The Easiest, Most Flavorful Pot Roast You’ll Ever Make!
This Three Envelope Pot Roast is a set-it-and-forget-it miracle meal! With just 5 minutes of prep, your slow cooker transforms a humble chuck roast into fall-apart tender meat swimming in a rich, savory gravy. The secret? Three simple seasoning packets that create deep, complex flavors without any fuss.
Full Recipe
Ingredients
- 3-4 lb chuck roast (fat cap left on for moisture)
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 packet Italian dressing mix
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- ½ cup water
Optional Vegetables:
- 4-6 medium potatoes, quartered
- 4-5 carrots, peeled and chunked
- 1 onion, quartered
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Roast
- Place chuck roast in slow cooker (no need to sear first!).
2️⃣ Make the Magic Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together ranch mix, Italian dressing mix, gravy mix, beef broth, and water until smooth.
3️⃣ Combine & Cook
- Pour sauce over roast.
- Add vegetables around the meat (if using).
- Cover and cook:
- Low: 8-10 hours
- High: 4-5 hours
4️⃣ Shred & Serve
- Remove roast and shred with forks.
- Serve with veggies and drizzle with gravy.
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 4-10 hrs
Servings: 6-8 | Calories: ~450-500/serving
Expert Tips
❓ Why three envelopes?
- Ranch: Adds herby, garlicky notes
- Italian: Brings zesty, aromatic flavors
- Gravy: Creates rich, velvety sauce
❓ Can I use other cuts of meat?
- Brisket or bottom round work too (may need longer cooking).
❓ How do I thicken the gravy?
- Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water, stir into hot liquid.
❓ Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
- Yes! Cook on High Pressure for 60-75 minutes, natural release.
Why This Recipe Works
✨ No browning required (but you can for extra flavor!)
✨ Vegetables cook in the same pot—no extra dishes
✨ Freezes beautifully for meal prep
Perfect Pairings:
- Buttermilk biscuits (to soak up gravy)
- Simple green salad
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
Final Thoughts
This Three Envelope Pot Roast is the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort. Just dump, cook, and come home to a house smelling like Sunday dinner!
Tried it? Rate this recipe below! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
