A classic and comforting meal, this slow cooker beef roast with vegetables is perfect for a cozy family dinner. The beef becomes incredibly tender, and the vegetables absorb all the delicious flavors from the broth and seasonings.
Ingredients:
- For the Beef:
- 3-4 pound beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- For the Vegetables:
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes (russet or Yukon Gold), cut into chunks
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- (Optional) 1 cup frozen peas (added in the last 30 minutes)
Instructions:
- Sear the Beef:
- Season the beef roast with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef roast on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side). This step enhances flavor and locks in juices.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the seared beef roast on top of the onions and garlic.
- Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the roast.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the slow cooker, surrounding the beef roast.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours, or on high heat for 4-5 hours, until the beef is very tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Add Peas (Optional):
- If using frozen peas, add them to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the beef roast and vegetables from the slow cooker.
- Slice or shred the beef roast.
- Serve the beef and vegetables with the broth from the slow cooker. You can also thicken the broth with cornstarch slurry if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer gravy, thicken the cooking liquid with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- You can add other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes.
- If you don’t have fresh garlic, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder will work.
- For a deeper flavor, you could add one bay leaf to the slow cooker.
- Serve with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish.