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Italian Pot Roast

Italian Pot Roast: Cozy Comfort with Gorgonzola Polenta

This Italian Pot Roast, known as Stracotto, is a flavorful centerpiece for any gathering, braised in red wine sauce with creamy Gorgonzola polenta.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Roast
  • 4 pounds Chuck Roast The main protein; provides rich flavor and fork-tender texture.
  • 4 tablespoons Olive Oil Divided; ideal for browning meat and sautéing vegetables.
  • to taste Salt and Black Pepper Essential seasonings enhancing all flavors.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 large Onion Finely chopped; adds sweetness and depth.
  • 2 large Carrots Finely chopped; offers sweetness and color contrast.
  • 2 stalks Celery Finely chopped; brings in aromatic flavor.
  • 4 ounces Pancetta Diced; delivers savory richness.
  • 12 cloves Garlic 2 chopped, 10 sliced; infuses aromatic notes.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups Dry Red Wine Enhances richness and adds depth.
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) Beef Broth Adds moisture and flavor.
  • 1 can (28 ounces) Crushed Tomatoes Provides acidity and depth.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary Chopped; creates an aromatic flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning A blend of herbs for added complexity.
  • 2 large Bay Leaves Imparts deeper flavor during the braising.
For the Polenta
  • 1 cup Gorgonzola Cheese Crumbled; adds a creamy, tangy touch.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Enriches the polenta's texture.
Finishing Touches
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Plus more for garnish.
  • Cooking Spray For greasing the casserole dish.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season the 4-pound chuck roast with salt and black pepper and let it rest for 10 minutes.
  2. In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the roast on both sides for 4–5 minutes, then remove and set aside.
  3. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the Dutch oven and sauté onion, carrots, celery, and pancetta for 7–8 minutes until tender.
  4. Stir in 2 chopped garlic cloves, cooking for 10–15 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in 2 cups of dry red wine and deglaze the pot, bringing to a boil for 1–2 minutes.
  6. Stir in beef broth, crushed tomatoes, sliced garlic, rosemary, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer.
  7. Cover the Dutch oven and braise in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
  8. Let the meat rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing, and garnish with fresh parsley.
  9. While the roast is resting, prepare Gorgonzola polenta by mixing chicken broth, half-and-half, polenta, and seasonings. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, folding in crumbled Gorgonzola and butter halfway through.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 38gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Use high-quality wine for better flavor. Marinate overnight for deeper flavors. Don't skip browning the roast for added taste.

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