Daigle, W., and Weding, H. 2026, Slow Cooker Packet Pot Roast, Extension | University of Nevada, Reno, Recipes

If you’re looking for the ultimate hands-off comfort food that guarantees melt-in-your-mouth tender beef every single time, this is it. This Slow Cooker Packet Pot Roast uses a brilliant seasoning shortcut—combining a packet of savory brown gravy with zesty ranch mix—to create a deeply rich, deeply flavorful gravy without any guesswork. Layered over a bed of hearty potatoes and carrots, it slow-cooks all day until the meat is completely fork-tender and infused with flavor. It’s the perfect "set-it-and-forget-it" Sunday supper for a busy weeknight.

Slow Cooker Packet Pot Roast
Level: Easy Prep:  Yield: 10 servings
Total: 5-9 hours Inactive:  Serving Size: 

Ingredients

  • 5 lbs beef pot roast (or any tough cut of beef)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 medium potato, chopped
  • 3 medium carrots, chopped
  • 1 packet brown gravy mix
  • 1 packet ranch dressing mix

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together water, spices, packets, & tomato paste.
  2. Place vegetables in the slow cooker, then place meat on top of vegetables, then pour dressing mix on top.
  3. Cook on low setting for 7-9 hours, or medium setting for 4-6 hours.

Chef's Tip for Your Recipe:

For the absolute most tender, shred-apart results, cook this on the Low setting for 7–9 hours if you have the time! Tough cuts of beef need that extra time to let the connective tissues break down completely. If you're using a medium setting, check it at the 5-hour mark to ensure the potatoes and carrots are perfectly fork-tender.

Printable    Version    (PDF)

Learn more about the author(s)

Natalie Mazzullo
Natalie Mazzullo
Hans Weding
Hans Weding
 

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