Pikes Peak Roast Slow Cooker Recipe (Guide)

If you’ve never had a Pikes Peak roast, you’re in for a real treat. It’s one of those cuts that tends to fly under the radar at the butcher’s counter, but when treated right-especially with a low and slow slow-cooker approach-it transforms into something absolutely comforting, tender, and deeply flavorful.

Named after the famous mountain in Colorado, the Pikes Peak roast is a tougher cut of beef that comes from the lower round. Because it’s lean and full of connective tissue, it really shines when braised or slow-cooked. Think of it like a cozy, hearty Sunday dinner that practically cooks itself while you go about your day.

This recipe will walk you through how to get melt-in-your-mouth beef with rich, savory flavors, perfectly paired with vegetables and a sauce that practically begs for a hunk of crusty bread or a scoop of mashed potatoes.

Pikes Peak Roast Slow Cooker Recipe

The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. Once you’ve seared and prepped the roast, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. The end result? A fork-tender roast with layers of flavor that make the whole house smell like comfort and home.

Ingredient List

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this recipe to life:

• Pikes Peak roast (3-4 pounds is ideal)
• Olive oil or vegetable oil (for searing)
• Onions (2 medium, sliced)
• Carrots (3-4 large, peeled and cut into chunks)
• Celery stalks (2-3, cut into chunks)
• Garlic cloves (4-5, smashed or minced)
• Beef broth (about 2 cups)
• Red wine (1 cup, optional but highly recommended for depth)
• Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
• Worcestershire sauce (1-2 tablespoons)
• Fresh herbs (like thyme and rosemary, a few sprigs each) or dried if that’s what you’ve got
• Bay leaf (1)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Potatoes (optional, but great if you want a one-pot meal)

Instruction Guide

Follow these steps to get the perfect roast:

1. Prep The Meat

   • Pat the roast dry with paper towels.
   • Season generously with salt and black pepper.

2. Sear The Roast

   • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Sear the roast on all sides until it’s deeply browned. This locks in flavor.

3. Layer The Slow Cooker

   • Place onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in the bottom.
   • Lay the roast on top of the vegetables.

4. Deglaze The Pan

   • Pour wine into the skillet you used to sear the roast. Scrape up all those browned bits.
   • Add beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until smooth, then pour this mixture over the roast in the slow cooker.

5. Add Herbs And Cook

   • Tuck in thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf.
   • Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours (or high for 5-6 hours).

6. Finish Up

   • Once the roast is fork-tender, remove it to a cutting board.
   • Discard bay leaf and herb stems.
   • Shred or slice the meat and return it to the sauce for serving.

Ingredient Swaps

Don’t stress if you’re missing a few things. This recipe is flexible:

• Pikes Peak roast substitute: Chuck roast, rump roast, or even brisket will work beautifully.
• Red wine swap: Use extra beef broth plus a splash of balsamic vinegar for tang.
• Tomato paste: Crushed tomatoes or even ketchup in a pinch (though ketchup makes it a little sweeter).
• Fresh herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary are fine-just use about 1 teaspoon each.
• Vegetables: Swap in parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms if you’ve got them around.

Helpful Tips

Want to make sure your roast comes out restaurant-worthy? Keep these tricks in mind:

• Don’t skip the sear. It may be tempting to toss the roast straight into the slow cooker, but searing develops deep, rich flavor.
• Use a liner or spray. Slow cooker liners or a light spray of cooking oil make cleanup so much easier.
• Rest before serving. Letting the roast sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute.
• Thicken the sauce. If you want a gravy-like consistency, whisk 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, stir it into the slow cooker, and cook on high for 15 minutes.
• Layer smart. Vegetables should go on the bottom-they cook in the juices and flavor the meat from underneath.

Customization Ideas

This roast can be tailored to your preferences. A few fun twists:

• Spicy kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a spoonful of chili flakes.
• Italian flair: Swap red wine for Chianti, add oregano and basil, and serve over polenta.
• French-inspired: Use herbes de Provence, add pearl onions, and serve with a baguette.
• Rustic one-pot meal: Add baby potatoes and let them cook along with the roast.
• Rich and indulgent: Stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end for a silky finish.

FAQs

What Cut Of Meat Is Best For A Pikes Peak Roast In A Slow Cooker?

For a Pikes Peak roast, a beef chuck roast or bottom round roast works best. These cuts are well-marbled, which allows them to stay tender and flavorful during the long, slow cooking process.

How Long Should I Cook A Pikes Peak Roast In A Slow Cooker?

Cook the roast on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. Low and slow cooking ensures the meat becomes tender and infused with the flavors of the vegetables and seasonings.

Do I Need To Sear The Roast Before Placing It In The Slow Cooker?

Searing the roast is optional but recommended. Browning the meat on all sides in a hot skillet before slow cooking helps develop deeper flavors and a richer color in the finished dish.

What Vegetables Are Typically Included In A Pikes Peak Roast?

Common vegetables include carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery. These root vegetables complement the beef and absorb the savory juices, enhancing the overall flavor.

Can I Use Frozen Vegetables In The Slow Cooker?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but it’s best to add them halfway through the cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy and overcooked.

What Seasonings Are Traditional For A Pikes Peak Roast?

Typical seasonings include salt, black pepper, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and paprika. Some recipes also use Worcestershire sauce or beef broth to add depth of flavor.

How Do I Make The Gravy For A Pikes Peak Roast?

Once the roast is cooked, remove the meat and vegetables and set aside. Strain the liquid and thicken it with a mixture of cornstarch and cold water or flour to create a rich gravy.

Can I Cook A Pikes Peak Roast In A Slow Cooker Overnight?

Yes, cooking it overnight on the low setting is convenient. Ensure the slow cooker has a reliable timer and enough liquid to prevent the roast from drying out.

How Do I Store Leftovers From A Pikes Peak Roast?

Store leftover meat and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Gravy can be stored separately and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I Make A Pikes Peak Roast In A Slow Cooker For A Large Group?

Yes, slow cookers are ideal for larger portions. Choose a roast that fits your slow cooker and scale up vegetables and seasonings proportionally. Cooking time may increase slightly for larger roasts.