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Easy Creamy Beef Crockpot Dinner Recipe

Beef Crockpot Dinner Recipe

This beef crockpot dinner recipe is an effortless, family-friendly meal where tender chuck roast is slow-cooked with aromatic vegetables and herbs in a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it transforms affordable cuts of beef into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece with plenty of flexibility to customize.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • Large skillet,

Ingredients
  

Beef

  • 2-3 lbs beef chuck roast or similar cut of beef like brisket or round roast
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Vegetables

  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 carrots peeled and chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 2 lbs potatoes peeled and quartered, optional

Liquids and Seasonings

  • 4 cups beef broth can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 leaf bay leaf
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned to develop flavor and a caramelized crust.
  • Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  • Transfer the seared beef and sautéed vegetables to the crockpot.
  • Pour the beef broth into the crockpot. Add tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper.
  • If using, add the potatoes making sure the ingredients are mostly submerged in liquid.
  • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
  • Remove the beef from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. If it doesn't shred easily, cook for longer.
  • Return shredded beef to the crockpot and stir to combine with the sauce and vegetables.
  • Let simmer in the crockpot for another 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Notes

For thicker sauce, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Adjust seasonings to taste near the end. Try vegan variation by substituting beef with lentils or chickpeas and using vegetable broth. Add spices such as red pepper flakes or chili powder for heat.
Keyword Beef, Budget, Comfort Food, Crockpot, Family-Friendly, Healthy, Slow Cooker