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Easy Balsamic Beef in a Slow Cooker

Easy Balsamic Beef in a Slow Cooker

3.80 from 5 votes
Tender, flavorful beef slow-cooked in a rich balsamic glaze—this effortless recipe delivers melt-in-your-mouth results with minimal prep. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2.5 lb beef chuck roast trimmed of excess fat
  • 0.5 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 0.25 cup brown sugar packed
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce low sodium preferred
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for searing (optional)

Method
 

Steps
  1. Pat the beef roast dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, thyme, and black pepper.
  4. Pour the balsamic mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or on HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
  6. Remove the beef and shred with two forks. Skim excess fat from the sauce if desired, then return the beef to the slow cooker to absorb more flavor before serving.

Notes

Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.