There’s something undeniably comforting about a well-prepared beef roast, especially when it’s slow-cooked to perfection, allowing all the flavors to meld together and create a hearty, satisfying dish. This Italian-style beef chuck roast is one of those recipes that not only fills your home with an enticing aroma but also brings back fond memories of family dinners and cozy gatherings.
Growing up, Sundays were always a special day in our household. It was the day we would gather around the dining table and share a meal that had been slowly cooking throughout the day. The star of these meals was often a tender, flavorful beef roast, lovingly prepared by my grandmother. The combination of savory beef, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables simmering together in the slow cooker was enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
This particular recipe, which combines a boneless beef chuck roast with Italian stewed tomatoes, peppers, onions, and a medley of spices, is reminiscent of those cherished Sunday dinners. The addition of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar adds depth and complexity to the dish, making it a favorite in my own household today. Whether you’re looking to recreate a nostalgic family meal or simply want to enjoy a delicious, no-fuss dinner, this Italian-style beef chuck roast is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) Italian stewed tomatoes, undrained
1 boneless beef chuck roast (2 to 3 pounds)
2 teaspoons pepper
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 celery rib, chopped
1/2 cup beef broth
1/2 cup ketchup
1 medium green pepper, halved and sliced
4 teaspoons prepared mustard
3 tablespoons corn-starch
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup cold water
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 large onion, halved and sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the celery rib and mince the garlic cloves. Halve and slice the green pepper and the large onion.
Open the can of Italian stewed tomatoes and have all your other ingredients measured and ready to go.
Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients: undrained Italian stewed tomatoes, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, chopped celery, beef broth, ketchup, prepared mustard, minced garlic, brown sugar, crushed red pepper flakes, and soy sauce. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are well incorporated.
In a 5-quart slow cooker, arrange the sliced onions, green pepper, and chopped celery evenly at the bottom.
Place the boneless beef chuck roast on top of the vegetables.
Step 3: Add the Tomato Mixture
Pour the tomato mixture over the roast, making sure it covers the meat and vegetables evenly. The slow cooker will do the work of melding these flavors together, so no need to worry about stirring.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Roast
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 5 to 6 hours. This slow cooking process is essential as it allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to fully develop.
Occasionally check the slow cooker to ensure everything is cooking evenly, but avoid lifting the lid too often as it can significantly reduce the cooking temperature and increase the cooking time.
Step 5: Prepare the Gravy
Once the meat is tender and cooked through, carefully remove the roast from the slow cooker and set it aside on a cutting board to rest.
Using a strainer, strain the cooking juices from the slow cooker into a bowl, reserving the vegetables.
Skim the fat from the top of the cooking juices and transfer the juices to a small saucepan.
Step 6: Thicken the Gravy
In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of corn-starch with 1/4 cup of cold water, stirring until smooth. This mixture will be used to thicken the gravy.
Gradually stir the corn-starch mixture into the cooking juices in the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Cook and stir the gravy for 1-2 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve
Slice the beef chuck roast into serving portions and arrange them on a serving platter.
Surround the meat with the reserved vegetables from the slow cooker.
Pour the thickened gravy over the meat and vegetables, or serve it on the side in a gravy boat.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the beef with a hearty vegetable like portobello mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Different Cuts of Meat: If you don’t have a beef chuck roast, you can use other cuts of beef like brisket or rump roast. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the cut.
Spicier Version: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the tomato mixture.
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure that all sauces and condiments used are gluten-free, particularly the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Corn-starch is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for thickening the gravy.
Summary
This Italian-style beef chuck roast is a delightful combination of tender beef, savory vegetables, and a rich, flavorful gravy. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become incredibly tender and the ingredients to meld together perfectly, creating a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks, yet it’s impressive enough to serve at family gatherings or special occasions.
The versatility of this recipe allows for various adaptations to suit different tastes and dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this hearty meal. Whether you’re drawn in by the nostalgia of a traditional Sunday roast or simply looking for a satisfying, no-fuss dinner option, this Italian-style beef chuck roast is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the process of making it, and most importantly, savor every delicious bite.
