Name: Slow Cooked Beef Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487954H39M35S
Total time: PT-487954H39M35S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 pounds beef chuck roast; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing the beef)

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A slow-cooked beef dinner is one of the easiest and most satisfying meals you can make. The beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful after hours of slow cooking, absorbing all the seasonings and ingredients around it. This recipe offers a comforting meal, perfect for busy weekdays or special gatherings. Slow Cooked Beef Dinner

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this slow-cooked beef dinner because it’s so easy to prepare yet yields an incredibly rich, savory dish. The slow-cooking process does all the work, leaving me with a tender, flavorful beef that practically melts in my mouth. The combination of ingredients allows the flavors to develop and intensify, giving me a hearty and satisfying meal with minimal effort. It’s also very versatile, meaning I can serve it with anything from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

3-4 pounds beef chuck roast
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil (for searing the beef)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

First, I start by seasoning the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. I then heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef on all sides until it’s nicely browned.
While the beef is searing, I chop the onion and garlic. Once the beef is browned, I transfer it to the slow cooker.
In the same skillet, I sauté the onion and garlic for about 2 minutes, until they become fragrant and softened. Then, I add the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, thyme, and rosemary, stirring everything together to combine.
I pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, making sure the beef is submerged as much as possible.
Next, I cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Once done, I remove the beef from the slow cooker, shred it with a fork, and return it to the sauce to soak in all the flavors.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 6-8 servings. It takes approximately 6-8 hours of cooking on low in the slow cooker, depending on the size of your roast and how tender you like your beef.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the beef for a large piece of portobello mushrooms or a seitan roast to create a vegetarian alternative.
Spicy Version: Add some red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chilies for a kick of heat.
Adding Vegetables: I can add carrots, potatoes, and celery to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.
Different Cut of Meat: Though I love using chuck roast, other cuts like brisket or round roast will work just as well for this recipe.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers from this slow-cooked beef dinner can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I simply place the beef and its sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. It can also be reheated in the microwave, but I prefer using the stovetop to maintain the best flavor and texture.

If I want to freeze leftovers, I store the beef in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To thaw, I transfer it to the fridge overnight and reheat it as usual.

FAQs

How do I know when the beef is done?

I check the beef after 6 hours of cooking. If it’s tender and can be easily shredded with a fork, it’s ready. If not, I allow it to cook a bit longer.

Can I cook this on high heat instead of low?

Yes, if you’re in a rush, I can cook it on high for 4-5 hours. However, low and slow cooking will yield the most tender results.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! This slow-cooked beef dinner actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. I often make it a day ahead and reheat it for a quick meal.

What sides go well with this dish?

I enjoy pairing this beef with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or even a simple green salad for balance.

Can I cook this without searing the beef first?

While searing the beef adds flavor, it’s not essential. If I’m in a rush, I can skip this step and still end up with a delicious meal.

Conclusion

This slow-cooked beef dinner is a go-to recipe for a hearty and comforting meal. The slow cooking process makes the beef incredibly tender, and the flavors develop beautifully as it simmers. I can make it for a family dinner, a gathering, or even just for a delicious meal prep option. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, it’s a perfect addition to any recipe collection.