Are you tired of tough, dry chuck roast? This recipe is your solution! Forget hours of slow cooking; our air fryer chuck roast delivers incredible tenderness and flavor in a fraction of the time. This is one of those easy recipes perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Get ready for a quick dinner idea that's packed with deliciousness and will quickly become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2-pound chuck roast, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening the gravy)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening the gravy)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chuck Roast
Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes browning. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. Generously rub the spice mixture all over the roast.
Step 2: Sear the Roast (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor and a beautiful crust, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chuck roast on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds depth of flavor.
Step 3: Air Fry the Roast
Place the seared (or unseared) chuck roast in the air fryer basket. Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce into the bottom of the basket. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 40-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 190-200°F (88-93°C) for medium-rare to medium. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Step 4: Make the Gravy (Optional)
If you'd like a delicious gravy, remove the chuck roast from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes. Carefully pour the pan juices from the air fryer basket into a saucepan. Whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the pan juices, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the chuck roast has rested, slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve it with the gravy (if made) and your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Air Fryer Chuck Roast Recipes:
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer: Ensure there's enough space around the roast for proper air circulation.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring the roast is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of your roast and your air fryer model.
- Rest the meat: Allowing the roast to rest before slicing helps retain its juices and ensures a more tender result.
Variations:
- Add herbs: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary, oregano, or sage.
- Use different liquids: Substitute red wine or apple cider for the beef broth.
- Make it a pot roast: Transfer the air-fried roast to a slow cooker or Dutch oven with additional vegetables and broth for a hearty pot roast.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your roast and the additions. For a 2-pound roast serving 4, the approximate values would be:
- Calories: Around 350-400
- Protein: Around 35-40g
- Fat: Around 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Around 5-10g
This air fryer chuck roast recipe is a fantastic example of how quick and easy healthy meals can be. Enjoy this delicious dish and explore the many possibilities for variations! It's a winner for both beginners and experienced cooks looking for best recipes that are both time-saving and flavorful.