Mississippi Pot Roast
Famous for a reason! This slow cooker Mississippi Pot Roast is unbelievably tender and packed with a savory, tangy flavor. With just five main ingredients and minimal prep, it's the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it comfort food that creates its own rich, delicious gravy.
For 6 servings
4 steps. 480 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Sear the Roast (10-12 minutes)
- b.Pat the chuck roast completely dry with paper towels. This helps create a better crust.
- c.Season all sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- d.Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- e.Carefully place the roast in the hot skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until a deep brown crust forms. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- f.Transfer the seared roast to the basin of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Add Seasonings and Toppings (3 minutes)
- b.Sprinkle the entire packet of ranch seasoning mix and the au jus gravy mix evenly over the top of the roast.
- c.Place the whole stick of butter on top of the seasonings.
- d.Arrange the pepperoncini peppers around the sides of the roast and pour the pepperoncini juice into the slow cooker.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Slow Cook to Perfection (8-10 hours)
- b.Cover the slow cooker with the lid. There is no need to add any extra liquid.
- c.Cook on the LOW setting for 8-10 hours or on the HIGH setting for 4-6 hours.
- d.The roast is done when it is exceptionally tender and easily falls apart when prodded with a fork.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Shred and Serve (10-15 minutes)
- b.Once cooked, carefully remove the roast from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board or platter.
- c.Using two forks, shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat or gristle.
- d.Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and gently stir to combine it with the rich gravy.
- e.Let the meat rest in the juices for at least 10 minutes to absorb maximum flavor.
- f.Serve hot over creamy mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or piled high on toasted sandwich buns.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't skip the sear! Searing the roast creates a flavorful crust (the Maillard reaction) that adds incredible depth to the final dish.
- 2Resist the urge to add extra liquid like water or broth. The roast and butter will release plenty of juices, creating a concentrated and flavorful gravy.
- 3For a milder flavor, you can substitute whole banana peppers for the pepperoncini.
- 4If you prefer a thicker gravy, transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and whisk in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water until thickened.
- 5For a lower-sodium version, look for low-sodium ranch and au jus packets, or make your own seasoning blends at home.
- 6Leftovers are fantastic and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavor often deepens overnight.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicier Version
Use hot pepperoncini peppers or add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings for an extra kick.
Different Cuts of MeatDifferent Cuts of Meat
Beef brisket or a bottom round roast can be used instead of chuck roast. Cooking times may need to be adjusted slightly.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
For a one-pot meal, add 1 lb of baby carrots and 1 large, quartered onion to the bottom of the slow cooker before adding the seared roast.
Instant Pot MethodInstant Pot Method
Sear the roast in the Instant Pot on 'Sauté' mode. Add remaining ingredients, seal, and cook on high pressure for 60-70 minutes. Allow a 15-minute natural release before serving.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Beef is a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs for muscle repair, tissue growth, and maintaining a healthy immune system.
Rich in Heme Iron
This dish provides heme iron from the beef, a form of iron that is more easily absorbed by the body than plant-based iron. Iron is crucial for forming hemoglobin, which transports oxygen and helps prevent fatigue.
Provides Key B Vitamins
Beef is a natural source of several B vitamins, particularly B12, niacin, and B6. These vitamins are vital for converting food into energy, supporting brain function, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Frequently asked questions
Mississippi Pot Roast is a rich, indulgent comfort food. While it is high in protein, it is also high in sodium and saturated fat from the butter and seasoning packets. It's best enjoyed in moderation. To make it healthier, you can use low-sodium seasoning packets or use half the amount of butter.