Mississippi Pot Roast Recipe: A Comforting Southern Classic
Mississippi Pot Roast has gained legendary status in home kitchens across America and for good reason. This slow cooked, flavour packed dish delivers juicy, tender beef with bold tangy flavours that pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or crusty bread. Whether you’re planning a cosy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this fuss free recipe is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.
🥩 What Is Mississippi Pot Roast?
Mississippi Pot Roast is a modern Southern twist on the classic beef pot roast. Originating in the 1990s from a home cook in Mississippi, it swaps traditional carrots and potatoes for ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, butter, and tangy pepperoncini peppers. The result? A melt-in-your-mouth roast that’s rich, savoury, slightly spicy, and irresistibly delicious.
📝 Ingredients
To make an authentic Mississippi Pot Roast, you’ll need:
- 1 (3–4 lb) chuck roast (boneless beef)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 8–10 pepperoncini peppers (whole or sliced)
- 2 tbsp pepperoncini juice (optional, for extra tang)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Optional: sliced onions or garlic for added flavour
🍲 Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Roast (Optional but Recommended)
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chuck roast on all sides in a little oil until browned. This step adds depth of flavour but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
Step 2: Assemble in Slow Cooker
Place the roast in a slow cooker. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix evenly over the meat. Top with butter and scatter pepperoncini peppers over and around the roast. Pour in pepperoncini juice if using.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours until the roast is fall-apart tender.
Step 4: Shred and Serve
Once cooked, shred the beef using two forks. Mix it well with the juices in the slow cooker. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Mississippi Pot Roast is extremely versatile. Try serving it with:
- Mashed potatoes: Classic, creamy, and perfect for soaking up those delicious juices.
- Buttered egg noodles: A great comfort food pairing.
- Rice or polenta: For a Southern twist.
- Toasted buns: Makes incredible sandwiches or sliders.
🧊 Storage and Leftovers
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze shredded roast and juices for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
🔁 Variations and Tips
- Pressure Cooker/Instant Pot: Use the sauté function to sear, then cook on high pressure for 60 minutes with a natural release.
- Oven-Baked: Place ingredients in a Dutch oven, cover tightly, and bake at 150°C (300°F) for 3–4 hours.
- Spicier version: Add red pepper flakes or use hot pepperoncini.
- Less salty: Use reduced-sodium versions of ranch or au jus mix, or make your own seasoning blends at home.
❓ FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! While chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and tenderness, brisket or round roast can also be used.
Is it very spicy?
No, the pepperoncinis add more tang than heat. For extra spice, add more peppers or hot sauce.
Can I make it dairy-free?
You can substitute plant-based butter, though it may slightly change the flavour profile.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No chopping required – quick prep!
- One-pot meal – minimal cleanup.
- Ultra-tender beef with bold flavour.
- Great for meal prepping and freezes well.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday dinners.
Final Thoughts
Mississippi Pot Roast is the definition of comfort food — simple, rich, and absolutely delicious. It’s proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make a memorable meal. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.