5. Add Vegetables (Optional)
If using, arrange baby potatoes, whole baby carrots, and/or chopped onions around the roast in the slow cooker. These will soak up the flavorful juices and become tender and delicious.
Note: Cut larger potatoes in half to ensure they cook evenly.
6. Set It and Forget It
- Set the crockpot to HIGH and cook for 4 hours, or
- Set to LOW and cook for 7–8 hours, depending on your schedule.
Tip: For best results, do not lift the lid too often during cooking, as this releases heat and slows the cooking process. However, once or twice throughout cooking, you can gently baste the roast using a spoon or ladle to scoop the juices from the bottom over the top.
7. Check for Doneness
After 4 hours on HIGH (or 7–8 hours on LOW), the roast should be:
- Fork-tender — it should pull apart easily with a fork or tongs.
- The vegetables should be fully tender but not mushy.
If it still feels a bit tough, give it another 30–60 minutes — every cut is a little different.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Carefully transfer the roast to a serving platter and shred or slice as desired. Spoon some of the thick, flavorful gravy from the slow cooker over the top.
Serve with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice or buttered noodles
- Crusty bread
- Or just as-is, with the veggies and gravy
Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper.
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze leftover roast and gravy in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the gravy if needed.
Why It’s Called “Envelope Roast”
The name comes from the three “envelope” seasoning packets used in the recipe — Italian dressing mix, Ranch seasoning, and Brown Gravy mix. When combined, they create a deeply flavorful gravy that turns a humble chuck roast into something truly memorable — no extra fuss required.
Tips for Success
- Use a well-marbled chuck roast for best texture and flavor.
- If your gravy is too thin at the end of cooking, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to let it thicken slightly — or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).
- Want extra richness? Replace half the water with low-sodium beef broth.
This Envelope Roast is perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or whenever you need a hearty, comforting meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
