Name: Comforting Homestyle Chuck Roast with Gravy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h 30 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lb chuck roast; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 large onions, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 carrots, chopped; 3 celery stalks, chopped; 3 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary; 2 bay leaves; ¼ cup flour; Salt and pepper to taste

Savor the warmth of this tender, slow-cooked chuck roast, smothered in rich, savory gravy. Infused with aromatic herbs and hearty vegetables, this homestyle dish delivers comforting flavors, perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings, bringing nostalgic warmth to every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This chuck roast recipe is a hug on a plate, offering melt-in-your-mouth beef drenched in velvety gravy that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a timeless classic that transforms an affordable cut into a showstopping meal. The slow-cooking process fills your home with irresistible aromas, building anticipation for a heartwarming dinner. Whether you’re hosting a Sunday gathering or craving comfort food on a chilly night, this dish delivers satisfaction with minimal effort. Pair it with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up every drop of that luscious gravy, and watch your loved ones ask for seconds. It’s also versatile—customize it with your favorite herbs or veggies to make it your own.

Recipe Tips and Tricks:

Sear for Flavor: Browning the roast before slow-cooking locks in juices and adds depth to the dish.
Low and Slow: Cook at a low temperature to ensure tender, fall-apart meat.
Rest the Meat: Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Thicken Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, simmer it longer or add a cornstarch slurry.
Use a Dutch Oven: It distributes heat evenly, enhancing flavor and texture.
Check Seasoning: Taste and adjust the gravy’s seasoning before serving for perfect balance.

Yield: Serves 6

Comforting Homestyle Chuck Roast with Gravy

Tender chuck roast slow-cooked with veggies and herbs, smothered in rich gravy for a cozy, homestyle family favorite.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 4 hours

Ingredients

3 lb chuck roast
2 tbsp olive oil
2 large onions, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 carrots, chopped
3 celery stalks, chopped
3 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 bay leaves
¼ cup flour
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat and Prep: Warm your oven to 325°F (165°C). Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. This ensures a flavorful crust when searing.
Sear the Roast: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add onions, cooking for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Veggies: Toss in carrots and celery, cooking for 3 minutes to release their flavors.
Build the Base: Stir in tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute. Sprinkle flour over veggies, stirring to coat evenly.
Deglaze and Season: Slowly pour in beef broth, scraping up browned bits from the pot’s bottom. Add thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
Return Roast: Nestle the roast back into the pot, ensuring it’s partially submerged. Bring to a simmer.
Slow-Cook: Cover and transfer to the oven. Cook for 3-3.5 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
Make Gravy: Remove roast and veggies to a platter. Discard bay leaves and herbs. Simmer the liquid on the stovetop, stirring until thickened. Adjust seasoning.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice or shred the roast, pour gravy over, and serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread. Dig in!

Notes

Check the roast at the 3-hour mark; larger cuts may need extra time.
For a smoother gravy, strain it before serving, if desired.
Leftovers make amazing sandwiches or pot pie filling.
Use a meat thermometer (internal temp of 195-205°F) for perfect tenderness.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 643Total Fat 40gSaturated Fat 15gTrans Fat 2gUnsaturated Fat 22gCholesterol 188mgSodium 707mgCarbohydrates 13gFiber 2gSugar 4gProtein 59g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes:

Chuck Roast (3-4 lbs): This budget-friendly cut is marbled with fat, making it ideal for slow-cooking, as it becomes tender and flavorful over time. Choose a well-marbled piece for the best results.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Used for searing, it adds a subtle richness; substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
Onions (2 large, sliced): Yellow onions provide sweetness and depth; white onions work as an alternative.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic elevates the dish with aromatic warmth; avoid pre-minced for optimal flavor.
Carrots (4, chopped): Adds natural sweetness and texture; use baby carrots for convenience.
Celery (3 stalks, chopped): Enhances savory notes and balances flavors.
Beef Broth (3 cups): Forms the base of the gravy; opt for low-sodium to control saltiness.
Tomato Paste (2 tbsp): Deepens umami and adds a slight tang; don’t skip it!
Fresh Thyme and Rosemary (2 sprigs each): These herbs infuse earthy, aromatic notes; dried herbs (1 tsp each) can substitute.
Bay Leaves (2): Add subtle complexity; remove before serving.
Flour (¼ cup): Thickens the gravy; cornstarch is a gluten-free alternative.
Salt and Pepper: Season generously to enhance all flavors.

Variations and Substitutions:

Want to switch things up? This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Swap chuck roast for brisket or bottom round for a similar texture. For a richer gravy, add a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. If you’re avoiding gluten, use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening. Vegetarians can try a plant-based “roast” with mushroom broth for a meat-free version, though cooking times may vary. Swap carrots and celery for parsnips or potatoes to change the veggie profile. For a bolder flavor, experiment with smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne. If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried thyme and rosemary work well—just use half the amount. You can also make it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for convenience, adjusting times accordingly.

Storage Options:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth to revive the gravy.
Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the roast a day in advance; the flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier.