"Day Out" Pot Roast
A hearty, no-fuss pot roast cooked all day with savory spaghetti and cranberry sauces, tender vegetables, perfect for relaxed family dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the jar of spaghetti sauce and cranberry sauce in a bowl.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the beef roast in a roasting pan or slow cooker.
- Add vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, green beans, and onions on top of the roast.
- Cover and cook in a 200° to 250°F oven all day, or use a slow cooker.
- The beef can be frozen when started; no browning or seasoning is necessary.
- At the end of cooking, remove the meat and vegetables, heat the sauce to bubbling, and cook noodles directly in the gravy if desired.
- The longer it cooks, the more tender the meat becomes.
- Just turn it on and spend the day out.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary along with the sauces. If you're short on time, pre-cut vegetables can save you prep time. Carrots and potatoes work well, but feel free to swap in sweet potatoes or parsnips. To enhance the dish, serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pot roast over a bed of egg noodles or rice, allowing the rich sauce to soak in. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. For a cozy touch, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or pairing it with Elaine's Easy Deep Dish Pizza for a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Day Out" Pot Roast contains roughly 658 calories, with 11g protein, 158g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (101% of the Daily Value), and potassium (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 28g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while beef is traditional, you can substitute pork or chicken. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially for chicken, which generally requires less time to become tender.
What if I don't have spaghetti sauce?
If you don't have spaghetti sauce, marinara or another tomato-based sauce can be used as a substitute. You can also blend canned tomatoes with garlic and herbs for a homemade option.
How do I know when the roast is done?
The roast is done when it reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F, but for optimal tenderness, aim for around 190°F. The longer it cooks, the more tender the meat becomes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).