Slow-Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Roast
This slow-cooker garlic butter beef roast is the ultimate comfort food that practically cooks itself. With tender, fall-apart beef infused with aromatic garlic and herbs, plus vegetables that soak up all the delicious flavors, this one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 pound beef chuck roast
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 carrots, cut into chunks
- 3 potatoes, cut into chunks
Instructions
- Pat the beef roast dry with paper towels and season all over with salt and black pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the roast on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and remaining 4 tablespoons of butter until combined.
- Rub the garlic butter mixture all over the roast.
- Pour the beef broth into the slow cooker around the roast.
- Add the onion, carrots, and potatoes around the roast.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, until the beef is very tender and falls apart easily.
- Remove the roast and vegetables with a slotted spoon and serve with the cooking liquid spooned over top.
Practical Tips
Tip 1: For extra tender results, let the roast rest in the slow cooker for 15 minutes after cooking before serving. This allows the meat fibers to relax and retain their juices.
Tip 2: Browning the roast before slow cooking creates a flavorful crust that enhances the overall depth of the dish. Do not skip this step for best results.
Tip 3: If you prefer thicker cooking liquid, remove the roast and vegetables, then simmer the liquid in a saucepan for 10 to 15 minutes to reduce it, or whisk in a cornstarch slurry.
How to Store It
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The roast actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. You can also freeze the entire dish, including the cooking liquid, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the slow cooker.
Common Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef? Chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking because it has enough marbling to become tender and flavorful. Other good options include brisket or beef round, though cooking times may vary slightly depending on thickness.
What if I do not have fresh garlic? You can substitute with 2 to 3 teaspoons of garlic powder, though fresh garlic provides superior flavor. Add it to the butter mixture in step 3.
Can I cook this on high heat instead? Yes, you can cook on high for 4 to 5 hours, but low and slow cooking produces more tender results and allows flavors to meld beautifully.