Get ready to take your taste buds on a smooth ride with this slow cooker Mississippi pot roast recipe, remixed with the bold vibes of Trini green seasoning. It’s tender, juicy beef, slow-cooked to perfection, but we’re turning up the flavor like a 90s New Edition groove—fresh, vibrant, and unforgettable.
The fusion of Southern comfort and Caribbean zest will have you singing, "You're not my kind of rude girl?" Sit back, relax, and let this dish cook low and slow, just like the perfect slow jam. Dinner’s about to hit all the right notes!
Related Slow Cooked Beef Posts:
This is a recipe that I was asked to make by a reader. It's normally not my kind a recipe as I don't really cook with a crockpot, like ever. For me a slow cooker is more of a keep dishes warm kind of thing and not a vessel for cooking. I'd much rather use an Instant Pot, and probably will next time.
While it has its benefits which users love, it is limited in some key ways. Slow cookers don't get hot enough to brown meats needed to maximize flavor. No problem I made a few adjustments to make this Food Fidelity style.
What is Mississippi Pot Roast?
Mississippi Pot Roast is a beloved slow cooker recipe that hails from the heart of the South. This dish is all about simplicity and flavor, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. At its core, the recipe features a chuck roast, which is known for its marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked. The magic happens when you combine this with ranch dressing mix, au jus gravy mix, pepperoncini peppers, and a generous pat of butter.
The result? A melt-in-your-mouth pot roast that’s bursting with savory goodness and a hint of tangy spice from the pepperoncini. It’s a dish that requires minimal prep time but delivers maximum flavor, making it perfect for serving over creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or even a bed of fluffy rice. Whether you’re a pot roast aficionado or a newbie, this Mississippi Pot Roast recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why Is It Called Mississippi Pot Roast
Mississippi pot roast gets its name from the recipe's origin in the state of Mississippi. The dish was popularized in the 1990s by Robin Chapman, a home cook from Ripley, Mississippi. She created the recipe as a simpler, less spicy version of a roast her family enjoyed.
The combination of ingredients—beef, ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, butter, and pepperoncini—delivered a uniquely flavorful, tender pot roast that quickly gained popularity through word of mouth and later via the internet. Its name pays homage to the state where it originated.
Beats and Eats (music to pair with Pot Roast
New Edition's "You're Not My Kind of Girl" pairs surprisingly well with Mississippi pot roast because both deliver a mix of complexity and smoothness that draws you in. The song’s blend of heartfelt lyrics and polished grooves matches the comforting yet bold flavors of the pot roast.
The buttery richness of the roast aligns with the soulful harmonies, while the zesty kick from the pepperoncini mirrors the track's sharp and memorable moments. Together, they create a perfect balance of warmth and flavor, making the meal and the music equally satisfying. It's a vibe you won't forget!
What is Green Seasoning
Green seasoning is a vibrant, herby blend of fresh ingredients commonly used in Caribbean cuisine to marinate, season, and flavor a wide variety of dishes. It's a staple in kitchens across the islands, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, and other parts of the West Indies.
Flavor Profile:
Green seasoning is fresh, earthy, tangy, and can range from mild to spicy depending on whether peppers are used. The mix creates a complex and versatile seasoning base that enhances the natural flavors of meats, seafood, stews, and vegetables.
Uses:
- As a marinade for chicken, beef, pork, or fish.
- Stirred into soups, stews, or curries for depth of flavor.
Key Ingredients For Mississippi Pot Roast
- Chuck Roast
- Ranch Dressing Mix (if available go with low sodium version)
- Au Jus Gravy Mix
- Jarred Pepperoncini Peppers including the juice
- Trini Green Seasoning - make your own homemade using this green seasoning recipe unless you live near a Caribbean focused grocery store.
How To Make This Flavorful Pot Roast Recipe
Prepare the Beef
Allow the beef to come to room temperature. Season with spice mix (black pepper, smoked paprika, allspice).
Heat large skillet on medium heat. Add some olive oil and brown the beef on all sides. Set aside.
Cook The Roast
Preheat crock pot to low settings. Add the chuck roast. Top with the au jus mix, ranch dressing mix, green seasoning, butter, pepperoncinis, and a quarter cup of the pepperoncini juice.
Top with the lid and allow to cook 8 hours. Shred the beef using two forks.
Serve the shredded beef with au jus and pepperoncinis over egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes.
What To Serve With This Pot Roast Recipe
Mississippi pot roast is rich, savory, and full of bold flavors, making it perfect to pair with complementary sides. Here are some delicious options:
Classic Comfort Sides
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the roast’s flavorful gravy.
- Buttered Egg Noodles: Tossed with a little butter and parsley, they provide a simple base for the tender beef.
- White or Brown Rice: A neutral starch that works well with the roast’s savory juices.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts add a caramelized sweetness that contrasts with the roast’s richness.
- Southern Style Green Beans: Light and fresh, they balance the heavy flavors of the dish.
- Creamed Spinach: Rich and indulgent, creamed spinach pairs beautifully with the beefy roast.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are ideal for sopping up every bit of gravy.
- Cornbread: Adds a slightly sweet, crumbly texture to the meal.
- Crisp Garden Salad: Tossed with a vinaigrette, it lightens up the meal and adds freshness.
- Coleslaw: The tangy crunchy slaw complements the roast’s deep, savory flavors.
Cooking Considerations and Tips
Here are key cooking considerations and tips for making a flavorful and tender Mississippi pot roast:
Choose the Right Cut of Meat
- Use a chuck roast for its marbling, which breaks down during cooking to create a tender, juicy roast. Other cuts like brisket or bottom round can work, but chuck is ideal.
Brown the Meat First (Optional but preferred)
- Searing the roast in a hot skillet before placing it in the slow cooker adds extra flavor by caramelizing the surface.
Layer the Flavors
- Place the roast in the cooker and top with:
- Ranch seasoning for a tangy, creamy base.
- Au jus gravy mix for savory depth.
- Butter for richness and moisture.
- Pepperoncini peppers for a tangy, slightly spicy kick. Add some of the juice for extra flavor.
- Don't add salt as there is more than enough between the ranch seasoning and gravy mix.
Low and Slow Cooking
- Cook the roast on low heat for 8 hours. Low and slow cooking allows the connective tissues in the meat to break down, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Don’t Add Water
- The roast will release its own juices during cooking, which combine with the butter and seasonings to create a flavorful gravy.
Taste and Adjust
- After cooking, taste the gravy. If it’s too salty, balance it with a splash of water or unsalted beef broth. If it needs more punch, add a touch of pepperoncini juice.
Storage and Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Substitutions and Variations
Here are some substitutions and variations to make Mississippi pot roast fit your preferences or dietary needs:
Substitutions
- Meat Options
- Beef Alternatives: Use brisket, bottom round roast, or rump roast for a similar texture.
- Pork Roast: Try pork shoulder or pork butt for a different but equally delicious flavor.
- Chicken: Use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter version.
- Ranch Seasoning
- Substitute with homemade ranch seasoning (a mix of dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt).
- Au Jus Gravy Mix
- Swap with onion soup mix or brown gravy mix.
- Use homemade beef bouillon powder or concentrated beef broth for a cleaner ingredient list.
- Pepperoncini Peppers
- Replace with banana peppers for a different heat profile.
Variations
- Add Vegetables
- Include carrots, potatoes, onions, or mushrooms for a one-pot meal.
- Spice It Up
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Include additional pepperoncini juice for a tangier kick.
- Make It Creamier
- Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream at the end for a rich, creamy gravy.
- Herbal Twist
- Add fresh thyme or bay leaves for an aromatic variation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cut of meat for Mississippi Pot Roast?
Chuck roast is the best cut of meat for this recipe due to its marbling, which breaks down beautifully during slow cooking, resulting in a tender, juicy roast.
Can I make Mississippi Pot Roast in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can make Mississippi Pot Roast in an Instant Pot. Simply brown the roast in a skillet, then transfer it to the Instant Pot with the remaining ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 30-40 minutes, and you’ll have a delicious pot roast in no time.
What Section of The Grocery Store Can You Find Au Jus Mix?
Condiments Aisle: Look for jarred or canned gravies, often near sauces and marinades.
Packaged Foods Aisle: Instant or dry gravy mixes are usually found here, often near the soups and broths.
Make Mississippi Roast
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Ingredients
- 4 lb Chuck Roast
- 1 packet Ranch Dressing Mix
- 1 packet Au Jus Gravy Mix
- ¼ cup Trini Green Seasoning
- ¼ cup unsalted Butter
- 6 Pepperoncini Peppers (plus 2 tablespoon juice)
- ¼ teaspoon Allspice
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
Prepare the Beef
- Allow the beef to come to room temperature. Season with spice mix (black pepper, smoked paprika, allspice).
- Heat large skillet on medium heat. Add some olive oil and brown the beef on all sides. Set aside.
Cook The Roast
- Preheat crock pot to low settings. Add the chuck roast. Top with the au jus mix, ranch dressing mix, green seasoning, butter, pepperoncinis, and a quarter cup of the pepperoncini juice.
- Top with the lid and allow to cook 8 hours. Shred the beef using two forks.
- Serve the shredded beef with au jus and pepperoncinis over egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes.
Notes
Choose the Right Cut of Meat
- Use a chuck roast for its marbling, which breaks down during cooking to create a tender, juicy roast. Other cuts like brisket or bottom round can work, but chuck is ideal.
Brown the Meat First (Optional but preferred)
- Searing the roast in a hot skillet before placing it in the slow cooker adds extra flavor by caramelizing the surface.
Layer the Flavors
- Place the roast in the cooker and top with:
- Ranch seasoning for a tangy, creamy base.
- Au jus gravy mix for savory depth.
- Butter for richness and moisture.
- Pepperoncini peppers for a tangy, slightly spicy kick. Add some of the juice for extra flavor.
- Don't add salt as there is more than enough between the ranch seasoning and gravy mix.
Low and Slow Cooking
- Cook the roast on low heat for 8 hours. Low and slow cooking allows the connective tissues in the meat to break down, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Don’t Add Water
- The roast will release its own juices during cooking, which combine with the butter and seasonings to create a flavorful gravy.