Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Chuck Roast Recipe is the ultimate comfort food—tender, juicy beef slow-cooked to perfection with carrots, potatoes, and aromatic herbs. It’s an effortless one-pot meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy family dinner. Whether you’re using a slow cooker, Dutch oven, or roasting pan, this recipe delivers satisfying results every time.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chuck roast (3–4 pounds)olive oilcarrots (peeled and chopped)potatoes (cut into chunks)yellow onion (sliced)garlic cloves (minced)beef brothtomato pasteWorcestershire saucethyme (dried or fresh)rosemary (dried or fresh)bay leavesalt and black pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) if using a Dutch oven or roasting pan.

Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, add onions and garlic, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

Stir in tomato paste, then pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pot, scraping up the browned bits.

Return the roast to the pot and add carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.

Cover with a lid or foil and roast in the oven for 3–3.5 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.

Remove the bay leaves before serving. Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing or shredding.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 3–3.5 hoursTotal time: 3 hours 45 minutes

Variations

Use red wine instead of some of the beef broth for deeper flavor.

Add celery, mushrooms, or parsnips for extra veggies.

Try it in a slow cooker on low for 8 hours or high for 5–6 hours.

Shred the beef and use it in sandwiches or tacos the next day.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.For freezing, place in a freezer-safe container and keep for up to 3 months.Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

What is chuck roast best for?

Chuck roast is perfect for slow cooking—it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful when braised.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, sear the meat first for flavor, then cook on low for 8 hours or high for 5–6 hours.

Do I have to sear the meat?

Searing adds flavor and a rich color, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.

Can I add other herbs?

Yes, parsley, oregano, or basil can be added to suit your taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the pot during the last 15 minutes.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, brisket or round roast can work, though chuck is ideal for tenderness.

What can I serve it with?

Serve with crusty bread, over mashed potatoes, or alongside a fresh salad.

Can I prepare it the night before?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate overnight, then cook the next day.

Why is my roast tough?

It likely needs more time to cook—keep it going until it shreds easily with a fork.

Conclusion

This Easy Chuck Roast Recipe brings together simple ingredients and slow-cooked goodness for a meal that’s deeply comforting and satisfying. It’s a no-fuss way to create a hearty dinner that everyone will love. Whether it’s for Sunday supper or a weeknight treat, it’s a timeless classic that never fails.