Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast is a delightful twist on classic comfort food. This dish features tender, fall-apart beef slow-cooked in a rich, savory-sweet cranberry gravy that will warm your heart and your home. Combining simple ingredients like onion soup mix, brown gravy mix, and cranberry sauce, this recipe achieves a depth of flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, let’s dive into what makes this slow cooker dish a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast
This slow cooker cranberry pot roast is incredibly versatile, making it a family-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy. It’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday feasts to a simple weeknight dinner. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Tender and Juicy: The slow cooking method ensures the meat is incredibly tender.
- Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, this dish is a breeze to make.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cranberry sauce and seasonings creates a delicious glaze.
- Healthy Option: Using fresh ingredients makes it a healthier choice for your family.
- Perfect Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even better.
- Great for Meal Prep: It’s an ideal dish for preparing in advance for busy days.
Ingredients for Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast
Gather these items:
- 3.5 lb boneless chuck roast
- 1 oz envelope brown gravy mix
- 1 oz envelope dry onion soup mix
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 ribs celery (sliced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 14 oz can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter (sliced)
How to Make Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Heat a little oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chuck roast for about 4–6 minutes per side until nicely browned. Transfer the roast to your crockpot.
- Step 2: Sprinkle over the brown gravy mix, dry onion soup mix, onion, celery, garlic, and dried thyme.
- Step 3: Spoon the cranberry sauce on top, then tuck the slices of butter over everything.
- Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours until the meat is fall-apart tender.
- Step 5: Serve with a generous spoonful of cranberry gravy from the crockpot, and top with fresh cranberries and herbs if desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast
Keep these in mind:
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the roast overnight.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the perfect internal temperature of 145°F.
- Pair with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast
Here are a few ideas for serving:
- Serve over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the flavorful gravy.
- Accompany with a fresh green salad for a nice contrast.
- Consider adding roasted Brussels sprouts for a delightful side dish.
How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast
To store leftovers, let the roast cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. To reheat, place in a pot over low heat, adding a little broth if necessary to keep it moist. The cook time for crockpot cranberry roast is longer when reheating from frozen, so plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast
What’s the secret to perfect Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast?
The secret lies in the slow cooking process and the use of quality ingredients. The longer you cook it, the more tender and flavorful the meat becomes.
Can I make Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a day in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast?
Ensure you don’t overcook the roast; monitor the cooking time closely. Also, avoid lifting the lid too often, as it lets out heat and extends cooking time.
Variations of Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast You Can Try
Consider these delicious variations:
- Add root vegetables like carrots or potatoes for a heartier meal.
- Try using a different cut of meat, such as brisket, for a unique flavor.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary for an aromatic twist.
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try our Cranberry Orange Pancakes for a delightful breakfast option. If you’re looking for a hearty meal, consider our Slow Cooker Korean Beef recipe.
For additional information on the health benefits of cranberries, you can visit Healthline.
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Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast: 5 Reasons to Love This Dish
- Total Time: 495 min
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot cranberry pot roast is a cozy twist on classic comfort food — tender, fall-apart beef slow-cooked in a rich, savory-sweet cranberry gravy.
Ingredients
- 3.5 lb boneless chuck roast
- 1 oz envelope brown gravy mix
- 1 oz envelope dry onion soup mix
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 ribs celery (sliced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 14 oz can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter (sliced)
Instructions
- Heat a little oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chuck roast for about 4–6 minutes per side until nicely browned. Transfer the roast to your crockpot.
- Sprinkle over the brown gravy mix, dry onion soup mix, onion, celery, garlic, and dried thyme.
- Spoon the cranberry sauce on top, then tuck the slices of butter over everything.
- Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours until the meat is fall-apart tender.
- Serve with a generous spoonful of cranberry gravy from the crockpot, and top with fresh cranberries and herbs if desired.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 480 min
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Crockpot Cranberry Pot Roast
