Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Chuck Roast is a classic, no-fuss comfort meal featuring fall-apart tender beef, slow-cooked with rich savory flavors. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or make-ahead meal prep, this recipe turns a tough cut of meat into a succulent, hearty dish with minimal effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

beef chuck roastolive oilonionslicedgarlic cloves mincedcarrots cut into chunkspotatoeshalved or quarteredbeef brothtomato pasteWorcestershire saucesaltblack pepperdried thymebay leavesoptional: red wine for extra richness

directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) or set your slow cooker to low.

Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper.

In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

Sear the roast on all sides until browned; remove and set aside.

Add sliced onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.

Stir in tomato paste, then pour in beef broth and optional red wine to deglaze the pot.

Add carrots, potatoes, thyme, and bay leaves.

Return the roast to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the oven (or continue in the slow cooker).

Cook for 3–4 hours in the oven or 8 hours on low in the slow cooker, until the meat is fork-tender.

Remove bay leaves, slice or shred roast, and serve with vegetables and pan juices.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 3–4 hours (oven) or 8 hours (slow cooker)Total time: 3–8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Add celery or mushrooms for extra vegetables.

Use sweet potatoes instead of regular for a sweeter flavor.

Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick.

Swap thyme for rosemary or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.

Shred the beef and serve it on buns for sandwiches.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, brisket or bottom round can be used, but chuck roast is best for tenderness.

Do I need to sear the meat?

Searing adds flavor but can be skipped for convenience.

Can I make it in an Instant Pot?

Yes, pressure cook for about 60 minutes with natural release.

What’s the best way to thicken the juices?

Simmer the juices on the stove or add a cornstarch slurry if desired.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze in portions with the juices for up to 3 months.

Can I make this without potatoes?

Absolutely—serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles instead.

What if I don’t have tomato paste?

You can omit it or use a small amount of crushed tomatoes.

Can I add herbs?

Yes, fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or parsley work great.

Should I trim the fat?

Trim excess fat, but leave some for flavor and moisture.

Can I serve this as meal prep?

Yes, it stores and reheats very well for multiple meals.

Conclusion

Easy Chuck Roast is a comforting, satisfying dish that brings tender beef and hearty vegetables together in a rich, flavorful broth. With minimal prep and foolproof results, it’s a reliable go-to recipe for cozy dinners and stress-free entertaining.