Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

This Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef is perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week. Bursting with flavors and featuring melt-in-your-mouth beef, it’s a go-to dish for busy families and anyone looking to indulge in comfort food without the carbs. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is bound to become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of pepperoncini peppers and Italian seasonings creates a deliciously tangy flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with low-carb veggies or serve it as a hearty sandwich filling for those who aren’t watching carbs.
• Make-Ahead Meal: Perfect for meal prepping, this dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love this tender, flavorful beef dish; it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing spoon
• Strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This appliance allows for hands-off cooking, making your life easier while producing tender meat.
• Large skillet: Ideal for searing meat before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing depth of flavor.
• Strainer: Useful for separating any bits from the reduced cooking liquid, ensuring a smooth sauce.

Ingredients

This slow cooker Italian Beef is the most delicious, fall-apart tender, flavorful, low-carb/keto meal just waiting to be devoured!

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 Flavoring

• 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
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 bay leaf

How to Make Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

First, turn the slow cooker on high. Add the beef stock, pepperoncini peppers (with juice), onion, garlic, onion powder, bay leaf, and Italian seasonings. Stir these ingredients to combine them. (You will turn the crock pot down to low after adding the beef.)

Step 2: Season the Beef

Cut the beef into evenly sized 6-inch chunks. Trim off any visible fat. Season these pieces with 2 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Add olive oil to a large skillet over high heat. When hot, carefully add the seasoned beef chunks. Sear them on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from heat and add to the slow cooker along with any juices from searing.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Beef

Turn down the slow cooker to low setting. Cover and cook for approximately 6 hours until tender.

Step 5: Prepare Sauce

After cooking time is up, remove lid from slow cooker. Drain off cooking liquid into a bowl (there should be around 3-4 cups). Remove excess oily fat if necessary. Strain this liquid through a strainer into a sauté pan; bring it to a simmer on stovetop for about 4-5 minutes before transferring back into a serving bowl.

Step 6: Shred and Serve

Remove Italian beef from crock pot using two forks to pull or shred it apart. Place on a large plate or platter with onions and pepperoncini on top. If desired, sprinkle shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese on top; heat in microwave briefly if needed to melt cheese.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Serve with reduced cooking liquid as a dipping sauce alongside your favorite veggies like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. If not following a low carb diet, feel free to use your preferred sandwich roll!

How to Serve Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

This delicious Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef is perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal experience.

On a Platter

• Arrange the shredded beef on a large platter and top it with sautéed onions and pepperoncini. Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

As Sliders

• Serve the Italian beef on small rolls for tasty sliders. Add cheese and some pickled vegetables for extra flavor.

With Cauliflower Rice

• Pair the beef with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The rice absorbs the flavorful juices, making every bite delightful.

In Zucchini Boats

• Hollow out zucchini halves, fill them with Italian beef, and bake until tender. This makes for a fun, edible serving vessel.

Topped with Cheese

• Melt provolone or mozzarella over the beef right before serving. The gooey cheese adds richness and flavor.

With Veggie Dippers

• Cut fresh vegetables like bell peppers and cucumbers into sticks, and use them to dip into the reduced cooking liquid as a sauce.

How to Perfect Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

Perfecting this recipe can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Choose Quality Meat: Use a high-quality chuck roast for better flavor and tenderness.
• Sear the Meat: Searing the beef before slow cooking enhances its taste through caramelization.
• Control Seasoning: Adjust salt and spices according to your preference. Taste the broth after cooking to make adjustments.
• Let It Rest: Allow the cooked beef to rest before shredding it to keep it moist and flavorful.
• Layer Your Ingredients: Adding veggies like onions or peppers at different stages can enhance texture and flavor.
• Store Properly: Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen in airtight containers, keeping them fresh for future meals.

Best Side Dishes for Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

Complement your Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef with these perfect side dishes:

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

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that balances out the meal beautifully.

3. Zucchini Noodles
   Light and refreshing, zucchini noodles serve as a great low-carb pasta substitute.

4. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Fill bell peppers with quinoa or rice alternatives mixed with spices for an added veggie boost.

5. Greek Salad
   A fresh salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese enhances your meal’s overall freshness.

6. Spaghetti Squash
   This versatile vegetable can be served plain or topped with marinara sauce for extra flavor.

7. Steamed Broccoli
   Nutrient-rich steamed broccoli adds color and crunch to your plate without many carbs.

8. Cauliflower Gnocchi
   These soft dumplings provide a delightful texture while remaining low in carbs, making them an excellent pairing option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Bold seasoning choice: Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland beef. Always use salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings for maximum flavor.
• Bold cutting inconsistency: Cutting the beef into uneven sizes may result in uneven cooking. Ensure all pieces are roughly the same size for even tenderness.
• Bold neglecting searing: Not searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker can cause a loss of flavor. Take the time to brown the meat for a richer taste.
• Bold overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times matter! Don’t exceed 6 hours on low or you risk dry beef; always check doneness during cooking.
• Bold ignoring liquid levels: Adding too little or too much liquid can alter the texture. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Keep for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef.

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

To add spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños along with your other ingredients.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! For a different flavor profile, try using boneless chicken thighs or breasts as an alternative. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

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

This dish pairs well with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I store leftover Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it as instructed above.

Final Thoughts

Low Carb Slow Cooker Italian Beef is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. You can adjust seasonings or serve it with your favorite sides to match your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion!