Crock Pot Balsamic Beef Sandwiches

 Crock Pot Balsamic Beef Sandwiches are a flavorful and easy meal where tender, shredded beef is cooked in a tangy balsamic vinegar sauce, creating a delicious filling for sandwiches. Here's how to make them:

Ingredients:

2 lbs (900g) beef chuck roast or brisket

1 cup balsamic vinegar

1/2 cup beef broth

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 onion, sliced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

6-8 sandwich rolls (hoagie or sub rolls work well)

Fresh arugula or spinach (optional)

Provolone cheese or mozzarella (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:

Season the beef chuck roast (or brisket) generously with salt and pepper. You can sear it in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes on each side to lock in flavor, but this step is optional. If you're short on time, skip it and add the beef directly to the Crock Pot.

2. Make the Balsamic Sauce:

In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, beef broth, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.

3. Cook in the Crock Pot:

Place the seasoned beef in the Crock Pot and pour the balsamic sauce mixture over it. Add the sliced onion around the beef.

Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily with a fork.

4. Shred the Beef:

Once the beef is done cooking, remove it from the Crock Pot and use two forks to shred it. Return the shredded beef to the sauce and stir to combine, allowing the beef to soak up the flavorful liquid.

5. Assemble the Sandwiches:

Slice the sandwich rolls and, if desired, toast them lightly.

Spoon the balsamic beef mixture onto the rolls, ensuring each sandwich gets a good amount of the sauce and beef.

Top with fresh arugula or spinach for some greenery and a slice of provolone or mozzarella cheese, if desired.

6. Serve:

Serve your Crock Pot Balsamic Beef Sandwiches hot with a side of chips, salad, or pickles for a complete meal.

Tips:

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove some of the liquid from the Crock Pot and simmer it in a saucepan for a few minutes to reduce and thicken before adding the shredded beef back in.

For extra flavor, add some sliced mushrooms to the Crock Pot with the onions.

You can also serve the balsamic beef on a bed of mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting non-sandwich option.

These Crock Pot Balsamic Beef Sandwiches ar

e super easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual get-together!