Are you looking for a simple yet impressive dinner recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights? Look no further! This top round roast crock pot recipe is your answer. Tender, juicy, and flavorful, this slow-cooked roast is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort. It's the epitome of delicious dishes and a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. This healthy meal is also a great option for those seeking quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pound top round roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 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
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Sear the roast: Pat the top round 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 helps to develop a rich flavor.
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Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine in the slow cooker: Transfer the seared roast and sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary.
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Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the roast is fork-tender. The cooking time will depend on the size of your roast.
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Rest and shred: Once cooked, remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast. Using two forks, shred the meat.
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Serve: Serve the shredded top round roast over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish. You can also thicken the cooking liquid with a cornstarch slurry for a delicious gravy.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a bay leaf to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Remove before serving.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Make it a pot roast: If you prefer a more traditional pot roast, sear the meat as directed, then transfer it to a Dutch oven with the vegetables and liquids. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 2-3 hours, or until tender.
- Different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as potatoes, turnips, or parsnips. Add them to the slow cooker along with the carrots and celery.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy crock pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and healthy meal without sacrificing flavor. It's a great addition to your collection of easy recipes and best recipes for those looking for simple yet satisfying homemade cooking solutions. Enjoy!