Spicy Mississippi Pot Roast: The Ultimate Slow Cooker Recipe for Tender, Flavorful Beef

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with our sensational Spicy Mississippi Pot Roast. This incredible recipe transforms an ordinary beef chuck roast into an extraordinary meal, brimming with rich flavors and fall-apart tenderness. By combining the classic elements of ranch seasoning mix, a packet of savory au jus, a generous pat of butter, and a spicy kick from pickled jalapeño peppers, this dish promises a culinary experience you won’t soon forget. Forget bland beef – this Mississippi pot roast delivers juicy, succulent meat, and the resulting liquid can be easily transformed into a delicious, light gravy that perfectly complements every bite. Our unique twist, using jalapeño peppers instead of traditional pepperoncini, introduces a delightful zippy taste and a mild, manageable heat that enhances the beef without overpowering it. It’s so flavorful and savory, this roast beef recipe is destined to become a new family favorite!

While we adore the versatility of cooking Mississippi pot roast in an Instant Pot, similar to our popular Mississippi chicken, this beloved dish can be prepared using a variety of cooking methods. Whether you prefer the steady heat of a cast-iron Dutch oven on the stovetop, the convenience of an air-fryer, or the speed of a pressure cooker, the core principle remains the same: slow cooking is the key to achieving a truly moist and tender cut of beef. However, for maximum ease and consistent results, the slow cooker (or crock pot) often proves to be the ideal choice for this particular recipe, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours with minimal effort.

What is Mississippi Pot Roast and Our Spicy Twist?

At its heart, Mississippi pot roast is a classic American comfort food, traditionally made with beef chuck steak, a packet of dry ranch seasoning, and tangy pepperoncini peppers. The dish gained immense popularity for its simplicity and the unbelievably tender, flavorful meat it produces. Our recipe puts a modern, spicy spin on this beloved classic by omitting the sweet Italian chili peppers (pepperoncini) and swapping them for vibrant pickled jalapeño peppers. This substitution creates a truly spicy Mississippi pot roast, adding a layer of exciting heat and a tangy, fresh flavor that elevates the entire dish.

The addition of an au jus gravy packet contributes a light, savory sauce as the beef cooks down. This natural liquid is perfect for spooning over your meat and sides. However, if you prefer a thicker, more traditional gravy, it’s incredibly simple to achieve. During the final hour of slow cooking, prepare a quick cornstarch slurry by mixing two tablespoons of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the pot, and continue cooking until your gravy reaches your desired consistency. This simple step ensures you have the perfect accompaniment to your tender beef.

Is This Spicy Mississippi Pot Roast Too Hot? Adjusting the Heat to Your Liking

Many people wonder about the spice level when they hear “Spicy Mississippi Pot Roast.” The beauty of our recipe lies in the simple, yet profound, combination of a succulent chuck roast and the jalapeño peppers. This pairing not only infuses the beef with a delightful warmth but also contributes to its incredible tenderness. Once the roast has slowly cooked to perfection, much of the intense heat from the jalapeños mellows out, leaving the meat with a wonderfully zesty and peppery taste rather than an overwhelming burning sensation. We understand that not everyone enjoys intensely spicy foods, and we’ve carefully balanced the flavors to ensure this pot roast is not excessively hot for most palates.

For those who prefer a milder flavor profile in their Mississippi pot roast, you can easily adjust the heat. Simply use fewer jalapeño slices and increase the amount of the pickled jalapeño brine in the recipe. The brine itself still provides that fantastic tangy, zippy flavor without as much capsaicin. Conversely, if you’re a true chili-head and crave more heat, feel free to add extra jalapeño slices. Using jalapeño peppers undoubtedly enhances and deepens the flavor of the meat, ensuring this is far from a bland beef recipe! And as an added bonus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as this dish slow cooks is absolutely irresistible!

Essential Ingredients for Spicy Mississippi Pot Roast: Simple, Flavorful, Tender

One of the many reasons to love this Mississippi pot roast recipe is its incredibly simple ingredient list. You only need five core ingredients, plus a little patience, as the secret to achieving a moist, tender, and truly fall-apart roast lies in the slow cooking technique. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s signature flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Beef Chuck Roast: This is the star of our show. Chuck roast is prized for its excellent marbling—those streaks of fat that melt during slow cooking, resulting in incredibly juicy, tender, and flavorful meat. When selecting your roast, look for a thick cut suitable for braising, one that isn’t too lean and boasts visible marbling throughout. While other popular choices like Angus beef top round steak, rump roast, or even ribeye can be used, chuck roast truly shines in this recipe due to its inherent fat content, which prevents a dry roast. Trust us, for the ultimate Mississippi Pot Roast, chuck roast is the way to go.
• Dry Ranch Seasoning: This convenient packet of dry mix is a flavor powerhouse. It provides the perfect blend of savory herbs and spices, including garlic, onion, and dill, which are essential to the signature taste of Mississippi pot roast. It adds a wonderful depth and tang that beautifully complements the beef.
• Au Jus Gravy Packet: This dry gravy mix is key to creating a light, savory sauce as the beef cooks in its own juices. It dissolves into the cooking liquid, infusing it with a rich, beefy flavor without being overly thick. As mentioned, if you prefer a thicker gravy, a simple cornstarch slurry added towards the end of cooking will do the trick.
• Butter: We recommend using a full stick (4 oz) of unsalted butter. Placing this directly on top of the seasoned roast allows it to slowly melt and seep into the meat as it cooks. This gentle infusion of butter contributes significantly to the succulence and richness of the finished dish, ensuring every bite is moist and luxurious.
• Pickled Jalapeño Slices: The secret to our spicy version! These come readily available in glass jars, packed in a vinegary brine. We particularly enjoy Mt. Olive Jalapeño Slices, but homemade pickled jalapeños work wonderfully too. You can use either sliced or diced jalapeños; just remember that diced peppers will be more compact, so you might need to adjust the quantities and add more brine to avoid an overwhelmingly hot dish. We suggest starting with 1.5 cups of a combination of brine and slices, then adjusting to your desired heat level – more slices for a spicier kick, or more brine for a milder experience.

How To Make Spicy Mississippi Pot Roast: Effortless Slow Cooking

Creating the best Mississippi pot roast is incredibly simple, largely thanks to the magic of slow cooking. This method ensures the meat becomes super-tender through braising, which locks in moisture and keeps the beef succulent. The beauty of this recipe is its minimal prep and maximum flavor development. While the slow cooker does most of the work, you have some flexibility with timing. If you’re pressed for time and need dinner on the table sooner, you can set your crock pot to high, and your roast will be ready in approximately 4 hours (which is still a moderately low cooking temperature of around 300°F). However, if time allows, the ideal approach is to set your slow cooker to low for 7-8 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen and the meat to become unbelievably tender. Here’s how to assemble this delicious meal:

1. Prepare the Beef: Begin by thoroughly washing your beef chuck roast and patting it dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings adhere better. Place the prepared roast directly on the bottom of your slow cooker (any brand or model will work perfectly).
2. Season Generously: Evenly sprinkle the entire packet of dry ranch seasoning mix and the au jus gravy packet over the top of the beef. These dry mixes will create the foundational savory and umami flavors for the roast.
3. Add the Butter: Place the whole stick of unsalted butter directly on top of the seasoned roast. As it slowly melts, it will baste the meat, adding incredible richness and moisture throughout the cooking process.
4. Introduce the Jalapeños: Pour in 1.5 cups of the pickled jalapeño slices along with their tangy brine. This amount is roughly equivalent to a 16 oz jar of jalapeño slices, providing the perfect balance of heat and zest. Remember, you can adjust this amount to suit your spice preference, adding more slices for extra heat or more brine for a milder flavor.
5. Slow Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid on your slow cooker. Set the crock pot to a high setting for 4 hours for a quicker cook, or for optimal tenderness and flavor development, set it to low for 7-8 hours. The roast is done when an internal meat thermometer reads 195°F (90°C), indicating perfectly tender beef.
6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and allow the meat to rest in the pot for about 5 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a supremely moist and flavorful roast. After resting, the beef will be so tender you can easily pull it apart with forks, ready to be served and enjoyed!

How Long To Cook Mississippi Pot Roast: Timing for Tender Perfection

Understanding the ideal cooking time is crucial for achieving that signature fall-apart tenderness in your Mississippi pot roast. Typically, when cooking in a slow cooker, a chuck roast requires about 4 hours on the high setting. This setting usually maintains a temperature of around 300°F (150°C), which is still a gentle heat suitable for braising. However, for truly exceptional results where the meat practically melts in your mouth, if your schedule allows, it’s highly recommended to prepare this dish early in the morning and set it to cook on the low setting for a longer duration, typically 7-10 hours. The low setting in most slow cookers is around 200°F (93°C), providing an even more gradual and tenderizing cooking environment.

Regardless of whether you choose the high or low setting, the ultimate indicator of doneness is the internal meat temperature, which should reach 195°F (90°C) for a roast that shreds effortlessly. Alternatively, you’ll know your roast is ready when it can be easily pulled apart with forks, signifying that the connective tissues have broken down completely. If you’re using alternative cookware like an oven or Instant Pot, you can replicate these cooking temperatures and aim for the same internal meat temperature or “fall apart” texture.

Exciting Variations and Delicious Add-ins for Your Pot Roast

The beauty of Crockpot Mississippi pot roast lies in its adaptability. While the classic recipe is fantastic, there are many creative ways to customize this dish in your slow cooker with different add-ins and preparations. Experiment to find your perfect version!

• Classic Mississippi Pot Roast: If you prefer the traditional route, simply swap out the jalapeños for a whole 16 oz jar of pepperoncini peppers (including their brine). For an even purer classic, you can also omit the au jus gravy packet, though we find it adds a lovely depth. The pepperoncini offer a milder, slightly tangy, and subtly sweet flavor compared to the jalapeño’s heat.
• Mississippi Pot Roast in the Oven: No slow cooker? No problem! Achieve similar results by cooking your roast in the oven. Place the prepared roast in a sturdy cast-iron Dutch oven or an enamel Dutch oven pot with an oven-safe lid. Cook at a steady 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. The Dutch oven mimics the slow, even heat of a crock pot beautifully.
• Mississippi Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots: For a complete one-pot meal, add a small bag (about 10-12 oz) of baby carrots and 1.5 pounds of small baby potatoes (like Yukon Golds or red potatoes, halved if large) directly into the slow cooker along with the roast. Add them at the beginning for soft, melt-in-your-mouth vegetables, or halfway through for a slightly firmer texture.
• Boost Your Veggies: Beyond potatoes and carrots, feel free to add other favorite vegetables. Heartier options like pearl onions or parsnips can be added at the beginning. If you prefer vegetables like broccoli florets or Brussels sprouts to be firmer and less submerged, consider roasting them separately and serving them on the side to maintain their texture and vibrant color.
• Flavor Swaps and Meat Alternatives: For a different savory profile, you can substitute an onion soup mix packet for the au jus gravy packet. This adds a distinct, rich onion flavor. If you’re looking to explore beyond beef, swap out the chuck roast for a pork roast and add a few drops of liquid smoke for an intriguing smoked flavor twist that’s reminiscent of slow-smoked pulled pork.

The Best Sides for Spicy Mississippi Pot Roast

This easy Mississippi pot roast is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide array of side dishes. Our absolute favorite pairing is with creamy mashed potatoes, as the rich, savory gravy perfectly coats the potato puree, creating a truly comforting meal. However, there are countless ways to enjoy this delicious beef, including several gluten-free options. Here are some of the best and most loved sides to serve alongside your Spicy Mississippi Pot Roast:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate classic. Their smooth texture and ability to soak up every drop of that flavorful gravy make them an irresistible companion. This recipe is also great for making ahead thanks to its rich dairy ingredients.
• Stovetop Rice or Cooked Grains: A neutral base like white rice, brown rice, couscous, or quinoa provides a wonderful canvas for the rich pot roast and its gravy. It’s a simple yet satisfying choice that complements the robust flavors.
• Fresh Cobb Salad with Green Cobb Salad Dressing: For a lighter, fresher contrast to the hearty roast, a vibrant salad is an excellent choice. The crisp greens and zesty dressing cut through the richness of the meat.
• Mushroom Canapes: These savory, earthy canapés make a phenomenal and sophisticated side dish, adding another layer of umami flavor and a textural contrast.
• Cheesy Broccoli Side or Homemade French Fries: For a more indulgent vegetable side, cheesy broccoli adds creaminess and a touch of comfort. Crispy homemade French fries offer a fun, savory option that kids and adults alike will love.
• Leftover Sandwiches or Sliders: Don’t let any of this delicious roast go to waste! Shred the leftover meat and pile it high on crusty bread for incredible sandwiches, or serve it on small buns for delicious sliders – perfect for a next-day lunch or quick dinner.

Recipe for Mississippi Pot Roast:

Print
Rate
Pin

Spicy Mississippi Pot Roast

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 4 hours hours

Servings: 10 Servings

Author: Alyona Demyanchuk

Spicy Mississippi Pot Roast made with beef chuck roast, ranch seasoning mix, a packet of au jus, butter, and pickled jalapeno peppers. This Mississippi pot roast recipe makes juicy and tender meat, and the liquid can be used for delicious gravy! Mississippi pot roast without pepperoncini peppers is not too spicy and gives the meat a zippy taste! It’s so flavorful and savory, you will love this roast beef recipe! 

Equipment

• 1 5-quart slow cooker (or 6 quart Crock Pot)

Ingredients

Ingredients:

• 3 lb beef chuck roast (a little under will work too)
• 1 packet Au Jus gravy mix (or 18 grams of brown gravy mix)
• 1 oz ranch seasoning mix (1 packet)
• 4 oz unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 1.5 cups pickled jalapeno peppers in brine (from a 16 oz jar of jalapeño slices)

Instructions

Directions:

• 

  Wash and pat dry the beef. Place into a slow cooker and sprinkle with ranch seasoning mix, and the Au Jus gravy packet. Put the cold on top and pour in the jalapeno slices* with the brine.
• 

  Set the slow cooker on High for 4 hours or low for 7-8 hours. Let the meat rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

**Jalapeno slices can be added to preference, for mild Mississippi pot roast add more brine and about 1/3 cup of jalapeno slices. For a spicy roast add 2/3 cup of jalapeno slices and brine to make 1.5 cups. 

Nutrition per serving

Serving: 1servingCalories: 338kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 26gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 118mgSodium: 332mgPotassium: 488mgFiber: 0.4gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 447IUVitamin C: 16mgCalcium: 27mgIron: 3mg