The Best Oven Baked Pot Roast

Slow-cooked to perfection, The Best Oven Baked Pot Roast is a dish that warms the heart and soul. This recipe is not only ideal for family gatherings but also perfect for cozy weeknight dinners. Its rich flavors and tender meat make it a standout choice for various occasions, ensuring that each bite is a delightful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, this pot roast allows you to set it and forget it, making meal prep a breeze.
• Rich Flavors: The slow cooking process melds the spices and ingredients beautifully, creating an unforgettable taste that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand; this recipe adapts well to your preferences or seasonal produce.
• Perfect Leftovers: The flavors deepen the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or enjoying as leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delicious dish, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. These items will ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Why These Tools Matter

• Dutch oven: This heavy pot retains heat well, allowing for even cooking and excellent flavor development.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy, saving you time in preparation.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your pot roast.

Ingredients

Slow cooked to perfection, this Oven Baked Pot Roast is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients:
– 3-5 lb Chuck Roast, cut into chunks
– Salt and Pepper
– Kinder’s The Steak Blend Seasoning (if you can’t find this, you can omit it or use another steak seasoning blend)
– 2 tbsp turkey olive oil (or any cooking oil)
– 2 Large Onions, roughly chopped
– 5 Whole Garlic Cloves
– 1 tbsp Tomato Paste
– 1 tbsp Better Than Bouillon, Roasted Beef flavor
– 3 Cups Water
– 1 Sprig of Fresh Thyme
– 1 Sprig of Fresh Rosemary
– 1 lb Baby Carrots
– 1.5 lbs Baby Potatoes (or just regular carrots, chopped up)
– 2 Bay Leaves
– 3 tbs Cornstarch
– 3 tbsp Cold Water
– 1 Cup Water, for gravy

How to Make The Best Oven Baked Pot Roast

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 300°F.

Step 2: Season the Meat

Start by seasoning the meat generously with salt, pepper, and Kinder’s steak blend on all sides.

Step 3: Sear the Meat

Heat 2 tablespoons of turkey olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot:
1. Sear the roast chunks on all sides.
2. Remove the seared roast and set it aside.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot:
1. Add the chopped onion.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes until softened.
3. Add in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 5: Add Tomato Paste

Stir in a heaping tablespoon of tomato paste and allow it to cook for a few minutes.

Step 6: Create Broth Base

Mix in the Better Than Bouillon along with 3 cups of water (or substitute with beef broth):
1. Add sprigs of rosemary and thyme.
2. Include baby potatoes and baby carrots.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Return the roast to the pot:
1. Cover it with a lid.
2. Bake in the preheated oven about 3 to 4 hours, or until fork-tender.

Step 8: Shred the Meat

Once done:
1. Remove the roast from the pot and shred it.
2. Take out carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, and fresh herbs as well.

Step 9: Make Gravy

To make gravy:
1. Mix together 3 tablespoons of cold water with 3 tablespoons of cornstarch.
2. Stir it into the reserved liquid over medium heat until thickened into a rich gravy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Serve The Best Oven Baked Pot Roast

Serving your Oven Baked Pot Roast can elevate the meal experience and impress your family or guests. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that complement the rich flavors of the roast.

Classic Sides

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a traditional pairing, perfect for soaking up the savory gravy.
• Steamed Green Beans: Their crisp texture adds a nice contrast to the tender meat, making for a balanced plate.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized sprouts bring a smoky flavor that enhances the heartiness of pot roast.

Flavorful Sauces

• Horseradish Sauce: A zesty kick from horseradish sauce cuts through the richness of the roast, adding an extra layer of flavor.
• Rich Gravy: Drizzling homemade gravy over the roast makes every bite succulent and flavorful.

Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a refreshing counterpoint to the heavy roast.
• Coleslaw: This crunchy side balances out the meal with its tangy taste and texture.

How to Perfect The Best Oven Baked Pot Roast

To ensure your Oven Baked Pot Roast turns out tender and full of flavor, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Generously season your meat before cooking. This enhances the flavor profile and helps create a wonderful crust during searing.
• Sear for Flavor: Take time to sear the meat on all sides. This step adds depth to your dish through caramelization, enriching the overall taste.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. They infuse aromatic flavors into the pot roast as it cooks.
• Cook Slowly: Maintain a low oven temperature for several hours. Slow cooking breaks down connective tissues in beef, resulting in tender meat.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow your roast to rest after cooking. This lets juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful.
• Thicken Gravy Properly: Use cornstarch mixed with cold water for a smooth gravy. Stir it into reserved liquid over heat until thickened perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Oven Baked Pot Roast

Pairing your Oven Baked Pot Roast with complementary side dishes can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Buttered Noodles: Simple yet satisfying, buttery egg noodles provide a soft base that pairs wonderfully with pot roast drippings.
2. Creamy Polenta: Smooth polenta adds a comforting element that contrasts nicely with the hearty meat.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for sopping up delicious gravy—an irresistible addition to any pot roast dinner.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a pop of color and sweetness, balancing out savory flavors with its natural sugars.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements beef beautifully while providing additional nutrients.
6. Vegetable Medley: A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers adds freshness and color to your plate.

With these serving suggestions, tips, and side dishes, you’ll be ready to enjoy The Best Oven Baked Pot Roast in style!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Oven Baked Pot Roast, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them.

• Not seasoning the meat properly: Failing to season the roast can lead to bland results. Generously rub salt, pepper, and any preferred seasoning on all sides before cooking.
• Skipping the searing step: Searing the meat enhances its flavor through caramelization. Take the time to brown the roast in hot oil before adding other ingredients for a richer taste.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can lower the cooking temperature and impact texture. Allow your meat and vegetables to reach room temperature before starting.
• Ignoring cook time: Cooking for too short a period can leave the meat tough. Ensure you allow enough time for slow cooking until fork-tender.
• Neglecting to check liquid levels: Low liquid can cause burning. Keep an eye on the pot and add more water or broth if necessary during cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Best Oven Baked Pot Roast can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Oven Baked Pot Roast

• Allow the roast to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or vacuum-sealed bags for best results.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Oven Baked Pot Roast

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover the pot roast with foil. Heat for 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Slice portions and microwave in a covered dish, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of meat is best for pot roast?

The best cut for pot roast is a chuck roast because it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.

How long should I cook The Best Oven Baked Pot Roast?

Cook your pot roast for about 3-4 hours at 300°F until it is fork-tender.

Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.

How do I know when my pot roast is done?

The pot roast is done when it’s tender enough that it easily shreds with a fork.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.

Conclusion

The Best Oven Baked Pot Roast is not only comforting but also versatile. With options for different vegetables and seasonings, this dish can be tailored to suit your family’s tastes. Give it a try; it may just become your new favorite meal