
Crockpot Pot Roast with Gravy is the kind of meal that quietly transforms an ordinary day into something memorable the whole house fills with the cozy aroma of slow-cooked beef and vegetables melting together in a rich comforting gravy It is my go-to for easy family gatherings or just to welcome everyone home with some truly hearty comfort food
I made this for a family Sunday dinner one chilly fall afternoon and it disappeared so quickly everyone was quietly eyeing the pot for seconds before dessert My biggest regret was not making a double batch
Ingredients
- Beef chuck roast: Tenderizes beautifully during slow cooking look for good marbling for the richest flavor
- Carrots: Sweet earthiness that balances the rich beef pick firm bright carrots without blemishes
- Yellow onions: They caramelize slightly and add gentle sweetness look for onions with papery skins and no dark spots
- Garlic: Brings out savory boldness fresh cloves make a difference
- Low-sodium beef broth: Keeps the dish moist and provides deep flavor use a brand without artificial flavors if possible
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds complex savory tang look for a bottle that lists anchovy or tamarind for classic depth
- Cornstarch: Thickens the gravy for a luscious finish buy a fresh package for best results and smooth mixing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables:
- Chop the carrots into hearty chunks and quarter your onions Uniform pieces cook evenly and give every spoonful some vegetable goodness
- Season and Sear the Beef:
- Rub the roast all over with salt and pepper For best results sear all sides in a hot skillet until brown and crusty This step is optional but it adds so much flavor and vibrancy to the finished dish
- Layer it in the Crockpot:
- Place carrots and onions in the bottom of the crockpot Nestle the roast right on top
- Add Flavors and Broth:
- Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce evenly over everything These liquids will become your base for a silky sauce
- Slow Cook to Tender Perfection:
- Cover and set your crockpot to low for eight hours or high for four hours The roast should be fork-tender when done
- Thicken the Gravy:
- When cooking is finished mix cornstarch with a splash of water until smooth Stir this mixture into the hot broth in your crockpot Let everything simmer in the pot for a few minutes until the gravy thickens up luxuriously

The carrots are always my favorite bite they soak up all the savory juices and remind me of the big family roasts my grandmother used to make She would always slip an extra clove of garlic in just for me
Storage Tips
Let the roast cool to room temperature and pack up slices with the vegetables in a tight container Cover with gravy to keep everything moist It keeps in the fridge for up to four days and reheats perfectly in the microwave or gently in a saucepan
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of Worcestershire sauce you can use a splash of soy sauce mixed with a little vinegar or lemon juice No beef chuck No worries A boneless beef shoulder or brisket will work just as well Yukon gold potatoes make a delicious additional vegetable layer too

Serving Suggestions
I love this pot roast served over mashed potatoes or creamy polenta Spoon extra gravy on top and scatter chopped parsley for a fresh finish Warm dinner rolls on the side are perfect for mopping up the last drop
A Little History
Pot roast has roots in thrifty home cooking where tougher less expensive cuts of meat were slowly cooked with whatever vegetables were on hand The technique brings out rich flavors with minimal effort and it turns simple ingredients into something truly festive
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → What cut of beef works best?
Beef chuck roast is ideal, as it becomes tender and flavorful during slow cooking.
- → Can I brown the roast before slow cooking?
Searing the roast in a skillet ahead of time adds extra flavor, though it is optional.
- → How do I thicken the gravy?
Mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the remaining liquid in the crockpot until thickened.
- → Are there alternative vegetables I can add?
Potatoes, parsnips, or celery can be added along with carrots and onions for variety.
- → How long should it cook in the crockpot?
Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.