Name: Classic Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lb chuck roast; 2 cups beef broth; 1 large yellow onion; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Enjoy a timeless, tender pot roast slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot! Chuck roast melds with beef broth, onions, and seasonings, finished with a rich gravy. This hearty, no-fuss dish is a standout among the best beef slow cooker recipes, ideal for cozy, comforting family meals.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Sear the roast for a deep, savory crust—elevates the flavor!
Slice onions thickly—they soften and enrich the broth.

Whisk flour with cold water for lump-free gravy—smooth every time.
Add broth to cover halfway—keeps it juicy without drowning.
Use a slotted spoon to separate solids from juices—gravy prep made easy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’re going to be completely smitten with this classic slow cooker pot roast with gravy—it’s one of the best beef slow cooker recipes that’ll warm your soul and make your taste buds sing! This dish is pure comfort: toss everything into the crockpot in the morning, let it simmer all day, and come home to a tender, juicy roast swimming in a velvety, savory gravy that’s perfect for drizzling over everything. The chuck roast turns so succulent it falls apart with a fork, soaking up the rich beef broth and sweet onions for a flavor that’s hearty and homey. It’s a low-effort recipe that delivers big, cozy vibes—ideal for family dinners or when you want a satisfying meal without the work. You’ll love how it fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and becomes an instant favorite at the table!

Yield: Serves 8

Classic Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Gravy

Classic slow cooker pot roast with gravy—a tender, savory beef dish.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

3 lb chuck roast

2 cups beef broth
1 large yellow onion
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Gather Your Ingredients: Alright, let’s whip up a classic comfort dish! Grab your chuck roast, beef broth, yellow onion, flour, and olive oil. Set out your crockpot, a cutting board, a sharp knife, a skillet (optional), tongs, a measuring cup, and a small bowl—everything you need for this hearty roast!
Prep the Onion: Take your large yellow onion—peel off the papery skin with your fingers, then place it on the cutting board. Slice it into thick rings or half-moons, about ½-inch wide—keep them chunky so they hold up during cooking. Set them aside in a little pile—sweet flavor incoming!

Season the Roast: Grab your 2-3 lb chuck roast—pat it dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper (optional, since broth adds flavor) over both sides, rubbing it in with your hands. This beefy beauty is ready to become a star!
Sear the Roast (Optional): Heat a skillet over medium-high—add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it shimmer for 30 seconds. Place the roast in the hot pan and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until it’s golden brown, flipping with tongs. This step adds depth—skip it if you’re pressed for time!
Set Up the Crockpot: Open your crockpot—use a liner if you’ve got one for easy cleanup. Spread the sliced onions across the bottom in an even layer—they’ll soften and flavor the broth. Place the seared (or raw) chuck roast on top, centering it snugly—ready for slow-cook perfection!

Pour the Broth: Measure out 2 cups of beef broth in a liquid measuring cup—pour it slowly into the crockpot, aiming around the sides of the roast so it pools with the onions. Stop when it reaches halfway up the meat—just enough to keep it tender and juicy!
Cook It Slow: Secure the lid on your crockpot—make sure it’s tight! Set it to low for 8 hours (for ultimate tenderness) or high for 4-5 hours if you’re in a hurry. Let it simmer away—go about your day while the roast turns into something magical!
Remove the Roast: When it’s done, lift the lid—inhale that savory, beefy aroma! Use tongs to transfer the roast to a platter—it should be fork-tender. Scoop the onions into a bowl with a slotted spoon, leaving the juices in the crockpot for that glorious gravy!

Make the Gravy: Pour the crockpot juices into a small saucepan over medium heat—skim off excess fat with a spoon if you like. In a small bowl, whisk 2 tablespoons of flour with ¼ cup cold water until smooth, then stir it into the juices. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring, until thickened—gravy heaven!
Serve and Dig In: Slice or shred the roast with two forks—place it back with the onions if you like. Spoon that rich, velvety gravy over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides. Serve with mashed potatoes or bread—dig in and savor the tender, classic comfort that warms you up!

Notes

Rest 10 minutes before slicing for juicier beef—worth the wait!

Taste gravy after thickening—add salt or pepper if needed for balance.
Use a 4-6 quart crockpot for the best fit and flavor soak.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 435Total Fat 28gSaturated Fat 11gTrans Fat 2gUnsaturated Fat 15gCholesterol 141mgSodium 353mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 0gSugar 1gProtein 43g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Chuck Roast: A 2-3 lb chuck roast is perfect—marbled for tenderness and ideal for slow cooking into melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Beef Broth: Two cups of low-sodium beef broth form a savory base—rich and flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.
Yellow Onion: One large yellow onion adds sweetness and depth—sliced thick for texture in the dish.
All-Purpose Flour: Two tablespoons thicken the gravy—creates that smooth, luscious finish.

Olive Oil: One tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil is for searing—enhances the roast’s flavor with a golden crust.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap chuck roast for rump roast or brisket—adjust cooking time for leaner cuts.
Replace beef broth with chicken broth or stock—still savory and moist.

Sub yellow onion with red onion or shallots—offers a slightly different sweet note.
Use cornstarch (1 tbsp + water) instead of flour for gluten-free gravy—thickens just as well.
Add carrots, potatoes, or celery for a complete meal—chop and layer around the roast!

Storage Options

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days—reheat with gravy to keep it juicy. Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently. Perfect for meal prep or cozy leftovers!