Mississippi Pot Roast Recipe

This Mississippi Pot Roast is a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. Featuring tender beef slow-cooked with Ranch seasoning, Au Jus mix, butter, and tangy pepperoncini, this recipe creates a rich, savory meal with minimal effort. Perfectly paired with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or crusty bread, it’s a comforting and versatile option for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 lb. pot roast (see notes for best cuts)
• 1 oz. packet Ranch seasoning mix
• 1 oz. packet Au Jus mix
• 6 pepperoncini peppers
• 1 stick butter, cut into cubes
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch

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Instructions

Note: See notes for Oven and Instant Pot methods.

Crock Pot Method:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 3 minutes on each side until browned. Transfer the roast to the Crock Pot.
2. Sprinkle the Ranch seasoning mix and Au Jus mix evenly over the roast.
3. Top the roast with cubed butter and pepperoncini peppers. Add optional vegetables like carrots or baby red potatoes if desired.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until the roast is fork-tender.
5. Once done, transfer the roast to a plate and cover it with foil to keep warm. Leave the juices in the Crock Pot.
6. Turn the Crock Pot to high and proceed to make the gravy.

Make the Gravy:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water until smooth.
2. Bring the meat juices in the Crock Pot to a boil. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the boiling liquid while stirring continuously.
3. Reduce the heat to a simmer and continue stirring until the gravy reaches your desired thickness.
4. Transfer the gravy to a serving container and serve alongside the roast.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The Crock Pot does the work, making this an easy hands-off meal.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of Ranch, Au Jus, and butter creates a savory and tender roast.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers reheat beautifully and make delicious sandwiches or meal additions.

Tips

• Searing is Key: Browning the roast before slow cooking locks in flavor and enhances the overall taste.
• Choose the Right Cut: Chuck roast is ideal for its marbling, which makes it tender and juicy.
• Custom Vegetables: Add carrots, potatoes, or onions directly into the Crock Pot for a complete one-pot meal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spice Level: Add extra pepperoncini peppers or a splash of the brine for more heat.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter alternatives for a dairy-free version.
• Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium Ranch and Au Jus mixes to reduce the salt content.

FAQs

• Can I Use a Frozen Roast? While fresh roast is recommended for the best sear, you can use a frozen roast. Add an extra 2 hours to the cooking time.
• What Other Cuts Work? Rump roast or brisket can be substituted for chuck roast.
• Can I Make This Without a Crock Pot? Yes, oven and Instant Pot methods are detailed in the notes section.

Serving and Suggestions

• Serve the roast with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice.
• Use leftovers for sandwiches, tacos, or pot roast hash.
• Pair with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful gravy.