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Classic Pot Roast for a Cozy Sunday Dinner

Slices of tender pot roast served with carrots and gravy, perfect for Sunday dinner ideas.

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A simple, comforting pot roast recipe perfect for a family gathering. This recipe uses basic ingredients to create a tender main dish for your weekend meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lb beef chuck roast
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 carrots, cut into large chunks
  • 3 celery stalks, cut into large chunks
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup dry red wine (optional)
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Pat the beef roast dry and season all sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear the roast on all sides until deeply browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the roast and set aside.
  4. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the Dutch oven. Cook until the onions soften, about 5 minutes.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  6. Return the roast to the pot. Add the rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. The liquid should cover about two-thirds of the roast.
  7. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the Dutch oven tightly.
  8. Transfer the pot to a 325°F oven and cook for 3 to 4 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.
  9. Remove the roast and vegetables. Skim any excess fat from the liquid. If you want a thicker sauce, simmer the liquid on the stovetop until reduced.
  10. Slice the roast against the grain and serve with the vegetables and pan sauce.

Notes

  • You can prepare the vegetables and sear the meat the day before. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble for slow cooking the next day.
  • For a make-ahead Sunday meal, cook the entire roast, cool it completely, and refrigerate. Reheat slowly in a covered dish with a little extra broth.
  • Use this recipe for easy Sunday menu planning by serving it with mashed potatoes and green beans.

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