How to Make This 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chuck Roast

This recipe is nearly foolproof. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:

Step 1: Prepare the Roast

Place the chuck roast directly into the bottom of your slow cooker. No searing required (although you can sear it if you love extra caramelization).

Step 2: Add the Seasoning Packets

Sprinkle the entire packet of ranch seasoning mix over the top of the roast.
Then sprinkle the au jus gravy mix right on top of that.

There’s no need to stir—everything will blend beautifully during cooking.

Step 3: Add the Butter

Place the whole stick of butter on top of the roast. It will melt slowly and soak the meat with flavor.

(Optional: Add pepperoncini around the roast or a splash of the juice for brightness.)

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover and cook:

• 8–9 hours on LOW (best tenderness)
  — OR —

• 4–5 hours on HIGH

When it’s done, the roast should fall apart easily with a fork.

Step 5: Shred and Serve

Use two forks to shred the beef in the slow cooker juices. Mix well so every piece is coated in the buttery, savory goodness.

Serve the roast over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or inside a toasted hoagie roll for an incredible sandwich.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

✔ Low effort, high reward
✔ Budget-friendly ingredients
✔ Feeds a crowd or leaves plenty of leftovers
✔ The slow cooker does all the work

The ranch and au jus packets dissolve into a rich, mouthwatering gravy. The butter adds depth and silkiness. And the chuck roast—well, it transforms into something tender enough to melt on your fork.

This dish proves you don’t need a dozen ingredients to create a meal people rave about.

Tips for Making It Even Better

• Add baby carrots or quartered potatoes for a full one-pot meal.

• Replace butter with broth for a lighter version.

• Stir in pepperoncini juice for tangier flavor.

• Use leftovers for tacos, sliders, or beef bowls.

• Sometimes the best meals are the simplest ones—and this four-ingredient slow cooker chuck roast is a perfect example. With almost no prep work, inexpensive ingredients, and a flavor payoff worthy of a Sunday dinner, this recipe has become a go-to for busy families and home cooks who love comfort food without the fuss.

  What makes this recipe so special is the way the ingredients work together. A slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, breaking down the chuck roast until it becomes incredibly tender, juicy, and full of rich, savory flavor. Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or inside a sandwich, this dish never disappoints.

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  The Only 4 Ingredients You Need

  You read that right—just four ingredients. No complicated sauces, no long shopping list.

  1. Chuck Roast (3–4 pounds)
  This cut is ideal for slow cooking because its marbled fat melts into the meat, keeping it moist and tender.

  2. One Packet of Ranch Seasoning Mix
  Adds a tangy, herb-filled layer of flavor.

  3. One Packet of Au Jus Gravy Mix
  Deepens the richness and creates a savory base.

  4. A Stick of Butter (½ cup)
  Melts into the roast, enhancing tenderness and giving the dish a luxurious texture.

  (Optional but popular: A handful of pepperoncini peppers for extra tang and subtle heat.)

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