tender beef chunks in rich tomato sauce with fresh parsley

Italian Style Pot Roast

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Created on December 15th, 2025 at 09:55 am

A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal

Italian-style pot roast is a comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of beef and aromatic herbs, all simmered to tender perfection. As the pot roast cooks slowly, it transforms into a succulent centerpiece, with vibrant flavors melding together to create an aromatic experience. The inviting scent of garlic and rosemary wafts through the kitchen, making it impossible to resist. Each slice reveals a beautifully cooked roast, glistening with savory broth and surrounded by tender vegetables.

What makes this pot roast special is not just its depth of flavor, but also its simplicity. It requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on your day while it cooks gently on the stove or in the oven. This dish embodies the warmth and comfort of a home-cooked meal, making it a favorite for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

close-up of tender Italian beef pot roast in tomato herb sauce with parsley

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian-style pot roast is a delightful addition to any dinner table. The slow cooking process ensures that the meat becomes exceptionally tender, practically falling apart with a gentle push of a fork. The flavor profile is enriched with classic Italian herbs and spices, guaranteeing a satisfying depth that draws everyone to the table. The balance of garlic, rosemary, and a hint of red wine elevates the dish while still keeping it approachable.

Another appealing aspect is its versatility. Serve it with a simple side salad or creamy mashed potatoes, or even spoon over a bed of polenta for a delightful twist. The leftovers also shine, making a savory filling for sandwiches or a satisfying topping for baked potatoes. This recipe ensures that your meal is not only enjoyable but also practical, fitting seamlessly into your meal planning.

Time Breakdown

This Italian-style pot roast comes together with ease, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked food without extensive labor. With most of the time being hands-off, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients List

  • 3–4 lbs beef chuck roast
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup dry red wine (or additional beef broth)
  • 2 tsp dried rosemary
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 4 medium carrots, cut into chunks
  • 4 medium potatoes, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • Optional: fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Kitchen Tools

This recipe utilizes basic kitchen tools, keeping cooking straightforward and stress-free. Having these essentials on hand will streamline your preparation.

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions


  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) if using a Dutch oven. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper, then sear it in the hot oil until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. This browning step adds a deep flavor to the meat.



  2. Once the roast is nicely seared, transfer it to a plate. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.



  3. Pour in the beef broth and red wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in the rosemary and oregano, then return the roast to the pot. The aroma of the herbs mingling with the broth is simply mouthwatering.



  4. Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery around the roast, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer.



  5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Allow it to cook for 2 ½ to 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through. The low and slow cooking method guarantees that all the flavors meld beautifully.



  6. Once done, remove the pot from the oven. Let the roast rest for about 10 minutes before slicing, allowing the juices to redistribute. Serve warm, drizzled with the rich cooking liquid.


Pro Tips

  • For deeper flavor, consider marinating the roast overnight in olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
  • Don’t skip the browning step; it develops a rich flavor that enhances the entire dish.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for added variety.
  • This pot roast tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

Simple Comfort, Big Flavor

This Italian-style pot roast is more than just a meal; it’s a gathering of flavors that warms the heart and soul. Its ease of preparation and mouthwatering taste make it an ideal choice for both special occasions and regular weeknight dinners. The beautiful blend of herbs, tender meat, and the rich, savory broth creates a robust dish that is as comforting as it is satisfying. Keep this recipe close for times when you crave something hearty and uncomplicated.

What to Serve With Italian Style Pot Roast

What pairs beautifully with Italian-style pot roast? Consider serving it alongside creamy polenta, which acts as a perfect vessel to soak up the rich broth, adding a smooth texture to each bite. A crisp side salad with mixed greens, thinly sliced red onions, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the roast.

For a classic touch, serve with buttery mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or green beans, to add color and a bit of crunch. Each of these sides complements the pot roast, enhancing the overall dining experience and creating a well-rounded meal that invites everyone to gather around the table.

Nutrition Table

NutrientAmount (per serving)
Calories450 kcal
Protein36 g
Fat20 g
Carbohydrates32 g
Fiber5 g
Sugar4 g
Sodium800 mg

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

tender beef chunks in rich tomato sauce with fresh parsley

Italian Style Pot Roast

Avatar photoMarla Jennings
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender beef chuck roast, aromatic herbs, and savory vegetables.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 3–4 lbs beef chuck roast
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • Salt & pepper to taste Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup dry red wine (or additional beef broth)
  • 2 tsp dried rosemary
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 4 medium carrots, cut into chunks
  • 4 medium potatoes, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Optional

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) if using a Dutch oven.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  • Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper, then sear it in the hot oil until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes per side.
  • Once the roast is nicely seared, transfer it to a plate.
  • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
  • Pour in the beef broth and red wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
  • Stir in the rosemary and oregano, then return the roast to the pot.
  • Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery around the roast, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
  • Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Cooking

  • Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
  • Allow it to cook for 2 ½ to 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
  • Once done, remove the pot from the oven and let the roast rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving

  • Serve warm, drizzled with the rich cooking liquid.

Notes

For deeper flavor, consider marinating the roast overnight in olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Don’t skip the browning step; it develops a rich flavor that enhances the entire dish. Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for added variety. This pot roast tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
Keyword Beef, Comfort Food, Italian Recipe, Pot Roast, Slow Cooking

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