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Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Roast Beef Recipe


  • Author: Emily Carter
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings

Description

Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Roast Beef is a rich, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. The slow-cooked beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, infused with the deep, tangy-sweet notes of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs. This recipe delivers a beautiful balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors with a glossy, caramelized finish that makes each bite irresistible. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option, filling your home with comforting aromas as it slowly cooks to perfection.


Ingredients

  • 3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast (or brisket for a leaner option)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for searing)
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 4 to 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • ¼ cup brown sugar (or honey for a natural sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish

For the Balsamic Glaze:

  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or maple syrup for a deeper flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef: If you have time, sear the beef in a hot skillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes, until a dark crust forms. This step adds a beautiful depth of flavor, but it’s optional if you’re in a hurry. Season the roast generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the seared (or unseared) roast on top.
  3. Mix the Braising Liquid: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and a pinch more salt. Pour this mixture over the beef, ensuring it seeps down around the sides.
  4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 4-6 hours, depending on your schedule. The low setting is recommended for a more tender, fall-apart texture.
  5. Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: About 20-30 minutes before the roast is done, combine ½ cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1 minced garlic clove in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until it reduces to a thick, glossy glaze (about 10-15 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
  6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If the liquid in the slow cooker is too thin, remove the beef and whisk in 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water to the remaining juices. Let it thicken on the high setting for 10-15 minutes.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Slice the roast against the grain for the most tender slices. Drizzle with the reduced balsamic glaze, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, and serve hot.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours (Low)