slow cooker italian beef recipe

The Best slow cooker italian beef recipe

I love cooking with my slow cooker, and this Italian beef recipe is one of our family’s favorites. It’s a classic dish that originated in Italy, where braised beef is slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce.

The result is tender, flavorful meat that’s perfect for serving with pasta, rice, or even on its own. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my kids and husband.

In fact, my son has a special request: whenever he comes home from college, I make sure to have a big batch of this Italian beef ready for him. It’s become a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share the recipe with you today.

So, let’s get started! This recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal preparation time.

Simply brown the beef in a skillet, then transfer it to the slow cooker with some onions, garlic, and a can of tomatoes. The slow cooker does the rest, simmering the flavors together for hours until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.

I like to serve it with some crusty bread or over egg noodles – it’s a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy anyone’s appetite. Plus, it makes perfect leftovers for the next day or two.

Slow Cooker Italian Beef

4.9 from 1292 votes

Tender beef slow-cooked to perfection with Italian herbs and spices. Serve on crusty bread or rolls for a delicious sandwich.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time8 hrs
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hrs 15 mins
Servings: 6-8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beef

2.5 lb beef chuck roast
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried thyme

For the Sauce

1 cup beef broth
1 cup tomato sauce
1 onion, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp brown sugar

For Serving

Crusty bread or rolls
Provolone cheese slices
Optional toppings: sautéed onions, sautéed peppers, giardiniera, sliced tomatoes, pickles, or hot sauce

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the beef chuck roast with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, and thyme.
2Ensure the roast is evenly coated with the seasonings.
3Place the seasoned roast in the slow cooker.
4Add the beef broth, tomato sauce, sliced onion, sliced green bell pepper, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar.
5Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
6Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat.
7Cook the beef for 8 hours, or until it is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
8Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
9The beef should be very tender and easily pull apart.
10Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
11The sauce should be thick and flavorful, with a slight sweetness from the brown sugar.
12Serve the Italian beef on crusty bread or rolls.
13Top with provolone cheese slices and any optional toppings you prefer.
14The beef should be hot and the cheese should be melted.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Mixing bowl
Sharp knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 10g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute other cuts of beef for the chuck roast, but the cooking time may vary. For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

I hope you’ve enjoyed making this slow-cooker Italian beef recipe as much as we have over the years! It’s truly become a staple in our household – not only because of its delicious taste but also because of how easy it is to prepare ahead of time while letting everyone else do their thing later on during those busy days when life gets hectic fast sometimes too .

This way , everyone leaves their plates satisfied knowing they got exactly what they wanted outta mealtime : nourishment plus quality time spent sharing stories laughter etc around dinner table together . As always , happy cooking!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Italian Beef

1. What cut of beef should I use for slow cooker Italian beef?

For the best results, use a cut of beef that is well-suited to slow cooking. I recommend using a rump roast or a chuck roast, as these cuts are relatively inexpensive and become tender and juicy when cooked low and slow. You can also use a round roast, but it may not be as tender as the other options.

2. Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker. To do this, sear the beef in a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, then add the remaining ingredients and cover the pot tightly with a lid. Cook in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and shape of the beef.

3. Can I freeze slow cooker Italian beef?

Yes, you can freeze slow cooker Italian beef. In fact, it freezes really well. I like to freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. This makes it easy to reheat and serve whenever you need a quick and delicious meal. To reheat, simply thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

4. How do I store leftover slow cooker Italian beef?

Leftover slow cooker Italian beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Keep in mind that the beef may become drier as it sits, so you may need to add a little bit of water or beef broth when reheating.

5. What can I serve with slow cooker Italian beef?

Slow cooker Italian beef is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. I like to serve it on hoagie rolls with melted provolone cheese, or on a bed of noodles. It’s also great with a side of roasted vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. Plus, it pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as pasta salad, coleslaw, or a green salad.

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