Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

This Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef is a delightful dish that brings robust flavors and tender meat to your table. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s a versatile meal that can be enjoyed in many ways. With minimal effort, this slow cooker recipe creates a savory experience that will impress anyone who tries it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of pepperoncini, garlic, and Italian seasonings makes every bite delicious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with veggies, or enjoy it on a sandwich roll for heartier meals.
• Low Carb Friendly: Perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet without sacrificing taste.
• Meal Prep Champion: Makes enough for leftovers, so you can enjoy it throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

The right tools make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essentials before you start!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Large Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while developing deep flavors over time.
• Large Skillet: Ideal for searing meat to lock in juices before slow cooking.

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Ingredients

For the Beef

• 4 pound boneless beef chuck roast, fat trimmed and cut into large 6 inch x 6 inch chunks
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Flavor Base

• 12 ounces whole pepperoncini peppers and their juice (one 12-ounce jar)
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 large onion, peeled, cut in half and sliced
• 5 large cloves garlic, peeled and chopped

Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons dried Italian seasonings (I used McCormick Perfect Pinch Italian Seasoning, which is gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 bay leaf

How to Make Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base

1. Turn the slow cooker on high.
2. Add the beef stock, pepperoncini peppers (and juice), sliced onion, chopped garlic, onion powder, bay leaf, and Italian seasonings.
3. Stir to combine all ingredients well.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef

1. Cut the beef into evenly sized 6-inch chunks, trimming off any excess fat.
2. Season each piece with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
2. Once hot, add beef chunks carefully and sear on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
3. Remove seared beef from skillet and transfer it to the slow cooker along with any juices from the pan.

Step 4: Slow Cook

1. Lower the slow cooker setting to low.
2. Cook for approximately 6 hours until beef is tender.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

1. After cooking, remove the lid and switch the slow cooker to warm.
2. Drain cooking liquid into a bowl (around 3-4 cups should remain).
3. Remove excess oily fat from the liquid.
4. Strain liquid through a strainer into a saucepan; bring to a simmer on stovetop for 4-5 minutes.

Step 6: Shred & Serve

1. Pull or shred cooked beef using two forks directly in the slow cooker.
2. Transfer shredded beef to a large plate or platter; top with onions and pepperoncini.
3. Add shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese if desired; heat briefly in microwave to melt cheese.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Meal

Serve with reduced cooking liquid as a dipping sauce alongside your favorite low-carb veggies like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles, or use sandwich rolls if you’re not on a low-carb diet!

This Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!

How to Serve Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

Serving Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef can be a delightful experience. Its rich flavors and tender texture make it versatile for various meal occasions. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

As a Hearty Platter

• Serve the beef on a large platter, surrounded by roasted veggies or fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

In a Wrap

• Use low-carb tortillas to create wraps filled with the shredded beef, cheese, and fresh greens for an easy, handheld meal.

On Zucchini Noodles

• For a light yet satisfying option, serve the Italian beef over zucchini noodles, which mimic traditional pasta without the carbs.

With Cauliflower Rice

• Pair the beef with cauliflower rice for a filling and nutritious side that complements the dish’s flavors perfectly.

In Stuffed Peppers

• Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with the beef mixture topped with cheese before baking until bubbly for a fun twist.

As Sliders

• If you’re not strictly following a low-carb diet, use small buns to make sliders. The juicy beef makes for an irresistible party appetizer.

How to Perfect Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

To ensure your Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Quality Meat: Choose a good cut of beef chuck roast for optimal tenderness and flavor.
• Sear Before Cooking: Searing the meat adds depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Proper seasoning is key; taste and adjust salt levels as needed throughout cooking.
• Let it Rest: Allow the beef to rest before shredding. This helps retain juices and keeps it moist.
• Strain Cooking Liquid: Straining the cooking liquid ensures a smooth sauce free of bits that could alter texture.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify spices according to your preference; adding chili flakes can give it a kick!

Best Side Dishes for Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

Pairing your Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef with complementary sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
   A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes that pairs well with savory beef.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy sprouts drizzled with olive oil add crunch and nutrition to your plate.

3. Sautéed Spinach
   Lightly sautéed spinach provides a nutrient-packed side full of flavor.

4. Ratatouille
   A vegetable medley that adds color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the beef.

5. Zucchini Chips
   Crunchy baked zucchini chips serve as a delicious low-carb snack alongside your main dish.

6. Broccoli Salad
   A refreshing salad made with raw broccoli, nuts, and dressing adds texture contrast to your meal.

7. Cabbage Slaw
   A tangy slaw provides crunch and acidity to cut through the richness of the beef.

8. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Filled with cheese or vegetables, these bite-sized treats are perfect for an elegant touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making this delicious Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef can be easy, but some common mistakes can detract from the final dish’s quality.

• Boldly skip the searing – Not searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always sear on high heat for better taste.
• Boldly ignore seasoning – Under-seasoning the meat will result in bland flavors. Make sure to season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Boldly overlook cooking time – Cooking for too long or too short can affect the texture. Stick to the recommended 6 hours on low for perfect tenderness.
• Boldly rush cooling – Not allowing the dish to cool slightly before serving can make it difficult to shred. Let it sit for a few minutes after cooking.
• Boldly forget the broth – Skipping beef stock or using low-quality stock will impact overall flavor. Use a good-quality beef stock for richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best taste and safety.

Freezing Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label your containers with dates!

Reheating Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef.

How do I make Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes when you combine the ingredients in the slow cooker for an extra kick.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Substitute boneless chicken thighs for a lighter version while maintaining delicious flavors.

What should I serve with Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef?

Pair it with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or your favorite low-carb vegetables for a satisfying meal.

How do I know when my beef is done?

The beef should be fork-tender and easy to shred when it’s fully cooked after about 6 hours on low heat.

Can I freeze leftover Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s stored properly and consume within three months for best quality.

Final Thoughts

This Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion!