Name: Copycat Cracker Barrel Pot Roast Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 pounds chuck roast; 2 cups baby carrots, cut into halves if large; 2 large onions, quartered; 3 stalks celery, cut into 1-inch pieces; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 2 cups beef stock; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 17 reviews

Get ready to bring southern comfort right to your table with this Copycat Cracker Barrel Pot Roast. Imagine irresistibly tender beef, slow-braised with a medley of vegetables and aromatic herbs, all smothered in a rich, silky gravy—just like your favorite country restaurant! This is the kind of meal that turns any Sunday dinner into an event, with every bite echoing a homemade warmth and nostalgia that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family meal or want to wow guests, this recipe is the ultimate way to enjoy classic homestyle cooking, with all the savory goodness of the beloved Cracker Barrel staple.

Copycat Cracker Barrel Pot Roast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a few simple, honest ingredients can come together to make something so mouthwateringly good. Each component adds its own flair—whether it’s the hearty beef, sweet and earthy vegetables, or the punch of fresh herbs—making every forkful of Copycat Cracker Barrel Pot Roast brimming with flavor and comfort.

Chuck Roast (3-4 pounds): Marbled and flavorful, it becomes wonderfully tender after slow braising.
Baby Carrots (2 cups): Add a delicate sweetness and vibrant color, while requiring minimal prep.
Large Onions (2, quartered): These caramelize and melt right into the sauce, giving depth and a touch of sweetness.
Celery (3 stalks, 1-inch pieces): Brings freshness and a lovely earthy undertone to balance the richness.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses everything with savory warmth and mouthwatering aroma.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Ensures the beef browns beautifully, locking in flavor from the start.
Salt & Pepper: Basic, but essential—season generously for the best tasting roast.
Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds herbal notes that work wonders with slow-cooked beef.
Dried Rosemary (1 teaspoon): Aromatic and piney, it’s a classic pairing for pot roast.
Beef Stock (2 cups): The base that keeps everything juicy and forms the magic of the final gravy.
Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken your gravy to the perfect, glossy consistency.
Water (2 tablespoons): Needed for creating a smooth slurry with the cornstarch—no lumps here!

How to Make Copycat Cracker Barrel Pot Roast

Step 1: Preheat and Season

Begin by firing up your oven to 325°F (165°C). Take a moment to liberally season your chuck roast with salt and pepper on every side—don’t be shy! This is the base layer of flavor and helps form an irresistibly savory crust as it sears.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

Heat up a Dutch oven with those magical two tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, sear the roast on all sides, giving it about 4-5 minutes per side until a rich, golden brown crust forms. This step locks in juices and ensures every bite of your Copycat Cracker Barrel Pot Roast bursts with big, beefy flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

With the roast set aside, toss in your quartered onions, halved carrots, and celery pieces to the very same Dutch oven—no need to wipe it out! Sauté for about 5 minutes, letting those edges catch a little color and softness, then stir in the minced garlic for an aromatic finish that will make your kitchen smell like pure coziness.

Step 4: Layer and Add Flavor

Nestle the seared chuck roast back atop the nestled veggies. Sprinkle dried thyme and rosemary over everything so the flavors meld as they cook, then pour in beef stock to surround the meat and veggies halfway. This liquid will turn into that dreamy gravy!

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Lid on, send your Dutch oven into the preheated oven. Let it gently braise for 3-4 hours—yes, patience is key! When the roast shreds easily with a fork and the house smells like a Sunday at grandma’s, you know it’s ready.

Step 6: Make the Gravy

Carefully remove the Dutch oven, lift the roast out to rest, and scoop out the veggies. Set the pot back on the stovetop to simmer the savory juices. Mix cornstarch with water until smooth, then whisk it gradually into the simmering liquid. Stir until the gravy becomes silky and thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 7: Bring It All Together

Time to shred the beef, then return it and all the veggies back into the Dutch oven with that luscious gravy. Gently toss together so every bite is coated with pure flavor. Serve up immediately for the ultimate Copycat Cracker Barrel Pot Roast experience!

How to Serve Copycat Cracker Barrel Pot Roast

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley really brightens up the finished dish and adds a lovely pop of color. For extra flavor, a dash of cracked black pepper or a pinch of coarse sea salt just before serving can make each plate look and taste restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

Classic sides are always a hit with Copycat Cracker Barrel Pot Roast. Creamy mashed potatoes are an absolute must, soaking up every bit of the decadent gravy. Roasted vegetables, warm buttermilk biscuits, or even buttery noodles all make for fantastic, comforting accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the pot roast family-style in the Dutch oven right at the table—it’s as inviting as it gets! Or, spoon portions into shallow bowls over a bed of mashed potatoes, then drizzle with extra gravy. Mini pot roast sliders on dinner rolls also make for a charming (and utterly delicious) party appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Copycat Cracker Barrel Pot Roast stores beautifully. Simply scoop everything into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. It’s perfect for a quick heat-and-eat meal that tastes just as good the next day—if not even better, as those flavors have extra time to meld!

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead, freeze the pot roast and gravy (separately, for best texture) in airtight containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months, making for an easy, flavor-packed dinner on busy evenings down the road. Just label with the date so you never lose track.

Reheating

When you’re ready to reheat, warm the pot roast gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of beef stock or water as needed to keep things moist. Stir occasionally and avoid high heat, which can dry out even the most luscious roast.

FAQs

Can I make Copycat Cracker Barrel Pot Roast in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté your veggies in a skillet first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-9 hours or high for 4-5 hours until fork-tender, then finish gravy on the stovetop for best results.

What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?

No worries! You can use any heavy-bottomed, oven-safe pot with a lid. Alternatively, after searing and sautéing on the stovetop, transfer everything to a large roasting pan covered tightly with foil before baking.

Can I add potatoes to the pot roast?

Definitely! Diced Yukon gold or red potatoes cook up beautifully with the roast. Just add them in with the other vegetables before braising for a heartier meal.

Is it possible to use a different cut of beef?

While chuck roast offers the best combination of flavor and tenderness for Copycat Cracker Barrel Pot Roast, you can try brisket or bottom round as substitutes. Just be aware the cooking time and final texture may vary slightly.

How do I make the gravy richer?

For a little extra decadence, add a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to your beef stock before braising. You can also whisk in a pat of butter or a splash of cream once thickened for a velvety finish.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving comfort and big, family-style flavors, this Copycat Cracker Barrel Pot Roast will always hit the spot. Gather around the table, pass the mashed potatoes, and enjoy a classic dish that truly feels like home. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your new pot roast tradition!