Save
Nothing says pure comfort like slow cooker pot roast paired with goat cheese mashed potatoes. This hearty dinner is the kind of meal that fills the house with savory aromas and draws everyone to the table on chilly evenings. Each bite delivers melt-in-your-mouth beef and creamy tangy potatoes that just might become your new favorite way to serve mashed potatoes.
I first made this when I needed both a make-ahead dinner and something cozy for a cold night. The kids scraped their plates clean and now it is the most requested comfort food in my house.
Ingredients
- Chuck roast: offers a rich flavor and tender texture when slow cooked Look for a cut with good marbling
- Yellow onion: adds sweetness and depth Choose onions that are firm and heavy
- Carrots: bring natural sweetness and color Pick medium carrots that are not too thick
- Celery: creates an aromatic base for the sauce Fresh stalks are crisp with bright color
- Garlic: gives aromatic punch and savor Use fresh cloves for best flavor
- Tomato paste: adds body and a hint of acidity Look for deep red paste and squeeze tubes for convenience
- Beef stock: infuses deep beefy taste Choose low sodium for better control over seasoning
- Worcestershire sauce: gives umami and complexity Use the classic if possible
- Rosemary and thyme: bring herbaceous depth Use fresh sprigs that are fragrant
- Granulated garlic and onion powder: amplify the aromatics
- Paprika: gives color and mild smokiness Use a fresh vibrant red paprika for best result
- Oregano: delivers earthy notes Opt for dried leaves that are not faded
- Bay leaves: contribute subtle layer of flavor
- Ranch seasoning powder: tangy and creamy element that sets this recipe apart Look for a quality blend with minimal fillers
- Brown gravy powder: reliable way to thicken and boost richness
- Salt and pepper: essential finishing touch Always taste before serving
- Oil: for searing meat use a neutral high heat oil
- Russet potatoes: create the fluffiest mashed base Pick potatoes that are firm without sprouts
- Heavy cream: delivers luxurious smoothness Warm before adding to help with creamy texture
- Butter: brings richness choose European style for extra flavor
- Goat cheese: makes the potatoes creamy and adds a slight tang Choose a mild variation for subtlety
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Chuck Roast:
- Pat dry the chuck roast thoroughly then season it well with salt and pepper on both sides Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a large skillet until shimmering Place the roast in the skillet and brown it for four to five minutes per side Do not rush this step as a deep golden crust builds deep flavor
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl blend together the tomato paste beef stock Worcestershire sauce granulated garlic onion powder paprika oregano ranch powder and gravy powder Stir until everything is fully combined This mixture will infuse the meat with rich savory notes
- Add to Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the browned roast to the bottom of your slow cooker Layer the carrots celery onion and tuck in rosemary thyme and bay leaves around the roast Pour the sauce mixture evenly over everything
- Slow Cook Low and Slow:
- Cover and set your slow cooker to high for five hours or low for eight to nine hours The beef should become fork tender and the vegetables soft but not falling apart
- Check Seasoning and Shred:
- Once the cooking is complete remove any visible fat from the roast Taste the sauce and season with more salt and pepper if needed Use two forks to gently shred or slice the beef as you prefer Keep the slow cooker on warm while you finish the potatoes
- Make Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes:
- Peel and quarter the russet potatoes Place in a large pot and cover with cold salted water Bring to a boil then simmer until fork tender Drain well Return potatoes to the pot and add butter Let the butter melt while you gently warm the heavy cream Mash the potatoes with a masher pour in half the cream and fold in goat cheese Mash until creamy adding more cream as needed Season generously with salt
- Serve It Up:
- Pile the goat cheese mashed potatoes onto plates Top each mound with plenty of tender pot roast and a ladle of sauce Garnish with fresh herbs if desired
Save
One of my favorite elements is the goat cheese in the mashed potatoes It changes the whole vibe of the dish giving the potatoes a creamy tangy quality that regular butter and cream just cannot achieve My family always asks for a double batch of these potatoes when this roast is on the menu
Storage Tips
To keep leftovers tasting fresh store the pot roast and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers Both will last up to four days in the refrigerator The pot roast sauce can be kept in a small container and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave For longer storage freeze pot roast with sauce in freezer friendly bags and thaw overnight before reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
No goat cheese on hand Cream cheese or a little sour cream can provide a similar tang You can swap out fresh herbs for dried just use less since dried herbs are stronger If you prefer not to use ranch or gravy powder season with your own favorite spice mix and a bit of flour to help thicken
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines as a centerpiece for Sunday dinner or celebrations Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted brussels sprouts for a complete meal The leftovers work beautifully in sandwiches with toasted bread or turned into a savory pot pie filling
Save
Cultural and Historical Context
Pot roast is a classic in American comfort food often associated with family gatherings and holidays The use of a slow cooker transforms this old fashioned favorite into a convenient weeknight meal The goat cheese in the potatoes adds a modern twist inspired by French and Mediterranean flavors
Recipe FAQs
- → Why sear the chuck roast before slow cooking?
Searing the meat in a hot skillet caramelizes the surface, adding extra flavor and a rich color to the final dish.
- → Can I skip goat cheese in the mashed potatoes?
Yes, but goat cheese adds a unique tang and creaminess. Substitute with more butter or use cream cheese for a different twist.
- → How do I ensure the vegetables don't turn mushy?
Cut carrots, onions, and celery into large chunks so they maintain their texture during long slow cooking times.
- → What can I use to thicken the gravy?
Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir into the slow cooker towards the end; simmer until the gravy thickens to your liking.
- → Should I season the beef before or after cooking?
Generously season the beef with salt and pepper before browning and taste again after cooking to adjust seasoning as needed.