Three Envelope Roast Recipe – The Secret to Meltingly Tender, Flavor-Packed Beef!
Introduction (SEO-Friendly Paragraph):
Looking for a slow cooker roast recipe that’s ridiculously easy and bursting with bold flavor? Meet the Three Envelope Roast — a genius combination of three seasoning packets that transforms an affordable cut of beef into a tender, juicy, fall-apart roast you’ll want to make again and again.
This recipe has taken the internet by storm, and for good reason. With just a few pantry staples and less than 10 minutes of prep, you can create a home-cooked meal that tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, a weekend meal prep, or even a holiday potluck, this dish never disappoints.
Let’s dive into this simple, savory, and satisfying roast that proves big flavor doesn’t need to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 lb chuck roast (or rump roast or shoulder roast)
- 1 packet dry onion soup mix
- 1 packet brown gravy mix
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup water (or beef broth for deeper flavor)
- 1 large onion, sliced (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if searing the roast first)
- Optional: Carrots, potatoes, celery, mushrooms for a full one-pot meal
Instructions:
Step 1: Optional Searing
If you want extra flavor, sear the roast:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the roast for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned. This step is optional but adds a rich, deep flavor.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning
- In a medium bowl, combine the onion soup mix, brown gravy mix, and taco seasoning mix.
- Add 1 cup of water and stir until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble in the Cooker
Option A: Slow Cooker (Best Method)
- Place the roast in the slow cooker.
- Pour the seasoning mixture over the roast.
- Add sliced onions, garlic, and vegetables around the roast if using.
- Cover and cook on low for 8–9 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
Option B: Oven-Baked Version
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place roast in a covered Dutch oven or roasting pan.
- Pour sauce over it and cover tightly with a lid or foil.
- Bake for 3–4 hours, or until the meat is fall-apart tender.
Option C: Instant Pot
- Use the sauté function to sear the roast (optional).
- Pour in the seasoning mix.
- Seal and pressure cook on Meat/Stew setting for 60 minutes.
- Let pressure release naturally for 15 minutes before opening.
Serving Suggestions:
- Shred the roast and serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
- Spoon the flavorful gravy on top for maximum comfort.
- Pair with steamed vegetables or roasted green beans for a balanced plate.
- Leftovers make amazing sandwiches, beef tacos, or beef stew.
Tips & Variations:
- Gravy too thin? Mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and stir into the cooking juices. Let it simmer to thicken.
- Want it spicier? Add a dash of cayenne pepper or use a spicier taco seasoning.
- Gluten-free? Use gluten-free seasoning packets.
Storage & Reheating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the microwave or gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it juicy.
What to Do with Leftovers:
- Three Envelope Beef Tacos – warm the shredded beef in a skillet and stuff into taco shells with cheese and salsa.
- Savory Beef Sandwiches – pile on a crusty bun with provolone cheese and dip in the leftover gravy.
- Beef & Veggie Soup – add beef chunks to broth with diced veggies and noodles.