Slow Cooker Beef with Brown Sugar Honey Glaze

Ingredients

For the Beef:

  • 3-4 pound beef roast (chuck roast recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 onion, roughly chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

Preparation

  1. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat
  3. Sear beef on all sides until nicely browned (3-4 minutes per side)
  4. Place chopped onion and minced garlic in slow cooker
  5. Transfer seared beef to slow cooker
  6. Pour beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce over beef

Cooking

  1. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours
  2. Beef should be tender and easily shred with a fork

Glaze Preparation (Last Hour)

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
  • Brown sugar
  • Honey
  • Melted butter
  • Dijon mustard
  • Garlic powder
  • Ground ginger
  • Apple cider vinegar
  1. Pour glaze over beef
  2. Cook for an additional 30-60 minutes on high
  3. Baste beef with glaze every 15 minutes

Finishing

  1. Remove beef from slow cooker
  2. Let rest for 10 minutes
  3. Slice or shred as desired
  4. Drizzle with remaining glaze from slow cooker

Pro Tips

  • Choose a well-marbled chuck roast for best results
  • Don’t skip the searing step – it adds crucial flavor
  • Bring beef to room temperature before searing
  • Keep lid closed during cooking to maintain temperature
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve over mashed potatoes
  • Pair with roasted vegetables
  • Use for sandwiches
  • Serve with rice or noodles
  • Garnish with fresh parsley

Storage and Reheating

  • Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Freeze for up to 3 months
  • Reheat in slow cooker or microwave with additional glaze
  • Add a splash of beef broth when reheating to maintain moisture

Variations

  • Add root vegetables to slow cooker
  • Include sliced mushrooms
  • Use maple syrup instead of honey
  • Add red pepper flakes for heat
  • Include fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme

This tender, glazed beef recipe combines savory and sweet flavors for a delicious main dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The slow cooking process ensures the meat becomes tender and flavorful, while the brown sugar honey glaze adds a delectable finishing touch.

Additional Notes

  • For thicker glaze, transfer liquid to saucepan and reduce
  • Can be prepared the night before and refrigerated
  • Excellent for meal prep
  • Double the glaze recipe if you prefer extra sauce
  • Perfect for holiday gatherings or Sunday dinners

Remember to adjust cooking time based on the size of your roast and your specific slow cooker. The meat should be fork-tender when done, easily pulling apart with minimal effort.