Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Brown Gravy
Here is how to use a crock pot to make a nifty pot roast meal super tender roast beef surrounded by potatoes carrots and onions with a flavorful velvety brown gravy.
Here is how to use a crock pot to make a nifty pot roast meal super tender roast beef surrounded by potatoes carrots and onions with a flavorful velvety brown gravy.
- 1/2 cup water
- black pepper freshly ground
- 1 1/2 pounds top round beef roast (i used laura's lean beef)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil (i used peanut oil)
- 3 medium russet potatoes peeled and cut into quarters (any variety of potato will work.)
- 2 medium onions peeled and cut into sixths (i used white onions.)
- 1/2 oz. baby carrots (you may use any carrots, peeled and cut in pieces.)
- 10 1/2 oz. beef broth
- 10 1/2 oz. beef consomme
- 1/2 6-oz can tomato paste (use the whole can, if you like a more tomato-y flavor.)
- 3 tablespoon cornstarch
- Carbohydrate 33.76192625 g
- Cholesterol 36.288 mg
- Fat 9.7629275 g
- Fiber 2.10356246370077 g
- Protein 37.93650125 g
- Saturated Fat 3.87914825 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (1205g)
- Sodium 4600.0586875 mg
- Sugar 31.6583637862992 g
- Trans Fat 1.13129625 g
- Calories 377 calories
Step-by-step
- Crack fresh peppercorns over all sides of your 1 1/2 pound top round roast and rub it in.
- In a large deep skillet heat 1 1/2 tablespoons peanut oil. When hot place the roast in the sizzling oil and brown it on all sides.
- Place the browned roast into a crock pot (slow cooker).
- Arrange the potato pieces around and on top of the roast. Then place the cut onions on top of the potatoes. Finally place the baby carrots (or carrot pieces) on top of the onions.
- Combine 10.5 oz beef broth 10.5 oz beef consomme and 1/2 of a 6 oz can of tomato paste in a medium-sized bowl. Pour over the roast and vegetables.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and cook for 1 hour on HIGH and then 8 or 9 hours on LOW.
- Check to make sure the roast and vegetables are tender.
- Remove roast and vegetables to platters or plates. Cover with aluminum foil to keep them hot while you make the pot roast gravy.
- Pour the drippings from the crock pot into a medium-sized saucepan. Spoon off any excess fat.
- Mix together 1/2 cup cold water and 3 tablespoons of cornstarch thoroughly. Add it to the drippings in the pan stirring constantly as it is being added.
- Bring this gravy mixture to a boil over medium heat. Cook stirring constantly for about 10 minutes or until gravy is thickened and bubbly.
- Place your sliced roast in the center of a large platter. Surround the roast by your cooked potatoes first then evenly placed cooked onions and carrots.
- Pour some gravy on top of the sliced roast and place the rest of the gravy in a conveniently placed gravy boat.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Slow Cooker Pot Roast
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and hearty meal can feel like a monumental task. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pickups, homework help, and the never-ending cycle of laundry. But even amidst the chaos, I refuse to compromise on family dinners. That's where my trusty slow cooker comes in – my secret weapon for creating flavorful, satisfying meals without spending hours in the kitchen. This slow cooker pot roast recipe is a staple in our household, a comforting classic that always impresses, no matter how rushed the day has been.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to become incredibly tender. It's the perfect dish for a chilly evening, warming the soul and bringing the family together around the table. The rich, velvety brown gravy is the perfect complement to the succulent roast beef and perfectly cooked vegetables. It's a dish that’s both elegant and effortlessly easy – a winning combination in my book! I often adapt the recipe depending on what vegetables I have on hand. Sometimes I add parsnips or sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness, or even butternut squash for a richer flavour. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to discover your own favourite variations.
Beyond the convenience, this dish offers a sense of accomplishment. Knowing that I've created a delicious and nutritious meal from scratch, even amidst a busy schedule, fills me with a sense of satisfaction. It's a small act of self-care and a testament to my commitment to providing my family with wholesome, home-cooked meals. The aromas that fill the house as the roast simmers are a comforting reminder of the simple joys of home cooking, creating an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness. It's more than just a meal; it's a connection to something deeper, a tradition that I hope to pass on to my children.
Beyond the Recipe: This pot roast isn't just a meal; it's a conversation starter. It's a chance to disconnect from screens and reconnect with family, sharing stories and laughter over a meal that’s been lovingly prepared. The leftovers are equally fantastic, perfect for sandwiches or adding to other dishes. The versatility of this recipe allows for creativity, and the satisfaction of creating a delicious meal from scratch is unparalleled.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Choosing Your Roast: A top round roast is a great choice for slow cooking, as it becomes incredibly tender. However, other cuts like chuck roast will also work beautifully.
- Browning the Roast: This step is crucial for developing a rich flavour and a beautiful crust. Don't skip it!
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
- Gravy Consistency: Adjust the amount of cornstarch to achieve your desired gravy thickness.
- Make-Ahead Potential: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
This Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Brown Gravy is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple, wholesome cooking. It's a recipe that nourishes not just the body, but the soul.
