If you’re looking for a no-fail dinner that practically cooks itself, this To Die for Crock Pot Roast truly lives up to its name. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll get a fork-tender roast smothered in rich, savory gravy that tastes like it’s been simmering all day—because it has.
This recipe is a longtime favorite for busy families, Sunday dinners, and cozy comfort-food nights. Minimal prep, bold flavor, and incredible results every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Roast
Extremely tender beef that falls apart effortlessly
Only 5 main ingredients
Rich, flavorful gravy with zero fuss
Perfect for hands-off cooking and busy days
It’s the kind of recipe you can set in the morning and come home to a meal that smells absolutely amazing.
Ingredients
1 (4–5 lb) beef roast (any cut)
1 (1¼ oz) package brown gravy mix, dry
1 (1¼ oz) package dried Italian salad dressing mix
1 (1¼ oz) package ranch dressing mix, dry
½ cup water
Directions
Add roast to crock pot
Place the beef roast directly into the crock pot.Season generously
In a small bowl, mix together the gravy mix, Italian dressing mix, and ranch dressing mix. Sprinkle evenly over the roast.Add liquid
Pour the water around the roast (not directly on top).Slow cook
Cover and cook on low for 7–9 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Optional Tweaks & Variations
Swap the ranch dressing mix for onion soup mix for a deeper, onion-forward flavor.
Add 1 cup red wine along with the water for richer, more complex gravy.
Add potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, celery, and onion during the last 2–3 hours of cooking for a complete one-pot meal.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Roast
No need to sear—the slow cooker does all the work.
Resist lifting the lid; heat loss increases cooking time.
If gravy is too thin, remove the roast and let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few minutes or thicken with cornstarch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this roast over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice with plenty of gravy. Leftovers are excellent for sandwiches, wraps, or beef pot pie.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What cut of beef works best?
Chuck roast is ideal, but rump roast, bottom round, or brisket also work well.
Can I cook this on high?
Low is recommended for the most tender results. Cooking on high may result in tougher meat.
Can I add vegetables at the beginning?
You can, but adding them during the last 2–3 hours prevents them from becoming too soft.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
To Die for Crock Pot Roast Recipe
Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
7–9 Hours
Total Time
7 Hours 5 Minutes – 9 Hours 5 Minutes
Servings
6–8 Servings
Ingredients
1 (4–5 lb) beef roast
1 (1¼ oz) package brown gravy mix, dry
1 (1¼ oz) package dried Italian salad dressing mix
1 (1¼ oz) package ranch dressing mix, dry
½ cup water
Instructions
Step 1
Place beef roast in the crock pot.
Step 2
Mix all dry seasoning packets together and sprinkle over the roast.
Step 3
Pour water around the roast.
Step 4
Cook on low for 7–9 hours until fork-tender.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
Nutritional values vary based on portion size and ingredients used. This information is approximate and not intended as medical advice.
