Crockpot Mississippi Pot Roast

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Discover how to make tender crockpot Mississippi pot roast with just 6 ingredients. Fall-apart beef with rich, savory flavors in a hands-off slow cooker meal.

james carter jr for recipes by clare
By James Carter Jr
Updated on Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:32:49 GMT

Crockpot Mississippi pot roast is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dinner that transforms a simple chuck roast into fall-apart tender perfection. With just 6 ingredients and zero browning required, this hands-off recipe delivers rich, savory flavors that make it taste like you spent all day in the kitchen.

I first made this recipe years ago when a friend insisted it would change my life. I was skeptical about something so simple producing restaurant-quality results, but after 8 hours of slow cooking, I opened that crockpot lid to find the most tender, flavorful pot roast I’d ever tasted. The combination of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy, tangy pepperoncini, and butter creates an incredibly savory sauce that’s absolutely addictive. This crockpot Mississippi pot roast has become my most-requested recipe, especially during busy weeks when I need a satisfying dinner without any fuss. The slow cooker pot roast practically cooks itself while you go about your day.

Simple Ingredients for Crockpot Mississippi Pot Roast

I always use a well-marbled chuck roast for this recipe because the fat renders during slow cooking, creating incredible flavor and tenderness. Pro tip: resist the urge to add water or extra liquid. The ingredients create plenty of flavorful cooking liquid on their own.

  • 2 to 4 pounds chuck roast
  • 1 packet ranch dressing mix
  • 1 packet au jus gravy mix
  • 8 pepperoncini peppers
  • 1/4 cup pepperoncini juice (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter

Pro tip: Using the pepperoncini juice adds extra tang and helps create more sauce, but you can skip it if you prefer a milder flavor. The peppers themselves provide plenty of that signature tangy kick that makes this Mississippi pot roast so special.

Shredded crockpot Mississippi pot roast in slow cooker with pepperoncini and rich gravy

How to Make Perfect Mississippi Pot Roast

I recommend placing the butter on top of the roast so it melts slowly during cooking, basting the meat as it cooks. This technique ensures every bite is rich and flavorful.

Step 1: Place chuck roast in the bottom of the crockpot. Choose a roast that fits comfortably with a bit of room around the edges. Pat the meat dry with paper towels before adding to ensure the seasonings stick properly.

Step 2: Sprinkle ranch and au jus mixes on top of the roast. Use your hands to distribute the seasonings evenly over the entire surface. These dry mixes create the base for that incredibly flavorful gravy that develops during cooking.

Step 3: Add pepperoncini and juice (optional) around the roast. Distribute the peppers evenly so their tangy flavor infuses throughout. The mild heat from the peppers adds depth without overwhelming spiciness, making this crockpot Mississippi pot roast family-friendly.

Step 4: Place the butter on top of the roast in a single stick or cut into large chunks. As it melts, the butter will naturally baste the meat and help create that rich, silky sauce.

Step 5: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours. Resist the temptation to lift the lid during cooking, as this releases heat and extends cooking time. After 8 hours, the meat should be so tender it falls apart with a fork. Pro tip: If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 4 to 5 hours, though low and slow produces the most tender results.

Step 6: Shred the meat using two forks and stir it into the cooking juices. The meat will practically fall apart on its own. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, spooning plenty of that delicious gravy over everything. This crockpot Mississippi pot roast is pure comfort on a plate.

Delicious Serving Ideas for Mississippi Pot Roast

This tender, flavorful pot roast pairs perfectly with sides that soak up the incredible gravy while adding different textures to the meal.

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the best sides for crockpot Mississippi pot roast because they absorb all that rich, tangy gravy while providing a smooth, comforting base that complements the tender shredded beef perfectly.

Egg Noodles: Buttered egg noodles create a classic pairing that catches every drop of sauce. The pasta adds substance while letting the pot roast remain the star of the plate.

Steamed Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice provides a neutral backdrop that allows the bold flavors of the ranch, au jus, and pepperoncini to shine through while soaking up the delicious cooking liquid.

Green Beans or Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of green beans or roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts for color, nutrition, and a fresh contrast to the rich, savory meat.

More Easy Crockpot Dinner Recipes

This crockpot Mississippi pot roast pairs wonderfully with other slow cooker favorites in the collection. For another hands-off beef option, try the Slow Cooker French Onion Pot Roast, which offers rich, caramelized onion flavors. The Crockpot Beef Stew provides a heartier option loaded with vegetables.

When seeking variety in slow cooker meals, the Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken delivers Asian-inspired flavors, while the Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes offers a complete one-pot meal. For soup lovers, the Slow Cooker Cajun Potato Soup and Crockpot Creamy White Chicken Chili provide comforting options perfect for meal prep.

Storage and Reheating Your Pot Roast

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors continue to develop, making day-two pot roast even more delicious. Make sure to include plenty of the cooking liquid to keep the meat moist.

For reheating, I recommend the stovetop method. Place the meat and gravy in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. This method maintains the tender texture better than microwaving. You can also cover with foil and warm in a 325 degrees F oven for 20 minutes.

Pro tip: This crockpot Mississippi pot roast freezes beautifully for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Freeze portions with gravy to prevent the meat from drying out. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently. The tender texture holds up remarkably well, making this perfect for meal prep and batch cooking.

Common Questions About Mississippi Pot Roast

Can I use a different meat?

Yes, pork shoulder works wonderfully with the same cooking time, while chicken thighs need only 4 to 5 hours on low. Each protein absorbs the flavors differently but all turn out delicious.

Can I make this less spicy?

Absolutely. Simply reduce the number of pepperoncini peppers or skip them entirely. You’ll still have plenty of flavor from the ranch and au jus seasonings, just without the tangy kick.

Do I need to add water?

No, the roast releases its own juices during cooking, and the butter and pepperoncini juice create plenty of liquid. Adding water dilutes the concentrated flavors that make this recipe special.

Ready to Try This Easy Dinner?

This crockpot Mississippi pot roast proves that impressive dinners don’t require complicated techniques or constant attention. With just 6 ingredients and minimal prep, you can have tender, flavorful pot roast that tastes like it took hours of effort. Try this recipe tonight and discover why it’s become a family favorite!

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Crockpot Mississippi Pot Roast

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Effortlessly delicious slow cooker pot roast with ranch seasoning, au jus gravy, pepperoncini, and butter for tender, flavorful meat that cooks itself.

  • Author: James Carter Jr
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Total Time: 8 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 to 4 pounds chuck roast
  • 1 packet ranch dressing mix
  • 1 packet au jus gravy mix
  • 8 pepperoncini peppers
  • 1/4 cup pepperoncini juice (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter

Instructions

  1. Place chuck roast in the bottom of the crockpot.
  2. Sprinkle ranch and au jus mixes on top of roast, distributing evenly.
  3. Add pepperoncini and juice (optional) around the roast.
  4. Place the butter on top of the roast.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until meat is fall-apart tender.
  6. Shred the meat with two forks and stir into cooking juices. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.

Notes

  • No water needed. Ingredients create enough liquid during cooking.
  • Can use pork shoulder or chicken thighs. Adjust cooking time for chicken (4 to 5 hours on low).
  • Skip pepperoncini for milder flavor. Can add carrots or potatoes for complete meal.
  • Don’t lift lid during cooking to maintain temperature and reduce cooking time.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 207 kcal
  • Sugar: 0.2 g
  • Sodium: 103 mg
  • Fat: 13 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 78 mg

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