🥩 Italian-Style Pot Roast
A rich, tender, and flavorful pot roast slow-cooked in a savory red wine and tomato-based sauce, infused with Italian herbs. Perfect for a cozy, hearty meal!
📝 Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
For the Pot Roast:
- 3-4 lb beef pot roast (chuck roast or brisket works best)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
- Pat the pot roast dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker on medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef for 4-5 minutes per side, until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
- In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
- Pour in red wine, scraping the bottom to release the browned bits.
- Add beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Roast
- Return the seared beef to the pot and cover with the sauce.
- Oven Method: Cover and cook at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours.
- Slow Cooker Method: Cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.
- Instant Pot Method: Cook on HIGH pressure for 60 minutes, then natural release for 15 minutes.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
- 1 hour before serving, add carrots and potatoes to the pot.
- Let them cook until tender.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove the roast and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with the vegetables and drizzle the flavorful sauce over the top.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
✔ Serve with buttered noodles, polenta, or crusty Italian bread.
✔ Pair with a glass of red wine for an authentic Italian experience.
✔ Add a side of roasted garlic green beans for extra veggies.
💡 Recipe Tips & Variations
⭐ Thicker Sauce? – Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water and stir into the sauce at the end.
⭐ Extra Richness? – Add 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar for deeper flavor.
⭐ Gluten-Free Option? – Ensure the broth and wine are gluten-free, or substitute wine with extra broth.
⚖️ Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 45g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fats: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
💪 Health Benefits
✔ High in Protein – Supports muscle growth and keeps you full.
✔ Rich in Antioxidants – Red wine and herbs provide heart-healthy benefits.
✔ Balanced Meal – Includes protein, fiber, and essential nutrients from veggies.
❓ Q&A
❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors get even better the next day. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months.
❓ Can I skip the red wine?
Absolutely! Just replace it with extra beef broth.
❓ What cut of beef works best?
Chuck roast is the best for tenderness, but brisket or bottom round also work.
Would you like a wine pairing recommendation or more side dish ideas? Let me know! 😊🍷