Slow cooker italian beef: the easiest meal you’ll make all week

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of an authentic Italian beef recipe, meticulously crafted in the comfort of your slow cooker. With its tender, juicy meat, savory sauce, and aromatic herbs, this dish is a culinary masterpiece that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Italy.

Ingredients for Italian Beef Recipe Slow Cooker

• 3-4 pounds boneless chuck roast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup dry red wine (optional)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions for Italian Beef Recipe Slow Cooker

1. Prepare the Meat: Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the roast on all sides for 5-7 minutes per side.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Remove the roast from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Deglaze the Pan: If using red wine, add it to the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the browned roast in the slow cooker. Add the sautéed aromatics, beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and any remaining salt and pepper.
5. Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender.
6. Shred the Beef: Remove the roast from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
7. Thicken the Sauce: If desired, thicken the sauce by adding a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) and stirring until the desired consistency is reached.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the shredded Italian beef on toasted rolls or over pasta, topped with provolone cheese, giardiniera, and a side of marinara sauce.

Variations on Italian Beef Recipe Slow Cooker

• Spicy Italian Beef: Add 1-2 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
• Sweet Italian Beef: Substitute a cup of red wine with a cup of grape jelly for a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.
• Creamy Italian Beef: Add a cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a rich and creamy texture.

Tips for the Perfect Italian Beef Recipe Slow Cooker

• Use a Good Quality Roast: The quality of the roast will directly impact the flavor of the dish. Opt for a well-marbled chuck roast for maximum tenderness.
• Brown the Roast: Browning the roast before slow cooking adds depth of flavor and creates a beautiful crust.
• Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can result in dry and tough meat. Check for tenderness after 8 hours of cooking.
• Shred the Beef: Use two forks to shred the beef for a tender and juicy texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Benefits of Italian Beef Recipe Slow Cooker

• Convenient and Hands-Free: The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to attend to other tasks.
• Tender and Flavorful Meat: The low and slow cooking process results in incredibly tender and flavorful meat.
• Perfect for Meal Prepping: Make a large batch of Italian beef and freeze it for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

Recommendations: A Culinary Symphony in Your Own Kitchen

With this authentic Italian beef recipe slow cooker, you can recreate the flavors of Italy in the comfort of your own home. The tender meat, savory sauce, and aromatic herbs will tantalize your taste buds and create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you longing for more.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes, you can use a rump roast or top round roast, but the chuck roast is recommended for its tenderness.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: Add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the sauce and stir until the desired consistency is reached.
Q: Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can. Brown the roast in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes.
Q: How long can I store the leftover Italian beef?
A: Leftover Italian beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: What are some good toppings for Italian beef?
A: Popular toppings include provolone cheese, giardiniera, marinara sauce, and sweet peppers.