Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast

This Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast is the perfect dish for any gathering or cozy family dinner. With its melt-in-your-mouth beef and aromatic herbs, it brings warmth and comfort to your table. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, letting you customize it with your favorite root vegetables. Whether for a Sunday family meal or a weeknight dinner, this pot roast stands out as a hearty and satisfying option.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pot Roast
• For Optional Ingredients
• How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
• Step 1: Sear the Beef
• Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
• Step 3: Cook on Low Heat
• Step 4: Shred and Serve
• How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
• Over Creamy Mashed Potatoes
• With Fresh Garden Salad
• On a Sandwich
• As Tacos
• With Roasted Vegetables
• With Rice or Quinoa
• How to Perfect Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
• Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
• Reheating Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What cuts of meat are best for slow cooker pot roast?
• Can I add more vegetables?
• How do I know when my pot roast is done?
• Can I use wine instead of broth?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply sear the meat and toss everything into the slow cooker — minimal hands-on time required.
• Deep Flavor: The combination of garlic, herbs, and apple juice creates a rich flavor profile that enhances the beef.
• Perfectly Tender Meat: The slow cooking process ensures that the beef becomes fall-apart tender, making it enjoyable for everyone.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over mashed potatoes or alongside roasted veggies for a customizable meal.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Leftovers can be easily stored and enjoyed throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, giving you perfectly cooked meat without constant supervision.
• Skillet: Searing the roast in a skillet locks in flavors before transferring it to the slow cooker.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring even pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Pot Roast

• 3 – 3½ pounds boneless beef chuck roast
• 2 tablespoons olive or avocado oil
• 1 pound baby carrots (or large carrots cut into 3-inch sticks)
• 1 medium white or yellow onion, chopped into large chunks
• 2 cups beef stock or beef broth
• 1 cup apple juice
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 2½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For Optional Ingredients

• 1 pound medium gold potatoes, quartered (omit if serving over mashed potatoes)
• Fresh chopped parsley or thyme for garnish

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How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Heat oil in a skillet over high heat. Once hot:
1. Place the pot roast in the skillet.
2. Sear both sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned beef to a 6 or 7-quart slow cooker. Add:
– Chopped onion,
– Carrots,
– Potatoes (if using),
– Beef stock,
– Apple juice,
– Tomato paste,
– Minced garlic,
– Dried parsley,
– Salt,
– Pepper.

Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Cook on Low Heat

Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours. The goal is for the beef to become tender and easily shred apart.

Step 4: Shred and Serve

Once done:
1. Use two forks to shred the pot roast directly in the slow cooker.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.
3. Serve over creamy mashed potatoes (if not using additional potatoes) and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Enjoy this comforting dish that brings family together around the dinner table!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast

Serving your Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast is an opportunity to elevate this comforting dish. Whether you prefer a classic approach or something a little different, here are some ideas to make every meal memorable.

Over Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy texture: Serve the tender pot roast over a bed of homemade mashed potatoes for a rich and hearty combination.
• Add gravy: Spoon the savory juices from the slow cooker over the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.

With Fresh Garden Salad

• Crisp contrast: Pair your pot roast with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the meat.
• Seasonal veggies: Use whatever greens and vegetables are in season for added freshness.

On a Sandwich

• Easy lunch option: Shred the leftover pot roast and place it between slices of crusty bread for a delicious sandwich.
• Tasty toppings: Add horseradish sauce or pickles for an extra kick.

As Tacos

• Fun twist: Use shredded pot roast as a filling for soft or hard-shell tacos.
• Flavorful toppings: Top with avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a vibrant meal.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Colorful plate: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or zucchini.
• Extra nutrients: This adds more vitamins and fiber to your meal while enhancing flavors.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Hearty base: Serve the pot roast over rice or quinoa for a filling dish that soaks up all those delicious juices.
• Quick preparation: Both options can be made ahead of time for convenience.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast, consider these essential tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Sear the meat: Browning the roast before slow cooking locks in moisture and boosts flavor.
• Choose quality meat: Opt for well-marbled beef chuck roast; it becomes more tender during cooking.
• Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh garlic and parsley add depth. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
• Add acid: Using apple juice not only sweetens but also balances flavors. For richness, consider adding red wine.
• Monitor cooking time: Ensure you don’t overcook. The ideal cooking time is 7-8 hours on low heat until tender.
• Rest before serving: Allowing the meat to rest after shredding helps retain juices for better flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfectly toasted garlic bread can soak up delicious juices from the pot roast.
2. Steamed Green Beans
   A light side that adds crunch and color, steaming retains their nutrients and bright flavor.
3. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pot roast.
4. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread pairs nicely with savory dishes and offers delightful texture.
5. Mashed Cauliflower
   For a low-carb alternative, mashed cauliflower mimics traditional mashed potatoes without sacrificing flavor.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   These add natural sweetness and can be topped with butter or cinnamon for extra flair.
7. Creamed Spinach
   Rich and creamy spinach complements the robust flavors of pot roast while adding nutrition.
8. Roasted Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus provides an elegant touch and balances flavors on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Sear: Failing to sear the meat can result in a lack of rich flavor. Always brown the pot roast in a skillet first.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Adding too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: If you don’t taste before serving, you might miss out on enhancing the flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking for too little time will lead to tough meat. Ensure you cook on low for the full 7-8 hours for tender results.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality beef or broth can impact taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for a delicious pot roast.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store your Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast in an airtight container.
• item It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast

• item Allow the pot roast to cool completely before freezing.
• item Use freezer-safe bags or containers to store portions.
• item Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pot roast in a covered dish and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a splash of beef broth until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What cuts of meat are best for slow cooker pot roast?

For Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast, cuts like chuck roast or brisket work best as they become tender during slow cooking.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like celery or peas. Just make sure not to overcrowd your slow cooker.

How do I know when my pot roast is done?

It’s done when it becomes fork-tender and shreds easily. This generally takes about 7-8 hours on low.

Can I use wine instead of broth?

Yes! For added depth of flavor, substitute part of the beef stock with red wine.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast can be made ahead and stored for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast is not just about comfort; it’s also versatile and easy to customize. You can adjust seasonings or add different vegetables based on your preferences. Try this recipe today for a hearty meal that your family will love!