If you’re craving the kind of dinner that fills your kitchen with the smell of slow-cooked perfection, look no further than this Mississippi Pot Roast.
This recipe transforms a simple beef chuck roast into the most tender, flavorful, fall-apart roast you’ve ever had. The secret? A magical combo of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, butter, and tangy pepperoncinis — ingredients that blend into a rich, savory sauce that tastes like pure comfort.
Originally a simple Southern family recipe, it’s now a viral classic loved for how easy it is — just a handful of ingredients and your slow cooker does all the work. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a meal that’s pure, cozy perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Mississippi Pot Roast
- Effortless: Only five main ingredients and minimal prep.
- Tender and juicy: Slow-cooked to perfection every time.
- Unbelievably flavorful: The combo of butter, ranch, and au jus creates rich, savory gravy.
- Family favorite: Perfect for weeknights or Sunday dinners.
- Versatile: Great with potatoes, rice, or sandwiches.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This pot roast has a cult following for a reason — it’s ridiculously simple and absolutely delicious. The long, slow cooking time turns even the toughest cut of meat into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, while the butter and seasonings infuse every bite with flavor.
Unlike traditional roasts that rely on heavy sauces, this one makes its own — buttery, tangy, savory, and slightly spicy from the pepperoncinis. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is secretly foolproof.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3–4 lb beef chuck roast
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 5–6 pepperoncini peppers (plus a splash of juice from the jar)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing
- Optional: 1 cup beef broth (for a bit more gravy)
How to Make Mississippi Pot Roast (Step by Step)
Step 1: Prepare the beef
Pat the roast dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. Optional: Sear all sides in a hot skillet with olive oil until browned for extra flavor.
Step 2: Add ingredients to the slow cooker
Place the roast in your slow cooker. Sprinkle the ranch mix and au jus mix evenly over the top.
Step 3: Add butter and pepperoncinis
Place the stick of butter right on top of the roast. Add the pepperoncini peppers and a splash (1–2 tablespoons) of their juice.
Step 4: Slow cook
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and easily shredded.
Step 5: Shred and serve
Shred the roast directly in the slow cooker and mix it into the savory gravy. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or bread.
Tips for the Best Mississippi Pot Roast
- Use chuck roast — it’s the best cut for tenderness.
- Sear before slow cooking — locks in rich flavor.
- Cook low and slow — for the most tender results.
- Don’t lift the lid early — let the steam and moisture work their magic.
- Use real butter — adds flavor and richness to the gravy.
- Add a few extra pepperoncinis — for a bolder, tangier taste.
- Degrease the sauce — skim excess fat off the top before serving.
- Thicken gravy (optional) — stir in 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water.
- Shred while hot — easier to mix with the juices.
- Let it rest — a few minutes before serving allows flavors to settle.
Variations & Substitutions
- Instant Pot Version: Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then natural release.
- Oven-Baked Version: Cover and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 3–4 hours.
- No Butter Option: Replace with beef broth or olive oil for a lighter version.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper or spicy pepperoncinis.
- Herb Twist: Add thyme or rosemary for a classic roast flavor.
- Creamy Gravy: Stir in ¼ cup sour cream before serving.
- Keto-Friendly: Serve over cauliflower mash instead of potatoes.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and seasoning mixes.
- Different Meat: Try pork shoulder or chicken thighs for variety.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add carrots, onions, and potatoes to cook alongside the roast.
What to Serve With Mississippi Pot Roast
- Mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower
- Steamed green beans or roasted carrots
- Buttered egg noodles or rice
- Dinner rolls or crusty bread
- Side salad or coleslaw
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag (with gravy) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To Reheat:
Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, shoulder roast or brisket works, but chuck roast gives the best texture.
Do I have to use pepperoncinis?
They’re key to the flavor! But you can substitute mild banana peppers if needed.
Can I skip the butter?
You can reduce it or replace it with broth for a lighter version, but butter gives it richness.
Can I add veggies?
Yes — carrots, potatoes, and onions can cook alongside the roast.
What can I use instead of au jus mix?
Use 1 tablespoon beef bouillon powder or onion soup mix.
How do I make it less salty?
Use unsalted butter and low-sodium seasoning packets.
Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely — it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Can I make sandwiches with leftovers?
Yes! It makes amazing sliders or hoagies with melted provolone.
Do I need to add liquid?
Usually no — the roast releases plenty of moisture. Add broth only if you prefer more gravy.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes — use a larger slow cooker (6–8 quart) and increase cook time slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Mississippi Pot Roast is the definition of comfort food done right — simple ingredients, effortless prep, and a flavor so rich you’ll be hooked after one bite.
The tender beef, buttery sauce, and tangy pepperoncinis come together in a perfect balance of savory and slightly spicy. It’s hearty, cozy, and the kind of dish everyone at the table will rave about.
Whether you serve it for Sunday dinner, meal prep, or a holiday feast, this recipe guarantees an unforgettable meal every time.