Description

This Slow Cooker Three Envelope Pot Roast is the definition of effortless comfort food. With just a few pantry-staple seasoning packets and minimal prep, you can create a melt-in-your-mouth, flavor-packed roast that tastes like it simmered all day—because it did! A blend of ranch, Italian dressing, and brown gravy mixes infuses the meat with rich, savory depth while it slow cooks to fork-tender perfection. Add hearty vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions for a complete one-pot meal that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

3–4 lb chuck roast
1 packet ranch dressing mix
1 packet Italian dressing mix
1 packet brown gravy mix
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup water
4-6 medium potatoes, quartered (optional)
4–5 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks (optional)
1 medium onion, quartered (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Roast:

Place the chuck roast in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Mix the Seasonings:

In a bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix, Italian dressing mix, and brown gravy mix. Whisk in the beef broth and water until smooth.
Pour Over the Roast:

Pour the seasoning mixture evenly over the roast.
Add Vegetables (Optional):

If using, place the potatoes, carrots, and onion around the roast.
Cook:

Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the roast is tender and easily falls apart with a fork.
Shred and Serve:

Remove the roast from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Serve the meat with the vegetables and drizzle with the flavorful gravy from the slow cooker.

Notes

Cut of Meat: Chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling, but you can also use brisket or rump roast if preferred.
Seasoning Control: For lower sodium, look for reduced-sodium versions of the seasoning packets or use half packets and adjust to taste.
Thicker Gravy: If you want a thicker gravy, remove the roast once it’s done, transfer the liquid to a saucepan, and stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water). Simmer until thickened.
Add Garlic: Toss in a few whole garlic cloves or minced garlic for added depth.
Vegetable Options: Swap in sweet potatoes, parsnips, or mushrooms for variety. Just make sure all veggies are cut into similar-sized chunks for even cooking.
Make It a Meal: Serve with crusty bread, buttered noodles, or over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of the delicious gravy.
Leftovers: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze in portions for easy reheating later. It also makes amazing sandwiches!