Nothing beats coming home to the rich aroma of slow-cooked beef infused with garlic, herbs, and savory juices. This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want to savor a nourishing meal without fussing over the stove. Let the slow cooker work its magic and enjoy tender beef bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 3–4 pounds beef chuck roast, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 bay leaves (optional, but highly recommended)
Instructions
Begin by seasoning the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil and sear the roast on all sides until nicely browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. This step locks in the juices and adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Transfer the beef to your slow cooker. Scatter the onions and carrots around the roast, then sprinkle the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary on top. Pour in the beef broth, and tuck in the bay leaves if using. Place the lid on your slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the beef to cook for about 8 hours (or 4–5 hours on high), until it becomes so tender it easily shreds with a fork.
When it’s finished, carefully remove the beef and shred or slice it. If you prefer a thicker sauce, skim off any excess fat, then simmer the cooking liquid on the stovetop, stirring in a cornstarch slurry to thicken. Serve the tender beef with mashed potatoes, warm crusty bread, or your favorite side veggies to soak up all that delicious gravy.
This flavorful garlic-and-herb slow cooker beef works wonders for anyone craving a fuss-free yet satisfying meal. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking to minimize cooking time or keep an eye on added fats, as you can easily trim the roast before cooking. For variations, try adding mushrooms, swapping in fresh herbs, or incorporating a splash of red wine for extra richness. Each tweak will still deliver hearty, comforting results that bring you right back to the best part of home cooking—the irresistible warmth and taste that lingers in every bite.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
