Introduction
Envelope Roast is a classic, no-fuss beef roast recipe that gets its name from being seasoned with a simple “envelope” (packet) of dry soup mix. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish delivers a tender, juicy roast infused with rich flavor. It’s a favorite for family dinners, Sunday meals, or whenever you want hearty comfort food without complicated steps. The slow cooking allows the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender, making it perfect alongside potatoes, carrots, or rice.
Ingredients
1 (3–4 lb) beef chuck roast
1 packet dry onion soup mix (such as Lipton)
1 packet brown gravy mix
1 packet Italian dressing mix (dry)
1 cup beef broth (or water)
2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
Optional: carrots, potatoes, or onions to cook with the roast
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear roast on all sides until browned.
Place roast in a roasting pan or Dutch oven.
In a bowl, mix onion soup mix, gravy mix, and Italian dressing mix with beef broth until blended.
Pour mixture over the roast. Add vegetables around the roast if desired.
Cover tightly with a lid or foil.
Roast in the oven for 3–3 ½ hours, or until beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Remove, let rest for 10 minutes, slice or shred, and serve with gravy from the pan juices.
Description
Envelope Roast is savory, tender, and deeply flavorful. The soup and dressing mixes combine with the beef broth to create a rich, well-seasoned gravy that soaks into the roast as it cooks. The meat is fork-tender, and if vegetables are added, they absorb the delicious flavors, making it a full one-pan meal.
Tips
Always sear the roast first for extra flavor and better texture.
Use a Dutch oven or tightly covered pan to lock in moisture.
For slow cooker: Cook on low for 8–9 hours or high for 5–6 hours.
Deglaze the skillet with a splash of red wine before adding broth for deeper flavor.
Skim fat from the top of the gravy before serving if needed.
Variations
Creamier version: Add a can of cream of mushroom soup with the broth.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
Herb infusion: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves.
Vegetable-heavy: Load the pan with carrots, celery, and potatoes for a full dinner.
Shredded sandwich style: Serve shredded beef on toasted rolls with gravy.
Correction
A common mistake is not covering the roast tightly, which can cause it to dry out. Another issue is cooking at too high a temperature—low and slow is key for tenderness. Also, be sure to use enough liquid to prevent the seasoning packets from becoming overly salty or concentrated.
Enjoy
Serve Envelope Roast hot, with plenty of the savory gravy spooned over the beef and sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. It’s hearty, comforting, and nearly effortless—perfect for family meals that taste like they took all day.