Three Envelope Roast: The Easiest Slow Cooker Dinner Ever
ADVERTISEMENT
Three Envelope Roast: The Easiest Slow Cooker Dinner Ever

Three Envelope Roast: The Easiest Slow Cooker Dinner Ever
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Three Envelope Roast is the kind of meal you keep in your back pocket for busy weeks and Sunday dinners alike. It’s savory, tender, and bursting with flavor — and best of all, it only takes a few minutes to prep. With just three seasoning packets, a roast, and a slow cooker (or oven), dinner practically cooks itself.
This recipe is famous for good reason: it turns an ordinary beef roast into a mouthwatering main dish with a rich, savory gravy that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 beef roast (3–4 lbs; chuck roast works best)
1 packet ranch dressing mix
1 packet Italian dressing mix
1 packet brown gravy mix
1 cup water or beef broth
Optional Add-ins:
Baby carrots, potatoes, or onions for a one-pot meal
A splash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor
Red pepper flakes for a bit of kick
How to Make a Three Envelope Roast (Slow Cooker Method)
How to Make a Three Envelope Roast (Slow Cooker Method)
Place the roast in the bottom of your slow cooker.
Mix the packets: In a bowl, combine the ranch mix, Italian dressing mix, and brown gravy mix with 1 cup of water or broth. Stir until mostly dissolved.
Pour the mixture evenly over the roast.
Cook on low for 8 hours or until the roast is fork-tender and falling apart.
Shred or slice, then serve with the gravy from the bottom of the slow cooker.
Oven Instructions
Prefer the oven? No problem.
Preheat to 300°F (150°C).
Place the roast in a Dutch oven or covered baking dish.
Pour the seasoning mixture over it.
Cover tightly with a lid or foil and bake for 3–4 hours, until very tender.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Three Envelope Roast with:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Roasted vegetables
Buttered noodles
Warm dinner rolls to soak up the gravy
Tips for Best Results
No searing required — though if you have time, browning the roast in a skillet before slow cooking can add an extra layer of flavor.
Low and slow is key — for the most tender result, don’t rush the cook time.
You can double the seasoning mix and water for larger roasts or more gravy.
How to Store & Reheat
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a bit of broth to loosen the gravy.
Final Thoughts
The Three Envelope Roast proves that you don’t need a long ingredient list to make a flavorful, comforting meal. With just three pantry staples and minimal prep, you get fall-apart tender beef and a savory gravy that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. It’s a true set-it-and-forget-it recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Comment