Sunday dinner just got easier (and tastier!). Forget hours slaving over a hot stove – this crock pot cross rib roast recipe delivers melt-in-your-mouth tenderness with minimal effort. Perfect for a cozy family meal or impressive get-together, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a fantastic example of how easy homemade cooking can be, offering a healthy meal that's surprisingly quick to prepare. This is one of the best recipes for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pound cross rib roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
Instructions:
Get started:
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Pat the cross rib roast dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better.
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In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
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Rub the spice mixture all over the roast, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Slow Cooking Magic:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step adds incredible flavor.
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Transfer the seared roast to your slow cooker.
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Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker around the roast.
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Pour the beef broth and red wine (if using) into the slow cooker.
Cooking and Serving:
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Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and easily shreds.
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Once cooked, carefully remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.
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Using two forks, shred the meat and serve it with the delicious pan juices and roasted vegetables.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd your slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space around the roast for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: For foolproof doneness, check the internal temperature of the roast. It should reach 190-200°F (88-93°C) for medium-rare to medium.
- Make it a gravy: Thicken the pan juices with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) for a delicious gravy.
Variations:
- Add some herbs: Experiment with fresh rosemary, sage, or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Garlic lovers: Add a few cloves of minced garlic to the spice rub or sautéed with the vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of your roast and the number of servings. For a 4-pound roast serving 6, expect approximately:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This crock pot cross rib roast recipe is a perfect example of delicious and easy recipes that deliver a truly satisfying meal. Enjoy!