Unforgettable Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) : A Classic Slow-Cooked Comfort You’ll Crave

Name: Unforgettable Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) : A Classic Slow-Cooked Comfort You’ll Crave
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h 30 min
Total time: 3 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 lbs (1.4 kg) beef chuck roast (or brisket); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata); 2 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme); 1 bay leaf; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); ½ cup additional broth (for slow cooker version)

Posted on November 12, 2025 ·

By Lyndy

some meat and vegetables are in a white bowl

Dinner

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Few dishes embody rustic Italian comfort like Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto). This slow-cooked beef dish transforms a simple chuck roast into something truly extraordinary—tender, flavorful, and infused with herbs, vegetables, and rich tomato sauce. Whether you’re planning a cozy Sunday dinner, an elegant family gathering, or searching for classic food recipes that feel like home, this Italian Beef Pot Roast is the perfect centerpiece.

The History and Tradition of Stracotto

The name Stracotto literally means “overcooked,” but don’t let that fool you—it’s a compliment in Italian cuisine. Slow cooking tough cuts of meat for hours was a tradition born out of necessity and patience. In regions like Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, Stracotto di Manzo was prepared for holidays and special occasions, allowing the flavors of garlic, herbs, and red sauce to deeply penetrate the beef.

Today, Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) remains a beloved dish, symbolizing the heart of Italian cooking: simple ingredients, slow time, and big flavor.

For another slow-cooked comfort classic, try this hearty Pumpkin Chicken Chili—it’s just as warming and full of fall flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Beef Pot Roast

Rich flavor: Layers of onion, garlic, and herbs create a deep, savory sauce.
Melt-in-your-mouth tenderness: Cooked low and slow until fork-tender.
Perfect for gatherings: Feeds a crowd and reheats beautifully.
Versatile: Serve it over pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes.

If you enjoy comforting Italian dinners, you’ll also love this Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta—another dish that celebrates cozy, autumnal flavors.

Ingredients for Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto)

Serves 6–8

3 lbs (1.4 kg) beef chuck roast (or brisket)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata)
2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)
1 bay leaf
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Optional: ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes for a mild kick

For Slow Cooker version: Add an extra ½ cup of broth for moisture retention.

This humble ingredient list turns into something extraordinary once cooked slowly and lovingly.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot (oven-safe)
Large skillet (if browning separately)
Tongs
Cutting board and sharp knife
Slow cooker (optional)
Wooden spoon

If you enjoy hearty, one-pot comfort meals, try this flavorful Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir-Fry. It’s quick, healthy, and ideal for busy nights.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until golden brown—about 3–4 minutes per side. This step builds flavor, so don’t rush it. Remove the beef and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute to deepen the flavor.

Step 3: Deglaze and Add Liquids

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add Italian herbs, bay leaf, and crushed red pepper if using.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Return the beef to the pot, nestling it into the sauce. Cover with a lid and simmer on low for 3–4 hours, or transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 3 hours. The meat should be tender enough to pull apart easily with a fork.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bay leaf. Slice or shred the beef and serve it smothered in its rich tomato gravy.

Pair your Stracotto with buttery mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or your favorite pasta for the ultimate Italian chuck roast dinner.

Secrets to the Perfect Stracotto

Choose the right cut: Chuck roast is ideal—it’s well-marbled and tenderizes beautifully.
Brown first: Don’t skip this step; it adds depth and umami.
Slow and steady: Low heat breaks down connective tissue for melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Don’t overdo the liquid: The beef releases juices as it cooks.
Let it rest: Ten minutes before serving helps flavors settle.

If you love classic meat dishes, you’ll also adore this Polpettone Americano—an Italian meatloaf wrapped in bacon that’s equally hearty and comforting.

Stracotto Recipe Slow Cooker Variation

To make Stracotto Slow Cooker style, brown the meat and vegetables as described above, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. Cover and cook on low for 8–9 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fall-apart tender.

This hands-off approach is perfect for busy days when you want to come home to an irresistible, ready-to-eat dinner.

For another easy slow-cooked meal, check out this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Stew. It’s simple, hearty, and full of classic Italian comfort.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) sliced or shredded, spooned generously with sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil for color.

Serving ideas:

Over creamy mashed potatoes
With buttery polenta
On top of pappardelle pasta
With roasted root vegetables for an earthy pairing

Complement your meal with a side like Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots and Zucchini, which echoes the warm, rustic flavors of the roast.

Pairing Ideas (Non-Alcoholic)

Serve this dish with refreshing options like sparkling water with lemon, apple cider, or Lavender Lemonade. For a lighter meal, add a crisp salad or vegetable side.

If you’re a soup lover, pair your roast with this Creamy Mushroom Soup for a rich, cozy duo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the sear: Browning builds flavor—don’t skip it!
Too much liquid: Stracotto should be thick and rich, not watery.
Cooking too hot: Gentle simmering keeps the meat tender.
Using lean cuts: Choose marbled beef for the best results.
Not seasoning enough: The slow process mellows flavor, so season generously.

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Tips

Make ahead: Stracotto actually tastes better the next day! The flavors deepen overnight.
To store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
To reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the oven at 300°F (150°C), adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

You can also repurpose leftovers for sandwiches or pasta sauces—it’s a versatile dish you’ll enjoy more than once!

For more make-ahead-friendly recipes, try this Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole—a rich, cheesy dinner that freezes perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make Italian Pot Roast without wine?
Yes! Simply replace wine with beef broth or tomato juice for depth of flavor.

2. What’s the best beef cut for Stracotto?
Chuck roast, brisket, or bottom round all work beautifully due to their marbling.

3. Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. It freezes well for up to 3 months—just be sure to cool completely first.

4. How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

5. Can I use this for sandwiches?
Yes! Shred the beef and pile it on toasted rolls for incredible Italian-style beef sandwiches.

If you love hearty comfort meals, you’ll also enjoy these:

Baked Chicken Legs – tender and flavorful.
Stuffed Acorn Squash – a cozy vegetarian option.
Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese – sweet and savory perfection.
Sweet Chili Meatballs – another great “wow recipe” for busy nights.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) is a dish that captures everything we love about Italian cooking—patience, simplicity, and heartwarming flavor. The tender beef, aromatic sauce, and slow-simmered texture make it a timeless comfort meal that feels like home with every bite.

Perfect for Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, or simply when you need a bowl of warmth, Stracotto proves that “overcooked” can be a compliment in the right hands.

If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and subscribe to our blog for more classic food recipes, slow-cooked beef ideas, and cozy Italian meals made easy!

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