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Ultimate Comfort Dinner: Pot Roast with Mac and Cheese, Green Beans, and Cornbread

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Why This Comfort Food Combo is a Must-Try

This delightful meal combines savory, creamy, and fluffy textures that complement each other perfectly. The pot roast’s richness pairs wonderfully with the creamy mac and cheese, smoky green beans, and sweet cornbread. It’s an ideal dinner for family gatherings or any occasion where you need a little extra comfort.

Ingredients Overview

For the Pot Roast:

  • 3 lb beef chuck roast – The star of the dish, tender and flavorful.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil – For searing.
  • 1 onion, sliced – Adds depth to the gravy.
  • 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks – Sweetens the dish.
  • 2 potatoes, cubed – Completes the roast.
  • 2 cups beef broth – Provides a savory base.
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional) – Adds richness.
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste – Enhances flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – For an aromatic kick.
  • 2 sprigs thyme, 1 bay leaf – For herby notes.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni – The classic pasta choice.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – For gooey goodness.
  • 1 cup milk – Creates a creamy sauce.
  • 2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour – Forms the roux.
  • 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper – Balances flavors.

For the Green Beans:

  • 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed – Fresh and crunchy.
  • 2 slices bacon, chopped – Adds smoky richness.
  • 1/4 cup onion, diced – For added flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – To season.

For the Cornbread:

  • 1 cup cornmeal, 1 cup all-purpose flour – The base for cornbread.
  • 1/4 cup sugar – For a touch of sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt – For fluffiness.
  • 1 cup milk, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, 1 egg – Wet ingredients for a moist texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ How to Make the Perfect Pot Roast

  1. Sear the Roast:
    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the roast generously with salt and pepper. Sear it on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  2. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
    Transfer the roast to a slow cooker. Add the onions, carrots, potatoes, garlic, tomato paste, beef broth, wine (if using), thyme, and bay leaf.
  3. Cook Low and Slow:
    Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 8 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs before serving.

2️⃣ Creamy Mac and Cheese in Minutes

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
    Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously. Cook until the sauce thickens.
  3. Add Cheese and Combine:
    Stir in cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth. Toss with the cooked macaroni to coat.

3️⃣ Green Beans with Smoky Bacon

  1. Cook the Bacon:
    In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
  2. Sauté Onions and Green Beans:
    Add diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes. Add the green beans and sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Finish with Bacon:
    Stir the crispy bacon back into the skillet and season with salt and pepper.

4️⃣ Golden Cornbread

  1. Mix the Batter:
    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add milk, vegetable oil, and egg, stirring until just combined.
  2. Bake:
    Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pot Roast: Serve the tender roast with the veggies and plenty of the rich broth.
  • Mac and Cheese: Spoon creamy pasta alongside the roast for the ultimate comfort.
  • Green Beans: Add a pop of freshness with the bacon-laden beans.
  • Cornbread: Offer warm slices for soaking up the savory juices.

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Sear the Meat: Don’t skip searing the roast—it locks in the flavor.
  2. Use Quality Cheese: Opt for freshly grated cheddar for the creamiest mac and cheese.
  3. Balance the Flavors: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the green beans for brightness.
  4. Customize the Cornbread: Add chopped jalapeños or shredded cheese for a fun twist.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~750 kcal
  • Protein: ~40 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~60 g
  • Fat: ~35 g

Why You’ll Love This Meal

This pot roast meal is a complete package, offering rich, savory flavors that feel like a warm hug. Each component stands out on its own but comes together to create a dinner that’s perfect for any occasion.

A Hearty Meal That Feels Like Home

Nothing beats the smell of pot roast simmering away, paired with the creamy indulgence of mac and cheese, the smoky goodness of green beans, and the sweet comfort of cornbreadTry this ultimate comfort dinner today! Share this recipe with your friends or bookmark it for your next family feast. For more delicious recipes, subscribe to our newsletter.

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