Pot Roast over Mashed Potatoes

### Instructions: How to Make Pot Roast Over Mashed Potatoes

#### Step 1: Sear the Pot Roast
Start by heating the **olive oil** in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, season the **chuck roast** generously with **salt** and **pepper**. Sear the roast for **4-5 minutes** on each side, until it’s browned and caramelized. This step enhances the flavor and helps lock in the juices. Once browned, remove the roast from the pot and set it aside.

#### Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the **chopped onion** and **garlic**, cooking for about **2-3 minutes** until they become fragrant and softened. This will add a savory base to the broth that will cook with the roast.

#### Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Add the **red wine** (if using) to the pot, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits that are stuck to the pot. These bits are full of flavor and will enrich the broth. Let the wine cook for about **2-3 minutes** to reduce slightly. If you’re not using wine, you can skip this step and proceed with adding the broth.

#### Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Add the **beef broth**, **tomato paste**, **Worcestershire sauce**, **dried thyme**, **dried rosemary**, **bay leaves**, and the seared **pot roast** back into the pot. Add the **carrots** and **potatoes** around the roast, ensuring everything is submerged in the liquid. Bring it all to a simmer.

#### Step 5: Slow Cook the Pot Roast
Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the pot roast cook for **3-4 hours**, or until the meat is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through. You can also cook the pot roast in the oven at **300°F** for the same amount of time if you prefer, just make sure to check it occasionally and add more broth if the liquid gets too low.

#### Step 6: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the pot roast is cooking, prepare the mashed potatoes. Place the **peeled and chopped russet potatoes** in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about **12-15 minutes**, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

Drain the potatoes, then return them to the pot. Add the **butter**, **milk**, and **sour cream** (if using). Mash the potatoes until smooth, adjusting the consistency by adding more milk if needed. Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste.

#### Step 7: Shred the Pot Roast
Once the pot roast is done, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. It should easily fall apart due to the long cooking time. Discard the **bay leaves** and check the seasoning of the broth. You can also mash the cooked vegetables with the broth to create a rustic gravy, or serve the gravy separately.

#### Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
To serve, spoon a generous portion of **mashed potatoes** onto each plate. Top with the **shredded pot roast**, spooning some of the rich gravy and vegetables over the top. The tender beef, savory broth, and creamy mashed potatoes make every bite a satisfying experience.

### Tips for Perfect Pot Roast Over Mashed Potatoes

– **Choose the right cut of meat**: The **chuck roast** is a great choice for pot roast because it’s a tougher cut that becomes incredibly tender with slow cooking. If you prefer, you can use a **brisket** or **round roast**, but the cook time may vary slightly.

– **Adjust the seasoning**: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to suit your taste. Add more thyme or rosemary for a stronger herbal flavor, or a splash of balsamic vinegar to add some acidity to the gravy.

– **Make it ahead**: Pot roast tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. You can make the roast ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

– **Customize the mashed potatoes**: For extra richness, feel free to use **cream** instead of milk or add **garlic** for a more savory mashed potato. **Cheddar cheese** or **chives** can also make great additions.

– **Add more vegetables**: You can add extra vegetables like **parsnips**, **celery**, or **turnips** for more variety in the stew. Just make sure to add them at the same time as the carrots for even cooking.

### Why You’ll Love Pot Roast Over Mashed Potatoes

**Pot Roast over Mashed Potatoes** is the ultimate comfort food. The slow-cooked roast is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and when paired with the creamy mashed potatoes, it creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The hearty broth and savory gravy tie everything together, making this dish feel like a warm hug on a plate.

Perfect for family dinners, special gatherings, or even holiday meals, this dish is guaranteed to leave everyone satisfied. The best part? The leftovers are just as delicious, giving you an extra night of comfort without the effort.

### Conclusion: A Hearty, Family-Friendly Favorite

There’s a reason **Pot Roast over Mashed Potatoes** is a timeless favorite. It’s the ultimate meal to make when you want something comforting, hearty, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking it for a special occasion or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, this meal will quickly become a go-to in your recipe repertoire.

So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and let the rich aromas of this comforting dish fill your kitchen. You won’t regret it!