Easy Pot Roast Recipe

Pot roast is a true comfort food that can turn any dinner into a warm family gathering. Not only is it satisfying and flavorful, but it is also budget-friendly. It’s an ideal meal for families or anyone looking to create something hearty without overspending. With just a few simple ingredients, you can prepare a delicious pot roast that is sure to impress your family and friends for $3.46 per serving.

Prepared Pot Roast with Carrots and Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients

To create this easy pot roast recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 2.5 lb chuck roast ($14.56)

• 1 yellow onion, diced ($1.15)

• 5 garlic cloves (from a bulb, $0.72)

• 1 lb baby carrots ($1.37)

• 1 packet Lipton Vegetable Recipe Soup & Dip Mix (about half the box – $1.49)

• 1 packet brown gravy mix ($0.48)

• 2 cups beef broth (about $1.00)

• Salt & pepper to taste

• A splash of oil for browning

  
  

  Recipe total: $20.77

  
  

You can grab everything from a grocery store like Walmart to keep it convenient and within budget: https://www.walmart.com/lists/shared/WL/80ce003f-497e-41da-96bc-1d17a9d9d06a

How to Make It

Brown the Meat

Begin by generously seasoning the chuck roast with salt and pepper. Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the roast to the skillet and brown it on all sides, which usually takes about 5 minutes per side. This step is essential; it locks in the flavors while creating a beautiful, flavorful crust on the meat.

Sauté the Flavor Base

After browning, remove the roast from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they are fragrant and translucent. This step enhances the entire flavor of your pot roast. Then, deglaze the pan by pouring in about ½ cup of beef broth, scraping up all the tasty browned bits from the bottom.

Slow Cook

Transfer the browned roast and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture into your crockpot. Add the Lipton Vegetable Recipe Soup & Dip Mix, brown gravy packet, and the remaining beef broth. Give all the ingredients a quick stir to mix them well.

Cook Low & Slow

Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 5 hours or on low for about 8 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring that the meat becomes incredibly tender and juicy.

Add Veggies

About halfway through the cooking time, add the baby carrots. This timing ensures the carrots stay tender without becoming mushy by the time the pot roast is ready to serve.

Serve & Enjoy

After the cooking time is complete, carefully slice the roast and serve it alongside the carrots and onions. Ladle some rich gravy over the top for extra flavor. If your gravy is too thin, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water.

Tips for the Perfect Pot Roast

• Choose the Right Cut of Meat: Chuck roast is a favorite for pot roast because it turns tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. If you're looking for alternatives, brisket is another good choice.

  
  

• Don’t Skip Browning: Taking the time to brown the meat adds depth and complexity to your dish. It will be worth the effort when you taste it.

  
  

• Use Quality Broth: The beef broth you select can greatly influence the flavor. Opt for a low-sodium or organic broth for the best taste.

  
  

• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t be shy about tweaking the seasonings. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor and add freshness.

  
  

• Leftovers: Pot roast is excellent as leftovers, too! Use it in sandwiches, salads, or even as a filling for tacos, making it a multipurpose meal.

  
  

Wrapping Up

Making a pot roast is a simple and rewarding process that results in a hearty meal ideal for any occasion. With just a handful of affordable ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a flavorful dish that your family will cherish.

Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting, this easy pot roast recipe is sure to find a permanent place in your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the delightful flavors of this classic dish!