Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this garlic herb chuck roast will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the slow cooker raw.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Tender and savory. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves roast beef.
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Budget-friendly. Chuck roast is an affordable cut.
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Perfect for holidays and family dinners.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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3 to 3 1/2 pounds beef chuck roast
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1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
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6 cloves garlic, finely minced
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2 teaspoons dried Italian herb blend (or dried thyme and rosemary mixed)
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2 teaspoons kosher salt
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1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Ingredient Notes
Beef chuck roast: Use a 3 to 3 1/2-pound chuck roast. It becomes tender with slow cooking.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor.
Garlic: Adds savory depth.
Italian herbs: Adds aromatic flavor.
Salt and pepper: Season the roast.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Place the Roast
Set a 5- to 7-quart slow cooker on the counter and place the beef chuck roast in the center, fat side up.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and minced garlic. Melt the butter until fully melted and warm.
Step 3: Season the Butter
Stir the dried Italian herb blend into the melted garlic butter, along with the salt and black pepper, until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Add the Butter
Pour the warm garlic herb butter over the top of the raw chuck roast, coating the surface and letting the butter run down the sides.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 9 hours, or on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours, until the roast is very tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Carefully lift the roast onto a cutting board. Let it rest for about 10 minutes. Slice against the grain or pull into large chunks. Skim excess fat from the cooking juices if desired. Serve with the warm juices spooned over the top.
How to Serve Garlic Herb Chuck Roast
This tender, savory roast is delicious on its own, but the right sides make it a complete meal.
With Mashed Potatoes: The juices are perfect over creamy potatoes.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with carrots or green beans.
With Rice: White rice or jasmine rice absorbs the juices.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the juices.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Different Herbs: Use rosemary or thyme.
Make It with Garlic: Add extra garlic.
Make It with Onion: Add sliced onions.
Make It with Wine: Add red wine to the slow cooker.
Make It with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms.
Make It with Carrots: Add carrots.
Make It with Potatoes: Add potatoes.
Make It Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Make It in a Dutch Oven: Bake at 325°F for 3 to 4 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Place the roast fat side up. This bastes the meat as it cooks.
Do not lift the lid during cooking. This traps the heat and steam.
Let the roast rest before slicing. This keeps it moist.
Slice against the grain. This ensures tenderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different roast?
Yes. Rump roast or brisket can be used.
Can I use a different butter?
Yes. Salted butter can be used.
Can I use a different herb?
Yes. Thyme or rosemary can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my roast tough?
It did not cook long enough. Cook until fork-tender.
Why is my juice thin?
The meat released too much moisture. Let it rest.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add carrots or potatoes.
Can I use a different pan?
This recipe is designed for a slow cooker.
The Beauty of Slow Cooker Roasts
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, tender roast that falls apart at the touch of a fork. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This garlic herb chuck roast is a celebration of all those things.
Keep beef in your freezer. Keep butter, garlic, and herbs in your kitchen. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–9 hours on LOW or 4–5 hours on HIGH
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 8 to 9 hours
Yield: 6 servings