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Recipe by:

Dana Ramsey

Cozy Italian Pot Roast with Gorgonzola Polenta

A comforting Italian Pot Roast paired with creamy Gorgonzola polenta, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Group: Ingredients for the Pot Roast
  • 3-4 pounds chuck roast
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 medium onions, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 3 celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 cups red wine bold Cabernet Sauvignon recommended
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Dutch oven or heavy pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Forks (for shredding)

Method
 

  1. Start by heating a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels; this step is crucial for achieving a beautiful brown crust. Sear the roast in the pot with olive oil for about 4 minutes on each side until it's golden brown, creating a flavor base you'll adore.
  2. Once the roast has been browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the diced onions and stir until they become translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen. After about 5 minutes, pour in the red wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any flavorful bits.
  3. Return the pot roast to the pot, pour in the beef broth, and toss in the rosemary and thyme sprigs. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, cover, and reduce to low heat. Let it cook slowly for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart with ease. This is a wonderful dish to prepare in the morning, letting the aromas fill your home throughout the day.
  4. About 30 minutes before serving, bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually add the polenta, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Lower the heat to a simmer and keep whisking until it thickens, about 15 minutes. Stir in the crumbled Gorgonzola and butter, allowing it to melt into a creamy delight with a nutty aroma that will excite your tastebuds.
  5. When the roast is ready, gently pull it apart with forks and serve alongside a generous scoop of Gorgonzola polenta. Drizzle a bit of the braising liquid over the top for an extra punch of flavor. It’s a meal that feels like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket—perfect for the holidays!

Notes

This dish can be made ahead of time, allowing for easy entertaining and stress-free hosting. Leftovers taste even better the next day, giving you a tasty meal ready to enjoy.