Slow-Cooked Tomato Braised Beef: A Rustic Dinner You’ll Crave
When the weather cools and your appetite calls for something hearty, rich, and comforting, this Tomato Braised Beefrecipe is your answer. Packed with deep tomato flavor, tender chunks of beef, and herbs that sing of slow-cooked perfection, it’s the kind of meal best served with a slice of crusty bread and zero distractions.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s nothing like the scent of beef slowly braising in a garlicky tomato sauce to make a kitchen feel like home. This dish is rich, savory, and completely soul-warming. It takes a bit of patience, but the reward is fork-tender beef nestled in a thick, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for scooping up with rustic bread. It’s low-effort, high-reward comfort food that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 loaf rustic bread, sliced for serving
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Beef Cut: Chuck roast is perfect for slow cooking due to its marbling. You can also use brisket or short ribs.
- Red Wine: Adds depth to the sauce, but you can skip it or replace it with beef broth.
- Tomato Base: Use fire-roasted crushed tomatoes for a smoky edge.
- Bread Tip: Look for sourdough or country-style loaves with a sturdy crust—perfect for sopping up every drop.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Sear the Beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add beef and brown on all sides (5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Build the Base: Stir in tomato paste, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Liquids: Pour in crushed tomatoes and red wine (if using), stirring to deglaze the pot.
- Braise: Return beef to the pot. Cover and simmer on low heat for 2–3 hours, until beef is tender and sauce is thickened.
- Serve: Spoon hot braised beef into bowls. Serve with warm slices of rustic bread on the side.
Tips for Success
- Low and Slow Wins: Don’t rush the simmering time—this is what makes the beef tender and the sauce rich.
- Deglaze with Wine or Broth: Scrape up those browned bits from the pot for maximum flavor.
- Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day—perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.
Serving Suggestions
This tomato braised beef is a meal in itself but pairs beautifully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttered egg noodles
- A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables
And of course, bread is non-negotiable—make sure it’s crusty enough to handle the rich sauce.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat gently.
More Hearty Recipes You’ll Love
If this recipe hit the spot, you’ll love these other warm and savory dinners:
- Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage
- Easy Turkey Wings
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo
Final Thoughts
This Slow-Cooked Tomato Braised Beef is the ultimate meal to curl up with—rich, tender, and made for sharing. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table and keeps them there a little longer.
If you make this, I’d love to see it in your kitchen! Tag @chefmaniac and share your braised beef moment.
🍅🥖 Stay cozy and dig in!
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