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Fork-Tender Juicy Beef That Cooks Itself


  • Author: Sara McKenney
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings

Description

Craving a deeply flavorful, low-effort meal? This Fork-Tender Juicy Beef That Cooks Itself is the definition of comfort food. With a rich, savory sauce and meat so tender it falls apart with just a fork, this dish is perfect for anyone looking for a quick dinner idea, slow cooker meal, or easy recipe for weeknight dinners. Whether served over mashed potatoes, wrapped in tortillas, or piled into sandwiches, it’s a versatile dinner recipe you’ll want in your rotation. Great for meal prep, family dinners, or when you just want something hearty and satisfying with minimal effort.


Ingredients

34 pounds beef chuck roast

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large yellow onion, sliced

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup beef broth

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon soy sauce

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Red pepper flakes (optional)

Fresh parsley for garnish


Instructions

1. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper. Sear on all sides in olive oil over medium-high heat until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side.

2. Remove the beef and sauté onions in the same pan for 3–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Transfer beef, onions, and garlic to a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add broth, Worcestershire, soy sauce, tomato paste, and spices. Mix well.

4. Cook on LOW for 8–10 hours or HIGH for 5–6 hours (or bake at 300°F for 4–5 hours).

5. Shred the beef using two forks, return to the sauce, and stir. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For maximum flavor, don’t skip searing the meat — it locks in juices and adds a rich crust.

You can prepare everything the night before and start the slow cooker in the morning.

Leftovers taste even better the next day and freeze well for up to 3 months.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 680
  • Fat: 24
  • Saturated Fat: 9
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 6
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 35
  • Cholesterol: 115

Keywords: fork-tender beef, shredded beef, slow cooker beef, easy dinner, comfort food, dinner ideas, weeknight dinner, beef recipe, meal prep beef