Crockpot Apple Cider Pot Roast with Potatoes

It all started one chilly October evening when my kitchen smelled like sweet apples, beef, and herbs simmering away. I’d tossed everything into the crockpot earlier that morning, and by dinner, the roast was falling apart with a spoon. The secret? Apple cider. It sounds unusual, but once you try it, you’ll be hooked. The roast soaks up the cider’s sweet richness, turning a classic comfort dish into something undeniably perfect for fall. It’s what I now call my favorite “Crocktober” meal — because nothing says autumn like this cozy crockpot apple cider pot roast with potatoes.

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What Makes This Roast Special

Classic Flavor with a Fall Twist

The apple cider adds a gentle sweetness that balances beautifully with savory beef broth, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce. Add a few fresh thyme sprigs, and this dish becomes the definition of comfort food. Everything cooks low and slow, allowing the flavors to build and blend into a rich, irresistible gravy.

No Fuss, All Flavor

Just 15 minutes of prep and the crockpot does the rest. You can walk away, run errands, or just enjoy your day while your kitchen fills with the warm aroma of a home-cooked meal. And when you return? Fall-apart tender roast and perfectly caramelized potatoes ready to serve.

Simple Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredient	Amount
Beef chuck roast	3–4 lbs
Onion, sliced	1 large
Small potatoes, halved	4–5
Apple cider	2 cups
Beef broth	1 cup
Brown sugar	2 tbsp
Soy sauce	2 tbsp
Dijon mustard	1 tbsp
Salt	1 tsp
Black pepper	1/2 tsp
Fresh thyme sprigs	3
Butter (optional)	2 tbsp, for finishing

How to Make Apple Cider Pot Roast

1. Place the sliced onions and halved potatoes in the bottom of your crockpot.
2. Set the chuck roast on top of the vegetables.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, beef broth, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture evenly over the roast and vegetables. Add the fresh thyme sprigs on top.
5. Cover and cook on LOW for 8–9 hours or on HIGH for 5–6 hours, until the roast is fork-tender.
6. Optional: Stir in butter before serving for a rich finish.
7. Serve warm with potatoes and a generous drizzle of the cider gravy.

Make It Even Better

• Try using carrots or parsnips along with the potatoes for added sweetness.
• If you want a thicker gravy, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
• Use hard apple cider for a more complex depth of flavor (keep it adult-only).

What to Serve With It

This roast pairs beautifully with crusty bread, roasted green beans, or a simple fall salad.

Want more cozy inspiration? You’ll love our Crockpot Turkey Breast — it’s another set-it-and-forget-it favorite.

FAQ

Conclusion

This crockpot apple cider pot roast is everything you want in a fall dinner — cozy, tender, and layered with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, it’s as satisfying as it is simple. And thanks to the apple cider twist, it’s a seasonal showstopper your family will ask for again and again.

If you’re loving these slow-cooked meals, don’t miss our most-shared fall favorite: Honey Garlic Chicken Breast — perfect for weeknight comfort.

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