Name: Spicy Pot Roast with Orange and Sweet Potato
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h 30 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 3 lbs chuck roast; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup orange juice; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes; 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks; 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks; 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves; Zest of 1 orange; For the Gremolata:; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; Zest of 1 orange; 1 tsp Calabrian chili paste (optional); 1 garlic clove, finely minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Tools/Equipment:; Large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot; Cutting board and sharp knife; Measuring cups and spoons; Wooden spoon

Spicy Pot Roast with Orange and Sweet Potatoes

There’s something magical about the aroma of a pot roast simmering away in the kitchen. For me, this Spicy Pot Roast with Orange and Sweet Potatoes is a dish that embodies comfort and creativity. It all started on a chilly winter weekend when I wanted to try something new to break away from our usual weeknight dinners. Combining the sweetness of oranges, the warmth of sweet potatoes, and a gentle heat from spices felt like the perfect solution to our dinner rut.

What I love most about this dish is its ability to be both elegant and approachable. My husband claims it’s his favorite cold-weather meal, and my kids light up at the sight of those tender sweet potatoes. Even picky eaters are swayed by the vibrant gremolata drizzled on top. This pot roast feels like a warm hug for your taste buds while still being easy enough to whip up on a busy day.

From the first bite, my family was hooked. The flavors come together in a way that’s deeply satisfying yet refreshingly unique. It’s become our go-to meal for family gatherings, and I’ve lost count of how many times friends have asked for the recipe after tasting it. If you’re looking for a one-pot dish that’s as hearty as it is flavorful, this might just become your family’s new favorite too.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe:

Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes! While chuck roast is ideal, you can substitute it with brisket or even a bottom round roast. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat becomes tender.

Can I make this in a slow cooker? Absolutely. Simply brown the meat first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Is the gremolata necessary? While the gremolata isn’t essential, it adds a fresh and zesty finish that elevates the dish. I highly recommend it!

What if I don’t like spicy food? You can reduce or omit the chili flakes or use a milder pepper. The dish will still be delicious!

Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this pot roast freezes beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove.

What You Need to Make Spicy Pot Roast with Orange and Sweet Potatoes:

Ingredients:

3 lbs chuck roast

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 large onion, chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup beef broth

1 cup orange juice

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tbsp smoked paprika

1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

2 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

Zest of 1 orange

For the Gremolata:

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Zest of 1 orange

1 tsp Calabrian chili paste (optional)

1 garlic clove, finely minced

2 tbsp olive oil

Tools/Equipment:

Large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot

Cutting board and sharp knife

Measuring cups and spoons

Wooden spoon

How to Make Spicy Pot Roast with Orange and Sweet Potatoes:

Prepare the meat: Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

Brown the meat: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant.

Build the sauce: Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then deglaze the pot with beef broth and orange juice. Bring to a simmer.

Add the vegetables: Return the roast to the pot and add the sweet potatoes, carrots, and thyme. Sprinkle in the orange zest.

Cook low and slow: Cover and cook in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling apart.

Make the gremolata: While the roast cooks, combine all gremolata ingredients in a small bowl. Stir well and set aside.

Serve and enjoy: Once the roast is done, serve it hot with a generous drizzle of gremolata on top.

Tips for Making the Best Spicy Pot Roast with Orange and Sweet Potatoes:

Brown the meat properly: This step builds a rich, deep flavor base for the dish.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh orange juice and zest make a huge difference in flavor.

Don’t rush the cooking: Low and slow cooking is key to achieving melt-in-your-mouth meat.

Customize the spice level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or chili paste to suit your family’s preferences.

Let it rest: Allow the roast to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving for the juices to redistribute.

Latest Reviews:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This was amazing! My family loved the blend of sweet and spicy flavors. Definitely making it again.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great for a busy weeknight! The gremolata added such a nice touch. Next time, I’ll use less chili for the kids.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for Sunday dinner. The meat was so tender, and the orange flavor really shone through.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Delicious but a bit spicy for my taste. Will cut back on the red pepper flakes next time.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This recipe is a keeper! The sweet potatoes soaked up all the amazing flavors.”

Printable Recipe:

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