crockpot recipe with roast beef
The Best crockpot recipe with roast beef
What I really appreciate about this recipe is how versatile it is. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, but it also holds up well if you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. The roast beef stays juicy, the vegetables soak up all the flavor, and there’s always enough for leftovers. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients from the veggies, so I feel good about serving it to my family. It’s one of those recipes that checks all the boxes—easy, delicious, and nourishing.
Crockpot Classic Pot Roast with Vegetables
A hearty and comforting slow-cooked pot roast with tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and onions in a rich gravy. Perfect for a cozy family dinner with minimal effort.
🥘Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs chuck roast or beef shoulder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Pat the roast dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary on all sides. -
2
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the roast to the crockpot. -
3
Add potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic to the crockpot around the roast. -
4
In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Pour the mixture over the roast and vegetables. Add the bay leaf. -
5
Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender. -
6
Optional: If you prefer a thicker gravy, remove the roast and vegetables to a serving platter. Mix cornstarch with water and stir into the crockpot liquid. Cook on HIGH for an additional 10-15 minutes until thickened. -
7
Discard the bay leaf. Serve the roast and vegetables with the gravy spooned over the top.
🔧Equipment
- Crockpot (6-quart or larger)
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crockpot Classic Pot Roast with Vegetables Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Pot Roast with Vegetables
1. How long should I cook a roast beef in a crockpot?
The cooking time for roast beef in a crockpot depends on the size of the roast and your desired level of doneness. Generally, a 3-4 pound roast beef should cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or on high heat for 4-6 hours. For a well-done roast, you may need to add an extra hour. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
2. Should I sear the roast beef before putting it in the crockpot?
Searing the roast beef before slow cooking is highly recommended but not strictly necessary. Searing helps develop deeper flavors by caramelizing the surface of the meat, adding richness to the dish. If you have time, sear the roast in a hot pan with a little oil for 2-3 minutes per side before transferring it to the crockpot.
3. What liquids should I use in the crockpot with roast beef?
You can use a variety of liquids to keep the roast beef moist and flavorful. Common options include:
– Beef broth or stock (best for rich flavor)
– Red wine (adds depth, use about ½ cup)
– Water (basic option, but less flavorful)
– Tomato juice or sauce (for a tangy twist)
– A mix of broth and Worcestershire sauce (for extra umami)
Aim for 1-2 cups of liquid depending on the size of your roast.
4. Can I add vegetables to the crockpot with the roast beef?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables enhances the meal and makes it a complete dish. Popular choices include:
– Potatoes (cut into chunks, added in the last 3-4 hours)
– Carrots (whole or chopped)
– Onions (quartered or sliced)
– Celery (for extra flavor)
– Garlic (minced or whole cloves)
For best results, place harder vegetables (like potatoes and carrots) at the bottom of the crockpot and the roast on top.
5. How do I thicken the gravy after cooking the roast beef?
To thicken the gravy, you can use one of these methods:
– Cornstarch slurry: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water, stir into the crockpot, and cook on high for 10-15 minutes.
– Flour roux: Cook 2 tablespoons of flour with 2 tablespoons of butter, then whisk into the liquid.
– Mashed potatoes: Stir in a few spoonfuls of instant mashed potatoes for a quick thickener.
– Reduction: Transfer the liquid to a saucepan and simmer until reduced to your desired consistency.
