A simple slow cooker beef roast is the kind of meal that saves the day on a busy holiday weekend, especially when you want something hearty without standing over the stove. Using a raw beef cross rib roast and just three pantry staples, this recipe turns into tender, savory shredded beef with rich juices that taste like you worked much harder than you did, making it a wonderful Labor Day option for feeding family with very little fuss.
Serve this roast with mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, rice, or soft sandwich rolls to soak up all those flavorful juices. For a full family-style spread, add green beans, corn on the cob, coleslaw, or a simple garden salad, and if you are feeding a crowd, set out pickles and roasted carrots so everyone can build a plate they love.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Labor Day Lifeline
Servings: 6 to 8
Ingredients
1 beef cross rib roast, about 3 to 4 pounds
1 ounce dry onion soup mix
1 packet brown gravy mix, about 0.87 to 1 ounce
1 cup water
Directions
1. Place the raw beef cross rib roast into the bottom of the slow cooker insert.
2. In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the onion soup mix, brown gravy mix, and water until mostly smooth.
3. Pour the mixture evenly over the roast, cover, and cook on low for 8 to 9 hours or on high for 5 to 6 hours, until the beef is very tender and easy to pull apart with a fork.
4. Shred or slice the beef, spoon some of the cooking juices over the top, and serve hot.
Variations & Tips
For extra richness: If you do not mind stepping beyond four ingredients, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a few sliced mushrooms during the last couple of hours for deeper flavor.
For picky eaters: Slice the beef instead of shredding it and serve it with the juices on the side. Kids and grandkids often enjoy it more when they can keep their plate simple and choose their own sides.
For sandwiches: Pile the shredded beef onto toasted sandwich rolls and spoon a little of the cooking liquid over the meat. It makes an easy next-day lunch and tastes wonderful with a slice of provolone.
For easier cleanup: Lightly coat the slow cooker insert with nonstick spray before adding the roast. It is a small step that makes washing up much simpler after a long day.
For make-ahead planning: Cook the roast a day ahead, refrigerate it in its juices, and reheat gently before serving. The flavor gets even better overnight, which is especially handy when company is coming.