Save to Pinterest Experience a true Southern classic with this Slow Cooker Mississippi-Style Ranch Beef. This recipe transforms a simple chuck roast into a tender, flavorful masterpiece using a handful of pantry staples like ranch seasoning, pepperoncini, and butter. It is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Save to Pinterest The beauty of this dish lies in the slow-cooking process, which allows the juices to meld with the butter and seasonings, creating a rich gravy that coats every strand of meat. Whether you are hosting a game day or looking for a comforting family dinner, this beef roast never fails to impress.
Ingredients
- Beef: 3 lbs (1.4 kg) chuck roast, trimmed
- Seasonings & Mixes: 1 packet (1 oz/28 g) ranch seasoning mix, 1 packet (1 oz/28 g) au jus gravy mix
- Vegetables: 8 whole pepperoncini peppers plus 2 tbsp juice from the jar
- Fats: 4 tbsp (55 g) unsalted butter
- Optional for Serving: Sandwich rolls or hoagie buns, sliced provolone or Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Step 1
- Place the chuck roast in the bottom of a large slow cooker.
- Step 2
- Sprinkle ranch seasoning mix and au jus gravy mix evenly over the beef.
- Step 3
- Scatter the whole pepperoncini peppers on top of the roast and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of pepperoncini juice.
- Step 4
- Place the butter on top of the roast.
- Step 5
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and shreds easily.
- Step 6
- Shred the beef in the slow cooker using two forks, mixing it with the juices.
- Step 7
- Serve hot on sandwich rolls with sliced cheese, or over mashed potatoes as desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a leaner option, be sure to trim any visible fat from the roast before cooking. Using a 6-quart or larger slow cooker ensures even cooking, and the meat should be shredded directly in the cooker to soak up all the flavorful juices.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a spicier kick, add extra pepperoncini or a splash of hot sauce. This recipe can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free ranch and au jus mixes. Always check seasoning labels for allergens like soy or milk.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this shredded beef hot on toasted hoagie rolls with melted provolone cheese, or pile it high over creamy mashed potatoes. Leftovers are exceptionally versatile and work perfectly for tacos or served over a bed of rice.
Save to Pinterest This protein-packed meal provides approximately 390 calories and 33 grams of protein per serving (beef only). It's a satisfying, American Southern favorite that is sure to become a staple in your rotation.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of beef works best for Mississippi-style beef?
Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender and shreddable after long, slow cooking. Look for a well-marbled piece with good fat content for the most flavorful and moist results.
- → Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes. Cook in a Dutch oven at 300°F for about 3-4 hours, covered tightly. Check periodically and add liquid if needed to prevent drying.
- → What makes Mississippi-style beef different from other pot roasts?
The signature combination of ranch seasoning, au jus mix, pepperoncini peppers, and butter creates a unique flavor profile that's tangy, savory, and rich all at once.
- → How should I serve the cooked beef?
The classic approach is piling onto sandwich rolls with melted cheese. It's also delicious over mashed potatoes, in tacos, or alongside roasted vegetables for a lighter meal.
- → Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely. Store cooled beef in freezer bags with some cooking liquid for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, simply use certified gluten-free ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix. Check labels carefully, as many commercial seasoning blends contain hidden gluten.