This tender Chuck Roast, simmered in a rich mushroom gravy, is a perfect dish for any occasion that calls for comfort food. The combination of the savory beef and earthy mushrooms, infused with Worcestershire sauce and thyme, creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—minimal prep, but maximum flavor. Serve with mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetables to complete the meal, making it a cozy, hearty dish that will please your family or guests every time.
Full Recipe:
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3-4 lb. bone-in chuck roast
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cups beef broth
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1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
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1/2 cup water
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 cups sliced mushrooms
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large oven-safe Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper, then sear it in the Dutch oven until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes per side).
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Remove the roast and set aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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Add the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, water, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and garlic powder. Stir to combine.
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Return the chuck roast to the pot, spooning some of the gravy mixture over it. Cover the pot with a lid.
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Roast in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours, or until the roast is fork-tender and easily shredded.
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In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the sliced mushrooms to the pot.
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Once done, remove the roast and slice it. Serve the sliced meat with the mushroom gravy.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 3-4 hours | Total Time: 3.5-4.5 hours
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Introduction
The Country Chuck Roast with Mushroom Gravy is a classic comfort food that combines tender, juicy beef with a rich, creamy mushroom gravy. It’s the kind of dish that fills your home with inviting aromas and makes for a satisfying meal any time of year. Whether you’re preparing a special family dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this roast is sure to be a hit. The slow-cooking process allows the beef to absorb all the flavors of the gravy, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth tender.
This dish is also versatile and can be paired with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. If you love hearty meals that are full of flavor and easy to prepare, Country Chuck Roast with Mushroom Gravy will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
History of the Dish
The chuck roast is a cut of beef that comes from the shoulder region of the cow, which makes it flavorful yet affordable. It’s a popular choice for braising, slow cooking, and roasting due to its tenderness when cooked low and slow. The addition of mushroom gravy elevates the roast by adding a rich and earthy depth to the dish, making it even more satisfying.
While it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact origin of this dish, versions of roast beef with gravy have been enjoyed for centuries. The practice of slow-roasting beef with vegetables and sauces dates back to the early days of traditional home cooking. As the recipe evolved, different variations emerged, with mushrooms becoming a common addition to the gravy for their umami flavor and luxurious texture. The combination of beef, mushrooms, and gravy is a timeless classic that continues to be a comfort food staple in many households today.
Tips for Making the Recipe
Searing the Meat: One of the most important steps when making Country Chuck Roast with Mushroom Gravy is searing the meat before cooking it. This creates a flavorful crust on the roast, which locks in the juices and enhances the overall taste of the dish. Make sure to sear the roast on all sides until it’s nicely browned. This will add depth to the flavor of the gravy as well.
Use Quality Beef Broth: The broth is the base of the gravy, so using a high-quality beef broth will significantly impact the flavor. You can make your own beef broth at home for a more personalized touch, or choose a store-bought version that has a rich, full-bodied taste. The broth infuses the meat and gravy with flavor, so don’t skimp on this ingredient.
Low and Slow Cooking: Slow cooking is key to making the roast tender. Cook it at a low temperature for several hours to allow the meat to become fork-tender. The collagen in the chuck roast breaks down during this process, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Mushroom Choice: For the mushroom gravy, you can use a variety of mushrooms. Button mushrooms are commonly used, but you can also try cremini, shiitake, or portobello for added depth of flavor. Sauté the mushrooms until they’re browned and tender to bring out their natural umami flavor.
Add Flavor Enhancers: Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, thyme, and other herbs can take your gravy to the next level. These seasonings not only complement the beef but also add complexity to the overall dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices and herbs to create a gravy that’s just right for your taste buds.
Variations of Country Chuck Roast with Mushroom Gravy
While the classic version of Country Chuck Roast with Mushroom Gravy is already delicious, there are a few variations you can try to put your own spin on this dish.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian take, replace the beef roast with a large portobello mushroom or a cauliflower steak, which can be slow-cooked in the same way. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add extra herbs to flavor the gravy.
Red Wine Gravy: If you’re a fan of red wine, consider adding a splash of your favorite red wine to the gravy. The acidity of the wine will help balance out the richness of the sauce, while adding a beautiful depth of flavor.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the gravy. The warmth of the chili complements the creamy texture of the mushrooms and adds an exciting element to the dish.
Garlic and Herb Roast: Enhance the flavor of your chuck roast by adding fresh garlic and herbs such as rosemary or thyme directly onto the roast before searing it. The herbs infuse the meat with their aromatic oils and create a delicious crust.
Slow Cooker Version: If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can easily make this dish in a slow cooker. Simply follow the same steps for searing the roast and preparing the gravy, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 6–8 hours, and you’ll have a tender, flavorful roast ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Country Chuck Roast with Mushroom Gravy is a hearty dish that pairs well with various side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complement your roast:
Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the savory mushroom gravy. You can make classic mashed potatoes or try adding roasted garlic or sour cream for extra flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, parsnips, and potatoes make a great side for this dish. The natural sweetness of the roasted vegetables pairs beautifully with the savory beef and gravy.
Green Beans Almondine: For a lighter side, serve the roast with sautéed green beans, almond slivers, and a squeeze of lemon. The freshness of the green beans balances out the richness of the roast.
Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy on your plate. They also add a comforting, homemade touch to the meal.
Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to cut through the richness of the roast. The acidity from the vinaigrette complements the savory beef and gravy.
Conclusion
Country Chuck Roast with Mushroom Gravy is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Its tender beef, flavorful mushroom gravy, and easy-to-follow preparation make it an ideal dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its versatility and rich taste, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or experiment with different variations, the result is always a hearty and delicious meal that’s guaranteed to please. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up the oven, and enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.