Ingredients
Scale
- 3 to 4 lbs chuck roast (well-marbled)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional but recommended)
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Generously season the chuck roast with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute more.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and red wine (if using). Stir in Italian herbs and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the roast to the pot, cover, and simmer on low or transfer to a 325°F (165°C) oven.
- Braise for 3–4 hours until the meat is fork-tender and falling apart.
- Remove bay leaves. Shred beef with two forks and return to sauce. Keep warm.
- In a medium saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in polenta to prevent lumps.
- Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring often, for about 20–30 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Stir in butter and Gorgonzola until melted and smooth. Season with salt as needed.
- Serve shredded beef and sauce over creamy Gorgonzola polenta.
Notes
For a deeper flavor, add mushrooms or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce. Leftovers taste even better the next day!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3.5 to 4 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: pot roast, Italian, polenta, Gorgonzola, comfort food, slow-cooked