What can I make with 3 lbs of chuck roast in a slow cooker to feed 7 people besides pot roast?
By Holly Owens
When you're tasked with feeding a group of seven, a 3-pound chuck roast can be a versatile and practical choice. Typically, chuck roast is used to make pot roast, a classic dish with hearty vegetables and rich gravy. However, if you're looking to break away from tradition and try something new, your slow cooker can be the perfect tool to create a variety of delicious meals that are sure to impress your guests.
From savory stews to flavorful tacos, the options for transforming a chuck roast are virtually endless. Whether you're in the mood for something spicy, sweet, or savory, there's a dish that will cater to every palate. Below, we've compiled a list of creative recipes that will help you make the most of your chuck roast, ensuring that each serving is satisfying and packed with flavor.
1. Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Beef stew is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd. To make a delicious slow cooker beef stew, you will need your 3 lbs of chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes. Begin by browning the beef in a skillet with a bit of oil to lock in the juices, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Add 4 cups of beef broth, 2 large diced carrots, 3 diced potatoes, 1 diced onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Season with 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, and 2 teaspoons of dried thyme.
Let the stew cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Serve the stew hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.
2. Shredded Beef Tacos
Transform your chuck roast into a mouth-watering filling for tacos. Place the 3 lbs of chuck roast in the slow cooker and add 1 cup of beef broth, the juice of 2 limes, 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, and 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste, and 2 chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky kick.
Cook on low for 8-10 hours until the beef is fall-apart tender. Shred the beef using two forks and serve it in warm corn tortillas. Top with your choice of fresh cilantro, diced onions, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime. These tacos are perfect for a casual dinner with friends.
3. Beef Stroganoff
Beef Stroganoff is a creamy and savory dish that pairs well with noodles or rice. Start by cutting the chuck roast into strips and placing it in the slow cooker. Add 1 cup of beef broth, 1 cup of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 cup of sliced mushrooms. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika.
Cook on low for 7-8 hours until the beef is tender. If the sauce is too thin, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a bit of water and stir it into the beef mixture. Serve over egg noodles or rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.
4. Barbecue Beef Sandwiches
Barbecue beef sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort. Place the chuck roast in the slow cooker and cover it with 2 cups of your favorite barbecue sauce. Add 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar for extra flavor.
Cook on low for 8-10 hours until the meat is tender and can be easily shredded. Serve the shredded beef on toasted buns with coleslaw and extra barbecue sauce for a tangy, sweet, and savory sandwich.
5. Beef and Vegetable Soup
For a healthy and filling option, try making beef and vegetable soup. Cut the chuck roast into bite-sized pieces and add them to the slow cooker along with 4 cups of beef broth, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 2 diced carrots, 2 diced celery stalks, 1 diced onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Season with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of oregano.
Cook on low for 8 hours. Add 1 cup of frozen peas and 1 cup of corn during the last hour of cooking. This soup is nutritious and perfect for those chilly days.
6. Korean Beef Bulgogi
Korean Beef Bulgogi can be easily adapted for the slow cooker. Slice the chuck roast thinly and place it in the slow cooker. In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. Pour the sauce over the beef.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Once done, serve the tender beef over steamed rice, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an authentic Korean flavor.
7. French Dip Sandwiches
French Dip sandwiches are a classic choice for a hearty meal. Place the chuck roast in the slow cooker and add 4 cups of beef broth, 1 sliced onion, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of garlic powder.
Cook on low for 8 hours, then shred the beef. Serve the beef on crusty rolls with a side of the cooking liquid for dipping. This dish is simple yet incredibly flavorful.
8. Beef Ragu with Pasta
To make a rich beef ragu, start by browning the chuck roast in a pan. Transfer it to the slow cooker and add 1 can of crushed tomatoes, 1 cup of red wine, 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook on low for 8 hours until the beef is tender. Shred the meat and return it to the sauce. Serve the ragu over your favorite pasta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Beef Chili
Chili is a robust and spicy dish that is perfect for feeding a large group. Cube the chuck roast and place it in the slow cooker with 1 can of kidney beans, 1 can of black beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of cumin, and 1 chopped onion.
Cook on low for 8 hours. Adjust the seasoning to taste with salt and pepper. Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions.
10. Asian-Inspired Beef Lettuce Wraps
For a light and flavorful meal, try beef lettuce wraps. Place the chuck roast in the slow cooker and add 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of sriracha for heat.
Cook on low for 8 hours, then shred the beef. Serve the meat in large lettuce leaves with shredded carrots, chopped peanuts, and cilantro for a fresh and delightful meal.
11. Beef and Potato Curry
Beef and potato curry is a fragrant and filling dish that can be easily prepared in a slow cooker. Add cubed chuck roast to the slow cooker along with 2 diced potatoes, 1 can of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of curry powder, and 1 chopped onion.
Cook on low for 8 hours. Stir in a handful of fresh spinach leaves just before serving. Enjoy the curry over steamed rice for a comforting and exotic meal.
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