Mississippi Pot Roast is a beloved comfort food that has gained immense popularity due to its rich, savory flavors and incredibly tender texture. This slow-cooked dish, known for its simplicity and mouthwatering taste, originated from a home cook’s experiment and has since become a staple in many households. The recipe combines a few key ingredients—chuck roast, ranch seasoning, au jus mix, butter, and pepperoncini peppers—to create a melt-in-your-mouth roast with a perfect balance of tangy, buttery, and savory notes.
One of the best aspects of Mississippi Pot Roast is its versatility. It can be cooked in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or even in the oven, making it an easy, hands-off meal for busy families. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or as a sandwich filling, this dish delivers comforting, hearty flavors that keep people coming back for more. In this article, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of making Mississippi Pot Roast, variations to customize the recipe, and tips for achieving the best results.
What is Mississippi Pot Roast?
Mississippi Pot Roast is a slow-cooked beef dish made with a chuck roast, ranch seasoning, au jus mix, butter, and pepperoncini peppers. And buttery flavor from these unexpected ingredients.
The History of Mississippi Pot Roast
This beloved dish originated in the early 2000s when Robin Chapman, a home cook from Mississippi, adapted her family’s pot roast recipe to be milder and more kid-friendly. She removed the traditional carrots and potatoes and instead added ranch seasoning, au jus mix, butter, and pepperoncini.
Little did she know that this simple twist would create one of the most popular slow-cooker recipes of all time! Thanks to the internet and food bloggers, Mississippi Pot Roast quickly became a household favorite across the U.S.
Why is it Called Mississippi Pot Roast?
The name “Mississippi Pot Roast” comes from its place of origin—Mississippi. The recipe spread quickly through online communities and was given its now-iconic name. Today, it’s a comfort food staple, loved for its simplicity, bold flavors, and effortless preparation.
Ingredients for Mississippi Pot Roast
One of the best things about Mississippi Pot Roast is its simplicity—you only need a few key ingredients to create an incredibly flavorful dish.
Main Ingredients
To make the classic Mississippi Pot Roast, you’ll need:
- 3-4 lb beef chuck roast – This is the best cut of meat for pot roast because it has enough fat and connective tissue to become tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix – Adds a rich, tangy flavor.
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix – Enhances the savory depth of the roast.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick) – Makes the dish rich and buttery while keeping the meat moist.
- 5-6 whole pepperoncini peppers – These mildly tangy peppers add a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
- ½ cup beef broth or water (optional) – Adds moisture and helps create a delicious sauce.
Optional Additions
If you want to customize the dish, consider adding:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Boosts the flavor with a mild garlicky touch.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the umami and richness.
- Carrots and potatoes – For a one-pot meal, add chopped vegetables around the roast.
- Red pepper flakes – If you like a spicier version, sprinkle some on top.
How to Make Mississippi Pot Roast (Step-by-Step Guide)
Sear the Roast (Optional, but Recommended)
- Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the roast for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms. This step is optional but helps lock in flavor.
Assemble Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Place the seared chuck roast at the bottom of a slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix and au jus gravy mix evenly over the roast.
- Place the butter (cut into chunks) on top of the meat.
- Scatter the pepperoncini peppers around the roast.
- (Optional) Pour ½ cup beef broth or water around the roast to prevent it from drying out.
Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.
- The roast is ready when it’s fall-apart tender and can be shredded easily with a fork.
Shred and Serve
- Use two forks to shred the beef directly in the slow cooker.
- Stir the meat into the juices to coat it in the buttery, flavorful sauce.
- Serve warm with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Mississippi Pot Roast Variations & Cooking Methods
Mississippi Pot Roast is traditionally made in a slow cooker, but you can also prepare it in an Instant Pot, oven, or stovetop. Below are different methods and variations to suit your cooking style and preferences.
Alternative Cooking Methods
1. Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast (Pressure Cooker Method)
If you’re short on time, the Instant Pot version speeds up the process while still delivering a tender, flavorful roast.
- Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Sear the chuck roast for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
- Turn off “Sauté” mode and add ½ cup beef broth to deglaze the pot. Scrape the bottom with a wooden spoon to avoid a “Burn” warning.
- Add the ranch seasoning, au jus mix, butter, and pepperoncini peppers on top of the meat.
- Seal the lid and set to “Pressure Cook” on HIGH for 60 minutes.
- Allow a natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then manually release the rest.
- Shred and serve!
Why use this method?
- Cooks in 1 hour instead of 8
- Retains moisture and deep flavor
2. Oven-Baked Mississippi Pot Roast (Dutch Oven Method)
If you prefer a traditional roast with a crispy exterior, baking it in a Dutch oven is a great option.
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove from heat and sprinkle ranch seasoning and au jus mix over the meat.
- Add butter, pepperoncini peppers, and ½ cup beef broth.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before shredding.
Why use this method?
- Creates a slightly crispy crust
3. Stovetop Mississippi Pot Roast (One-Pot Meal)
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a heavy-bottomed.
- Sprinkle the ranch mix and au jus mix over the meat.
- Add butter, pepperoncini peppers, and ½ cup beef broth.
- Cover and simmer on LOW heat for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Shred and mix with the juices before serving.
Why use this method?
- No special appliances needed
- Great for smaller kitchens
Mississippi Pot Roast Variations
1. Mississippi Pot Roast with Gravy
If you prefer a thicker sauce, follow these steps:
- Remove the roast from the slow cooker and set aside.
- Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to form a slurry.
- Stir it into the cooking juices and cook on HIGH for 5-10 minutes until thickened.
- Return shredded meat to the gravy and mix well.
2. Spicy Mississippi Pot Roast
For an extra kick, try these tweaks:
- Use more pepperoncini peppers (8-10 instead of 5-6).
- Add 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Sprinkle in cayenne pepper for an even bolder flavor.
3. Keto & Low-Carb Mississippi Pot Roast
This dish is naturally keto-friendly, but you can enhance it by:
- Serving over cauliflower mash or roasted greens instead of potatoes.
- Using grass-fed butter for better fat quality.
- Avoiding cornstarch-based gravies.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Mississippi Pot Roast
Mississippi Pot Roast is rich, buttery, and full of flavor, so the right side dishes can balance out its bold taste. Whether you’re looking for classic comfort food pairings, low-carb options, or something unique, these sides will perfectly complement your pot roast.
1. Classic Side Dishes
Mashed Potatoes 🥔
A creamy and buttery mashed potato base pairs perfectly with the rich, savory juices from the roast. The mashed potatoes soak up the flavorful au jus, making every bite irresistible.
👉 Pro Tip: For extra creamy mashed potatoes, add a little sour cream and garlic butter.
Egg Noodles 🍜
Soft buttered egg noodles serve as a great base for shredded Mississippi Pot Roast. Simply toss the noodles in a bit of butter or olive oil before serving.
👉 Quick Recipe: Cook the noodles, drain, and mix with a tablespoon of butter and fresh parsley.
Rice or Cauliflower Rice 🍚
Rice is another great neutral side that soaks up the delicious roast juices. For a healthier alternative, use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
👉 Pro Tip: Cook rice in beef broth instead of water for extra flavor.
Dinner Rolls or Biscuits 🥖
Soft, fluffy rolls or buttermilk biscuits are perfect for soaking up the juices from the pot roast. Serve them warm for the best texture.
👉 Quick Tip: Brush rolls with melted garlic butter for extra flavor.
2. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Side Dishes
Roasted Vegetables 🥦🥕
Roasting vegetables like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, carrots, or zucchini in olive oil and garlic is a healthy, flavorful option.
👉 Best Vegetables to Roast:
- Brussels sprouts – Crispy and slightly caramelized
- Zucchini – Light and fresh
- Cauliflower – A great mashed potato alternative
- Carrots – Naturally sweet, pairs well with the savory beef
Cauliflower Mash 🥣
A creamy, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash provides the same silky texture while being lighter.
👉 Recipe Idea: Steam cauliflower, blend with butter, heavy cream, and a touch of garlic for a rich, smooth mash.
Steamed Green Beans 🌿
A simple, buttery green bean side adds a fresh contrast to the rich roast.
👉 Quick Tip: Toss steamed green beans with lemon zest and Parmesan for extra flavor.
3. Creative & Unique Pairings
Mac and Cheese 🧀
For the ultimate comfort food experience, serve Mississippi Pot Roast with creamy homemade mac and cheese. The cheesy, rich pasta pairs incredibly well with the tender beef.
👉 Best Cheese Mix: Cheddar, Gouda, and Parmesan for a flavorful, melty texture.
Sweet Potato Casserole 🍠
The natural sweetness of a baked or mashed sweet potato casserole balances out the savory and tangy pot roast.
👉 Pro Tip: Add a crunchy pecan topping for extra texture!
Coleslaw 🥗
A light and tangy coleslaw made with vinegar dressing helps cut through the richness of the roast and balances the flavors.
👉 Best Dressing: A mix of apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard.
Cornbread 🌽
A slightly sweet and crumbly cornbread is a classic Southern pairing for pot roast. It’s perfect for mopping up the delicious juices.
👉 Quick Recipe: Use buttermilk and a little honey for extra moist and flavorful cornbread.
How to Serve Mississippi Pot Roast
Mississippi Pot Roast is versatile, and you can serve it in different ways beyond just on a plate:
Over Mashed Potatoes or Rice – The classic way to enjoy the dish.
In a Sandwich – Shred the meat and pile it onto a toasted hoagie roll or brioche bun.
Tacos or Burritos – Use the meat as a filling for soft tortillas, topped with cheese and salsa.
Over Polenta – A creamy, cheesy polenta pairs beautifully with the savory pot roast juices.
Storage, Reheating & Meal Prep Tips for Mississippi Pot Roast
Mississippi Pot Roast is even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. Proper storage and reheating will help keep the meat tender and delicious. Whether you’re saving leftovers for later or making a big batch for meal prep, here’s how to do it right.
How to Store Mississippi Pot Roast
Refrigeration (Short-Term Storage)
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Keeps fresh for up to 4 days.
Store with some of the juices to keep the meat from drying out.
Best Container: Use a glass or plastic airtight container for best freshness.
Freezing (Long-Term Storage)
Mississippi Pot Roast freezes really well and can be stored for up to 3 months.
Cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Store in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
Label with date so you know when to use it.
Pro Tip: Freeze in portions so you can reheat only what you need.
Best Ways to Reheat Mississippi Pot Roast
1. Stovetop (Best for Keeping Moisture)
Place shredded roast and some juices in a pan over medium heat.
Stir occasionally until warmed through (5-7 minutes).
2. Microwave (Quick & Easy)
Place meat in a microwave-safe bowl with some of the juices.
Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
3. Oven (Best for Large Portions)
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Place roast in a baking dish with juices and cover with foil.
Heat for 20-25 minutes until warm.
4. Slow Cooker (For Meal Prep or Bulk Reheating)
Set slow cooker to LOW for 1-2 hours.
Add some beef broth or butter to refresh the flavors.
Meal Prep & Make-Ahead Tips
Mississippi Pot Roast is perfect for meal prepping because it reheats so well. Here are some meal prep ideas:
Portion into meal prep containers with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or veggies.
Use for different meals throughout the week—sandwiches, tacos, bowls, or pasta.
Freeze in individual servings for quick grab-and-go meals.
Mississippi Pot Roast pairs well with a variety of sides, such as:
- Mashed Potatoes – A creamy base to soak up the rich juices.
- Perfect Pierogi Dough – Try homemade pierogi as a unique side!
- Rice or Buttered Egg Noodles – A simple, neutral base.
- Roasted Vegetables – Brussels sprouts, carrots, or zucchini.
- Authentic Beef Enchiladas – If you’re making a Tex-Mex spread.
- Dinner Rolls or Biscuits – Perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
Mississippi Pot Roast is the ultimate comfort food—rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, it’s an easy yet impressive dish for any occasion. Try different variations, pair it with delicious sides like Stuffed Poblano Peppers, and enjoy a hearty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the 4 main ingredients in Mississippi Pot Roast?
The classic Mississippi Pot Roast is made with just four key ingredients:
- Beef chuck roast – The best cut for slow cooking, as it becomes incredibly tender.
- Ranch seasoning mix – Adds a tangy, herby flavor.
- Au jus gravy mix – Enhances the richness and umami taste.
- Butter – Gives the roast a silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Some versions also include pepperoncini peppers, but the basic recipe can be made with just these four ingredients.
2. What is the difference between a pot roast and a Mississippi pot roast?
Both traditional pot roast and Mississippi Pot Roast are slow-cooked beef dishes, but they differ in ingredients and flavor.
| Feature | Traditional Pot Roast | Mississippi Pot Roast |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Savory, herbal, and mildly sweet | Rich, buttery, tangy, and slightly spicy |
| Main Seasonings | Garlic, onions, thyme, rosemary, beef broth | Ranch seasoning, au jus mix, butter |
| Vegetables Included | Carrots, potatoes, onions | Usually no veggies (but can be added) |
| Cooking Liquid | Beef broth or wine | Butter and juices from the meat |
Mississippi Pot Roast has a more intense, buttery, and tangy flavor due to the ranch seasoning, au jus mix, and pepperoncini peppers, while traditional pot roast has a more classic, slow-cooked beef taste with vegetables and herbs.
3. What is the best cut of meat for Mississippi Pot Roast?
The best cut of meat for Mississippi Pot Roast is beef chuck roast because it:
Has good marbling, which breaks down during slow cooking to create tender, juicy meat.
Is affordable and widely available.
Shreds easily after cooking, making it perfect for serving.
Other cuts that work well include:
- Brisket – Slightly leaner but still flavorful.
- Rump roast – Leaner than chuck but still works well if cooked long enough.
- Bottom round roast – A budget-friendly option, though slightly tougher.
For the most tender and flavorful Mississippi Pot Roast, chuck roast is the best choice.
4. Do you put the pepperoncini juice in Mississippi Pot Roast?
It depends on your taste! Adding pepperoncini juice can:
Increase the tanginess of the dish.
Add extra moisture to the roast.
Slightly boost the spice level.
If you prefer a milder version, use only the whole pepperoncini peppers without adding the juice. If you like a more flavorful and slightly tangy roast, pour in ¼ to ½ cup of the juice along with the other ingredients.
Conclusion
Mississippi Pot Roast is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that proves that a few ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. With its fork-tender beef, rich, buttery sauce, and tangy kick from the pepperoncini, this recipe has earned its place as a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or meal prepping for the week, it never fails to impress.
The beauty of this dish lies in its ease of preparation and versatility. Whether cooked in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven, the results are always delicious. Plus, with customizable variations like adding vegetables, adjusting the spice level, or using different cuts of beef, you can tailor it to suit your preferences.
So, the next time you’re looking for a comforting, no-fuss meal, give Mississippi Pot Roast a try. It’s guaranteed to become a go-to recipe in your home, bringing warmth and satisfaction to every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Easy to make – Just add the ingredients and let it cook.
Packed with flavor – The ranch seasoning, au jus mix, butter, and pepperoncini create a unique, mouthwatering taste.
Versatile – Serve it traditionally, in tacos, or meal prep for the week.
Great for any occasion – A hit for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prepping.
If you haven’t tried Mississippi Pot Roast yet, now is the perfect time! With its rich flavors and effortless cooking, it’s no surprise this recipe has become a household favorite across the country.
Try it today and let your taste buds experience the magic! 😋
Mississippi Pot Roast Recipe – Easy, Tender & Flavorful Slow Cooker Meal
Equipment
- ✔ Slow Cooker (Crockpot) – 6-quart or larger
- ✔ Large Skillet (for optional searing)
- ✔ Tongs (for handling the roast)
- ✔ Measuring Cup
- ✔ Forks (for shredding the meat)
- ✔ Cutting Board & Knife
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb beef chuck roast well-marbled for best results
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter 1 stick
- 5-6 whole pepperoncini peppers
- ½ cup beef broth or water optional, for added moisture
- Optional Additions:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder for deeper flavor
- 1 teaspoon onion powder adds mild sweetness
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce for extra umami
- Carrots & potatoes for a one-pot meal
- ¼ to ½ cup pepperoncini juice for extra tanginess
Instructions
- Step 1: Sear the Roast (Optional for More Flavor)
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Sear the roast for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Transfer the roast to the slow cooker.
- Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Sprinkle ranch seasoning mix and au jus gravy mix evenly over the roast.
- Place butter (cut into chunks) on top of the roast.
- Arrange pepperoncini peppers around the meat.
- (Optional) Pour in ½ cup beef broth or pepperoncini juice to add extra moisture.
- Step 3: Slow Cook the Roast
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.
- The roast is ready when it is fall-apart tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
- Step 4: Shred & Serve
- Use two forks to shred the beef directly in the slow cooker.
- Stir the shredded meat to mix it with the juices and melted butter.
- Serve warm over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or in sandwiches.
Notes
For a spicier version, add extra pepperoncini peppers or 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
For a low-carb/keto version, serve with cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables instead of mashed potatoes or rice.
Leftovers taste even better the next day!