slow cooked shredded beef with creamy mashed potatoes and whole carrots

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ingredients

#### For the Shredded Beef:
– 3 lbs beef chuck roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional, for depth of flavor)
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 whole carrots, peeled
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 bay leaf

#### For the Mashed Potatoes:
– 2 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
– ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Gravy:
– 2 cups beef cooking liquid (from the slow cooker)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Fresh parsley, for garnish

 

 

Instructions

#### *1. Slow-Cook the Beef*
– Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
– Sear the roast for 3-4 minutes per side until browned, then transfer it to a slow cooker.
– Add sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Nestle the whole carrots on top.
– Cover and cook on *low for 8 hours* (or high for 4-5 hours) until the beef is fork-tender and shreds easily.

#### *2. Make the Mashed Potatoes*
– Boil the potatoes in salted water for about 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender.
– Drain and mash the potatoes with butter, heavy cream (or milk), salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

#### *3. Prepare the Gravy*
– Strain 2 cups of the slow-cooked beef liquid into a saucepan.
– Bring to a simmer and whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
– Stir in butter for a glossy finish.

#### *4. Assemble and Serve*
– Spoon creamy mashed potatoes onto a plate.
– Top with shredded beef and the whole slow-cooked carrots.
– Drizzle with rich gravy and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

*Enjoy this comforting and hearty meal with its tender beef, silky mashed potatoes, and deep, savory flavors!*