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"Tender beef cooked to perfection in just 3 hours using a slow cooker."

Can you slow cook beef in 3 hours?


  • Author: thomes
  • Total Time: Prep + Cook
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Description

This slow-cooked beef is tender, juicy, and full of rich flavors. Perfect for hearty meals, this dish is slow-cooked to perfection, making it ideal for stews, sandwiches, or served over mashed potatoes. Whether you’re using a slow cooker, oven, or stovetop, this recipe ensures melt-in-your-mouth beef with minimal effort.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck roast (or brisket)
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
  • 2 carrots, chopped (optional)
  • 2 potatoes, diced (optional)

Instructions

  • Sear the Beef:

    • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Sear the beef on all sides until browned (about 3 minutes per side).
  • Prepare the Slow Cooker:

    • Place sliced onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes in the slow cooker.
    • Add the seared beef on top.
  • Make the Sauce:

    • In a bowl, mix beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, tomato paste, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
    • Pour over the beef in the slow cooker.
  • Slow Cook:

    • Low Setting: Cook for 6-8 hours (preferred for the most tender beef).
    • High Setting: Cook for 3-4 hours (if short on time).
  • Shred & Serve:

    • Once done, shred the beef with two forks and mix with the sauce.
    • Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Notes

  • For more flavor: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the broth.
  • Thicker sauce: Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with water and stir into the sauce 30 minutes before serving.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) / 3-4 hours (high)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Slow-cooked beef, tender beef, crockpot beef, beef stew, shredded beef