Ingredients
Beef Roast
- 3–4 lb beef chuck roast
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar or honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Optional Thickener
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Season the Roast: Generously season the beef chuck roast on all sides with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Sear the Roast: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef roast for 2–3 minutes on each side until a browned crust forms. This step locks in juices and adds depth of flavor.
- Place in Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared roast into the slow cooker vessel.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar or honey, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried rosemary, and dried thyme until fully combined.
- Add Sauce to Roast: Pour the prepared balsamic mixture evenly over the beef roast inside the slow cooker.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8–9 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.
- Remove and Slice/Shred: Carefully remove the roast from the slow cooker and shred or slice as preferred.
- Optional Sauce Thickening: To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Plate the shredded or sliced beef and spoon the rich balsamic sauce over the top. Enjoy with your choice of sides.
Notes
- Chuck roast is preferred for tender, flavorful results due to its marbling and connective tissue.
- Add baby potatoes or carrots to the slow cooker for a complete, one-pot meal.
- Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- The beef roast leftovers are excellent for sandwiches or served over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free