Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) 🇮🇹

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) – a dish that promises tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef infused with the rich flavors of tomato, red wine, and aromatic Italian herbs. This classic Italian recipe transforms a simple chuck roast into a luxurious, hearty meal perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for warmth and flavor. With slow-cooked perfection, every forkful is a celebration of traditional Italian culinary art.

Ingredients & Their Roles

• 3–4 lb chuck roast – The star of the dish, chuck roast becomes incredibly tender during slow cooking, absorbing all the flavors of the sauce.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning, they enhance the natural flavor of the beef.
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil – Used to sear the meat, creating a flavorful crust and locking in juices.
• 1 onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce as it softens.
• 2 carrots, chopped – Contributes natural sweetness and a subtle earthy flavor.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped – Provides aromatic undertones, complementing the tomato and herbs.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – Delivers robust flavor and aroma essential to Italian cooking.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste – Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce for richness.
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes – Forms the base of the sauce, offering natural sweetness and acidity.
• 1 cup red wine (or beef broth) – Adds depth, complexity, and slight acidity to balance the richness of the meat.
• 1 cup beef broth – Ensures the meat remains moist and flavorful during slow cooking.
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning – Infuses classic Italian herb flavors like oregano, basil, and thyme.
• 1 bay leaf – Adds subtle aromatic notes that deepen the sauce flavor.
• 1 tsp sugar (optional) – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a well-rounded sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the Roast: Generously season the beef with salt and pepper to enhance natural flavors.
2. Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Veggies: In the same pot, sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened, about 5–6 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add Flavor: Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute to remove raw taste. Pour in red wine to deglaze, scraping up browned bits. Simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Make the Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, and optional sugar. Stir until well combined.
6. Simmer the Roast: Return the seared roast to the pot, spooning sauce over it. Bring to a gentle simmer.
7. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 3–4 hours on the stovetop or in a 300°F (150°C) oven until fork-tender. (For a slow cooker, cook 8 hours on LOW.)
8. Serve: Remove the bay leaf, shred the meat slightly, and serve over creamy mashed potatoes, pasta, or soft polenta for a complete meal.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

This Italian Pot Roast is beloved for its succulent, tender beef that effortlessly absorbs the rich, savory sauce. The combination of slow-cooked vegetables, red wine, and aromatic herbs delivers complex, hearty flavors that are comforting yet refined. It’s a classic that impresses without requiring advanced cooking skills.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Stracotto

• Use a high-quality chuck roast: Marbled meat ensures tenderness and flavor.
• Sear thoroughly: A well-browned crust adds depth to the sauce.
• Low and slow: Avoid high heat to prevent drying out; slow cooking ensures melt-in-your-mouth meat.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Taste before serving and tweak salt, pepper, or sugar to balance flavors.
• Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan adds a finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty Italian Pot Roast over creamy mashed potatoes, tender pasta, or soft polenta. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. A glass of robust red wine completes the traditional Italian dining experience.

Conclusion

The Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) is a simple yet spectacular dish that transforms everyday ingredients into comfort food perfection. With tender, flavorful beef, a rich tomato and wine sauce, and a touch of Italian herbs, it’s a meal that delights every time. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or cozy nights in, this recipe embodies the heart and soul of Italian cuisine – effortless, comforting, and utterly delicious.