Imagine walking into your home after a long day, greeted by the irresistible aroma of tender, mouthwatering beef that's been slow-cooking to perfection. This Sunday Slow Cooker Spicy Braised Beef isn't just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary chuck roast into a flavor-packed, melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend chef looking to impress, this recipe promises restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set them aside for later use.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until browned. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Searing the meat will enhance the flavor of the final dish.
- Once the beef is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the beef.
- In a separate bowl, combine the chili powder, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Pour the chili powder mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker, ensuring the beef is well coated.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the beef to cook for 8 hours, or until it is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the beef from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker, stirring it into the sauce to absorb the flavors. Allow it to sit for an additional 10-15 minutes on the warm setting.
- Serve the spicy braised beef hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Always opt for a well-marbled chuck roast, as the fat content ensures a more tender and flavorful result.
- Searing is Crucial: Don't skip the browning step! Searing the meat develops deep, rich flavors that will elevate your entire dish.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. Eight hours on low heat ensures the most tender, fall-apart beef.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to suit your heat preference. For extra kick, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance and reheat.
- Serving Suggestions: Try serving over creamy polenta, cauliflower rice, or tucked into warm tortillas for a versatile meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 140mg
