Let’s talk cozy comfort food — the kind that makes your house smell like a warm hug and gets even the pickiest eaters asking for seconds. Yep, I’m talking about pot roast, and specifically that magic in a packet — McCormick Pot Roast Seasoning. But what if you’re out of the packet… or need a gluten-free pot roast seasoning alternative? Or maybe you just want to know what’s in there without the mystery?
Good news, friend — I’ve got you covered with a pot roast seasoning recipe that hits all the right notes: savory, herby, rich, and 100% cozy. And bonus? No gluten, no fuss, just flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Pot Roast Seasoning Recipe
- Tastes just like the packet — without the additives
- Naturally gluten-free (so no label-reading headaches)
- Super easy to whip up from pantry staples
- Perfect for slow cookers, Instant Pots, or even the good ol’ oven
- A lifesaver when you run out of your favorite pot roast seasoning packet
Ingredients for That Classic Pot Roast Flavor
Here’s what you’ll need to make your own pot roast seasoning — McCormick-style, but made with love in your own kitchen:
- 1 tablespoon oil (for browning the roast)
- 2 ½ to 3 pounds boneless chuck roast
- 1 ½ cups cut-up carrots
- 1 ½ cups cut-up potatoes
- 1 cup cut-up celery
- 1 cup cut-up onions
And for the homemade seasoning mix:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (crushed)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (this keeps it gluten-free while giving you that perfect, thickened sauce)
- 1 cup water or beef broth (if you want to amp up the savory)
How to Make the Best Pot Roast (Instant Pot or Slow Cooker!)
1. Mix it up:
In a small bowl, whisk together all your seasoning ingredients with the water (or broth) until smooth. Set aside . Trust me, this little step makes a big difference in flavor later.
2. Brown that roast:
Turn on the SAUTÉ function on your Instant Pot (or heat a large skillet if using a slow cooker). Add the oil and sear the roast for about 5 minutes, flipping once, until both sides are beautifully browned. This locks in those juices!
3. Load up the veggies:
Add your carrots, potatoes, celery, and onions right into the pot with the roast. It’s basically a one-pot wonder.
4. Pour the flavor:
Pour that homemade seasoning mix all over the roast and veggies. It’s going to smell amazing.
5. Cook time:
- For Instant Pot: Close the lid, set the valve to SEAL, and cook on MEAT/STEW for 60 minutes. Quick release the pressure when done (carefully!).
- For Slow Cooker: Cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the meat is fall-apart tender.
Tips & Variations for Pot Roast Perfection
- No Instant Pot? No problem! You can totally do this in your slow cooker or even in the oven at 325°F for about 3-4 hours.
- Want a deeper flavor? Use beef broth instead of water, or throw in a splash of red wine for that fancy touch.
- Extra veggies? Mushrooms, parsnips, or sweet potatoes work beautifully too.
- Like it spicy? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a gentle kick.
Can I Make This Pot Roast Seasoning Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Double or triple the seasoning mix (just the dry stuff) and store it in an airtight jar. When you’re ready for pot roast night, just mix 2 tablespoons of the blend with your water or broth.
Storage Suggestions
Leftovers? Lucky you! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This pot roast actually gets better the next day — perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or just straight from the fridge (no judgment here).
This gluten-free pot roast seasoning is a total game-changer, especially if you love the ease of a pot roast seasoning packet but want a more wholesome twist. Plus, once you’ve tried it, I promise — you won’t miss the store-bought version.
McCormick Pot Roast Seasoning
Equipment
- Instant Pot or Slow Cooker
- Skillet (if not using Instant Pot)
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
For the Pot Roast
- 1 tablespoon oil for browning the roast
- 2.5 pounds boneless chuck roast
- 1.5 cups carrots cut-up
- 1.5 cups potatoes cut-up
- 1 cup celery cut-up
- 1 cup onions cut-up
For the Seasoning Mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary crushed
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch for thickening, keeps it gluten-free
- 1 cup water or beef broth
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together all seasoning ingredients with water or broth until smooth.
- Heat oil in Instant Pot (or skillet), and brown the roast for about 5 minutes per side.
- Add carrots, potatoes, celery, and onions to the pot with the roast.
- Pour the seasoning mix over the roast and vegetables.
- Instant Pot: Cook on MEAT/STEW for 60 minutes. Quick release pressure. Slow Cooker: Cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.