Mississippi Pot Roast is perfect for those days when you crave comfort without the hassle. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing most of the work, this recipe delivers tender, flavorful beef that pairs well with any side dish you have on hand.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless setup ensures you have more free time during the day.
- Rich, savory flavors develop even more in a slow cooker.
- Minimal ingredients mean a quick grocery run.
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
Ingredients
- 1 (3 pound) chuck roast: Provides the perfect balance of fat and marbling for a tender, juicy end result.
- ½ (12 ounce) jar pepperoncini: Adds a tangy, slightly spicy kick. Substitute with banana peppers if needed.
- ½ (12 ounce) jar pepperoncini juice: Enhances the meat’s flavor and tenderness through its brine.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth. Substitute with olive oil if desired.
- 1 (1 ounce) packet au jus gravy mix: Infuses a savory beef flavor. If unavailable, use beef bouillon granules.
- 1 (0.4 oz) package buttermilk ranch dressing mix: Introduces a creamy, herby element. Use a homemade ranch blend if preferred.
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste: Basic seasoning to enhance all flavors.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place your chuck roast in the slow cooker. This cut is essential for its ability to break down over long cooking times, resulting in tender meat. Season both sides with salt and black pepper to your preference.
Step 2: Add Pepperoncini and Butter
Layer the pepperoncini over and around the roast. This not only provides flavor but also moisture, which is crucial for the slow cooking process. Place slices of butter on top to enrich the sauce and help prevent the roast from drying out.
Step 3: Mix in Flavor Packets
Sprinkle the au jus gravy mix and the ranch dressing mix evenly over the top. These mixes create the savory backbone of the dish, providing both salt and a mix of spices that enhance the meat’s natural flavor.
Step 4: Pour in Pepperoncini Juice
Add the pepperoncini juice to the bottom of the slow cooker around the beef. This liquid will steam and infuse the meat, adding to its juiciness and complexity without overwhelming its beefy flavor.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Set your slow cooker to low and let it work for 8 hours. During this time, the flavors meld together while the meat becomes tender enough to shred with a fork. Resist lifting the lid too often, as this releases heat and extends cooking time.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, a rump roast or brisket can work as well though you may need to adjust cooking times slightly due to variations in fat content and meat thickness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pot roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It can also be frozen for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for best results.
What can I serve with this pot roast?
This roast pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a medley of roasted vegetables to make a complete and hearty meal.
