Slow-Cooker Pot Roast

Slow-Cooker Pot Roast Tips

Do you have to brown a roast before putting it in the slow cooker?

While this recipe doesn’t call for it, browning your roast before adding to the slow cooker can lend more flavor and result in a quicker cooking time.

Should meat or vegetables go in slow cooker first?

If your slow cooker dish contains meat and vegetables, follow the rule of thumb that the items that take the longest should be closest to the heat. So first meat, then potatoes and other dense foods that can take a long time to cook in the slow cooker. For the best results, always follow any layering instructions that a recipe provides.

Why is my slow cooker pot roast tough?

Your pot roast may be tough for a number of reasons. For a melt-in-your-mouth pot roast, make sure to select the right cut of beef. Chuck, brisket and round all will cook well with this method. Also, don’t be tempted to remove the roast too early from the slow cooker. The roast is done when you can use a fork to easily twist off a chunk of the meat. Check out our top 10 slow cooker recipes. Research contributed by Maggie Knoebel, Taste of Home Culinary Assistant

Editor's Note

Look for beef base near the broth and bouillon.