Beef chuck roast recipes are a cornerstone of hearty home-cooked meals. Originating from rustic kitchens where slow cooking turned tough cuts into mouthwatering dishes, chuck roast has become a beloved comfort food worldwide. Known for its rich marbling and robust flavor, this cut shines when braised, slow-cooked, or roasted.
Whether you’re preparing a Sunday family dinner or looking for an easy make-ahead meal, beef chuck roast is both budget-friendly and satisfying. Its tender texture and savory depth make it ideal for stews, sandwiches, or served simply with vegetables and gravy.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a classic beef chuck roast:
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3–4 lb beef chuck roast (boneless or bone-in)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 large onion, sliced
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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3 large carrots, cut into chunks
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3 celery stalks, cut into chunks
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4 medium potatoes, halved or quartered
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2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
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1 cup red wine (optional, substitute with more broth)
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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2 bay leaves
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Substitutions:
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Gluten-free: Use gluten-free broth and check seasoning blends.
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Low-carb: Swap potatoes for radishes or cauliflower.
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Vegetarian alternative: Use portobello mushrooms and lentils in place of beef.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prep and Season the Roast
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Pat the beef chuck roast dry.
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Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Sear for Flavor
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Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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Sear the roast on all sides until browned (4–5 minutes per side). Set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
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In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
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Stir in tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Deglaze and Combine
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Pour in red wine (if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits.
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Add beef broth, bay leaves, carrots, celery, and potatoes.
5. Slow Cook the Roast
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Return the roast to the pot, nestling it into the veggies and liquid.
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Cover and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 3.5 to 4 hours or until fork-tender.
6. Rest and Serve
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Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes.
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Slice or shred and serve with the vegetables and pan juices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
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Don’t skip the sear—this locks in flavor.
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Avoid overcooking vegetables—add halfway through for firmer texture.
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Not enough liquid can lead to a dry roast—ensure it’s at least halfway submerged.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Use a meat thermometer: Ideal internal temperature is 195–205°F for shreddable tenderness.
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Dutch oven or slow cooker: Both work great; for slow cooker, cook on low for 8 hours.
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Enhance flavor: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Variations and Customizations
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Mexican-style: Add cumin, chipotle, and lime for a taco-ready roast.
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Italian-style: Include oregano, crushed tomatoes, and olives.
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Keto-friendly: Serve over mashed cauliflower with butter and herbs.
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Vegetarian twist: Use seitan or jackfruit with the same seasonings and veggies.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with crusty bread, creamy mashed potatoes, or over egg noodles.
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Garnish with chopped parsley, chives, or a drizzle of horseradish cream.
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Pair with red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot) or sparkling apple cider.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx.)
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Calories: 460 kcal
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Protein: 38g
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Carbohydrates: 22g
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Fat: 24g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sodium: 550mg
Note: Nutrition may vary based on ingredients and portion size.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Q2: How do I reheat chuck roast?
Reheat in the oven at 300°F covered with foil or on the stovetop with some broth.
Q3: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Cool completely, portion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Q4: What if I don’t have red wine?
You can use additional beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.
Closing Thoughts
Beef chuck roast recipes are timeless for good reason—they’re rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping weekday meals, this dish delivers every time. Give it a try and feel free to share your spin on it!
