1. Prepare the Roast
- Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the roast to the pot and sear it on all sides until it is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the roast from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the carrots and celery (and potatoes if using) to the pot, cooking for a few minutes to lightly brown the edges.
3. Deglaze the Pot
- Pour in the red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Liquids and Seasonings
- Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Cook the Roast
- Return the roast to the pot and spoon some of the liquid and vegetables over it. Cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
- Let the roast simmer gently for about 3-4 hours, or until the meat is very tender and falls apart easily when prodded with a fork. Alternatively, you can cook the roast in a preheated 325°F (163°C) oven for the same amount of time.
6. Serve
- Once the meat is tender, remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs (if using fresh). If desired, you can thicken the gravy by removing the roast and vegetables, bringing the liquid to a simmer, and stirring in a slurry of cornstarch and water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the pot roast with the cooked vegetables and gravy. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, additional mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Pot Roast is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a Sunday dinner or a special occasion. The key to a great pot roast is patience; allowing it to cook slowly and gently will ensure the meat becomes tender and flavorful. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!