Slow-Cooker Chuck Roast with Fresh Herb Chimichurri

Prep: 20 minCook: 8 hr6 servingsmediumLatin American
Slow-Cooker Chuck Roast with Fresh Herb Chimichurri

A tender, flavorful pot roast slow-cooked with taco seasoning and topped with vibrant chimichurri sauce made from fresh cilantro and parsley. The beef becomes fork-tender after hours of low cooking, while the bright, garlicky chimichurri adds a fresh contrast to the rich meat. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish combines the convenience of slow cooking with bold Latin-inspired flavors that transform an ordinary roast into something special.

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 2 medium onions, halved, thinly sliced
  • 1 boneless beef chuck roast (2 1/2 to 3 lb)
    brisket or bottom round1:1

    slightly different texture but works well

    Full guide →
  • 1 packet (1 oz) Old El Paso Original Taco Seasoning Mix
    chili powder + cumin + paprika1 packet = 2 tbsp mixed

    make your own blend

    Full guide →
  • 1 cup Progresso beef flavored broth, from 32-oz carton
  • ¾ cup fresh cilantro leaves
    parsley1:1herb-free

    changes flavor profile significantly

    Full guide →
  • ¾ cup fresh Italian (flat-leaf) parsley
  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 medium jalapeño chile, seeded, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups thinly sliced cabbage
  • ¾ cup finely chopped red onion

Instructions

  1. 1

    Spray slow cooker with cooking spray and arrange onions in bottom

  2. 2

    Place beef over onions and sprinkle with taco seasoning mix

  3. 3

    Pour broth over beef and onions, then cover

  4. 4

    Cook on low heat setting until beef is tender

  5. 5

    Place cilantro and parsley in food processor and process until chopped

  6. 6

    Add oil, vinegar, garlic, jalapeño, oregano and salt to processor

  7. 7

    Process until smooth and transfer to small bowl

  8. 8

    Cover chimichurri and refrigerate to let flavors blend

  9. 9

    Serve pot roast with cabbage, red onion and chimichurri sauce

Tips

Tip 1

Let the chimichurri sit for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and develop properly.

Tip 2

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the roast reaches 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for medium doneness.

Tip 3

Save the cooking liquid from the slow cooker to make gravy or use as a flavorful base for soup.

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days. Store chimichurri separately for best freshness.

Make Ahead

Make chimichurri up to 2 days ahead. Pot roast can be prepped and refrigerated overnight before cooking.

Serve With

Serve immediately while hot with fresh cabbage and red onion on the side.

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't skip the resting time for chimichurri to avoid bland sauce

Watch

Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking to prevent heat loss

Substitutions

chuck roast
brisket or bottom round1:1

slightly different texture but works well

Full guide →
taco seasoning
chili powder + cumin + paprika1 packet = 2 tbsp mixed

make your own blend

Full guide →
cilantro
parsley1:1herb-free

changes flavor profile significantly

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for 4-5 hours instead of 8-9 hours on low. The meat may be slightly less tender but still delicious.

How long will the chimichurri keep in the refrigerator?

Fresh chimichurri will keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually improve after the first day.

Can I freeze the leftover pot roast?

Yes, freeze the cooked pot roast for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating gently.