Prepare to be transported to a world of culinary bliss with the most tender, fall-apart chuck roast you've ever tasted! This isn't just another recipe - it's a flavor explosion that will have your family begging for seconds. Imagine walking into your home after a long day, greeted by the irresistible aroma of perfectly slow-cooked meat that practically melts in your mouth. Whether you're a busy parent, a cooking novice, or a seasoned chef, this foolproof recipe will become your new go-to comfort meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs chuck roast
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, cubed
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp thyme
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and cube the potatoes. Set them aside for later use.
- Take the chuck roast and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear. Season the roast generously with salt, pepper, and thyme on all sides.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chuck roast into the skillet. Sear the roast for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it develops a rich, brown crust. This step enhances the flavor of the meat.
- Once the roast is seared, transfer it to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes around the roast.
- Pour the beef broth over the roast and vegetables in the slow cooker. Ensure that the broth covers the bottom of the cooker, but it doesn't need to completely submerge the roast.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the roast to cook slowly for 8 hours. This long cooking time will make the meat tender and flavorful.
- After 8 hours, check the roast for doneness. It should be fork-tender and easily pull apart. If it's not quite ready, you can let it cook for an additional hour.
- Once the roast is done, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- While the roast is resting, you can use the remaining juices in the slow cooker to create a flavorful gravy. If desired, you can thicken the broth by whisking in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and cooking on high for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Slice the chuck roast against the grain and serve it with the cooked vegetables and gravy. Enjoy your delicious Tina's Slow Cooker Chuck Roast!
Tips
- Always pat the roast dry before searing to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in flavor.
- Don't skip the searing step - it adds incredible depth to the overall taste of the dish.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your roast reaches the perfect internal temperature (around 145°F for medium).
- For extra tender meat, choose a well-marbled chuck roast with good fat content.
- If possible, let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Slice the meat against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.
- Save any leftover juices - they make an amazing base for future gravies or soup stocks.
- This recipe freezes beautifully, so don't be afraid to make a large batch for future meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 434kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 100mg
