If you’re a fan of slow-cooked, tender, and flavorful meals, then you’re in for a treat! The Mississippi Pot Roast is the ultimate comfort food. With only five simple ingredients and a crockpot, you can make the most delicious pot roast ever. It’s easy, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
In this post, we’ll go over what makes this pot roast so special, how to make it, variations for different dietary needs, and some helpful tips to make it perfect every time. Let’s dive in!
What Is Mississippi Pot Roast?
Mississippi Pot Roast is a dish that combines a tender chuck roast with bold flavors. The secret lies in the simple ingredients: ranch dressing mix, au jus gravy mix, butter, and pepperoncini peppers. Cooked low and slow, the result is a melt-in-your-mouth roast with rich, savory, and tangy flavors.
Why Is It Called Mississippi Pot Roast?
Interestingly, no one knows exactly why this dish is named after Mississippi. However, if all food from Mississippi tastes this good, it might be time to plan a trip! This recipe represents everything we love about Southern comfort food: simplicity, bold flavors, and hearty portions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Ingredients: Only five pantry staples are needed.
- Effortless: Just dump everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic.
- Versatile: Perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or as a sandwich filling.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone, from kids to adults, loves this dish.
Ingredients for Mississippi Pot Roast
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make this easy recipe:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chuck Roast (3-4 lbs) | The star of the dish. It becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. |
| Ranch Dressing Mix | Adds herby and tangy flavor. |
| Au Jus Gravy Mix | Provides a rich, savory taste. |
| Butter (1/4 cup) | Makes the dish creamy and adds depth to the flavor. |
| Pepperoncini Peppers | Adds a slight tang and spice, balancing the richness of the roast. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Take out your slow cooker and make sure it’s clean and ready to go. Place it on your counter in an accessible spot.
Step 2: Place the Roast in the Slow Cooker
Grab your chuck roast and place it directly at the bottom of the crockpot. No need to add oil or any liquid at this stage.
Step 3: Sprinkle the Seasoning Mixes
Open the packet of ranch dressing mix and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the roast. Then, do the same with the au jus gravy mix.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Ranch Dressing Mix | Adds tangy, herby flavor. |
| Au Jus Gravy Mix | Provides a deep, savory taste. |
Step 4: Add the Pepperoncini Peppers
Take 4–5 whole pepperoncini peppers from the jar and place them on top of the roast. Spread them out for even flavor. These peppers add a subtle tang and a mild spiciness that balances the richness of the dish.
Step 5: Add the Butter
Slice the butter into small pieces (about 4–5 slices) and place them on top of the roast. The butter melts as it cooks, creating a rich, flavorful sauce.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Butter | Makes the dish creamy and adds richness. |
Step 6: Set the Slow Cooker to Low
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Turn it on and set it to LOW. This is key for tender, fall-apart meat. Let it cook undisturbed for 8 hours.
Pro Tip: Do not open the lid during cooking unless absolutely necessary. This keeps the heat consistent for even cooking.
Step 7: Shred the Roast
After 8 hours, the roast will be fork-tender. Use two forks or tongs to shred the meat directly in the crockpot. It should fall apart easily.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
The pot roast is now ready to eat! Serve it hot with your favorite sides, such as:
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice
- Buttered noodles
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Absorbs the rich, flavorful juices. |
| Rice | Adds a neutral base to balance the roast’s bold flavors. |
| Egg Noodles | Complements the roast with a soft texture. |
Can You Make It in the Instant Pot?
Yes! For quicker cooking, use your Instant Pot:
- Add the roast, seasonings, butter, peppers, and 1 cup of beef broth to the Instant Pot.
- Cook on manual high pressure for 60 minutes.
- Let the pressure release naturally before shredding the roast.
While this method works well, slow cooking in a crockpot delivers the best texture and flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
This dish is versatile, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Alternative Cuts of Meat
If chuck roast isn’t available, try these substitutes:
- Brisket: Perfect for a tender, fall-apart roast.
- Rump Roast: Slightly leaner but still flavorful.
- Pork Shoulder: For a pork version, follow the same recipe.
Keto-Friendly Version
Good news! Mississippi Pot Roast is naturally low in carbs, making it keto-friendly. Pair it with these low-carb sides:
- Mashed cauliflower
- Zucchini noodles
- Roasted asparagus
Adding Vegetables
For a complete one-pot meal, add these vegetables during the last 1-2 hours of cooking:
- Quartered russet potatoes
- Baby carrots
- Sliced onions
| Vegetable | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (quartered) | 1-2 hours |
| Baby Carrots | 1-2 hours |
| Onions (sliced) | 1-2 hours |
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving of Mississippi Pot Roast (based on 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 470 kcal |
| Protein | 43 g |
| Fat | 31 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Sodium | 501 mg |
| Potassium | 765 mg |
This makes it a hearty, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for dinner.
Why the Crockpot Works Best
While the Instant Pot is faster, the crockpot produces unmatched results. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together, and the meat becomes incredibly tender. The low, consistent heat ensures every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
Mississippi Pot Roast pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas to serve alongside this dish:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Classic pairing that absorbs the roast’s juices perfectly. |
| Buttered Egg Noodles | Another hearty option that complements the rich flavors. |
| Crusty Bread | Great for soaking up all the delicious gravy. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Adds a fresh, slightly crispy contrast to the tender roast. |
| Rice (white or brown) | A simple, filling base for the flavorful roast. |
Tips for the Best Mississippi Pot Roast
Follow these tips for guaranteed success:
- Don’t Add Liquid: The roast releases enough juice while cooking, so no additional water or broth is needed.
- Use Unsalted Butter: This prevents the dish from becoming too salty.
- Don’t Skip the Peppers: Pepperoncini peppers add a tangy kick that balances the richness of the roast.
- Cook on Low Heat: The longer cooking time ensures the meat is fall-apart tender.
Mississippi Pot Roast for Meal Prep
This pot roast is ideal for meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
Storing
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze shredded roast in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of beef broth to keep it moist.
- Alternatively, microwave individual portions until warm.
Reader Reviews and Ratings
This recipe has an impressive 4.97 rating from over 2,500 reviews. Here’s what people are saying:
- “My family absolutely loved this! It was so easy to make, and the flavor was incredible.” – Sarah T.
- “This is the only pot roast recipe I use now. It’s perfect every time!” – James L.
- “I made it for a dinner party, and everyone asked for the recipe!” – Emily R.
Mississippi Pot Roast FAQ
Can I Make It Spicier?
Yes! Add more pepperoncini peppers or a dash of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
What If I Don’t Have a Crockpot?
You can make this in the oven. Place the ingredients in a Dutch oven, cover, and cook at 300°F for 3-4 hours.
Is It Gluten-Free?
Most ranch and au jus mixes contain gluten, but gluten-free versions are available. Check the labels before using.
Final Thoughts
Mississippi Pot Roast is a recipe everyone should try at least once. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prepping enthusiast, or just someone who loves comfort food, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household.
So grab your crockpot, a chuck roast, and a few simple ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the most tender and delicious pot roast ever. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments. Happy cooking!