Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Gravy *There’s nothing quite like a classic pot roast simmering all day—those cozy Sunday aromas, tender melt-in-your-mouth beef, and a rich homemade gravy. This slow cooker version brings all that comfort with almost no effort.* What You'll Need (3–4 pounds) chuck roast or beef shoulder (2 tablespoons) vegetable oil or olive oil (1 teaspoon) salt (1/2 teaspoon) black pepper (1 teaspoon) garlic powder (1 teaspoon) onion powder (1 teaspoon) dried thyme or 2 fresh sprigs