Jeff'S Pot Roast
A hearty, classic pot roast featuring tender beef, savory vegetables, and aromatic herbs, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Rich flavors and comforting textures shine through.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour with thyme, marjoram, pepper, and salt; rub into the chuck roast, coating completely.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of shortening in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven.
- Brown the meat on each side for about 8 minutes.
- Reduce heat; pour in 1 to 2 cups hot water.
- Cover and simmer the roast for 1 hour.
- Add potatoes, carrots, celery, onions, and a dash of salt to the pan.
- Cover and cook together until vegetables and meat are tender, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Remove the roast and vegetables from the pan if desired.
- Make gravy from the liquid in the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chuck roast overnight with the spice rub. If you don’t have marjoram, oregano can be a good substitute. For a thicker gravy, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with cold water to the pan liquid before serving. Always ensure the meat is well-seared to lock in juices and improve taste.
Serving Suggestions
This pot roast pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a side of green beans for a complete meal. Consider serving with a fresh garden salad or Affy Tapple Salad for a nice contrast. For a comforting finish, a slice of Peachy Apple Crisp can round out the meal perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pot roast and vegetables in a covered pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jeff'S Pot Roast contains roughly 767 calories, with 30g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (210% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1549mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).
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 cut of meat for this pot roast?
Yes, you can substitute with brisket or round roast if chuck is not available. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness during the cooking process.
How do I know when the pot roast is done?
The pot roast is done when it is fork-tender, which usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours total cooking time. You can test tenderness by inserting a fork into the meat; it should easily shred apart.
Can I make this pot roast recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the meat, place it in a slow cooker with the vegetables and add the water. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours for a delicious and tender pot roast.
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).