Are you dreaming of a melt-in-your-mouth, fall-apart tender roast but short on time and energy? Then this slow cooker spoon roast recipe is your answer! This easy recipe delivers a delicious, healthy meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner, this spoon roast is a true testament to the magic of homemade cooking. Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to create such a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb boneless chuck 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)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Get started:
- Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds incredible depth of flavor.
Slow Cooker Magic:
- Transfer the seared roast to your slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder.
- Pour the mixture over the roast and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Cook and Enjoy:
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the roast is fork-tender and easily shreds.
- Once cooked, remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding.
- Skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid. You can thicken the gravy by simmering it on the stovetop for a few minutes.
- Shred the roast and mix it back into the gravy. Serve hot with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
Tips for Spoon Roast Success:
- Choosing your roast: A boneless chuck roast is ideal for this recipe because it's flavorful and becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
- Don't skip searing: Searing the roast before slow cooking adds a beautiful crust and intensifies the flavor.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. A dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add extra depth.
- Make it a meal prep marvel: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Simply store the shredded roast and gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Variations:
- Add potatoes: Include 2-3 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered, along with the other vegetables for a complete one-pot meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Make it a BBQ spoon roast: Substitute the beef broth and red wine with your favorite BBQ sauce for a delicious twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and ingredients used, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This crock pot spoon roast recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that don't compromise on taste or nutrition. It's a delicious and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. Enjoy!