Easy Weeknight Beef Chuck Roast (Melt-in-Your-Mouth Dinner!)

Craving a comforting and delicious weeknight meal without the hassle? Look no further than our beef chuck roast recipe! This budget-friendly cut transforms into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece with our easy slow-cooking method. Wondering how to make a beef chuck roast that’s both impressive and effortless? We’ll show you exactly what you need to turn this affordable cut into a family favourite.

Who is this Recipe For?

• Busy Weeknight Cooks: The emphasis on “easy weeknight” and “without the hassle” indicates it’s perfect for those short on time but still wanting a delicious meal.
• Budget-Minded Home Cooks: Highlighting “budget-friendly cut” targets those seeking affordable options.
• Fans of Comfort Food: Words like “comforting” and “melt-in-your-mouth” suggest it caters to those who enjoy hearty and satisfying dishes.
• Those New to Cooking Beef Chuck Roast: The inclusion of “how to make a beef chuck roast” suggests it welcomes those wanting to explore this cut for the first time.

Recipe Swaps and Variations for Your Beef Chuck Roast

Love the idea of a slow-cooked beef chuck roast, but want to add your own twist? Here are some exciting swaps and variations to explore:

• Liquid Inspiration: Swap out the classic beef broth for something more adventurous. Experiment with red wine for a rich, French-inspired pot roast, or try a combination of beer and beef broth for a deeper flavor.
• Vegetable Medley: Don’t be limited to the usual suspects! Explore adding root vegetables like parsnips and turnips, or swap potatoes for sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness.
• Global Twist: Take your tastebuds on a trip! Introduce Asian flavors with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, or go Mexican with chipotle peppers and adobo sauce.

Kitchen Equipment Needed for Your Beef Chuck Roast Feast

Conquer that weeknight dinner with minimal fuss! Here’s the basic kitchen equipment you’ll need to whip up a delicious beef chuck roast:

The Essentials:

• Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: This will be your trusty vessel for slow-cooking the roast to juicy perfection.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping vegetables and seasoning the roast.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping and maneuvering the roast during browning.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: Ensure precise measurements for your flavorful broth and seasonings.
• Spoons and Spatulas: For stirring, scraping, and serving.

Optional, But Helpful:

• Roasting Rack (optional): Elevates the roast within the pot, allowing for even cooking and better browning.
• Slow Cooker (alternative): If you prefer a completely hands-off approach, a slow cooker can be used instead of the Dutch oven.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 Pound Beef Chuck Roast (Boneless) – The star of the show! Choose a well-marbled roast for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil – For searing the roast and adding richness.
• 1 Large Onion, Diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 4 Cloves Garlic, Minced – A powerful aromatic that infuses the dish.
• 2 Carrots, Chopped – Adds sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
• 2 Celery Stalks, Chopped – Offers a savory, earthy flavor.
• 4 Cups Beef Broth – The base of the braising liquid, creating a flavorful and moist environment for the roast.
• 1 (14.5 oz) Can Diced Tomatoes, Undrained – Adds acidity and a touch of tomato flavor.
• 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce – Offers a complex and savory umami punch.
• 2 Bay Leaves – Infuses the dish with a subtle herbal aroma.
• 1 Teaspoon Fresh Thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried) – Adds a touch of earthy, floral flavor.
• Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – To taste, for seasoning the roast and broth.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Beef Chuck Roast: Pat the roast dry with paper towels. Season generously with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the Roast: Heat Olive Oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the roast in the pot and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the roast from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced Onion, Carrots, and Celery to the pot where you seared the roast. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and slightly browned.
4. Deglaze and Build the Flavor: Add the minced Garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Pour in the Beef Broth, scraping up any remaining browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the Diced Tomatoes with their juices, Worcestershire Sauce, Bay Leaves, and Thyme. Season the broth with additional Kosher Salt and Black Pepper to taste.
5. Return the Roast and Slow Cook: Bring the broth to a simmer, then carefully return the seared Beef Chuck Roast to the pot. Nest it amongst the vegetables and ensure the roast is mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and transfer it to a preheated oven set at 325°F (163°C).
6. Slow Cook to Tenderness: Let the roast cook undisturbed in the oven for 2 ½ – 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and falls apart easily when prodded with a fork.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the roast is tender, remove the pot from the oven and carefully transfer the roast to a cutting board. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding with two forks. Serve the shredded beef with the flavorful cooking liquid spooned over it, alongside roasted vegetables like mashed potatoes or rice.

Tips:

• For thicker cuts of beef chuck roast, the cooking time may need to be extended by 30-60 minutes.
• To check for doneness, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the roast. It should reach an internal temperature of 195°F (90°C) for a perfectly tender and pull-apart texture.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Beef Chuck Roast Recipe

Take Tasty Bites Staff

This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. The beef chuck roast is slow-cooked until it's melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the flavorful broth makes a perfect gravy for the meat and vegetables. It's a budget-friendly meal that's sure to please the whole family!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 People

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: This will be your trusty vessel for slow-cooking the roast to juicy perfection.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board For prepping vegetables and seasoning the roast.
• Tongs Perfect for flipping and manoeuvring the roast during browning.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups Ensure precise measurements for your flavourful broth and seasonings.
• Spoons and Spatulas: For stirring, scraping, and serving.

Ingredients

  

• 3-4 Pound Beef Chuck Roast Boneless – The star of the show! Choose a well-marbled roast for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil – For searing the roast and adding richness.
• 1 Large Onion Diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 4 Cloves Garlic Minced – A powerful aromatic that infuses the dish.
• 2 Carrots Chopped – Adds sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
• 2 Celery Stalks Chopped – Offers a savory, earthy flavor.
• 4 Cups Beef Broth – The base of the braising liquid creating a flavorful and moist environment for the roast.
• 1 14.5 oz Can Diced Tomatoes, Undrained – Adds acidity and a touch of tomato flavor.
• 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce – Offers a complex and savory umami punch.
• 2 Bay Leaves – Infuses the dish with a subtle herbal aroma.
• 1 Teaspoon Fresh Thyme or ½ teaspoon dried – Adds a touch of earthy, floral flavor.
• Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – To taste for seasoning the roast and broth.

Instructions

 

• Prep the Beef Chuck Roast: Pat the roast dry with paper towels. Season generously with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides.
• Sear the Roast: Heat Olive Oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the roast in the pot and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the roast from the pot and set aside.
• Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced Onion, Carrots, and Celery to the pot where you seared the roast. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and slightly browned.
• Deglaze and Build the Flavour: Add the minced Garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Pour in the Beef Broth, scraping up any remaining browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the Diced Tomatoes with their juices, Worcestershire Sauce, Bay Leaves, and Thyme. Season the broth with additional Kosher Salt and Black Pepper to taste.
• Return the Roast and Slow Cook: Bring the broth to a simmer, then carefully return the seared Beef Chuck Roast to the pot. Nest it amongst the vegetables and ensure the roast is mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and transfer it to a preheated oven set at 325°F (163°C).
• Slow Cook to Tenderness: Let the roast cook undisturbed in the oven for 2 ½ – 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and falls apart easily when prodded with a fork.
• Serve and Enjoy: Once the roast is tender, remove the pot from the oven and carefully transfer the roast to a cutting board. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding with two forks. Serve the shredded beef with the flavourful cooking liquid spooned over it, alongside roasted vegetables like mashed potatoes or rice.

Notes

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approx):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 40g

Tips:

• For thicker cuts of beef chuck roast, the cooking time may need to be extended by 30-60 minutes.
• To check for doneness, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the roast. It should reach an internal temperature of 195°F (90°C) for a perfectly tender and pull-apart texture.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Keyword Beef Chuck Roast, Beef Chuck Roast Recipe

Food and Drink Pairings for Your Beef Chuck Roast Feast

Elevate your weeknight beef chuck roast with delicious pairings that complement the flavors perfectly!

Sides:

• Classic Comforts: Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (carrots, parsnips, broccoli), or fluffy rice provide a comforting and satisfying base.
• Fresh Salads: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the roast and adds a refreshing touch.

Drinks:

• Bold Reds: Full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, or Zinfandel stand up to the robust flavors of the beef and braising liquid.
• Hearty Brews: Craft beers with hints of caramel or chocolate notes pair well with the savory richness of the roast.
• Comforting Classics: For a more casual option, consider a glass of full-bodied beer or a simple glass of red wine.

Frequently Asked Questions: Beef Chuck Roast Recipe

1. What cut of meat is best for a Beef Chuck Roast recipe?

While there are several cuts from the chuck primal, a boneless chuck roast is ideal for this recipe. It has good marbling for flavor and becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.

2. How to make Beef Chuck Roast in the oven?

This recipe offers a simple and delicious method for making Beef Chuck Roast in the oven. Simply sear the roast, sauté vegetables, create a flavorful broth, and slow cook the roast until fork-tender.

3. Can I use a slow cooker for this Beef Chuck Roast recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer a completely hands-off approach, a slow cooker can be used instead of the Dutch oven. Follow the recipe instructions for searing the roast and preparing the vegetables, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the broth. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.

4. What are some good side dishes for a homemade Beef Chuck Roast?

This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Classic options include creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or fluffy rice. You can also add a fresh green salad for a touch of lightness.

5. How long does it take to cook a Beef Chuck Roast?

The cooking time for Beef Chuck Roast will depend on the size and thickness of the cut. In this recipe, the roast cooks in the oven for 2 ½ – 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F (90°C) for a perfectly tender and pull-apart texture. If your roast is larger, you may need to extend the cooking time by 30-60 minutes.