Traditional Chuck Roast

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 4 hours
🍽 Serves: 6
Be the First to Review!

If you're looking for a comforting, soul-warming meal, this Traditional Chuck Roast is the answer. It's the kind of dish that fills your home with an irresistible aroma, promising a hearty dinner that's as satisfying as it is simple to make.

Ingredients for Traditional Chuck Roast

Chuck roast is the star of the show, known for its marbling, which makes it incredibly tender when slow-cooked. Olive oil helps to sear the meat, locking in the juices and adding a nice crust. Onion and garlic bring depth and aromatic flavor, while carrots and celery provide sweetness and texture that balance the dish. Beef broth and red wine create a rich, savory base that the meat and veggies soak up as they cook. Finally, fresh thyme and rosemary add an earthy, herby aroma that elevates the entire meal.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even cooking.
  • Let the meat rest for a few minutes before shredding to retain juices.
  • If you don't have wine, you can substitute with more beef broth for a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This chuck roast pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. A side of green beans or a simple salad adds a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, brisket or bottom round can work, but note that cooking times may vary.
Is there a substitute for fresh herbs?
Dried herbs can be used, but reduce the amount to one-third since they are more potent.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Sear the meat first, then cook on low for 8-10 hours.

Traditional Chuck Roast Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grab your chuck roast and give it a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper on all sides. This is your foundation for flavor, so be liberal here.

In a large oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, sear the roast on all sides until it's beautifully browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. This step is crucial for flavor, so don't rush it.

After the roast is seared, set it aside. In the same pot, toss in your sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until softened, letting their aroma fill your kitchen. Add in the carrots and celery, stirring and cooking for another 3 minutes.

Pour in the beef broth and red wine, stirring to deglaze the pot and combine everything nicely. Nestle the roast back into the pot and top with the sprigs of thyme and rosemary.

Cover the pot and transfer it to your preheated oven. Let it cook for 3-4 hours, checking at the 3-hour mark. You'll know it's ready when the meat is tender and shreds easily with a fork.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfectly tender meat that falls apart with a fork.
  • Aromatic herbs infusing the roast with flavor.
  • A balanced mix of vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Rich, savory broth with a hint of red wine.
  • Simple enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients

3 lbs chuck roast
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
3 stalks celery, cut into pieces
3 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper generously on all sides.
3. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
5. Remove the roast and set aside.
6. In the same pot, add onions and garlic, sautéing until softened.
7. Add carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.
8. Pour in beef broth and red wine, stirring to combine.
9. Return the roast to the pot, adding thyme and rosemary on top.
10. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
11. Cook for 3-4 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!