Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto)

 Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) – A Hearty, Flavorful Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food that’s rich, tender, and bursting with deep flavors, Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) is a dish that never disappoints. This slow-cooked masterpiece brings together melt-in-your-mouth beef, smoky bacon, aromatic herbs, and a luscious tomato-based sauce, making it a standout recipe for a cozy family dinner or an impressive weekend meal.

Unlike a traditional American pot roast, Stracotto infuses Italian flavors with a balance of garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, creating a dish that’s perfect for serving over pasta, creamy polenta, or mashed potatoes. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just craving a soul-warming meal, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home.

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Why You’ll Love This Italian Pot Roast

✔ Incredibly Tender – Slow cooking transforms the beef into fork-tender perfection.

✔ Rich & Savory Sauce – A bold, herb-infused tomato and broth base coats every bite.

✔ Easy One-Pot Meal – Simple prep and hands-off cooking make it perfect for busy days.

✔ Versatile Serving Options – Serve it with pasta, polenta, or rustic bread for an unforgettable meal.

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Ingredients & Their Roles

To make the best Italian Pot Roast, you’ll need high-quality ingredients that build layers of flavor:

Meat & Proteins

4 oz Bacon – Adds a deep, smoky flavor and richness to the dish.

3 lbs Beef Chuck Roast – The ideal cut for slow cooking; it becomes tender and juicy over time.

Vegetables & Aromatics

1 cup Carrots (chopped) – Adds natural sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

1 cup Celery (chopped) – Enhances the depth of flavor with its aromatic qualities.

1 cup Onion (diced) – Provides a savory base and enhances the overall umami.

1 tbsp Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with its signature robust Italian flavor.

Herbs & Spices

2 Bay Leaves – Adds a subtle earthiness and complexity to the sauce.

1 sprig Rosemary & 1 sprig Thyme – Fresh herbs contribute deep, aromatic notes.

1 tsp Italian Seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme, creating a signature Italian flavor.

½ tsp Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a gentle heat to balance the richness.

Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Liquids & Sauces

2 cups Beef Broth – Provides a rich base and keeps the roast moist during slow cooking.

1 (14.5 oz) can Crushed Tomatoes – Adds acidity and depth, forming a thick, flavorful sauce.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Pat the beef dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.

2. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

3. Increase heat to medium-high. Add the beef roast, searing on all sides until a deep brown crust forms (about 3-4 minutes per side). This step locks in flavor!

4. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

5. In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until softened (5 minutes).

6. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and bacon, cooking for 1 minute to release the aromatics.

Step 4: Deglaze & Simmer

7. Pour in beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up all the flavorful bits from the bottom.

8. Add the crushed tomatoes, bay leaves, rosemary, and thyme. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

9. Return the beef roast to the pot, nestling it into the sauce. Cover with a lid.

10. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 3 to 4 hours, turning occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender.

Step 6: Shred & Serve

11. Remove the beef and shred or slice it. Discard bay leaves and herb sprigs.

12. Return the shredded beef to the pot, stirring it into the sauce for maximum flavor.

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Pro Tips for the Best Italian Pot Roast

✔ Choose the Right Cut: Chuck roast is ideal because of its marbling, which ensures tenderness after long cooking.

✔ Sear for Maximum Flavor: Browning the beef is essential for developing deep, rich flavors.

✔ Simmer Slowly: Low and slow cooking is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

✔ Let It Rest: Allow the roast to sit in the sauce for 10-15 minutes before serving to soak up extra flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this Stracotto with classic Italian sides for a truly indulgent meal:

✔ Creamy Polenta: A perfect, buttery base for the rich beef sauce.

✔ Pappardelle or Tagliatelle Pasta: Wide noodles hold the sauce beautifully.

✔ Mashed Potatoes: A traditional, hearty pairing.

✔ Garlic Bread: Soak up every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

✔ Red Wine Pairing: A bold Chianti or Sangiovese complements the dish perfectly.

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Final Thoughts – Why You Need to Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and foolproof meal, this Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) is an absolute must-try. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and a slow-cooked richness, it’s the perfect dish to bring warmth and joy to your dinner table.

Make this for Sunday dinner, special occasions, or meal prep—it only gets better the next day! Try it once, and

 it’ll be a go-to family favorite for years to come.

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