Classic Pot Roast with Potatoes & Herbs | Cozy Dutch Oven Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a classic pot roast simmering away in the kitchen. Tender beef, hearty potatoes, and earthy herbs come together in one pot to create the ultimate comfort meal. This cozy Dutch oven recipe is perfect for Sunday family dinners, chilly evenings, or anytime you’re craving a warm and nourishing dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Recipe Info:

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3–4 lbs beef chuck roast
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 large carrots, cut into chunks
• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cups beef broth (low sodium)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prep the beef: Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the meat: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Build the flavor base: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes. Deglaze the pot with ½ cup beef broth, scraping up the browned bits.
5. Add veggies & herbs: Return the roast to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf. Pour in remaining beef broth.
6. Slow cook: Cover with the lid and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Cook for 3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
7. Serve & enjoy: Remove bay leaf and herb stems. Slice or shred the roast and serve with vegetables and rich broth ladled on top.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Browning matters: Searing the beef first locks in flavor and creates a rich base for the sauce.
• Thicker sauce: For a slightly thicker gravy, whisk 1 tbsp flour or cornstarch into 2 tbsp cold broth, then stir it in during the last 15 minutes.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Recipe Variations

• Swap proteins: Try lamb shoulder or chicken thighs for a different take on the dish.
• Lighter option: Use chicken broth instead of beef broth for a milder flavor.
• Add more veggies: Parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes add a cozy, earthy sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up the savory broth.
• A crisp side salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.
• For a rustic presentation, serve directly from the Dutch oven at the table.

Conclusion

This classic pot roast with potatoes & herbs is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Cozy, hearty, and family-approved, it’s the kind of recipe that turns any meal into a special occasion. Serve it fresh from the oven, and enjoy the warmth it brings to your table.