Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dish that requires minimal effort, this slow cooker chuck roast recipe is perfect for you. The combination of spices and banana peppers infuses the beef with delicious flavor, while the slow cooking method ensures that the meat becomes tender and easy to shred. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that the whole family will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 pounds chuck roast
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon parsley
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
14-ounce can low sodium beef broth
1 cup sliced banana peppers with juice
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 7 to 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high
Total Time: 7 to 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chuck Roast
Place the chuck roast in the slow cooker ensuring it lies flat and isn’t folded.
Step 2: Season the Roast
Sprinkle the chuck roast evenly with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, parsley, and Italian seasoning. Rub the seasonings into the meat for better flavor penetration.
Step 3: Add Beef Broth
Pour the low sodium beef broth around the chuck roast in the slow cooker. Be careful not to wash the seasonings off the meat.
Step 4: Add Banana Peppers
Top the roast with the sliced banana peppers. Pour the juice from the banana pepper jar over the roast to enhance flavor.
Step 5: Set the Cooking Temperature
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The roast should be tender and easily shred with a fork when done.
Step 6: Shred the Meat
Once cooked, remove the roast from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Mix the shredded meat back into the juices in the slow cooker to keep it moist.
Notes
Note 1: Choosing the Right Roast
Chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking as it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow.
Note 2: Flavor Variations
Feel free to add other spices or vegetables, such as bell peppers or onions, for additional flavor.
Note 3: Serving Suggestions
This shredded roast can be served on sandwich rolls, with rice, or over a bed of mashed potatoes.
Note 4: Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking involves preparing food at a low temperature for an extended period. This technique is ideal for tougher cuts of meat, like chuck roast, as it allows the collagen to break down, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes.
Seasoning
Seasoning is crucial for enhancing the flavor of meats. In this recipe, a blend of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, parsley, and Italian seasoning is used to create a rich flavor profile that complements the beef.
Layering Ingredients
Layering ingredients, such as placing sliced banana peppers on top of the chuck roast, allows their flavors to infuse into the meat as it cooks. This method adds depth and tanginess to the dish.
Shredding Meat
Shredding the cooked chuck roast after slow cooking allows it to absorb more of the juices in the slow cooker, enhancing its texture and flavor. Use two forks to pull the meat apart easily.
Using Juices for Flavor
Incorporating the juices from the slow cooker into the shredded meat ensures that every bite is moist and flavorful. This step is essential in lifting the overall taste of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round roast, but cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and fat content of the meat.
Can I cook it on high for a shorter time?
Yes, cooking on high for about 4 hours is an option. However, slow cooking on low for 7 to 8 hours typically yields more tender results.
What can I substitute for banana peppers?
You can substitute banana peppers with jalapeños for a spicier kick, or use mild pepperoncini for similar tanginess without added heat.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or onions can be added to the slow cooker to make it a complete meal. Just layer them underneath or around the meat.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, the shredded meat can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This flavorful slow-cooked chuck roast dish, enriched with Italian seasoning and the tangy kick of banana peppers, results in tender, shredded meat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether served on a bun or atop rice, it’s a hearty meal that satisfies with its rich, savory profile.
Banana Pepper Beef Tacos
Use the shredded chuck roast as a filling for tacos. Serve with corn tortillas, topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime.
Italian Beef Sandwiches
Pile the shredded meat onto a crusty baguette, adding sliced provolone cheese and pickled vegetables for a delicious Italian beef sandwich.
Slow Cooker Beef and Rice Bowl
Serve the shredded chuck roast over a bed of rice, drizzling the cooking juices on top and garnishing with green onions for added flavor.
Banana Pepper Beef Quesadillas
Use the tender meat and cheese between tortillas, grill until golden brown, and serve with sour cream and salsa for a tasty quesadilla treat.
Beef and Pepper Pasta
Mix the shredded roast with cooked pasta and a light tomato sauce for a comforting beef and pepper pasta dish that’s great for any night of the week.
