Recipe
- Slow Cooker: A 6-quart (5.7 litre) is perfect. It can be slightly bigger.
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: For searing the beef.
- Cutting Board & Chef's Knife: Obviously.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy.
Honestly, that's all you need. You likely have most of it already. If you don't have a skillet, a large frying pan will do.
If you are looking for Slow cooked Pot Roast Recipe , this recipe will do wonders. Remember that having great equipment is important.
Cooking Method: Slow Cooker Magic!
Okay, let's get this sorted! We're diving headfirst into the world of slow cooking. Specifically, we are talking about the Ultimate Slow Cooker Pot Roast .
Honestly, is there anything more comforting? It's like a big hug in a bowl. This isn't just any old recipe; this is a ticket to fall apart, tender beefy goodness.
Prep Steps: Getting Our Ducks in a Row
First things first, mise en place is key. Chop your onion, carrots, and celery. Mince your garlic. Get everything ready to go.
Having everything prepped saves so much time, trust me! I can't tell you the times that it saved me from disaster.
For this Pot Roast Slow Cooker recipe, it's crucial. Don't forget to pat that 3 lbs (1.36 kg) chuck roast dry with paper towels.
Then give it a good rub-down with your salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika mix!
step-by-step: Slow Cooking Like a Pro
- Sear the seasoned roast in 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil over medium high heat. 3- 4 minutes per side until browned. This is flavour town, baby!
- Sauté 1 cup (150g) chopped onion, 1 cup (125g) chopped carrots, and ½ cup (75g) chopped celery in the same pan until softened (5- 7 minutes) . Add minced 1 tablespoon garlic and 1 tablespoon tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute more.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of beef broth, scraping up those yummy browned bits. Pour the vegetables and broth into your slow cooker.
- Nestle the seared roast on top of the veggies. Add remaining 4 cups (950ml) beef broth, 2 tablespoons (30ml) balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) dried rosemary.
- Cook on low for 8- 10 hours or on high for 4- 6 hours . Add 2 lbs (900g) quartered Yukon Gold potatoes and 1 lb (450g) baby carrots during the last 2- 3 hours on low or 1-1. 5 hours on high.
Pro Tips for the Best Pot Roast Gravy Recipe
Don't skip the sear! It adds depth. Browning that beef is a game changer, honestly. If you are looking for the most Tender Pot Roast Recipe this is a must.
Also, low and slow is the only way to go. Resist the urge to crank up the heat. Patience is key for the Ultimate Slow Cooker Pot Roast ! If you want a thicker gravy, whisk together 2 tablespoons (30ml) of flour with cold water, then whisk it into the cooking liquid during the last 15- 20 minutes on high.
There you have it! A Slow cooked Pot Roast Recipe that's easier than pie. You’ll have a proper Sunday dinner vibe for the whole family to enjoy. Remember Nan would be proud!
Recipe Notes to Make Your Ultimate Slow Cooker Pot Roast Sing!
Okay, let's get this sorted! You've got the recipe for my Nan's Knockout Slow Cooker Pot Roast, but I wanted to share a few extra bits and bobs to make sure it's absolutely spot on.
Trust me, these tips are game changers.
Plating Like a Pro: Presentation is Key
Honestly, even the best tender pot roast recipe can look a bit...beige. So, let's jazz it up! Pile that fall apart pot roast high on a platter.
Then, artfully arrange the veggies around it. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme makes it look fancy. For extra points, swirl a bit of the gravy on the plate.
If you're feeling posh, serve individual portions in shallow bowls. A dollop of horseradish cream on top? Oh my gosh, chef's kiss!
What to Serve Alongside Your Masterpiece
You know, my Nan always said a roast isn't complete without the right sides. So, here are a few ideas:
- Creamy mashed potatoes are a must. Classic!
- Roasted green beans or asparagus add some colour and crunch.
- Crusty bread for soaking up that amazing best pot roast gravy recipe .
- A glass of red wine never hurts. Cheers!
Storage Secrets: Keepin' it Fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you!
- Refrigeration: Pop the slow cooked pot roast recipe in an airtight container and it'll be good for 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: Yep, you can freeze it! Again, airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months . Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of beef broth if it seems a bit dry. You could also put it back in the crockpot roast .
Twists and Turns: Variations to Suit Your Taste
Fancy a bit of a change? Let's mix things up:
- Dietary Adaptations: Swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a lower carb option. Use gluten-free flour for thickening the gravy if needed.
- Seasonal Swaps: In the autumn, try adding some chopped butternut squash or parsnips. It's like pot roast crock pot recipes but with a festive twist!
Quick Nutrition Lowdown: Fueling Your Body
Alright, I'm no nutritionist, but here's the gist:
This easy pot roast dinner is packed with protein and vitamins. The beef provides iron, and the veggies are full of fibre.
Just watch the sodium content of your broth, and you're golden. This recipe isn't just delicious. It can be part of a healthy, balanced diet.
So there you have it! With these recipe notes in mind, you're well on your way to creating the ultimate slow cooker pot roast .
Honestly, you can do it! Now go get cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the Ultimate Slow Cooker Pot Roast ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavours often meld together even better overnight. Cook the pot roast as directed, then let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the slow cooker.
Just like a good curry, it's often better the next day!
My pot roast is tough! What did I do wrong?
Tough pot roast usually means it hasn't cooked long enough. Chuck roast, in particular, needs time to break down and become tender. Make sure you're using a good cut of beef with some marbling, and be patient! Even if your slow cooker has settings that allow for faster cooking, it is best to cook on low for 8-10 hours.
Next time, try cooking it a bit longer, even if it seems done. Like a fine wine, it improves with time.
Can I freeze leftover Ultimate Slow Cooker Pot Roast?
Yes, you certainly can! Allow the pot roast and gravy to cool completely. Then, transfer it to freezer safe containers or freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, and if you're feeling fancy, you can even make individual pot pies out of it!
I don't have balsamic vinegar. What can I use instead in this slow cooker pot roast recipe?
No worries, "Bob's your uncle"! If you're missing balsamic vinegar, a splash of red wine vinegar or Worcestershire sauce will do the trick. They both add a similar depth of flavour and a bit of acidity that complements the beef and vegetables beautifully.
You could even use a teaspoon of brown sugar to add a touch of sweetness and balance out the other flavours.
Can I add other vegetables to my Ultimate Slow Cooker Pot Roast?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favourite root vegetables. Parsnips, turnips, or even butternut squash would be delicious additions. Just keep in mind that some vegetables cook faster than others, so add them accordingly.
For example, add parsnips with the potatoes and carrots, but add zucchini or green beans during the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Is there a way to make this Ultimate Slow Cooker Pot Roast healthier?
Certainly! To make a lighter version, use a leaner cut of beef and trim any excess fat before cooking. Use low-sodium beef broth to reduce the salt content. Load up on the vegetables for added nutrients and fiber.
You can also skip thickening the gravy with flour and instead blend a small portion of the cooked vegetables and broth to create a creamy sauce, or better yet you can use Cornstarch instead of Flour.
Nans Knockout Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 kcal |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-30g |
| Fiber | 3-5g |
