Mississippi Pot Roast (Slow Cooker, No Packets) – Easy, Juicy & Flavorful
Looking for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef roast recipe without using processed seasoning packets? This homemade Mississippi Pot Roast is made from scratch with simple pantry spices, beef broth, pepperoncini, and butter. Cooked low and slow in your crockpot, it delivers juicy, savory beef that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No packets required – made with real spices for a clean, homemade flavor.
Easy slow cooker recipe – just set it and forget it.
Family-friendly comfort food – rich, savory, and perfect for dinner.
Versatile – serve with mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or inside sandwiches.
Ingredients for Mississippi Pot Roast (No Packets)
For the Roast:
3 pounds chuck roast, trimmed
3 teaspoons dried parsley
2 teaspoons garlic powder (granulated)
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
½ cup beef broth
8 whole pepperoncini peppers
3 tablespoons cold butter
For Optional Gravy:
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons cooking liquid (from slow cooker)
Equipment Needed
6-quart slow cooker (crockpot)
Medium saucepan (for optional gravy)
Two forks (for shredding beef)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Place the chuck roast in your 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt evenly over all sides of the meat. Gently pat the spices into the roast for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Add Liquid & Flavor
Pour beef broth around the roast (not directly on top to avoid rinsing off the spices). Add the pepperoncini peppers around the meat, then place the cold butter on top.
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
High setting: Cook 6–7 hours
Low setting: Cook 8–10 hours
The roast is ready when it easily shreds with a fork. If it’s not fall-apart tender, cook an additional 30 minutes until perfect.
Step 4: Shred & Serve
Once cooked, shred the beef directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Serve with the flavorful cooking juices (au jus) poured over the meat.
Optional Gravy Recipe
If you prefer a thicker sauce instead of au jus, make a quick gravy:
Strain the cooking liquid from the slow cooker.
In a small bowl, whisk 2 tablespoons of the liquid with 1 tablespoon cornstarch until smooth.
Pour the remaining liquid into a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer.
Slowly whisk in the cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Mississippi Pot Roast is a comfort food classic and pairs beautifully with:
Creamy mashed potatoes (try making them in the slow cooker for an easy side)
Buttered noodles or steamed rice
Roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, or broccoli
Crusty bread for dipping in the savory juices
Recipe Notes
Use a well-marbled chuck roast for the juiciest results.
Pepperoncini add tangy flavor without too much heat.
Leftovers make amazing sandwiches with provolone or Swiss cheese.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Serves 8)
Calories: 352 kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 33g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 129mg
Sodium: 562mg
Potassium: 615mg
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 0.3g
Vitamin A: 188 IU
Vitamin C: 8mg
Calcium: 36mg
Iron: 4mg
This Mississippi Pot Roast (No Packets) is the ultimate slow cooker recipe for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners. With tender beef, rich juices, and a homemade touch, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.