If there ever was a dish that could wrap you in a cozy blanket and whisper, “You’ve had a long day—sit down, I got this,” it’s a Slow Braised Pot Roast. This comforting classic is the kind of meal that fills your home with the smell of Sunday dinner, even if it’s a random Tuesday night. And when you pair it with Creamy Parmesan Risotto, well, let’s just say you’re about to make some dinner magic.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Slow Braised Pot Roast
Here’s why this dish deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:
- Melt-in-your-mouth beef: Slow-braised to perfection until it’s tender enough to shred with a fork.
- Rich, herby sauce: A luscious tomato base infused with oregano, basil, and garlic that soaks into every bite.
- Creamy, dreamy risotto: The Parmesan risotto adds that luxurious, velvety texture that balances the savory beef beautifully.
- Effortlessly impressive: Perfect for Sunday dinner, date night, or when you just want to feel like a rockstar in the kitchen.
- Make-ahead friendly: Even better the next day—because who doesn’t love leftovers that taste gourmet?
- Family-approved comfort food: From picky eaters to foodies, everyone at the table will ask for seconds.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting friends, or just need a comforting dinner after a long day, this Slow Braised Pot Roast with Creamy Parmesan Risotto delivers every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pot Roast
- 3–4 lb boneless beef chuck roast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Parmesan Risotto
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
- 6 cups hot chicken broth, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Slow Braised Pot Roast with Creamy Parmesan Risotto
Step 1: Sear the Roast
Start by seasoning your beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until a rich, brown crust forms—about 3–5 minutes per side. Don’t rush this step; that caramelization is where the flavor magic starts.
Once browned, remove the roast and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In the same pot (no need to wash—those browned bits are gold!), add your onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir and bring everything to a simmer.
Step 3: Braise to Perfection
Nestle your roast back into the pot, spooning some sauce over the top. Cover with a lid and transfer to a 325°F (163°C) oven. Let it braise for 2½ to 3 hours, until the meat is fork-tender and practically falling apart.
When it’s done, remove the roast, let it rest for 10 minutes, then shred it with two forks. Return the shredded meat to the sauce to keep it warm.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Risotto
While your roast is braising and making your house smell like heaven, it’s risotto time.
In a medium saucepan, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped shallot and cook until translucent, about 3–5 minutes. Add Arborio rice and toast it, stirring constantly for about 2–3 minutes until it looks glossy.
Now for the relaxing part: ladle in one cup of hot chicken broth at a time, stirring gently and patiently. Don’t rush it! Wait until each addition is nearly absorbed before adding the next. After about 20–25 minutes, your risotto should be creamy and slightly al dente.
Finish by stirring in Parmesan cheese and butter until it’s rich, smooth, and impossible to resist. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Plate and Savor
Spoon a generous helping of creamy risotto onto your plate, top it with tender shreds of the slow braised pot roast, and drizzle over that luscious tomato sauce. It’s comfort food elegance—no fancy restaurant required.
Tips from My Kitchen to Yours
- Don’t skip the sear: It’s tempting to toss the roast straight into the pot, but searing gives it that deep, savory flavor that makes all the difference.
- Low and slow wins: Braising at a lower temperature for a longer time ensures the beef turns out melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Use hot broth for risotto: Cold broth stops the cooking process, so keep it warm on a back burner.
- Don’t panic about risotto stirring: You don’t have to stir constantly—just often enough to keep it creamy and prevent sticking.
And if your sauce looks a little too thick? Add a splash of broth. Too thin? Let it simmer a bit longer. Cooking’s all about balance (and tasting as you go, of course!).
A Little Story from My Kitchen
I still remember the first time I made this Slow Braised Pot Roast for my family. It was one of those chilly weekends when everyone seemed to be craving comfort food. I paired it with creamy risotto because my kids love anything cheesy (honestly, who doesn’t?). By the time dinner was ready, the whole house smelled divine, and everyone went quiet after the first bite—a sure sign I’d done something right.
This dish has since become our go-to for cozy gatherings or whenever life needs a little extra warmth on the plate.

FAQs About Slow Braised Pot Roast with Creamy Parmesan Risotto
Can I make this pot roast ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day. Just store the roast and sauce in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Can I use a slow cooker instead of the oven?
Yes! After searing the meat and sautéing the veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 8 hours or until tender.
What if I don’t have Arborio rice?
You can use another short-grain rice, like Carnaroli or Vialone Nano, but Arborio gives that classic creamy risotto texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep the roast and risotto in separate containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the risotto with a splash of broth or water to bring back its creaminess.
Bring the Magic Home
This Slow Braised Pot Roast with Creamy Parmesan Risotto isn’t just dinner—it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that slows life down for a bit, fills the air with warmth, and gathers everyone around the table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself (hey, leftovers are a blessing!), this recipe promises rich flavors, creamy textures, and that irresistible home-cooked comfort we all crave.
So grab your Dutch oven, pour yourself a glass of wine, and let’s make some Chicken Magic—just this time, with a little beefy twist.
Delicious Recipes to Try Next
If you loved this Slow Braised Pot Roast with Creamy Parmesan Risotto, you’ll want to keep the comfort food magic going. Here are a few more cozy, flavor-packed dishes from my kitchen that pair beautifully with this recipe or stand strong on their own:
- Craving another comforting, saucy dinner? Don’t miss this rich and hearty French Onion Pot Roast — it’s pure melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
- For a cozy fall favorite, my Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake brings creamy textures and warm seasonal flavors to your table.
- Want something chicken-forward but still indulgent? Try the golden, juicy Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs — simple, flavorful, and absolutely dinner-party worthy.
- And if you’re in the mood for slow-cooked comfort with a sweet twist, my Crockpot Apple Cider Chicken Thighs is the kind of recipe that fills your home with cozy autumn vibes.
Each of these dishes captures the same balance of comfort and flavor that makes the Slow Braised Pot Roast so special — perfect for expanding your home-cooked favorites collection.
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Slow Braised Pot Roast with Creamy Parmesan Risotto
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Slow Braised Pot Roast with Creamy Parmesan Risotto is the ultimate comfort food — tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef simmered in a rich tomato-herb sauce, served over velvety Parmesan risotto. Perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or any night you need a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
Pot Roast
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3–4 lb boneless beef chuck roast
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 large onion, chopped
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2 carrots, chopped
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2 celery stalks, chopped
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
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1 cup beef broth
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tbsp dried oregano
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1 tbsp dried basil
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
Parmesan Risotto
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 shallot, finely chopped
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1 ½ cups Arborio rice
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6 cups hot chicken broth, divided
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tbsp butter
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Sear the Beef: Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and sear the roast on all sides until golden brown (3–5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
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Build the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Braise the Roast: Return the roast to the pot, cover, and place in a 325°F (163°C) oven. Cook for 2½–3 hours until the beef is fork-tender. Let rest for 10 minutes, then shred and return to the sauce.
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Make the Risotto: While the roast cooks, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add shallot and cook for 3–5 minutes. Add Arborio rice and toast for 2–3 minutes.
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Add Broth Gradually: Pour in one cup of hot broth at a time, stirring until absorbed before adding more. Continue for about 20–25 minutes, until rice is creamy and al dente.
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Finish the Risotto: Stir in Parmesan cheese and butter. Season with salt and pepper.
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Serve: Spoon creamy risotto onto plates and top with shredded pot roast and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
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Slow Cooker Option: After searing, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
Make-Ahead Tip: Both the pot roast and risotto reheat beautifully — just add a splash of broth to loosen before serving.
Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main course
- Method: Braising, Stove Top
- Cuisine: American ,italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 625 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 870 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg