Crock Pot Italian Pot Roast

This Crock Pot Italian Pot Roast is a hearty and flavorful dish that epitomizes slow-cooked comfort food. Tender boneless beef chuck roast, infused with zesty Italian dressing seasoning, pairs beautifully with the sweetness of roasted red peppers and tangy pepperoncini.

Cooked low and slow with carrots and onions, this dish is versatile—perfect served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or nestled in hoagie rolls for a satisfying meal. Whether you prefer a leisurely dinner or a hands-off approach to cooking, this recipe delivers robust flavors with minimal effort.

Crock Pot Italian Pot Roast

Ingredients

1 pounds carrots, peeled and chopped into large 1 ½-inch rounds

1-2 pounds baby potatoes

2 small onions, quartered

2-3 lb. boneless beef chuck roast

1 packet Italian dressing seasoning mix (such as Good Seasons brand)

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 (12 ounce) jar roasted red peppers, drained and coarsely chopped

6 pepperoncini, drained from a jar

For serving: cooked pasta; mashed potatoes; or hoagie rolls

Instructions

Place carrots, potatoes and onions in bottom of slow cooker. Lay beef on top and sprinkle with seasoning mix. Add vinegar, red peppers and pepperoncini.

Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, or until beef shreds easily with a fork.

Notes:

Flavorful Seasonings: The Italian dressing seasoning mix adds a robust blend of herbs and spices, enhancing the flavor profile of the beef roast.

Tender Vegetables: Cooking the carrots and onions alongside the beef in the slow cooker allows them to absorb the savory juices, resulting in tender and flavorful vegetables.

Versatile Serving Options: This dish can be served in various ways, such as over cooked pasta, mashed potatoes, or as a filling for hoagie rolls, making it adaptable to different meal preferences.

Slow Cooking Method: Cooking on low heat for 8-10 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours ensures the beef becomes tender and easily shreds with a fork, perfect for a convenient and delicious meal.

Additional Flavor Elements: The addition of red wine vinegar, roasted red peppers, and pepperoncini adds tanginess and complexity to the dish, balancing out the richness of the beef and vegetables.

Make-Ahead Convenience: This recipe is ideal for busy schedules or meal prepping since it can be assembled in the slow cooker in the morning and left to cook throughout the day.

Adjustable Cooking Times: Depending on your schedule, you can adjust the cooking time between low and high settings to suit your needs without compromising on flavor or tenderness.

Leftovers: Leftovers can be repurposed into sandwiches, wraps, or even added to soups and stews for additional meals throughout the week.

Rich, Hearty Meal: Perfect for colder weather or when you’re craving a satisfying, comforting meal that requires minimal hands-on preparation.

Family-Friendly: This dish is likely to appeal to a wide range of tastes, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings where everyone can enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal together.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts such as beef shoulder or brisket.

Adjust cooking times accordingly for different cuts.

Do I need to brown the beef before placing it in the slow cooker?

It’s not necessary, but browning the beef beforehand can enhance the flavor and texture of the meat.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

Yes, you can control the heat by adjusting the amount of pepperoncini or choosing mild or hot varieties of Italian dressing seasoning mix.

What can I serve with this pot roast aside from pasta, potatoes, or hoagie rolls?

This dish pairs well with rice, polenta, or even a simple green salad for a lighter option.

Can I add additional vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or celery for extra flavor and variety.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, refrigerate it, and then start cooking it in the morning.

How can I make the gravy thicker?

To thicken the gravy, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the cooking liquid during the last hour of cooking.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I cook this recipe on high for a shorter time?

Yes, you can cook it on HIGH for 4-5 hours instead of LOW for 8-10 hours if you’re short on time.

How do I know when the roast is done?

The roast is done when it easily shreds with a fork.

Check the meat for tenderness after the recommended cooking time.