Save to Pins A melt-in-your-mouth, ultra-tender beef roast slow-cooked with ranch, au jus, butter, and tangy pepperoncini. The ultimate comfort food with minimal prep, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite after my first try; the tender beef and tangy peppers are unforgettable.
Ingredients
- Beef: 1 (3–4 lb / 1.4–1.8 kg) chuck roast
- Seasonings & Sauces: 1 packet (1 oz/28 g) ranch seasoning mix (gluten-free if needed), 1 packet (1 oz/28 g) au jus gravy mix (gluten-free if needed), ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Condiments & Fats: ½ cup (1 stick/115 g) unsalted butter
- Vegetables: 8–10 whole pepperoncini peppers (plus 2 tbsp brine)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels and place it in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Step 2:
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix and au jus gravy mix evenly over the roast.
- Step 3:
- Add the black pepper.
- Step 4:
- Arrange the pepperoncini peppers around and on top of the beef. Drizzle the brine over the roast.
- Step 5:
- Place the stick of butter directly on top of the roast.
- Step 6:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours, or until the beef is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
- Step 7:
- Use two forks to shred the beef in the slow cooker, mixing it with the juices and peppers.
- Step 8:
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or on sandwich rolls.
Save to Pins This meal often brings everyone to the table early, sharing stories as the rich flavors fill the kitchen.
Notes
Leftovers make excellent sandwiches or sliders. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.
Required Tools
6-quart (or larger) slow cooker, forks for shredding, knife and cutting board (optional for trimming beef)
Allergen Information
Contains milk (butter) and may contain gluten (seasoning mixes). To ensure gluten-free, use certified gluten-free ranch and au jus packets. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Save to Pins This melt-in-your-mouth roast is not only simple but reliably delicious every time you make it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cut of beef is best for this dish?
A chuck roast between 3 to 4 pounds works best, as it becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked over several hours.
- → Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Yes, you can sear the roast and prepare the seasoning before slow cooking. Leftovers also reheat well and make excellent sandwiches.
- → What is the role of pepperoncini in this dish?
Pepperoncini add a tangy, mildly spicy flavor and moisture, balancing the rich butter and seasoning blends during cooking.
- → Is it necessary to sear the meat before slow cooking?
Searing is optional but enhances flavor by caramelizing the surface of the roast prior to slow cooking.
- → What are suitable sides for this beef preparation?
Classic pairings include creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or soft sandwich rolls to complement the juicy shredded beef.