Can I make this pot roast ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day ahead, refrigerate it overnight, and reheat it gently before serving. The flavors actually get richer the next day.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Chuck roast is best because it has the right amount of fat and connective tissue for slow cooking, but you can also use brisket or bottom round if needed.

What size slow cooker should I use?

A 6-quart slow cooker works perfectly for this recipe. It gives enough space for the roast and vegetables to cook evenly.

How do I thicken the gravy?

If you like a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. You can add mushrooms, celery, or parsnips to give it more depth. Just make sure everything is cut into similar sizes so they cook evenly.

Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Pot Roast | 5-Star Comfort Dinner Recipe

Description

This Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Pot Roast is the ultimate comfort meal made with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich brown gravy. It tastes just like the restaurant favorite but is effortless to make at home in your crockpot.

Ingredients

3 lbs chuck roast

1 packet brown gravy mix

1 packet ranch dressing mix

1 packet Italian dressing mix

1 cup beef broth

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

3 carrots, cut into chunks

3 potatoes, diced

1 onion, quartered

3 garlic cloves, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Peel and chop the carrots and potatoes into large chunks. Quarter the onion and mince the garlic. Pat the chuck roast dry and season with salt and pepper.

2. Place the roast in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the carrots, potatoes, and onions around the beef.

3. Sprinkle the brown gravy mix, ranch dressing mix, and Italian dressing mix evenly over the top.

4. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to create a rich, savory base.

5. Cover and cook on LOW for 8–9 hours or HIGH for 5–6 hours until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.

6. Remove the roast, shred it with two forks, then stir the gravy and vegetables before serving. Return the shredded beef to the pot and coat it in the sauce.

7. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or roasted green beans for a full Cracker Barrel-style meal.

Notes

To store: Cool completely and refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months.

To reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth, or bake covered at 350°F for 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the beef tender.

To thicken gravy: Stir in a mix of 1 tbsp cornstarch and 2 tbsp cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serving ideas: Serve with buttery rolls, creamed corn, or a fresh green salad.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Category: Dinner, Slow Cooker
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 520
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 145mg

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