Marinated Chuck Roast

Slow-marinated chuck roast transforms into something deeply flavorful and irresistibly tender after hours in the oven. A mix of orange juice, soy sauce and brown sugar creates the perfect balance of tangy, savory and sweet notes that soak into the meat as it slowly cooks. The result are a rich, succulent roast that pairs beautifully with your favorite sides, making it a meal that will leave everyone reaching for seconds.

Marinated Chuck Roast Ingredients

• Orange juice: The acidity of the orange juice helps tenderize the beef while adding a subtle citrus flavor to the marinade.
• Soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor and balances the sweetness in the marinade.
• Brown sugar: Brown sugar contributes sweetness and helps create a caramelized crust on the roast as it cooks.
• Worcestershire sauce: Worcestershire sauce brings depth to the marinade with its tangy, slightly sweet and savory notes.
• Beef chuck roast: The chuck roast becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking, absorbing the marinades rich flavors.

Directions

Step 1: Marinate the roast

In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar  and Worcestershire sauce. Seal the bag tightly and gently shake or turn it to ensure the marinade coats the roast evenly. Place the bag in the refrigerator and let the roast marinate for 8 to 24 hours, turning the bag occasionally to redistribute the marinade.

Step 2: Cook the roast

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Pour the marinade into a Dutch oven and bring it to a boil on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Boil for two minutes to reduce slightly and kill any bacteria. Carefully add the marinated roast to the Dutch oven. Cover with a lid and bake for 3 to 3 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Let the roast rest for ten minutes before slicing. If desired, thicken the pan juices to make gravy.

Marinated Chuck Roast Variations

• Add red wine: Replace half of the orange juice with red wine for a deeper, more robust flavor in the marinade.
• Use balsamic vinegar: Swap the Worcestershire sauce for balsamic vinegar to add a tangy and slightly sweet note to the roast.
• Try garlic and herbs: Mix in minced garlic, rosemary and thyme to the marinade for an aromatic, herb-infused roast.
• Make marinated pork roast: Replace the chuck roast with pork shoulder. It offers a similar marbling to chuck roast and becomes juicy and flavorful when slow-cooked.

How to Store Marinated Chuck Roast

To store marinated chuck roast, let the roast cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to four days.

Can you freeze marinated chuck roast?

Yes, you can freeze marinated chuck roast either before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, place the roast with the marinade in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months. If freezing after cooking, store the cooled roast in an airtight container with some of the pan juices to preserve moisture when reheating.

Can you make marinated chuck roast ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinated chuck roast a day or two in advance. Simply marinate the roast in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also cook the roast ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to four days, making it easy to reheat and serve when ready.

How do you reheat marinated chuck roast?

To reheat marinated chuck roast, place it in a baking dish with some of the pan juices or beef broth and cover with foil. Warm in a 300° oven for 20 to 30 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat smaller covered portions in the microwave on a lower power setting to prevent drying out.

Marinated Chuck Roast Tips

What side dishes go well with marinated chuck roast?

For a well-rounded meal, pair marinated chuck roast with creamy mashed potatoes and honey-glazed carrots for a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. Sautéed green beans add a fresh and crunchy texture, while homemade dinner rolls are ideal for soaking up any extra pan juices or gravy.

What cut of beef is similar to chuck roast?

Beef cuts like shoulder roast, rump roast or bottom round roast are similar to chuck roast. They all benefit from slow cooking, which tenderizes the tougher muscle fibers and creates a flavorful and juicy dish.

Can you marinate chuck roast for too long?

Yes, marinating chuck roast for more than 24 hours can cause the meat fibers to break down too much, resulting in a mushy texture. For best results, marinate for 8 to 24 hours, turning the roast occasionally.

Do you need to sear the chuck roast before baking?

You don’t need to sear the chuck roast before baking but if you do, it can add a deeper and more complex flavor by creating a caramelized crust. Simply brown the roast on all sides in a hot pan with a little oil before transferring it to the oven if you choose to sear it.

What vegetables can you cook with marinated chuck roast?

You can cook vegetables like potatoes, carrots, onions and celery alongside the roast. Add them to the Dutch oven during the last hour of cooking to ensure they become tender but not overcooked.