Delicious Italian Red Wine Roast Beef Recipe
Are you tired of the same old boring pot roast recipe? Do you want to spice up your dinner routine with some Italian flavor? Then, my friend, you have come to the right place.
In this recipe, I will show you how to make the best Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef. This dish is not only easy and stress-free but also packed full of flavor that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
The secret ingredient for this recipe is red wine. It adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender beef and fragrant herbs. Trust me; it’s a game-changer.
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves hearty and comforting meals. You can throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic while you go about your day. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday dinner.
I promise you won’t be disappointed with this Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef. So, put on your apron and let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for the perfect comfort food to warm you up on a cold winter night? Or perhaps an easy and fuss-free meal to feed a hungry crowd? Look no further than this Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef Recipe.
With its juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, savory flavor, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The secret ingredient is, of course, the red wine, which not only infuses the beef with a depth of flavor but also makes for a deliciously rich and savory sauce that can be drizzled over rice, pasta or even bread.
Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. All you need is a slow cooker and some simple ingredients like salt, fresh ground black pepper, onion, dried herbs and of course the star of the show: red wine.
It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and filling but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Simply throw everything into the slow cooker in the morning or early afternoon and let it cook low and slow until dinner time. It’s virtually foolproof.
Plus, this recipe is highly versatile. You can serve it with any kind of side dishes you prefer – from roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes to creamy polenta or crusty bread. It’s the ultimate meal for any occasion – from casual dinners with family to special gatherings with friends.
So why settle for boring old pot roast when you can indulge in the comforting aromas of Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef? Trust me; once you take that first bite of this amazing dish, it will become your new favorite recipe. Give it a try today!
Ingredient List
Here is what you’ll need to make this Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef recipe:
Meat:
- 3-4 pounds beef round roast
Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, sliced thinly
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
Liquids:
- 1/2 cup red wine (Cabernet)
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
SECRET INGREDIENT:
- Tuscan Italian Dressing Mix – this seasoning packet will bring out the perfect flavor and aroma in your Italian pot roast!
Optional Add-ins and Substitutes:
If you want to add more flavors or switch things up a bit, here are some ideas for what you could add or substitute with in this recipe:
Add-ins:
- Carrots
- Mushrooms
- Potatoes
Substitutes:
- Instead of beef: chuck roast, rump roast, or sirloin roast.
- Instead of water: beef broth or red wine.
- Instead of Worcestershire: soy sauce or balsamic vinegar.
Make sure to adjust seasoning to your preference if substituting.
The Recipe How-To
Before starting to cook, trim any excess fat from the beef roast using sharp knives. The excess fat will not add any significant flavor to your dish and can make it greasy.
Next, season your meat with dried marjoram, thyme, basil, fresh ground black pepper and salt on all sides for maximum flavors.
Get a large skillet, put 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium to high heat and sear the beef until brown on all sides. This helps lock in the juices in the meat and forms a crust that will give your roast a wonderful texture.
Preparing the Sauce
Deglaze the pan by transferring it into your slow cooker and add about ½ cup of red wine cabernet into the skillet over high heat when all sides of beef are browned well.
Use a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape up any remaining bits stuck to the bottom of your skillet, allow the red wine to reduce for about 2-3 minutes while occasionally stirring.
When it is done reducing, pour the sauce over the browned beef inside your slow cooker.
Slow Cooking The Roast Beef
To really bring out the flavors in this recipe, cook it low and slow for around 8 hours. Add 2 cups of water or beef broth along with 1 thinly sliced small onion over top of beef.
Next, turn on your slow cooker on its low setting and let it cook through. For best results, check after six hours to see if more liquid is needed but do not check too often as you may release heat as well as lengthen cooking time.
Finishing Touches
After cooking has finished, remove the roast beef from your slow cooker and keep it tented with foil until ready to serve. Pour excess liquid into a small pan and simmer for a few minutes until liquid is reduced to make red wine sauce.
Slice the beef in thin strips and serve with a generous amount of the red wine sauce poured over top. Enjoy your delicious, melt-in-your-mouth Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef!
Substitutions and Variations
Welcome to the world of possibilities! This recipe has a lot of room for customization, so here are some substitutions and variations to inspire your culinary creativity.
– Meat: instead of beef round roast, you can use other cuts such as chuck roast or sirloin roast. The cooking time and temperature may need to be adjusted accordingly.
– Herbs: if you don’t have marjoram, thyme or basil, you can use other dried herbs such as rosemary, oregano or sage. You can also use fresh herbs if you have them.
– Wine: the recipe calls for red wine, but you can experiment with different types of red wine such as cabernet sauvignon, merlot or pinot noir. You can also use white wine or beer as substitutes.
– Liquid: instead of water, you can use beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth. For more flavor, you can also add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes or balsamic vinegar.
– Vegetables: in addition to onion, you can add other vegetables to the slow cooker such as carrots, celery or potatoes. You can also add garlic or bell peppers for more flavor.
– Spices: if you like heat, you can add cayenne pepper or chili powder. For a smoky taste, you can add paprika or liquid smoke.
– Pasta dish: Instead of serving simply with vegetables as traditional sides to roasts , this beef ragu – perfect comfort food for wine season – pairs equally well with pasta dishes. Serve it over ravioli, spaghetti and enjoy it with a glass (or two) of Italian red wine
Remember that cooking is an art form and substitutions and variations are just ways to make a recipe your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover new flavors!
Serving and Pairing
The slow cooker Italian red wine roast beef recipe is a heart-warming dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Once the beef is cooked to perfection, it can be served with a variety of sides.
Steamed veggies like carrots, green beans or bell peppers make for a wholesome side, as well as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes or comforting mac and cheese. The rich flavors of the beef pair especially well with starchy side dishes; you won’t get enough of this savory combination.
For wine pairing, reach for a bold red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot that can match the depth of flavors in the dish. The same bottle of medium-bodied Italian red wine used in the recipe could also do the trick should you wish to avoid opening another bottle.
If you’re looking to elevate your dinner party or special occasion menu, consider serving this slow-cooked pot roast with an aged Chianti Classico, Barolo or Brunello di Montalcino. These bottles will not only complement but also highlight the complexity of the dish.
No matter what your preferred beverage pairing may be, this flavorful, fall-apart roast beef dish is sure to impress everyone at the table – and to leave them wanting more!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
The Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef is one of the dishes that reheats like a dream, making it perfect for make-ahead meals that are both flavorful and easy. The secret to this meal is in the slow cook, which tenderizes even the toughest of beef cuts. It is important to follow guidelines when it comes to make-ahead, storing, and reheating this dish.
When it comes to making ahead of time, the Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef is perfect for preparing the night before serving. With just a few easy steps, prep time is minimised so when it is time to serve, all you need to do is reheat and serve. Once cooked, let the beef cool down completely before placing it in an airtight container or a ziplock bag. It can be stored in the fridge for up to four days or in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating the roast beef couldn’t be simpler—just pop it in the oven! Preheat your oven and place the beef in an oven-safe dish. Add some liquid such as a beef broth or water, then tightly wrap the dish with foil to keep everything moist during reheating. Reheat at 350F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes per 1-inch thickness.
Another option for reheating is using a microwave oven. Transfer a portion of roast beef onto a microwave-safe plate and cover with a paper towel or cling film. Heat on full power for 30 seconds intervals, checking after each round until desired temperature is achieved.
In summary, this Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef recipe truly makes for a perfect make-ahead meal. This delicious and nutritious dinner idea can be stored and reheated easily without compromising its flavor and texture. Whether you’re planning ahead for meal prep or even saving leftovers from tonight’s dinner party, rest assured that your Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef will stay fresh and tasty for days to come.
Tips for Perfect Results
One of the keys to making this Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef Recipe is to choose the right cut of beef. I recommend using a chuck or beef round roast, as they are great for slow cooking, which allows the meat to become tender and juicy.
When making this dish, it’s important to season the beef before placing it in the slow cooker. I recommend using fresh ground black pepper, salt, dried marjoram, dried thyme, and dried basil for best results. These herbs and spices will add a delicious depth of flavor to the meat.
Another tip is to deglaze the pan that was used to sear the meat before adding it to the slow cooker. This is important as it will help release any bits of meat or seasoning that may have stuck to the pan during the searing process. You can use a cup of red wine or beef broth to do this, which will add even more flavor to the dish.
To ensure that your roast beef cooks properly and is evenly flavored throughout, I recommend stirring the ingredients occasionally while cooking. This will also help prevent any dry spots from forming on the meat.
Adding ½ cup of red wine (Cabernet is recommended) while cooking will give the dish a rich, full-bodied flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef. Additionally, don’t be afraid to add more liquid if needed so that your roast remains tender and juicy.
Lastly, be sure to let your roast rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing it. This will allow time for the juices in the meat to redistribute throughout, resulting in an even more flavorful and juicy final product. By following these tips, you’ll be able to make a truly delicious Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef recipe in no time!
FAQ
Now, it’s time to answer some frequently asked questions about this recipe. These will help you troubleshoot any issues or doubts that may arise while making the Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef. Let’s dive in!
What is the best red wine to cook roast beef?
When it comes to beef roast, it’s best to pair it with dry, full-bodied wines that have a robust tannin structure. Fresh Merlot and Pinot Noir are excellent choices with their intense hues and fruity notes. Aged varieties may not be as suitable, but younger options will complement the dish well.
Does red wine cook off in slow cooker?
When it comes to slow cooking dishes that call for red wine, it’s best to avoid adding the wine directly to the slow cooker. This is because the lower temperature setting can cause the alcohol to overpower the flavor of the dish. To avoid this, a better approach is to sear the meat on the stovetop and deglaze the pan with the red wine before transferring everything to the slow cooker. This method allows the wine to cook down and develop flavors without being too overpowering.
What wine is best for slow cook beef?
When it comes to pairing wine with beef dishes that are slow cooked or braised to perfection with a tender texture, I highly recommend going for a wine that is rich in flavor and has a peppery spice. The cool climate Shiraz is a great choice, but you can also opt for Mediterranean favorites such as Sangiovese or Tempranillo. Each of these wines can bring out the flavors of the beef dish and enhance your overall dining experience.
Why is my beef roast tough in slow cooker?
If you’re finding your crock pot roast tough, it’s very likely that you’ve not cooked it for long enough. Some cuts of meat such as boneless chuck roasts will never be completely tender. So, cook it for some more time and it should be okay!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef Recipe is a must-add to your dinner recipes. The perfect blend of red wine and Italian seasonings creates a mouth-watering aroma that will excite your senses. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavors, you won’t be able to resist a second serving.
Moreover, this recipe’s versatility allows you to experiment with different substitutions and variations, making it easy to tailor it to your preferences. You can serve the roast beef with a variety of sides or use it in other dishes like pasta or beef ragu.
Also, do not underestimate the importance of wine pairing – this recipe pairs exceptionally well with a glass of red wine.
Lastly, with its slow-cooked braised beef feature, it’s an excellent choice for busy days when you need a hearty meal without too much fuss. Simply prepare the ingredients and let your slow cooker do its job.
Try this best slow cooker italian pot roast recipe today and elevate your dinner game effortlessly!
Slow Cooker Italian Red Wine Roast Beef Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 lbs beef round roast
- 1 small onion, sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup red wine (cabernet is good)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
Instructions
- Combine all the spices in a small bowl. Stir to combine and set aside. Place the roast in the bottom of a crockpot or dutch oven. Sprinkle the spices all over the roast, turning to coat thoroughly. Top the roast with the onions and pour the wine and water into the bottom of the pot.
- CROCKPOT: Cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the meat is falling apart. When the meat is done cooking, shred gently and then toss in the juices to keep it moist.
- OVEN: Preheat to 350 and then cover and bake for 3 hours. Check the meat and if it needs more liquid, add a bit more water. Cook another hour or so, until the meat is falling apart. When the meat is done cooking, shred gently and then toss in the juices to keep it moist.
- I have serve the shredded meat over mashed potatoes or in buns as a sandwich.