Description

Slow Cooker Balsamic Beef is a melt-in-your-mouth, savory dish made with tender beef slow-cooked in a rich balsamic vinegar-based sauce. This dish is perfect for busy days, served over mashed potatoes, rice, or in sandwiches. It’s a hands-off, flavorful meal that infuses the beef with deep, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

2 lbs beef chuck roast (or brisket or round)
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1/2 cup beef broth
3 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, and sear on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to the slow cooker.
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and thyme. Pour the sauce over the beef in the slow cooker.
Slow Cook the Beef: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and can be easily shredded.
Shred the Beef: Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the sauce in the slow cooker, stirring to coat.
Serve: Serve the balsamic beef over mashed potatoes, rice, or on a bun for sandwiches. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Notes

Add Vegetables: Add carrots, onions, or potatoes to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce for heat.Different Cuts of Beef: Substitute chuck roast with brisket or round for a similar slow-cooked beef dish.