Name: Slow Cooker Tender Beef Chuck Roast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lb beef chuck roast; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks; 4 medium potatoes, quartered; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional); 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening); 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Savor the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of this Slow Cooker Tender Beef Chuck Roast, infused with rich flavors from aromatic herbs and vegetables. This hearty, comforting dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, effortlessly transforming a budget-friendly cut into a succulent masterpiece with minimal prep and maximum taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Tender Beef Chuck Roast recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks who crave a delicious, hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, turning an affordable chuck roast into a fork-tender, flavor-packed dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The combination of savory beef, aromatic herbs, and tender vegetables creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for family gatherings, Sunday dinners, or meal prepping for the week. Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your taste, making it a go-to favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this fuss-free recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Sear for Flavor: Browning the chuck roast before slow cooking locks in juices and enhances the depth of flavor.
Layer Strategically: Place root vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure even cooking and to soak up the beefy juices.
Low and Slow: Cooking on low for 8 hours yields the most tender results, but if time is short, high for 4-5 hours works too.
Check Seasoning: Taste the broth before serving and adjust salt and pepper to elevate the flavors.
Rest Before Serving: Let the roast rest for 10 minutes after cooking to retain juices when slicing.

Yield: Serves 6

Slow Cooker Tender Beef Chuck Roast

Tender, juicy beef chuck roast slow-cooked with vegetables and herbs for a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

3 lb beef chuck roast
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
4 medium potatoes, quartered
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

<ol><li>Pat the Roast Dry: Start by patting your beef chuck roast dry with paper towels—this helps achieve a nice sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.</li><li>Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in flavor!</li><li>Prep the Slow Cooker: Place sliced onions, carrots, and potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker. They’ll soak up all the delicious beefy juices.</li><li>Add the Roast: Transfer the seared roast to the slow cooker, nestling it on top of the vegetables for even cooking.</li><li>Build the Flavor: Sprinkle minced garlic over the roast. Pour in beef broth, red wine (if using), and Worcestershire sauce for a rich, savory base.</li><li>Add Herbs: Tuck rosemary and thyme sprigs around the roast. These fresh herbs infuse the dish with aromatic warmth.</li><li>Set and Forget: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and falls apart easily.</li><li>Thicken the Sauce (Optional): For a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Stir into the slow cooker 30 minutes before serving.</li><li>Rest and Slice: Remove the roast and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing or shredding. This keeps it juicy and tender.</li><li>Serve and Enjoy: Serve the beef with vegetables and a ladle of the rich broth. Pair with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a cozy meal!</li></ol>

Notes

For best results, choose a chuck roast with good marbling for maximum tenderness.
If avoiding alcohol, replace red wine with beef broth or pomegranate juice.
Check vegetable tenderness before serving; add more cooking time if needed.
Leftovers make fantastic sandwiches or beef tacos the next day!

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 740Total Fat 40gSaturated Fat 15gTrans Fat 2gUnsaturated Fat 22gCholesterol 188mgSodium 784mgCarbohydrates 34gFiber 4gSugar 4gProtein 60g

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

Ingredients Notes

Beef 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.
Onions and Garlic: These aromatics form the flavor base, adding sweetness and depth to the dish.
Carrots and Potatoes: Hearty root vegetables absorb the savory juices, making them a perfect complement to the beef.
Beef Broth: Provides a rich, savory liquid base; opt for low-sodium to control saltiness.
Red Wine (Optional): Adds complexity and richness; choose a dry red like Cabernet Sauvignon or substitute with more broth.
Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme): Fresh herbs elevate the dish with earthy, aromatic notes; dried herbs work in a pinch.
Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances umami and adds a subtle tangy depth to the braising liquid.
Olive Oil: Used for searing, it helps create a caramelized crust on the roast.

Variations and Substitutions

For a twist, swap potatoes for sweet potatoes to add a touch of sweetness and extra nutrients. If you prefer a bolder flavor, incorporate a tablespoon of smoked paprika or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the broth. For a low-carb option, replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips. If red wine isn’t your preference, use pomegranate juice or additional beef broth for a similar depth. For a gluten-free version, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, as some brands contain gluten. You can also experiment with different herbs like oregano or bay leaves for a unique flavor profile, or add mushrooms for an earthy, umami boost.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Meal Prep: Portion into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.