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Italian Pot Roast

Savory Italian Pot Roast That Melts in Your Mouth

This Italian Pot Roast is a melt-in-your-mouth dish that embodies the rich flavors of Italy, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Base Flavor
  • 4 oz Bacon Adds a smoky richness; optional if you prefer a lighter dish.
  • 3 lbs Beef (Chuck) The ideal cut for braising to achieve melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Pepper
For the Aromatic Veggies
  • 1 medium Onion Provides a sweet and savory base.
  • 2 medium Carrot Adds natural sweetness.
  • 2 stalks Celery Complements the mirepoix base.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic offers the best aroma and flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Optional spice for just the right kick.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Must for moisture and flavor.
  • 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes Forms the sauce base.
For the Herbs
  • 2 sprigs Thyme Fresh herbs provide a fragrant aroma.
  • 2 sprigs Rosemary
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Infuses the dish with authentic flavors.
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaves Always remember to remove them before serving.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • slow cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Step 1: In a large Dutch oven, heat to medium and add diced bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes, then remove and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Season your chuck roast with salt and pepper, then sear in hot bacon grease for 4-6 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and let rest.
  3. Step 3: In the same pot, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery for 7-10 minutes. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for another minute.
  4. Step 4: Stir in beef broth and crushed tomatoes along with thyme, rosemary, and Italian seasoning. Return bacon and seared beef to pot.
  5. Step 5: Choose cooking method: simmer on stovetop for 2-4 hours, bake at 275°F for 2-4 hours, or slow cook on LOW for 8-10 hours.
  6. Step 6: Once fork-tender, taste and adjust seasoning. Remove bay leaves and serve over creamy polenta, pasta, or mashed potatoes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 45gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

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