Slow Cooker Tomato Braised Meat (Easy Crockpot Recipe)
This comforting slow cooker recipe uses tender seared meat cooked slowly with tomatoes to create a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for serving over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 2–3 lbs beef chuck roast or pork loin, cut into large chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14–15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
Instructions
- Season the meat
Pat the meat dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. - Sear for flavor
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the meat pieces for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned. - Transfer to the slow cooker
Place the browned meat into the slow cooker. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic. - Add the tomatoes
Pour the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce over the meat (as shown in the image). Add broth, oregano, basil, and sugar. - Slow cook
Cover and cook:- Low: 7–8 hours
- High: 4–5 hours
- Finish and serve
Stir the sauce and taste for seasoning. Serve the tender meat with the tomato sauce over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Tips
- Add carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers for a complete meal.
- If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir in during the last 20 minutes.
- The meat becomes even more flavorful the next day.
Serving Ideas
- Over buttered noodles
- With mashed potatoes
- With crusty bread to soak up the sauce