Name: Comforting Slow Cooker Roast with Rich Au Jus
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 h
Total time: 10 h 30 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large onion, chopped; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp salt; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 3 cups low-sodium beef broth; 3 lbs beef chuck roast; 3 medium carrots, chunked; 4 cloves garlic, minced

This Comforting Slow Cooker Roast with Rich Au Jus features tender beef in a savory, herb-infused broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, it’s an easy, hands-off recipe that delivers deep flavors with a luscious dipping sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This comforting slow cooker roast with rich au jus is a soul-warming dish that turns a simple beef roast into a tender, flavorful masterpiece with minimal effort. The slow cooker infuses the meat with herbaceous notes while creating a savory au jus perfect for dipping or drizzling. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, it’s budget-friendly and versatile—pair with mashed potatoes or rolls. The hands-off cooking and rich, satisfying taste make it a go-to for a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a hug in every bite.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Sear for Depth: Browning the roast adds a rich, caramelized flavor.

Cut Veggies Uniformly: Even pieces ensure consistent cooking.
Layer Properly: Place veggies under the roast to soak up juices.
Skim Fat: Remove excess fat from au jus for a cleaner taste.

Low and Slow: Cook on low for maximum tenderness.
Thicken if Desired: Reduce au jus on the stovetop for a thicker sauce.
Rest Before Slicing: Let roast sit for 10 minutes to retain juices.

Season Generously: Taste and adjust salt and pepper after cooking.
Use Fresh Herbs: Rosemary or thyme enhance the au jus aroma.
Strain for Smoothness: Optional straining creates a refined au jus.

Yield: 8 servings

Comforting Slow Cooker Roast with Rich Au Jus

Tender slow cooker roast with rich au jus, perfect for cozy, hearty meals.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 10 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 10 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

1 large onion, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt

2 stalks celery, chopped
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
3 cups low-sodium beef broth

3 lbs beef chuck roast
3 medium carrots, chunked
4 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

Prep the Roast: Pat chuck roast dry and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Sear the Roast: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear roast for 4-5 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
Prepare Veggies: Chop carrots, celery, and onion, placing them in the slow cooker under the roast.

Add Garlic: Sprinkle minced garlic over the veggies and roast.
Pour in Broth: Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, ensuring the roast is partially submerged.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, until roast is fork-tender.

Check Tenderness: Test the roast with a fork; it should shred or slice easily.
Rest the Dish: Turn off the slow cooker and let the roast rest for 10 minutes.
Prepare Au Jus: Skim fat from the broth, then strain or serve as is for a rich dipping sauce.

Serve and Enjoy: Slice or shred the roast, serve with veggies and au jus, and savor this comforting meal!

Notes

Use a well-marbled chuck roast for best results; trim excess fat if preferred.
Layer veggies under the roast to soak up flavors; stir gently to avoid mashing.

Adjust seasoning after cooking, as broth and Worcestershire vary in saltiness.
Store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness.
This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free or low-carb diets with appropriate swaps.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 443Total Fat 28gSaturated Fat 11gTrans Fat 2gUnsaturated Fat 15gCholesterol 141mgSodium 666mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 1gSugar 2gProtein 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

Beef Chuck Roast (3 lbs): Well-marbled for tenderness; about 1 piece.

Carrots (3 medium): Peeled and cut into chunks for sweetness.
Celery (2 stalks): Chopped for earthy flavor.
Onion (1 large): Roughly chopped for savory depth.

Beef Broth (3 cups): Low-sodium keeps flavors balanced.
Garlic (4 cloves): Minced for aromatic warmth.
Worcestershire Sauce (2 tbsp): Adds umami richness; adjust to taste.

Thyme (1 tsp, dried): Infuses earthy flavor; fresh works too.
Salt and Pepper (1 tsp each): Seasons the roast; adjust after cooking.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Used for searing, adding depth.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat Swap: Use brisket or bottom round; adjust cooking time.
Veggie Options: Add potatoes, parsnips, or mushrooms for variety.
Broth Swap: Use chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter taste.

Herb Variations: Substitute thyme with rosemary or oregano.
Sauce Alternatives: Replace Worcestershire with soy sauce or balsamic.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure broth is certified.
Low-Carb: Omit potatoes and increase carrots or celery.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat with broth.

Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months; thaw in fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, stirring to blend au jus.