For busy families, this Crock Pot Mississippi Pot Roast simplifies dinner with minimal prep and effortless slow cooking. Expect fork-tender beef that’s perfect for hearty meals, be it a weeknight rush or a leisurely Sunday dinner.

- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Requires less than 10 minutes of active preparation.
- Slow cooker does all the work; set it and forget it.
- Versatile serving options ranging from mashed potatoes to sandwiches.
- Rich flavor with minimal effort thanks to simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 3-4 lb beef chuck roast: The main protein, ideal for slow cooking to tender perfection.
- ¼-⅓ cup pepperoncini juice: Adds tang and depth; from the pepper jar.
- 1 packet of garlic ranch seasoning or original ranch seasoning (1 oz.): Provides savory flavor; substitute with 1 tablespoon homemade ranch seasoning if needed.
- 1 packet of au jus gravy seasoning mix (1 oz.): Enhances the beef flavor; replace with beef bouillon powder if unavailable.
- ½ tsp pepper: Adds mild heat.
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the umami flavor.
- 1 yellow onion (sliced): Contributes sweetness and aroma to the dish.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Enriches the sauce.
- 7-9 pepperoncini peppers (more or less as desired): Provide a mild spiciness and pickled flavor.
- Sea salt (as desired): Balances flavors; adjust to taste.
How to Make It
Step 1: Layer the Flavors
Place the beef chuck roast at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the pepperoncini juice and Worcestershire sauce evenly over the meat. Sprinkle the au jus and ranch seasoning packets along with cracked pepper on top. Position sliced onions around the edges, ensuring even flavor distribution.
Step 2: Top with Butter and Peppers
Cut the butter into pieces and distribute them evenly over the seasoned meat. Add whole pepperoncini peppers. These elements melt into the beef, providing richness and a subtle kick.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your crock pot to low and cook for 8 to 10 hours. Look for the meat to be fork-tender and easily shreddable. This slow cooking breaks down the connective tissues, resulting in melt-in-the-mouth texture.
Step 4: Serve or Keep Warm
If you’re not serving immediately, switch the slow cooker to the “keep warm” setting. When ready, serve the pot roast over mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or loaded onto sandwiches for a comforting meal.
Recipe FAQs
How do I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, a brisket or blade roast can serve as substitutes, though they may vary in tenderness and require slight adjustments in cooking time.
Is there a substitute for pepperoncini peppers?
If you can’t find pepperoncini peppers, banana peppers are a milder substitute that retains the desired tanginess.