Are you looking for easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and tenderness? Do you dream of delicious, healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen? Then you've come to the right place! Bottom round roast, a relatively inexpensive cut of beef, transforms into melt-in-your-mouth perfection with the magic of slow cooking. These crockpot bottom round recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or simply enjoying a comforting, homemade meal. Get ready to elevate your dinner game!
Ingredients for Classic Crockpot Bottom Round Roast
This recipe provides a foundation you can easily adapt to your tastes.
- 3-4 pound bottom round roast
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: Your Path to Perfection
Step 1: Searing the Roast (Optional but Recommended):
For a richer flavor, start by searing the bottom round roast. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned. This step helps to lock in the juices and adds depth to the flavor.
Step 2: Assembling the Crockpot:
Place the chopped onion, carrots, and celery at the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the seared roast on top of the vegetables.
Step 3: Adding the Flavor:
In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the roast in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Slow Cooking to Tenderness:
Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the roast is fork-tender. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your roast and your slow cooker.
Step 5: Shredding and Serving:
Once cooked, remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 15 minutes before shredding with two forks. Skim off excess fat from the cooking liquid. You can either serve the shredded beef with the cooking liquid as a gravy, or thicken the liquid by simmering it on the stovetop until reduced.
Delicious Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Meal
Serve your tender crockpot bottom round roast on its own or with a variety of sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, crusty bread, or a simple green salad all pair beautifully.
Tips for Crockpot Bottom Round Success:
- Choosing the Right Roast: Look for a bottom round roast that is evenly marbled with fat.
- Don't Overcrowd the Crockpot: Ensure there's enough space in your slow cooker for the roast and vegetables to cook evenly.
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the roast reaches an internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C) for optimal tenderness.
- Thicken the Gravy: For a richer gravy, you can thicken the cooking liquid by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water and whisking it into the simmering liquid.
Variations: Explore Your Culinary Creativity
- BBQ Bottom Round: Add a cup of your favorite BBQ sauce to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking.
- Italian-Style Bottom Round: Substitute the herbs with Italian seasoning and add a can of diced tomatoes.
- Spicy Bottom Round: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 300-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
Enjoy your incredibly flavorful and tender crockpot bottom round roast! This easy recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and slow cooking can create a truly delicious and satisfying meal. Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed your culinary creation!