Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dinner that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Roast Beef will become your new go-to recipe. Imagine juicy slices of perfectly seasoned beef, so tender they fall apart at the touch of a fork—ideal for cozy family gatherings or stress-free meal prep. No oven babysitting required! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Roast Beef

Set-it-and-forget-it convenience makes dinner effortless.
Delivers fork-tender, deeply flavorful beef every time.
Perfect for weeknights, holiday feasts, or casual entertaining.
Comes with a savory gravy MADE from the slow cooker juices!
Feeds a crowd and makes amazing leftovers.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Roast Beef

3 lbs beef chuck roast
2 tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
2 cups beef broth
1 large onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, cut into chunks
2 celery stalks, cut into chunks
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)

Directions: How to Make Slow Cooker Roast Beef

Step 1: Prep the Beef

Pat the roast dry with paper towels. Rub all over with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Sear for Flavor

Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Sear the roast 3-4 minutes per side until browned. (This step is optional, but adds big flavor!)

Step 3: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Add onions, carrots, and celery to the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the seared roast on top. Add tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and garlic.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Pour the beef broth over everything, ensuring the roast is at least halfway submerged.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on LOW for 8-9 hours (or on HIGH for 4-5 hours) until the beef is fork-tender.

Step 6: Make the Gravy (Optional)

Remove the roast and vegetables. Whisk 2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water; stir into the juices in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for 10 minutes, or until thickened.

Notes for the Perfect Slow Cooker Roast Beef

Browning the roast first is optional but really enhances the taste and helps develop a rich flavor profile (learn more about searing).
If you prefer a thicker gravy, use an immersion blender to puree some of the veggies into the juices before serving.
For a lower-sodium version, use low-sodium beef broth. For more nutrition info on beef, visit the Beef Nutrition Center.

Slow Cooker Roast Beef Variations

Italian Style: Add a can of diced tomatoes, 2 tsp Italian seasoning, and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a chopped chipotle pepper or 1 tsp crushed red pepper for some heat.
Mushroom Gravy: Toss in 8 oz sliced mushrooms for earthy depth and extra umami.

Required Equipment for Slow Cooker Roast Beef

Slow cooker (5-7 quart capacity)
Large skillet (for searing, optional)
Tongs
Cutting board & knives
Measuring spoons & cups
Whisk (for gravy)

Storage Instructions: Keeping Your Slow Cooker Roast Beef Fresh

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, slice the roast and store in freezer bags with some juices for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve your slow cooker roast beef with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up that delectable gravy.
Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Don’t forget some crusty bread to mop up every last drop!

Pro Tips for Slow Cooker Roast Beef Success

Select a well-marbled chuck roast for the juiciest, most tender results (see a buying guide here).
For extra depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or red wine to the broth.
Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to maximize juiciness.

Slow Cooker Roast Beef FAQ

Can I use a different cut of beef?: Yes! While chuck roast is ideal, brisket or round roast work well—just make sure the cut is suitable for slow cooking.
Can I cook this recipe overnight?: Absolutely. Set it on low before bed for a fork-tender roast ready the next day, just be sure your slow cooker has a safe timer function.
How do I prevent my roast from drying out?: Always keep enough liquid in the slow cooker, and avoid lifting the lid during cooking to retain moisture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8-9 hours (on LOW) or 4-5 hours (on HIGH)
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes (on LOW)