Envelope Roast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Envelope Roast is a no-fuss, flavorful dinner that uses a blend of pantry staples to create a tender, juicy beef roast with minimal effort. Named for the “envelopes” of seasoning mixes used, this slow-cooked meal is rich, savory, and perfect for cozy dinners or Sunday meals. Just set it and forget it—your house will smell amazing while this roast cooks to perfection.

ingredients

this Recipe

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

beef chuck roast
dry onion soup mix (1 envelope)
dry Italian dressing mix (1 envelope)
dry brown gravy mix (1 envelope)
water or beef broth
optional add-ins: carrots, potatoes, onions

directions

Place the beef roast in a slow cooker or a large baking dish if using the oven.

In a small bowl, mix the onion soup mix, Italian dressing mix, and brown gravy mix with water or broth until well combined.

Pour the seasoning mixture evenly over the roast.

If desired, add chopped carrots, potatoes, and onions around the roast.

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours in a slow cooker, or bake in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3.5 to 4 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.

Shred or slice and serve with the juices spooned over the top.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 8 hours (slow cooker) or 3.5–4 hours (oven)
Total time: 8–9 hours

Variations

Use pork shoulder or chicken thighs instead of beef for a twist.
Add red wine to the liquid for deeper flavor.
Use low-sodium seasoning packets if preferred.
Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth.
Freeze shredded roast for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat as needed.

FAQs

Why is it called “Envelope Roast”?
Because it uses three dry seasoning envelopes for flavor.

Can I use homemade seasoning mixes?
Yes, you can make your own onion soup, Italian, and gravy mixes.

Do I need to sear the roast first?
Optional—searing adds flavor but isn’t necessary.

Can I make this in the oven?
Yes, just cover tightly and bake low and slow.

Is this dish salty?
It can be—use low-sodium mixes or broth to control the salt level.

Can I cook it on high in the slow cooker?
Yes, cook on high for 4-5 hours, though low is recommended for best tenderness.

Can I thicken the gravy?
Yes, remove the meat and whisk in a cornstarch slurry to the juices.

Can I prep this the night before?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then start cooking the next day.

Does it need resting time?
Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing for juicier results.

What cut of beef is best?
Chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked.

Conclusion

Envelope Roast is a simple yet deeply flavorful dish that transforms basic ingredients into a comforting, hearty meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving an easy Sunday dinner, this recipe brings tenderness and taste with barely any prep. One bite, and it’s sure to become a staple in your home.

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