Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mississippi Pot Roast is one of those meals that does all the work for you. The beef chuck roast becomes incredibly tender and flavorful after hours of slow cooking, and the pepperoncini peppers add a subtle heat and tang to the dish. The ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix help create a rich, savory sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over the beef and any sides you choose to serve it with. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or making it for a family gathering, this roast is sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3-4 pounds beef chuck roast
• 12 pepperoncini peppers + ¼ cup of the juice from the jar
• 1 (1 ounce) packet au jus gravy mix
• 1 (1 ounce) packet ranch seasoning mix (I use Hidden Valley)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), cut into pieces

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until it’s nicely browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). This step helps to lock in the flavor.
2. Transfer the seared roast to your slow cooker.
3. Sprinkle the au jus gravy mix and ranch seasoning mix over the roast.
4. Add the pepperoncini peppers and pour the juice from the jar over the roast as well.
5. Place the pieces of butter on top of the roast.
6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the roast is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
7. Once the roast is cooked, shred it with two forks and mix the beef with the sauce. Serve with your favorite sides or on a sandwich roll for a delicious meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Cooking time: 8 hours (low heat in a slow cooker)

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the beef with jackfruit or a similar plant-based alternative. Use vegetable broth in place of the au jus gravy mix for flavor.
• Spicy Version: For a spicier kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce or more pepperoncini peppers to the roast.
• Add Vegetables: Add carrots, potatoes, or onions to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.
• Oven Version: If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the roast in the oven. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and cook the roast in a covered Dutch oven for about 4-5 hours, or until tender.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pot roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pot roast in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can add a bit of broth or water to keep the sauce moist while reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

While chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender when slow-cooked, you can also use brisket or round roast. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using a leaner cut.

2. Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?

Yes! If you’re using an Instant Pot, set it to the “meat” setting and cook the roast for 60-70 minutes on high pressure. Let the pressure naturally release for about 15 minutes before opening.

3. Can I use a different type of pepper for this recipe?

If you don’t have pepperoncini peppers, you can use banana peppers or mild jalapeños for a similar flavor, but they won’t give you the exact same tangy heat.

4. How do I know when the roast is done?

The roast is done when it easily shreds with a fork. The meat should be tender and fall apart without much effort.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Store the shredded beef and sauce in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.

6. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the extra salt. You may want to reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe.

7. Can I make this pot roast without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook this in the oven. Follow the same steps, but place the roast in a Dutch oven or covered pot and cook at 300°F (150°C) for about 4-5 hours.

8. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add carrots, potatoes, or even mushrooms. Just add them to the slow cooker at the beginning of the cooking process.

9. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, Mississippi Pot Roast can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few days. It also tastes great as leftovers, as the flavors continue to meld.

10. How do I serve this pot roast?

Serve Mississippi Pot Roast with mashed potatoes, rice, or bread for a complete meal. It’s also great for making sandwiches or sliders!

Conclusion

Mississippi Pot Roast is a wonderfully easy and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy days when you want a flavorful, comforting meal with minimal effort. The combination of beef, pepperoncini peppers, and savory seasoning creates a rich, tender roast that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or as part of a special occasion, this pot roast will definitely impress!

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