Tender and flavorful chuck roast, made easy with a simple dry rub and slow-cooked to perfection. Perfect for a comforting family meal!
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:180 minutes
Total Time:200 minutes
Yield:6-8 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
3–4 lb Beef Chuck Roast
1 packet (1 oz) Dry Onion Soup Mix
1 packet (1 oz) Ranch Dressing Mix
1/2 cup Water
1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Optional: Carrots, Potatoes, Celery (cut into large chunks)
Instructions
Prepare the Roast: Take the chuck roast out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels.
Make the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the dry onion soup mix, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Season the Roast: Drizzle olive oil all over the roast and rub it in. Generously sprinkle the dry seasoning mixture all over the roast, pressing it into the meat.
Prep Vegetables (Optional): Peel and chop carrots, potatoes, and celery into large chunks.
Sear the Roast (Optional but Recommended): Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned. Remove from skillet.
Slow Cook in the Oven: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
Assemble: If using vegetables, arrange them in the bottom of a Dutch oven or roasting pan. Place the roast on top of the vegetables.
Add Water: Pour 1/2 cup of water into the bottom of the pan.
Cover and Cook: Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the roast is fork-tender. Check after 3 hours.
Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the roast reaches a safe internal temperature. Aim for at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, or 170°F (77°C) for well-done. For a more tender, shreddable texture, cook to around 200-205°F (93-96°C).
Rest: Remove from oven and let the roast rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing or shredding.
Serve: Shred or slice the roast and serve with the cooked vegetables and pan juices. Make gravy from pan juices if desired.
Notes
Searing the roast before slow cooking adds a depth of flavor.
Adjust cooking time based on the size of the roast and your oven.
Resting the roast is crucial for tenderness.
For a richer flavor, substitute 1/2 cup of the water with 1/2 cup of red wine.
This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Sear the roast as directed, then place it in the slow cooker with the vegetables and water. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the roast is fork-tender.
Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture for a little heat.
Add some herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs added to the Dutch oven or roasting pan will infuse the roast with a lovely aroma and flavor.
Use different vegetables: Feel free to substitute other root vegetables, such as parsnips or turnips, for the carrots, potatoes, and celery.
For even better browning, you can broil the roast for a few minutes after it’s cooked, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.