A hearty, tender pot roast is a classic comfort food, and using a slow cooker ensures that the meat is fall-apart tender and full of flavor. This Amish pot roast recipe is rich in flavor, using simple ingredients to create a delicious, wholesome meal. Perfect for Sunday dinners or cozy weeknight meals, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs beef chuck roast (or your preferred cut of beef roast)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4-5 medium potatoes, cut into quarters (Yukon gold or red potatoes work well)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for browning)
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, to thicken the gravy)
Instructions
1. Preparing the Roast
Begin by seasoning your beef roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the roast for 3-4 minutes on each side until a deep, golden-brown crust forms. This step is crucial as it locks in the juices and adds rich flavor to the roast. After searing, transfer the roast to your slow cooker.
2. Adding the Vegetables
Next, add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the skillet where you seared the beef. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened, then transfer them to the slow cooker, spreading them around the roast. Add the carrots and potatoes on top and around the sides of the roast.
3. Preparing the Cooking Liquid
In a medium bowl, combine the beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir until the brown sugar is fully dissolved. Pour this mixture over the roast and vegetables in the slow cooker.
4. Adding Herbs and Spices
Add the bay leaves, thyme, paprika, and black pepper to the slow cooker. These herbs and spices will infuse the meat and vegetables with deep, earthy flavors as they slow cook.
5. Cooking the Pot Roast
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The slow, gentle cooking process will allow the meat to become incredibly tender, and the flavors of the broth, herbs, and vegetables will meld together perfectly. The roast is ready when the meat can be easily shredded with a fork.
6. Thickening the Gravy (Optional)
If you’d like a thicker gravy, remove about 1 cup of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker when the roast is done. Whisk in 1 tablespoon of flour until smooth, then pour the mixture back into the slow cooker. Stir gently, cover, and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the gravy thickens.
7. Serving Suggestions
Once your Amish pot roast is cooked to perfection, carefully remove the meat and vegetables from the slow cooker. Slice or shred the roast, and serve it alongside the tender carrots and potatoes. Ladle the rich gravy over everything for an added layer of flavor.
This pot roast pairs wonderfully with fresh Amish bread, dinner rolls, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Pot Roast
- Choose the right cut of meat: A beef chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender and juicy when cooked low and slow. You can also use a brisket or rump roast if preferred.
- Searing the meat: Don’t skip searing the roast! It adds a depth of flavor and enhances the final texture of the dish.
- Slow cooking time: For the most tender result, it’s best to cook the roast on low for a longer time (8-10 hours). Cooking on high for 4-5 hours will also work if you’re short on time but may not give the same melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- Storing leftovers: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat leftovers in the microwave or stovetop for an easy meal later.
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Amish Pot Roast with family and friends, and savor the simple, wholesome flavors of this comforting dish!