If you have been craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, you simply must try this Crock Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots Recipe. It’s the perfect combination of tender, juicy chuck roast cooked low and slow alongside tender baby potatoes and sweet carrots, all soaked in a rich, flavorful gravy that will make your kitchen smell heavenly. This dish isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings everyone to the table for seconds and a cozy, satisfying evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to creating a memorable meal. Each element here works together beautifully to build layers of flavor, from the savory seasoning that hugs the roast to the earthy potatoes and naturally sweet carrots that soak up all that goodness.
- 3-4 lb. Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling and flavor, resulting in a tender and juicy roast.
- 2 tablespoons flour: Used for seasoning the roast and helping to create a lovely crust when searing.
- 4 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the meat to lock in those delicious flavors.
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar: Adds a touch of subtle sweetness that balances the savory spices.
- 1 teaspoon each of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika: These spices give the roast a robust and complex flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat and depth to the seasoning.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Helps build a rich base for the gravy and keeps the roast moist.
- 2 cups beef broth: Adds deeper, meaty flavor essential for that signature roast taste.
- 1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 tsp better than bouillon): Boosts the savory umami flavor in the cooking liquid.
- 1 ½ teaspoon onion powder: Extra depth for the gravy’s savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the fragrant aroma and taste.
- 1 teaspoon low sodium soy sauce: Gives a subtle umami richness without overpowering the dish.
- 2 ¼ lbs. baby potatoes: Their size and texture make them perfect for absorbing roast juices while maintaining a tender bite.
- 2 lbs. whole carrots (cut into halves or thirds): Sweet and tender, they balance perfectly against the savory meat and gravy.
- 3 tablespoons corn starch + 3 tablespoons cold water: Used to thicken the cooking liquid into a luscious gravy.
- 2-3 drops Kitchen Bouquet browning and seasoning sauce (optional): Adds a rich, dark color to your gravy for that classic roast appearance.
- 1 Tablespoon cold unsalted butter: Swirled in at the end for a silky, glossy finish to the gravy.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Crock Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Roast
Start by patting your chuck roast completely dry so the seasoning sticks beautifully. Then, combine your aromatic spice blend with flour, massage this mixture generously onto every inch of the roast for maximum flavor depth and a nice sear.
Step 2: Sear the Roast
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the roast and sear it on each side for 2-3 minutes. This step locks in juices and creates a mouthwatering crust that enhances the final dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy Base
Whisk together the chicken broth, beef broth, bouillon cube, garlic, onion powder, and soy sauce. Pour some of this mixture into the hot skillet to deglaze it, scraping up all those browned bits that hold incredible flavor. Transfer everything to your slow cooker.
Step 4: Arrange Potatoes and Carrots
Cut the baby potatoes into halves or thirds to ensure even cooking. Peel and slice the carrots into halves or thirds as well, or lengthwise for thick pieces. Arrange these hearty veggies around the roast inside the slow cooker, allowing them to soak up the flavorful juices.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the lid tightly and cook the roast on high for 5-6 hours or on low for 8-10 hours. Resist opening the lid during cooking, because maintaining the heat is key for that tender melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 6: Finish the Gravy
Carefully remove the roast and vegetables and set them on a serving platter to rest under foil. Transfer the cooking juices to a saucepan and bring to a boil. Whisk together cornstarch and cold water, then slowly add it to the simmering juices while stirring until thickened. Add a few drops of optional Kitchen Bouquet for color and swirl in cold butter for a glossy finish.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Season the potatoes and carrots with salt and pepper if desired, then spoon the luscious gravy over everything. Now, sit back and savor every comforting bite of your Crock Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots Recipe.
How to Serve Crock Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled over the top add a bright and fresh contrast to the rich flavors. A few cracked black peppercorns or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also elevate the dish just before serving.
Side Dishes
While this one-pot meal is satisfying on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans adds a lovely crunch and color contrast. Crusty bread or soft dinner rolls are wonderful too, perfect for mopping up the delicious gravy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic feel, serve the roast, potatoes, and carrots family-style on a large wooden board or cast iron skillet. Alternatively, plate individual servings with generous gravy spooned over top and garnish with fresh herbs, making it a special presentation for a dinner party or family gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Crock Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots Recipe, let any leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making for fantastic next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your leftovers, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. The roast, potatoes, carrots, and gravy freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain that tender texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the gravy. Stir occasionally to rewarm evenly and preserve the roast’s juicy tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of meat for this Crock Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots Recipe?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is preferred for its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking, other cuts like arm roast or rump roast can work well too. Just keep in mind cooking times might vary slightly depending on the cut.
Is it necessary to brown the roast before slow cooking?
Browning the roast is highly recommended because it caramelizes the meat’s surface, enhancing both flavor and appearance. It also helps develop the rich gravy by adding those delicious browned bits to deglaze.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in parsnips, turnips, or even pearl onions to add more variety. Just adjust the size and cooking time to make sure everything finishes tender and tasty.
What if I don’t have Kitchen Bouquet for the gravy?
Kitchen Bouquet is optional and mainly used to darken the gravy. If you don’t have it, no worries! Your gravy will still taste fantastic and have a lovely golden-brown color from the broth and seared roast.
How do I know when the roast is done?
The roast is ready when it’s fork-tender and easily pulls apart. Cooking on low for 8-10 hours or high for 5-6 hours usually achieves this. If you’re unsure, test by inserting a fork—it should slide in with little resistance.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots Recipe is one of those comforting classics that never fails to satisfy. It’s straightforward to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for family meals or cozy dinners on chilly nights. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to that makes everyone ask for seconds!
PrintCrock Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots Recipe
A comforting and hearty Crock Pot Roast recipe featuring a tender chuck roast slow-cooked with baby potatoes and carrots in a rich, flavorful gravy. Perfect for an easy, hands-off meal with classic seasoning and a delicious homemade gravy finish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 3–4 lb. Chuck Roast
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Liquids and Flavorings
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 tsp better than bouillon)
- 1½ teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon low sodium soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2–3 drops Kitchen Bouquet browning and seasoning sauce (optional)
- 1 Tablespoon cold unsalted butter
Vegetables
- 2¼ lbs. baby potatoes (halved or thirds if large)
- 2 lbs. whole carrots (cut into halves or thirds)
Gravy Thickener
- 3 tablespoons corn starch
- 3 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- Season the Roast: Pat the chuck roast completely dry. Combine the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, brown sugar, black pepper, and flour. Massage this seasoning mixture evenly onto all sides of the roast to ensure full flavor.
- Sear the Roast: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until shiny and hot. Add the seasoned roast and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until a browned crust forms. Adjust heat as needed. Remove the roast from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare Gravy Base and Transfer to Slow Cooker: Whisk together chicken broth, beef broth, bouillon cube, onion powder, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Pour some of this mixture into the skillet you used for searing to deglaze and scrape the browned bits with a silicone spatula for extra flavor. Transfer all of this gravy mixture into the slow cooker, followed by placing the seared roast and any juices on the plate into the slow cooker.
- Prepare Vegetables: Cut potatoes in halves or thirds if large, or leave smaller ones whole. Peel and cut carrots into halves or thirds, slicing very thick carrots lengthwise in half.
- Add Vegetables to Slow Cooker: Arrange the potatoes evenly around the roast in the slow cooker, then layer the carrots on top of the potatoes.
- Cook the Roast: Secure the lid on the slow cooker and cook on high for 5-6 hours or on low for 8-10 hours. Avoid opening the lid during cooking to maintain heat and moisture.
- Remove and Rest: Carefully lift out the carrots, potatoes, and roast and set them on a serving platter. Tent with foil to keep warm.
- Make the Gravy: Using oven mitts, transfer the cooking juices to a saucepan or if your crock is stovetop safe, place it directly on the stove. Bring juices to a boil.
- Thicken the Gravy: Whisk corn starch and cold water together until smooth. Gradually add this slurry to the boiling juices, whisking continuously. Lower heat to a simmer and allow the gravy to thicken, stirring occasionally.
- Finish the Gravy: Add a few drops of Kitchen Bouquet browning and seasoning sauce if a darker color is desired. Remove from heat and swirl in 1 tablespoon of cold unsalted butter until melted for richness.
- Season and Serve: Season the carrots and potatoes with salt and pepper to taste and serve alongside the sliced roast and generous ladles of gravy.
Notes
- Chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking, but other cuts like brisket or round roast can be used.
- Do not open the slow cooker lid during cooking to ensure the roast stays tender and juicy.
- Kitchen Bouquet is optional and used mainly for color enhancement.
- Adjust seasoning according to personal preference before serving.
- For thicker gravy, add a little more cornstarch slurry as needed while simmering.