Description
Rich, tender, and full of bold flavor, this Slow-Braised Beef Roast with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze is a perfect choice for a cozy dinner or special holiday meal. The sweet-tart cranberry glaze paired with a fork-tender roast makes this dish unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, a comforting Sunday roast, or festive food ideas, this easy recipe checks all the boxes. Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, it’s a hearty favorite that belongs on your dinner ideas list.
Ingredients
3 to 4 pounds chuck roast
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large yellow onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup balsamic vinegar
1 cup beef broth
1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 sprig fresh rosemary
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Pat the chuck roast dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onions and garlic to the pot and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
3. Stir in the balsamic vinegar, scraping the bottom to deglaze. Add cranberries, brown sugar, and rosemary. Simmer until cranberries begin to burst and the glaze thickens slightly.
4. Return the roast to the pot and pour in beef broth until halfway submerged. Cover and braise in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 3–4 hours, until the meat is fall-apart tender.
5. Remove roast and let rest. Simmer the glaze to thicken if needed. Slice or shred the roast and spoon glaze on top before serving.
Notes
Chuck roast is the best cut for braising—don’t swap it unless needed.
Simmer the glaze separately if you prefer a thicker sauce.
Reheat leftovers with a splash of broth to maintain juiciness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (approx. 6–8 oz)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: easy dinner, beef roast, holiday meal, cranberry glaze, comfort food