Cooking for 2,  Food & Drink

The Ultimate Guide to Making the Best Pot Roast for Two

Key Takeaways:

  • A simple pot roast that’s perfect for two.
  • Use boneless chuck roast for tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat.
  • Add flavor with garlic, onion, and fresh herbs.
  • Leftovers make an easy, delicious meal the next day!


Have you ever thought about making a pot roast, but felt like it would be way too much for just two people? Well, I’m here to show you how easy and delicious it can be to make the best pot roast, scaled perfectly for two. It’s hearty, comforting, and full of flavor, and trust me, you won’t miss having a big crowd to feed. Let’s get started!

Ingredients & Tools You’ll Need:

  • 1-1.5 lb boneless chuck roast (the best cut for tenderness)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2-3 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into large pieces
  • 3 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon flour (optional for thickening)
  • Large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot

Recipe Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C): Let the oven heat while you prep the roast.
  2. Season the roast: Generously rub the chuck roast with salt, pepper, and thyme on all sides.
  3. Sear the roast: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for about 4 minutes per side until it’s nicely browned. Remove the roast and set aside.
  4. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, toss in the quartered onion and smashed garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Add the veggies: Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Nestle the roast on top of the vegetables.
  6. Pour in the liquids: Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Make sure the liquid doesn’t cover the roast, but it should be reaching the bottom.
  7. Roast it: Cover the Dutch oven with the lid and cook for 2.5 to 3 hours in the oven. The roast should be fork-tender, and the vegetables should be perfectly cooked.
  8. Make the gravy (optional): If you like your gravy thicker, remove the roast and veggies, then add a tablespoon of flour to the juices in the pot. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened, then pour over the roast.
  9. Serve and enjoy: Slice up the roast and serve with the veggies and rich gravy.

Nonna’s Tip:
If you’re craving an even more savory flavor, try adding a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme during the last hour of cooking. It’ll fill your kitchen with that delightful aroma!

Food Storage Tips:
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have any extra gravy, don’t forget to store that separately. You can even freeze it for a future meal!

Batch Cooking/Make-Ahead Tips:
Want to prep in advance? Chop your vegetables the night before and store them in an airtight container. Then when it’s time to cook, just sear, roast, and you’re good to go.

A Cozy, Comforting Meal for Two:
There’s something so special about a homemade pot roast—it’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy dinner for two. You don’t have to make a huge pot of it to enjoy the flavors, and leftovers will keep you coming back for more. Make this your go-to recipe for chilly evenings, and I’m sure you’ll agree—this is the best pot roast for two!

What’s Coming Up Next?
Next week, we’ll be whipping up Slow-Cooked BBQ Ribs for Two. It’s another comfort food classic that you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned!

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