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Savor the comforting flavors of slow cooker pot roast paired with creamy goat cheese mashed potatoes. This recipe brings together tender chuck roast infused with herbs and rich gravy, complemented by the slight tang and smoothness of goat cheese in the potatoes. It’s an ideal dish for cozy evenings or special family dinners where warmth and satisfaction are on the menu.
I first made this when I needed something both makeahead and hearty on a cold night. The kids scraped their plates clean and now ask for it all the time, which says a lot in my house.
Ingredients
- Chuck roast: Offers rich flavor and becomes tender over slow cooking Look for a piece with good marbling for juiciness
- Yellow onion: Brings natural sweetness and adds depth Choose firm, heavy onions for best texture
- Carrots: Contribute natural sweetness and vibrant color Use medium sized carrots that are not too thick to cook evenly
- Celery: Creates an aromatic base that supports the savory sauce Select fresh stalks that are crisp with bright color
- Garlic: Gives the dish aroma and punch Use fresh cloves for a stronger, cleaner flavor
- Tomato paste: Adds body with a hint of acidity Choose a deep red paste and tubes offer convenience
- Beef stock: Infuses the roast with deep beefy notes Opt for low sodium to control seasoning
- Worcestershire sauce: Contributes umami and complexity Use the classic version for best flavor
- Rosemary and thyme: Bring fresh herbaceous notes Pick fragrant fresh sprigs
- Granulated garlic and onion powder: Amplify aromatic richness
- Paprika: Gives a mild smokiness and color Select vibrant red, fresh paprika for the best impact
- Oregano: Delivers an earthy background flavor Use dried leaves that still look fresh
- Bay leaves: Add subtle, layered flavor to the sauce
- Ranch seasoning powder: Provides a tangy and creamy element unique to this recipe Choose a quality blend without fillers
- Brown gravy powder: Helps thicken the sauce and boost richness
- Salt and pepper: Finish seasoning and balance flavors Always taste as you go
- Neutral oil: For searing meat like canola or vegetable oil for high heat
- Russet potatoes: Create a fluffy base for mashed potatoes Pick firm potatoes without sprouts
- Heavy cream: Warms the potatoes with smoothness Heat before using for creaminess
- Butter: Adds richness European style enhances flavor
- Goat cheese: Makes the mashed potatoes creamy with a slight tang Select a mild goat cheese for subtle flavor
Instructions
- Sear the Chuck Roast:
- Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels to ensure good browning. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat three tablespoons of oil in a heavy skillet over mediumhigh heat until shimmering. Place the roast in the skillet and sear each side for four to five minutes without moving it. This step builds a deep golden crust that enhances flavor and color so do not rush it.
- Mix the Sauce:
- While the roast sears, mix together tomato paste, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, granulated garlic, onion powder, paprika, oregano, ranch seasoning powder, and brown gravy powder in a bowl. Stir until fully combined to create a richly flavored mixture that will infuse the meat.
- Add to Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the browned roast to the slow cooker base. Arrange the carrots, celery, and chunks of onion around the meat. Tuck rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves among the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over everything, ensuring good coverage for uniform cooking.
- Slow Cook Low and Slow:
- Cover the slow cooker and set to high for five hours or low for eight to nine hours. The meat will become fork tender and vegetables will soften but remain intact. This slow gentle cooking develops tender meat and harmonious flavors.
- Check Seasoning and Shred:
- After cooking completes, carefully remove and discard any excess fat from the roast. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed for balance. Use two forks to gently shred or slice the beef to your preference. Keep on warm setting to stay ready while you prepare potatoes.
- Make Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes:
- Peel and quarter the russet potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water salted lightly. Bring to a boil then simmer until potatoes are fork tender about 15-20 minutes. Drain thoroughly then return potatoes to the pot. Add butter and let melt. Warm the heavy cream gently. Mash potatoes with a masher adding half the cream. Fold in goat cheese and the remaining cream until creamy smooth. Season generously with salt.
- Serve It Up:
- Plate the goat cheese mashed potatoes first in generous mounds. Top with pieces of tender pot roast and spoon over plenty of the rich sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot to enjoy the full comforting experience.
One of my favorite things is how goat cheese transforms the mashed potatoes They become creamy and tangy in a way butter and cream alone can never achieve. Whenever I make this roast my family insists on doubling the goat cheese potatoes because they feel like a special treat.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pot roast and goat cheese mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers to keep flavors fresh. Pot roast with sauce stays good in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave for best results. For longer storage freeze the pot roast with sauce in freezer bags and thaw overnight in the fridge before warming.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of goat cheese cream cheese or a bit of sour cream can deliver similar tang. Substitute fresh herbs with dried using half the amount because dried herbs are more potent. You can leave out ranch and gravy powders and instead use your favorite spice blend with a bit of flour to help thicken the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This pot roast and goat cheese mashed potato combo makes a great Sunday dinner centerpiece or celebratory meal. Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted brussels sprouts for balance. Leftovers are fabulous in sandwiches with crusty bread or as a filling in savory pot pies.
This cozy combination elevates classic comfort food with a gourmet twist that pleases a crowd. Serve hot and enjoy.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Why sear the chuck roast before slow cooking?
Searing caramelizes the surface, enhancing flavor and creating a rich color that elevates the overall taste.
- → Can goat cheese be substituted in the mashed potatoes?
Yes, cream cheese or sour cream can add a similar creamy tang if goat cheese is unavailable.
- → How to keep vegetables from becoming mushy?
Cut carrots, onions, and celery into large chunks so they maintain texture during the long cooking process.
- → What is the best way to thicken the gravy?
Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker near the end; simmer until the gravy thickens.
- → When should the beef be seasoned?
Generously season with salt and pepper before browning, then adjust seasoning after cooking to taste.