Cozy, hearty, and fall-apart tender! This Dutch Oven Pot Roast, simmered with flavorful vegetables and herbs, is a perfect recipe for family dinners or weekend indulgence. Would you feast on this classic dish or pass?
Ingredients
For the Pot Roast:
- 3-4 lb beef chuck roast 🥩
- Salt and black pepper, to taste 🧂
- 2 tbsp olive oil 🫒
- 1 large onion, chopped 🧅
- 4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 4 cups beef broth 🍲
- 2 tbsp tomato paste 🍅
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 🥄
For the Vegetables:
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks 🥕
- 4-5 medium potatoes, cut into chunks 🥔
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme) 🌿
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary) 🌿
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Season the Roast
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
Step 2: Sear the Roast
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear the roast for 3-4 minutes per side until it forms a rich, golden crust. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the chopped onion to the Dutch oven. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Deglaze & Add Broth
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, combining with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Add Vegetables & Herbs
- Return the seared roast to the Dutch oven.
- Arrange the carrots and potatoes around the roast.
- Add fresh thyme and rosemary. Ensure the broth nearly covers the meat and vegetables.
Step 6: Cook the Pot Roast
- Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Cook for 3-4 hours until the roast is fork-tender.
Step 7: Serve
- Remove the roast and vegetables from the Dutch oven.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with the rich cooking liquid as gravy.
Tips for Success
- Use a heavy-duty Dutch oven: It ensures even heat distribution for perfect cooking.
- Sear for flavor: Don’t skip searing the roast; it locks in the juices and adds depth to the dish.
- Check liquid levels: If needed, add more broth during cooking to keep the meat moist.
- Let it rest: Allow the roast to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, a brisket or bottom round roast can work well, though chuck roast is ideal for its marbling.
2. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sear the roast and prepare the aromatics as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours.
3. What can I serve with this dish?
Serve with crusty bread, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, the roast and vegetables freeze beautifully. Store in an airtight container with some cooking liquid for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Dutch Oven Pot Roast with Vegetables is the epitome of comfort food—a tender roast paired with perfectly cooked vegetables and rich, savory gravy. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Would you dig into this or save it for later?
Don’t forget to pair it with a glass of red wine or a warm loaf of bread for the ultimate feast!