As the sun begins to sink below the horizon, the scent of savory spices fills my kitchen, instantly making me feel at home. There’s something exceptionally comforting about the slow cooker Italian chuck roast with peppers and onions; it’s like a warm embrace you can taste. This recipe brings together tender, shredded beef infused with the bold flavors of Italian seasoning, zesty pepperoncini, and a medley of vibrant vegetables.
I stumbled upon this recipe one busy week when I was tired of constant takeout and wanted something hearty without spending all day in the kitchen. With just a bit of prep and the magic of slow cooking, this dish transforms into a flavor-packed feast that fills the house with an inviting aroma as it simmers away.
Perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this chuck roast topped with provolone cheese on toasted hoagie rolls is guaranteed to impress family and friends alike. Dive into this culinary journey, and let’s make your next meal unforgettable!
Why is Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions a Must-Try?
Comforting, Hearty Dish: This recipe serves up a delightfully rich and filling meal that satisfies your hunger and warms the soul.
Effortless Cooking: With just a bit of prep time, your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting for you.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of Italian seasoning, tangy pepperoncini, and tender beef creates a mouthwatering taste experience that’s simply irresistible.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings; everyone will be coming back for seconds!
Versatile Serving Options: Serve on toasted hoagie rolls or over creamy polenta for a delicious twist.
This Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions is not just a recipe; it’s a culinary expressway to comfort food heaven!
Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast Ingredients
• Get ready to savor a dish full of flavor and heartiness!
For the Roast
- 3-pound beef chuck roast – A well-marbled cut that ensures tenderness after hours in the slow cooker.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth of flavor; consider using fresh onions for a sharper taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Perfect for enhancing the savory notes; fresh garlic works wonderfully too!
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning to elevate the dish’s flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper – A staple for a little extra kick in every bite.
For Searing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – Use high-quality oil for better flavor and to ensure browning.
For the Liquid
- 2 cups beef broth – Provides a rich base; homemade broth is fantastic if you have it.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – An umami bomb that enhances the beef flavor beautifully.
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes – Imparts a delightful acidity; canned varieties work just fine.
For the Vegetables
- 10 pepperoncini peppers – Their tang complements the beef; don’t forget a splash of their juice!
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped – Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor; more can be added if desired.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – A mix of herbs that infuse the dish with an Italian flair.
- 3 green bell peppers, chopped – Sweet and crunchy, add more veggies for variety!
- 1 onion, chopped – For added sweetness and depth; yellow onions are perfect here.
For Serving
- 12 hoagie rolls, split lengthwise – Ideal for serving the shredded beef; you can use whole-grain options too.
- 12 slices provolone cheese – Melts beautifully over the warm meat; mozzarella can be a tasty substitute!
This Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions is not just ingredients; it’s the beginning of a hearty meal that brings everyone to the table!
How to Make Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions
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Season the Roast: Liberally coat the beef chuck roast on all sides with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This will enhance the flavors and ensure a savory foundation.
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Sear the Meat: Heat a pan over medium-high heat until scorching hot. Add olive oil, then sear the beef until it’s brown on all sides, about 5 to 10 minutes. Transfer the roast to your slow cooker.
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Deglaze and Add Liquid: Pour the beef broth into the hot pan to deglaze it, scraping up any browned bits. Add the Worcestershire sauce, give it a stir, and pour this mixture over the roast in the slow cooker.
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Mix in Flavorful Ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes, pepperoncini peppers and their juice, chopped garlic, and Italian seasoning to the slow cooker. Gently turn the roast over to coat everything evenly. Cover and cook on High for 4 hours.
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Incorporate Vegetables: After 4 hours, toss in the chopped green bell peppers and onion, mixing them into the sauce. Continue cooking on High for 1 more hour until the veggies are tender.
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Shred and Season the Beef: Once cooked, shred the beef using two forks and taste. Add more salt and pepper if needed. Let the beef and sauce sit on Warm until you’re ready to serve.
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Assemble the Sandwiches: If desired, toast the hoagie rolls. Spoon the shredded beef onto each roll and top with a slice of provolone cheese while still warm for a melty finish.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions Variations
Feel free to mix things up with these tasty twists, making this dish your own!
- Dairy-Free: Omit provolone cheese and use avocado slices for creamy consistency instead.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a delightful heat.
- Veggie-Loaded: Toss in other veggies like mushrooms or zucchini in the last hour for added flavor.
- Italian Twist: Use spicy Italian sausage in place of half the chuck roast for a robust flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added for aromatic depth; toss in during cooking.
- Gluten-Free: Swap hoagie rolls for gluten-free baguettes or serve it over quinoa for a satisfying meal.
- Hearty Substitute: Use a pork shoulder for a different yet deliciously tender result that pairs wonderfully with peppers.
- Tangy Variation: Include balsamic vinegar in the cooking liquid for a surprising twist that elevates the taste.
Experiment with these variations, and discover your perfect bowl of comfort!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the roast and sear it up to 24 hours in advance, storing the roast tightly wrapped in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables a day before and refrigerate them in an airtight container, ensuring freshness without browning issues. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer the seared roast to the slow cooker, add the deglazed broth and other ingredients, and let it cook as planned. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy a hearty, comforting meal on busy weeknights with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions?
Elevate your meal by pairing this aromatic, hearty dish with delightful sides that complement its rich flavors and textures.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery goodness is perfect for soaking up the savory juices from the roast.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and warm, it serves as the ideal vessel for enjoying the robust flavors of the meal.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy and tangy, coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the chuck roast beautifully.
For a true family feast, consider serving a fresh garden salad alongside the roast. A light vinaigrette will add extra zing to your plate!
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil provides a sweet, caramelized flavor that complements the robust beef.
- Italian Red Wine: Enhance the meal with a bold red like Chianti to harmonize with the Italian seasonings and flavors of the roast.
- Cheesecake for Dessert: After such a hearty meal, a light, creamy cheesecake will be a delightful sweet finish, keeping everyone satisfied!
Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions fresh for up to 2 hours after cooking, but be mindful of food safety.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the beef and sauce separate for best texture.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the roast gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring it’s heated through for the best flavor experience.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast
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Choose the Right Cut: Opt for a well-marbled beef chuck roast, as this cut becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked, ensuring your Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions is a hit.
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Searing Matters: Don’t skip the searing step! It enhances the beef’s flavor through the Maillard reaction, adding a rich depth to your dish.
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Adjust Liquid Levels: If your sauce appears too thick during cooking, add a little more beef broth. A balanced consistency ensures every bite of your chuck roast is juicy!
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Seasoning Balance: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Everyone’s palate is different; adding a bit more salt or pepper can elevate the overall taste, making your Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions irresistible.
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Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment! Add other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms, stirring them in during the last hour of cooking for added flavor and texture.
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Perfectly Toasted Rolls: For a delightful crunch, toast your hoagie rolls right before serving. It creates a perfect vessel for the tender shredded beef and gooey provolone cheese!
Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions Recipe FAQs
What type of beef should I use for the Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast?
Absolutely! A well-marbled beef chuck roast is recommended as it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful after slow cooking. The marbling breaks down during the cooking process, adding richness to your dish.
How should I store leftover Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the beef and sauce separate helps maintain the best texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat until warmed through.
Can I freeze my Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers and Onions?
Very! You can freeze portions of the dish in airtight freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave. If you have extra sauce, you can freeze it separately too!
What should I do if my beef isn’t shredding easily?
If you find that the beef isn’t shredding as you expected, it may need more cooking time. Keep the roast in the slow cooker, cover it, and allow it to cook for another 30 minutes to 1 hour on High. This should help break down the fibers more, making it easier to shred.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions like gluten intolerance?
Absolutely! Just ensure you use gluten-free hoagie rolls or serve the beef over gluten-free grains or vegetables. Worcestershire sauce can sometimes contain gluten, so opt for a gluten-free version for added safety. Always check labels if you or someone you’re serving has allergies!
What if I can’t find pepperoncini?
If pepperoncini isn’t available, feel free to swap them with sliced banana peppers for a similar tangy flavor, or add a bit of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. The beauty of cooking is that there’s always room for creativity!
Mouthwatering Slow Cooker Italian Chuck Roast with Peppers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Liberally coat the beef chuck roast on all sides with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil, then sear the beef until it's brown on all sides, about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Pour the beef broth into the hot pan to deglaze it, scraping up any browned bits. Add the Worcestershire sauce and pour this mixture over the roast in the slow cooker.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, pepperoncini peppers and their juice, chopped garlic, and Italian seasoning to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on High for 4 hours.
- After 4 hours, toss in the chopped green bell peppers and onion. Continue cooking on High for 1 more hour until the veggies are tender.
- Once cooked, shred the beef using two forks and taste. Add more salt and pepper if needed.
- Toast the hoagie rolls if desired. Spoon the shredded beef onto each roll and top with a slice of provolone cheese while still warm.