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Cozy Crockpot Honey Balsamic Beef Recipe

cozy crockpot honey balsamic beef - featured image

A tender and flavorful slow cooker beef dish with a sweet and tangy honey balsamic glaze and caramelized onions, perfect for cozy dinners and easy meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds beef chuck roast, trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup honey (85 g)
  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar (80 ml)
  • 1 cup beef broth (240 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the 3-pound chuck roast dry and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and soft, about 25-30 minutes. Add a splash of water if the pan dries out to prevent burning.
  3. Increase heat to medium-high. Push onions to one side or transfer temporarily. Add the beef roast and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until browned and crusty.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, beef broth, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and chopped thyme if using.
  5. Place the caramelized onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. Set the seared beef on top, then pour the honey balsamic sauce evenly over it.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreddable.
  7. Remove the beef and shred using two forks. Return shredded beef to the crockpot and stir gently to coat with sauce and onions. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve warm over mashed potatoes, rice, or creamy polenta.

Notes

Let the beef rest for 10 minutes after searing before placing it in the crockpot to retain juices. If the sauce is too thin after cooking, remove the beef and simmer the sauce on the stove to thicken. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Adjust cooking time based on your slow cooker’s heat settings. Caramelizing onions slowly is key for sweetness and depth.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker beef, honey balsamic beef, crockpot dinner, caramelized onions, easy beef recipe, comfort food, slow cooker recipe