Country Chuck Roast with Onion Gravy Recipe
Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Description:
This treasured recipe, originally from my great-grandmother and passed down to my grandmother, is a beloved classic for family gatherings. My Memaw would make this hearty dish to accompany her mounds of creamy mashed potatoes, fresh cole slaw, and garden-fresh green beans. The secret to this roast’s divine flavor lies in the brown sugar, which adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special occasion!
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar – Adds a rich, caramelized sweetness to the roast.
- 1 large onion – Whole and unpeeled for roasting, then chopped for the gravy.
- 1 cup water – Used to create a flavorful gravy.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Thickens the gravy and adds body.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt – Enhances the flavors of the roast.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of spice and balance.
For the Roast:
- 1 (4 to 5 pounds) chuck roast – A well-marbled cut of beef that becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high heat will help to sear the roast, creating a flavorful crust.
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Prepare the Roast: Rub the entire surface of the chuck roast generously with salt, pepper, and brown sugar. This seasoning will not only flavor the meat but also form a delightful caramelized crust as it cooks.
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Arrange for Roasting: Place the seasoned roast and the whole onion into a roasting pan. The onion will impart a rich, savory flavor to the meat and gravy.
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Initial Roasting: Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After this time, flip the roast over to ensure even browning and continue roasting for an additional 15 minutes. This step is crucial for developing a deep, roasted flavor.
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Prepare the Gravy Mixture: While the roast is cooking, whisk together 1 cup of water, 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. This mixture will become the base for your rich and savory onion gravy.
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Combine and Continue Roasting: After the initial high-temperature roasting, pour the flour mixture into the roasting pan around the roast. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting for 2 hours. Alternatively, for a more tender result, roast at 300°F (150°C) for 3 hours, flipping the roast once halfway through the cooking time.
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Monitor and Cover if Necessary: Check the roast periodically. If it appears to be drying out, cover the pan with aluminum foil to retain moisture and keep the meat tender.
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Finish and Serve: Before serving, chop the roasted onion and mix it into the gravy. This adds a deliciously rich flavor to the sauce. Slice the roast against the grain and serve with the savory onion gravy drizzled over the top.
Enjoy this classic comfort dish with your favorite sides, just like my Memaw used to make!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 360.2
- Fat Content: 13.9 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 6.2 g
- Cholesterol Content: 149.7 mg
- Sodium Content: 625.6 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 10.2 g
- Fiber Content: 0.6 g
- Sugar Content: 2.5 g
- Protein Content: 48.9 g
This Country Chuck Roast with Onion Gravy is sure to be a hit at your next family meal, bringing with it the warmth and love of generations past.
