I bought a nice pork roast the other day that was specifically labeled for the crock pot and it had a good piece of fat all across the bottom. Turned out really nice, juicy and tastey. Put potatoes in the bottom, didn't care for the potatoes that well though. I usually use the chuck roast too and they always turn out great. Sometimes I use a pkt of au jus for the seasoning. Husband doesn't like onions or carrots. Have to watch chicken though, that can get tough and dry even with lots of sauce.