Italian-Style Pot Roast is a rich, savory dish that combines the tenderness of slow-cooked beef with the bold flavors of Italian herbs, tomatoes, and red wine. This hearty meal is perfect for family gatherings, offering a delicious balance of juicy meat, aromatic seasonings, and a mouthwatering sauce that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or pasta. Follow this step-by-step guide to create an unforgettable dinner that will impress your loved ones.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef chuck roast dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
- Sear the Meat: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef for about 4–5 minutes per side until it forms a golden-brown crust. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), bay leaves, and beef broth. Mix well to combine the flavors.
- Return the Beef: Place the seared beef back into the pot, nestling it into the sauce. Cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
- Slow Cook the Roast: Simmer for about 3–4 hours, turning the beef occasionally. The roast is done when it becomes fork-tender and easily pulls apart.
- Shred the Meat: Remove the beef from the pot and use two forks to shred it into chunks. Discard the bay leaves.
- Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for another 10–15 minutes to thicken. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese over the dish. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, polenta, or buttered pasta for a complete Italian-style meal.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Italian-Style Pot Roast that will bring warmth and delicious aromas to your dinner table!