Discover a delicious way to enjoy healthy crock pot dinners with this incredibly easy balsamic roast beef. You’ll love how tender and flavorful this dish is, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a special occasion. Prepare to impress your family with minimal effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Beef Roast: A chuck roast or round roast works best for shredding.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Provides the signature tangy sweetness. Apple cider vinegar can be a substitute in a pinch.
- Beef Broth: Adds moisture and depth of flavor. Vegetable broth can be used instead.
- Garlic: Use fresh cloves for the best taste; garlic powder can be an alternative.
- Onion: Yellow or sweet onions are ideal.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 3-4 lb chuck roast or round roast
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (high) or 8 hours 15 minutes (low)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-8 hours
- Servings: 6-8
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 (depending on cut of beef)
- Tools Needed: Crock pot (slow cooker), large skillet (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Roast
Pat your beef roast dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. This step enhances the overall flavor of your healthy crock pot dinner.
2. Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended)
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned roast on all sides until browned. This creates a delicious crust and locks in juices.
3. Layer the Crock Pot
Place the sliced onions at the bottom of your crock pot. This creates a flavorful bed for the roast. You are setting up for a truly amazing healthy crock pot meal.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients
Transfer the seared roast (or unseared, if skipping step 2) to the crock pot on top of the onions. Pour in the beef broth and balsamic vinegar, then scatter the minced garlic over the roast.
5. Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the roast is fork-tender and easily shreddable. Your kitchen will smell incredible as this healthy crock pot dinner cooks.
6. Shred and Serve
Once cooked, remove the roast from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the crock pot with the cooking liquid to keep it moist and flavorful. Serve warm and enjoy your healthy crock pot creation.
Variation Ideas:
- Add baby carrots and potatoes to the crock pot for a complete meal.
- Stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or in sandwiches.
- For an extra aromatic touch, add a bay leaf to the cooking liquid.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Crock Pot Balsamic Roast Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to maintain moisture. This makes for excellent meal prep for healthy crock pot dinners throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use frozen beef?
It’s best to thaw your roast completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor.
What if my roast isn’t shredding easily?
This means it needs more cooking time. Continue cooking until it’s fork-tender.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep. The flavors often deepen overnight.
What side dishes pair well with this?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a simple side salad are all great choices.
Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
Absolutely! It reheats beautifully and provides several healthy crock pot dinner servings.
Can I reduce the amount of balsamic vinegar?
You can reduce it slightly, but the balsamic vinegar is key to the dish’s signature flavor.