- Prepare the Roast: Lightly season the beef chuck roast with salt on all sides. This simple step helps enhance the natural flavor of the beef as it cooks.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the sliced onion in the bottom of the crockpot, creating a flavorful base that also helps prevent sticking. Set the beef roast on top of the onions.
- Add the Sauce Ingredients: Add the cranberry sauce, beef broth, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, thyme, and black pepper directly into the crockpot. Spoon some of the mixture over the roast so it’s well coated.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on LOW for 8 hours. As it cooks, the beef will become fork-tender and absorb the tangy-sweet flavors of the sauce.
Finishing and Serving
- Check for Doneness: After 8 hours, the beef should be extremely tender and easy to shred or slice. Use a fork to gently pull it apart if you prefer a shredded texture.
- Serve: Spoon the rich cranberry balsamic sauce and softened onions generously over the beef. The cooking liquid will have thickened naturally into a flavorful gravy that pairs beautifully with the roast.
Serving Ideas
This cranberry balsamic beef roast is delicious served over mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or buttered egg noodles, where the sauce can soak in. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to balance the richness.
