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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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)