Pour This Simple Mixture Over Beef Chuck and Let the Slow Cooker Do the Rest
There’s something incredibly satisfying about placing fresh beef into a slow cooker, pouring a glossy, herb-flecked sauce over it, and knowing dinner is essentially handled. This recipe centers on one flavor-packed sauce—a perfect balance of savory depth, gentle sweetness, and garlicky richness that turns simple beef chuck into tender, fall-apart comfort food.
No browning necessary (unless you prefer it). No complicated prep. Just layers of flavor developing on their own while you go about your day.
Slow Cooker Beef Chuck: Easy, Hearty Comfort 🥘
Sauce Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Beef broth | ½ cup |
| Soy sauce | ¼ cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Brown sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp |
| Dried rosemary | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | Pinch |
Whisk together until smooth and slightly glossy.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Add 2½–3 pounds of beef chuck (cut into large chunks) and 1 large diced onion to the slow cooker. Spread evenly.
Step 2: Pour the Sauce
Drizzle the garlic-herb mixture over the beef, ensuring everything is well coated.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
As it cooks, the meat releases juices that blend with the sauce, forming a rich, flavorful gravy.
As It Simmer Cooks
- Soy sauce and Worcestershire create deep savory notes.
- Garlic becomes mellow and slightly sweet.
- Brown sugar rounds out the flavors.
- Herbs infuse warmth throughout.
The end result? An irresistible aroma filling your kitchen and beef that practically shreds itself.
Serving Suggestions
This dish works beautifully:
- Spoon over mashed potatoes
- Toss with buttered egg noodles
- Layer onto crusty rolls for sandwiches
- Serve over rice
- Fill tacos and drizzle with extra sauce
Tip: For a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and stir it in during the final 15 minutes of cooking.
Why It Works
- Balanced flavors: savory, slightly sweet, garlicky, and herb-forward.
- The sauce cooks directly with the beef, infusing it from the inside out.
- The slow cooker handles everything, delivering a comforting meal with minimal effort.
