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Mississippi Pot Roast

Mississippi Pot Roast

Mississippi Pot Roast is a hearty, tender, and flavorful beef dish known for its effortless preparation and rich, zesty sauce. Featuring a melt-in-your-mouth chuck roast slow cooked with ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, butter, and pepperoncini peppers, this comfort food favorite delivers a unique blend of savory, tangy, and spicy flavors perfect for family meals, busy weeknights, or versatile serving options like mashed potatoes, sandwiches, or rice.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 to 4-pound chuck roast
  • 1 packet (about 1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 packet (about 1 ounce) au jus gravy mix
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pats
  • 68 pepperoncini peppers

Optional Extras

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
  • Worcestershire sauce, to taste
  • Additional pepperoncini peppers or cayenne pepper for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef: Trim any excess fat from the chuck roast to prevent flare-ups during cooking, then season all sides lightly with salt and pepper. This step develops a balanced flavor base.
  2. Sear the Roast: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the roast on all sides until browned. This caramelizes the meat’s surface, locking in juices and adding depth of flavor.
  3. Assemble Ingredients in Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: Place the browned roast into your slow cooker or pot. Evenly sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix and au jus gravy mix over the roast. Place pats of butter on top and scatter the pepperoncini peppers around the roast.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: For slow cooker: cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until tender. For Instant Pot: seal and pressure cook on high for 60-70 minutes. The goal is a tender, pull-apart beef with a rich, flavorful sauce.
  5. Rest and Serve: Allow the roast to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. Shred the beef using two forks, mixing it with the cooking juices for maximum flavor. Serve immediately with your choice of sides or use as sandwich filling.

Notes

  • Select the right cut: Chuck roast is perfect due to its marbling and connective tissue that break down for tenderness.
  • Don’t skip searing: Browning adds depth of flavor and seals in juices.
  • Use fresh pepperoncini juice: Adding a tablespoon to the cooking liquid enhances tanginess.
  • Adjust seasoning before serving: Taste and tweak salt, pepper, or acidity as desired.
  • Let it rest: Resting improves moisture retention and shredding quality.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mississippi Pot Roast, slow cooker beef, ranch seasoning beef, comfort food, tender pot roast, easy dinner, pull-apart beef, pepperoncini roast, family meal