This Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast is a delicious option for any gathering, from family dinners to special occasions. The tender beef melds beautifully with savory garlic and herbs, creating a dish that is both comforting and flavorful. With minimal effort and maximum taste, this pot roast will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Pot Roast
- For Optional Ingredients
- How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
- Step 1: Sear the Roast
- Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
- Step 4: Shred the Beef
- Step 5: Serve It Up
- How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
- Over Mashed Potatoes
- With Crusty Bread
- On a Bed of Rice
- In a Sandwich
- With Gravy
- Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- How to Perfect Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
- Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
- Reheating Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other cuts of beef for this Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast?
- How do I make this Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast gluten-free?
- What should I serve with my Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast?
- Can I add more vegetables to the pot roast?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Simply set it and forget it! The slow cooker does all the work while you enjoy other activities.
- Fall-Apart Tenderness: The pot roast becomes incredibly tender, making every bite melt in your mouth.
- Rich Flavor: A blend of beef stock, apple juice, and herbs creates a deep, savory flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over mashed potatoes or alongside roasted veggies for a complete meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Ideal for leftovers, this dish can be stored easily and enjoyed throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delightful slow cooker pot roast, you’ll need some essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Provides even cooking over time, resulting in tender meat that’s infused with flavor.
- Skillet: Perfect for searing the roast before slow cooking, enhancing the overall taste with caramelized edges.
- Chef’s knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables, which helps them cook evenly in the pot roast.
Ingredients
For the Pot Roast
- 3 – 3½ pounds boneless beef chuck roast
- 2 tablespoons olive or avocado oil
- 1 pound baby carrots (or large carrots cut into 3-inch sticks)
- 1 medium white or yellow onion, chopped into large chunks
- 2 cups beef stock or beef broth
- 1 cup apple juice
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 2½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For Optional Ingredients
- 1 pound medium gold potatoes, quartered (omit if serving over mashed potatoes)
- Fresh chopped parsley or thyme for garnish

How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
Step 1: Sear the Roast
Heat oil in a skillet over high heat. Once hot:
1. Sear the pot roast on both sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2. Remove the roast from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned beef to a 6 or 7-quart slow cooker. Add:
– Chopped onion,
– Carrots,
– Potatoes (if using),
– Beef stock,
– Apple juice,
– Tomato paste,
– Minced garlic,
– Dried parsley,
– Salt,
– Black pepper.
Stir to combine all ingredients well.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours. The goal is:
– Beef should be tender and easily shredable when done.
Step 4: Shred the Beef
Once cooked:
1. Use two forks to shred the pot roast directly in the slow cooker.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Serve your delicious pot roast over creamy mashed potatoes (if not using potatoes in the slow cooker). Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme for an added touch of flavor. Enjoy!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
Serving your Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast can elevate your meal experience. With a few creative ideas, you can enhance the flavors and presentation of this delicious dish.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes provide a rich base that complements the savory pot roast perfectly.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve with a slice of fresh, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices from the pot roast.
On a Bed of Rice
- White or brown rice can absorb the tasty broth and offer a satisfying texture alongside the tender meat.
In a Sandwich
- Shred the pot roast and serve it in a sandwich with some horseradish sauce for a delightful twist on leftovers.
With Gravy
- Drizzle homemade or store-bought gravy over the pot roast for added moisture and flavor.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme on top just before serving for an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
To achieve an exquisite Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast, follow these simple tips for perfect results.
- Choose Quality Meat: Start with a good quality boneless beef chuck roast for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Sear Before Cooking: Browning the meat in oil before slow cooking adds depth and richness to your pot roast.
- Don’t Skip the Broth: Using beef stock enhances the flavor profile. Consider adding red wine for an additional layer of taste.
- Layer Ingredients Properly: Place denser vegetables like carrots and potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust Seasoning Later: Taste and adjust salt or pepper after shredding the meat for optimal seasoning.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the pot roast to rest after cooking can help retain juices when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors beautifully.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
A classic choice that absorbs savory drippings from the roast, making each bite comforting. - Roasted Vegetables
Roasting seasonal vegetables adds sweetness and crunch, providing a delightful contrast to the tender meat. - Garlic Bread
This crunchy, buttery bread is perfect for dipping into rich sauces left on your plate. - Coleslaw
The crispness of coleslaw offers a refreshing balance to the hearty pot roast. - Steamed Green Beans
Bright green beans add color and nutrients while their freshness pairs nicely with rich flavors. - Potato Salad
A chilled potato salad can provide a cool contrast to warm pot roast, enhancing your meal’s variety. - Cauliflower Gratin
This cheesy dish is creamy and indulgent, making it an excellent match for your slow-cooked masterpiece. - Cornbread
Sweet cornbread adds a comforting Southern touch that pairs wonderfully with flavorful roasts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Not Searing the Meat: Skipping the searing step can result in less flavor. Always sear your pot roast until browned for a richer taste.
- Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Adding too many ingredients might not allow for even cooking. Stick to recommended ingredient amounts for best results.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap cuts or expired spices can ruin your dish. Always use fresh, quality ingredients for a flavorful pot roast.
- Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on high instead of low might dry out the meat. For optimal tenderness, always cook on low for the full duration.
- Not Adjusting Seasonings: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings leads to bland flavors. Always sample and modify salt and pepper before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
- Consume within 3 days for best quality.
Freezing Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Freeze within 3 days of cooking for optimal freshness.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat until warm, about 25-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other cuts of beef for this Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast?
Yes! Cuts like brisket or round roast can work as substitutes but may require different cooking times.
How do I make this Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast gluten-free?
Ensure that your beef stock is gluten-free and check all other ingredients for gluten content.
What should I serve with my Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast?
Mashed potatoes are classic, but roasted vegetables or a side salad also pair beautifully with this dish.
Can I add more vegetables to the pot roast?
Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like celery or green beans for added flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
The Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast is a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and tender meat make it an appealing choice for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding different veggies or adjusting seasonings. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!
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Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pot Roast is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. This easy-to-make meal features a tender beef chuck roast slow-cooked to perfection with savory garlic, herbs, and a hint of sweetness from apple juice. With minimal effort required, you can prepare this hearty pot roast for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, making it a staple in your household. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even in sandwiches for tasty leftovers.
Ingredients
- 3 – 3½ pounds boneless beef chuck roast
- 2 tablespoons olive or avocado oil
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 cup apple juice
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sear the roast: Heat the oil in a skillet over high heat. Brown the pot roast on both sides for about 3-4 minutes each. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the slow cooker: Place the browned roast in a slow cooker and add onion, carrots, beef stock, apple juice, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours until the beef is tender and shreds easily.
- Shred: Use two forks to shred the beef in the slow cooker; adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Enjoy over mashed potatoes or with your favorite sides.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg