Here’s a delicious Italian-style pot roast recipe that’s perfect for a comforting meal:
Italian-Style Pot Roast
Ingredients
- For the Roast:
- 3-4 pounds chuck roast
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, or use more broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread or polenta (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the Roast: Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove the roast and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Deglaze the Pot: Add the red wine (if using) to the pot to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the roast to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, basil, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook: Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the roast cook for about 3-4 hours, or until it’s tender and easily shredded with a fork. You can also cook it in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for the same amount of time.
- Finish and Serve: Once the roast is done, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding. Discard the bay leaf. Serve the roast with the vegetables and sauce, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy with crusty bread or polenta if desired!
Tips
- Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, so it’s great for meal prep!
- Slow Cooker Option: You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by searing the meat first and then adding everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Enjoy your Italian-style pot roast!