This easy, flavorful pot roast is a comforting classic made simple with just three seasoning packets. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish combines tender chuck roast, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce—all baked to perfection in one pot. Serve it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 1 (3–4 pound) chuck roast
- 1 packet Ranch dressing mix
- 1 packet Italian dressing mix
- 1 packet Brown gravy mix
- 1 cup water or beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4–5 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 5–6 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 large onion, quartered
- Salt, to taste (for searing)
- Pepper, to taste (for searing)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Sear the Roast
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) .
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Generously season the chuck roast on all sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the roast in the hot pot for about 3–4 minutes per side , until it’s nicely browned and caramelized. This step locks in flavor and adds depth to the dish.
- Remove the roast from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
- In the same pot (with the flavorful drippings), add the carrots, potatoes, and onion quarters .
- Stir the vegetables briefly to coat them with the oil and beef drippings, ensuring they’re evenly seasoned.
Step 3: Return Roast & Prepare Sauce
- Place the seared roast back on top of the vegetables in the pot.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Ranch dressing mix, Italian dressing mix, brown gravy mix, and water or beef broth until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Pour Sauce & Bake
- Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the roast and vegetables in the pot. Make sure everything is coated for maximum flavor.
- Cover the pot tightly with a lid or aluminum foil to trap moisture and ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Slow Bake
- Transfer the covered pot to the preheated oven and bake for 3–4 hours , or until the meat is incredibly tender and falls apart easily with a fork.
- Tip: Check the pot halfway through cooking to ensure there’s enough liquid. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Step 6: Serve
- Carefully remove the pot from the oven.
- Spoon the rich, flavorful gravy over the tender meat and vegetables before serving.
- Enjoy this hearty, comforting dish as-is or pair it with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for an extra indulgent meal.
Tips for Success
- Roast Selection: Use a chuck roast for the best results—it becomes fork-tender during slow cooking. Avoid leaner cuts like sirloin, which can dry out.
- Liquid Options: Beef broth adds a deeper, richer flavor compared to water, but both work well depending on your preference.
- Customize Veggies: Swap or add other root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or celery for variety.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully! Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Baked 3 Packet Pot Roast is simplicity at its finest. With just three seasoning packets, you get layers of flavor that transform humble ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal. The slow baking process ensures the meat is fall-apart tender, while the vegetables soak up all the savory goodness of the sauce. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a cozy dinner for two, this dish is sure to satisfy. Dive into this hearty, comforting masterpiece and savor every bite!