Classic Pot Roast with Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – A Hearty Homestyle Favorite
When comfort food calls, few dishes answer quite like a Classic Pot Roast with Mashed Potatoes & Gravy. This time-honored recipe brings together melt-in-your-mouth beef, fluffy mashed potatoes, rich homemade gravy, and tender vegetables for a soul-satisfying meal that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious.
Whether you’re cooking for Sunday supper, a cozy holiday dinner, or simply craving something hearty after a long day, this dish fits the bill. It’s ideal for families, great for meal prep, and perfect for anyone who wants to create a home-cooked experience that feels like a warm hug. Let’s dive into how to master this timeless recipe step-by-step.
Why You’ll Love This Pot Roast Recipe
This recipe delivers on all fronts: flavor, simplicity, and satisfaction.
- Tender, fall-apart roast cooked low and slow with aromatic herbs.
- Creamy mashed potatoes made with butter and cream for the perfect texture.
- Homemade gravy created with rich pan drippings and a simple roux.
- Optional veggies like carrots and potatoes cooked right in the pot.
- Minimal hands-on time with maximum payoff.
It’s also flexible enough to make in a Dutch oven, slow cooker, or even an Instant Pot, depending on your kitchen setup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pot Roast:
- 3–4 lb beef chuck roast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry red wine (optional but recommended)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 3 carrots, chopped (optional)
- 3 potatoes, peeled and chopped (optional)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 5–6 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Gravy:
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth (from the roast)
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 2 ears of corn, cooked
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Potato masher or hand mixer
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Slotted spoon or strainer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Sear the Roast
Heat olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. While that heats, season the chuck roast generously with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Sear each side of the roast until deeply browned — about 4 minutes per side. This step locks in flavor and gives you those rich, caramelized bits for the base of your gravy later.
2. Build the Flavor
Remove the roast and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant. Add wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Return the roast to the pot and tuck in your chopped carrots and potatoes, if using.
3. Cook Low and Slow
Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 3–4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat shreds easily with a fork. The longer the better — low and slow is what makes the magic happen.
4. Make the Mashed Potatoes
While the roast cooks, boil cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (12–15 minutes). Drain and mash with butter and cream. Season with salt and pepper until perfectly creamy and rich.
5. Whip Up the Gravy
Once your roast is done, remove the meat and vegetables. Strain the broth into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer. In a small bowl, mix flour with a splash of cold water to make a slurry. Slowly whisk it into the simmering broth. Stir until thickened — about 5 minutes. Season as needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Plate your shredded roast alongside a generous scoop of mashed potatoes. Drizzle with that rich, savory gravy and serve with steamed broccoli and sweet corn on the side for a complete, well-balanced meal.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- No wine? No problem! Use an additional cup of beef broth with a splash of balsamic vinegar.
- Add depth with tomato paste – a tablespoon mixed into the broth adds subtle umami.
- Make it in a slow cooker: After searing, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours.
- Instant Pot users: Use the sauté function to sear, then pressure cook for 60–70 minutes.
- Creamy garlic mash: Add 2–3 roasted garlic cloves to your mashed potatoes.
- Vegetarian twist: Replace the beef with mushrooms and lentils and use vegetable broth.
Storage & Leftovers
Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Pot roast freezes well! Cool completely, then freeze in portions. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stove with a splash of broth.
Reheating Tips:
- For mashed potatoes, add a little milk or cream while reheating to restore creaminess.
- For the roast, reheat covered in a low oven (300°F) to maintain moisture.
What to Serve with Pot Roast
While this dish is a star on its own, here are a few pairing ideas to take it to the next level:
- Red wine: A full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah complements the roast beautifully.
- Bread: Rustic sourdough or flaky biscuits to mop up the gravy.
- Dessert: Finish with apple crisp, bread pudding, or chocolate lava cake for that ultimate comfort meal.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Brisket or round roast can also work, but chuck roast gives the best flavor and texture when slow-cooked.
What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
Use any oven-safe pot with a lid or cook in a slow cooker. Alternatively, use a regular pot and transfer to a baking dish covered with foil for the oven.
Is the red wine necessary?
Not at all — it’s optional, but it adds rich depth to the broth. A splash of balsamic vinegar is a solid substitute.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. This roast tastes even better the next day. Prepare the day before and reheat slowly for best flavor.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour for the gravy, or thicken it with cornstarch instead.
Final Thoughts + Call to Action
This Classic Pot Roast with Mashed Potatoes & Gravy is the kind of dish that brings people together — the epitome of comfort food, made simple. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe delivers every time. Rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying, it’s one you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.
