Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Envelope Roast is a savory, comforting dish featuring a tender beef roast sealed with a flavorful dry soup mix, tightly wrapped in foil—like an envelope—and slow-cooked to perfection. The result is a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth roast with minimal prep and maximum flavor. It’s a no-fuss, family-friendly dinner ideal for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday meals.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
beef chuck roastdry onion soup mixdry Italian dressing mixdry brown gravy mixwateraluminum foil
directions
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
Place the beef chuck roast on a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil.
Sprinkle the onion soup mix, Italian dressing mix, and brown gravy mix evenly over the roast.
Pour water over the top to moisten the dry ingredients.
Fold the foil tightly around the roast, sealing it completely like an envelope to lock in moisture.
Place the foil-wrapped roast in a baking dish or on a sheet pan.
Bake for 3 to 4 hours, or until the roast is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Carefully open the foil to avoid steam burns and serve with your favorite sides.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 3-4 hoursTotal time: 3 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes
Variations
Add sliced carrots, potatoes, or onions inside the foil packet for a complete one-pan meal.
Use a pork shoulder roast as an alternative to beef.
Swap the water with beef broth or red wine for a richer flavor.
Add fresh garlic or herbs for extra aroma and depth.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes on medium power.The roast can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
What cut of beef works best for Envelope Roast?
A chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked.
Do I need to sear the meat first?
No searing is necessary; the foil locks in moisture and flavor during cooking.
Can I cook Envelope Roast in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, but skip the foil.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the foil packet and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
What sides go well with Envelope Roast?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans complement the roast well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Check your soup and dressing mix labels, as many contain gluten.
Can I add more seasoning?
Yes, feel free to customize with your favorite spices or seasoning blends.
Does the roast make its own gravy?
Yes, the packet traps juices and seasoning, creating a flavorful gravy.
How do I keep the foil from leaking?
Double-wrap the foil or use a baking dish to catch any drips.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, but you can add chili flakes or pepper for a kick.
Conclusion
Envelope Roast is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers a tender, juicy meal with minimal cleanup. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few hours in the oven, you’ll have a satisfying roast that tastes like you spent all day cooking. Ideal for both casual and special meals, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
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Envelope Roast
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours (Low) or 4–5 hours (High)
- Total Time: 6–8 hours
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple, flavorful slow‑cooker pot roast seasoned with ranch, Italian, and brown gravy envelope mixes for a tender, savory beef dinner.
Ingredients
- 3 lb beef chuck roast
- 1 cup water
- 1 (1 oz) envelope ranch dressing mix
- 1 (0.7 oz) envelope Italian salad dressing mix
- 1 (0.87 oz) envelope brown gravy mix
- Salt & pepper to taste (optional)
- Vegetables (carrots, potatoes, onions) – optional
Instructions
- Season the roast with salt and pepper if desired.
- Place the roast in slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together water and all three envelope mixes until fully combined.
- Pour mixture over the roast.
- Cover and cook on Low for 6–8 hours, or on High for 4–5 hours, until roast is fork‑tender.
- Optional: add chopped vegetables either at the start or halfway through cooking.
- For thicker gravy, remove roast, strain liquid, whisk in 1 Tbsp cornstarch stirred into 2 Tbsp water, then simmer until thickened.
Notes
- Adding vegetables early gives them a softer texture; adding later keeps them firmer.
- Searing the roast before placing in the slow cooker adds extra flavor.
- Leftovers freeze well for up to 4 months.
- Adjust salt carefully—envelope mixes can be quite salty.