When it comes to steak, the chuck cut often remains surpassed by its more famous counterparts. Yet, with the right touch of Italian seasoning and the preciseness of an air fryer, this underappreciated cut converts into a gastronomic treat. Let’s explore how to advance air-fryer chuck steak to new culinary heights.

Ingredients

• 2 chuck steaks, about 1 inch thick (≈ 8.8 oz / 250 g each)

• 1–2 tsp olive oil

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1–2 tsp Italian seasoning (adjust to preference)

Instructions

1. Prep the Steaks

• Take the chuck steaks out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

• This ensures more even cooking and a juicier steak.

2. Season

• Drizzle olive oil evenly over both sides of each steak.

• Sprinkle generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

• Gently rub the seasonings in for better flavor.

3. Air-Fry

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

• Place the seasoned steaks in the basket in a single layer so they don’t overlap.

• Cook for 12–13 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

• For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). Adjust the cooking time slightly for your desired doneness.

4. Rest and Serve

• Remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes.

• This step allows the juices to redistribute for the most tender bite.

• Slice against the grain and serve with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or air-fried potatoes for a complete meal.

Optional Add-On: Garlic Herb Butter

For extra richness, mix together:

• 2 tbsp softened butter

• 1 clove minced garlic

• 1 tsp fresh chopped parsley

• A pinch of salt

Spoon a small dollop over the steak right before serving — it melts into the meat and takes the flavor up a notch.

Time Guide

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (including resting)

• Cook Time: 12–13 minutes

• Rest Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: ~50 minutes

Do you think this air fryer chuck steak recipe is pin-worthy? Slide it onto your beautiful Pinterest board with the image below. Let’s share the steak love, one pin at a time!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chuck Steak:

1. Room Temperature Matters: Always start with chuck steak sitting at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a juicier result.
2. Pat it Dry: Before seasoning, dry your steak with paper towels. Removing excess moisture ensures a better sear and stops the steak from steaming in the air fryer.
3. Avoid Overcrowding: Place only as many steaks in the air fryer as possible without touching. Overlaying or crowding can lead to uneven cooking.
4. Thickness Consistency: Ensure all your steaks are of equal thickness. This guarantees they all cook at the same rate, preventing some from being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
5. Rest After Cooking: This can’t be stressed enough. Letting the steak rest for 10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
6. Use a Meat Thermometer: For precision, use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of your steak. This removes the guesswork and ensures your steak is cooked exactly to your liking.
7. Season Generously: While you don’t want to overpower the natural flavor of the chuck steak, don’t be shy with your seasoning. The right amount of salt and pepper can elevate the taste significantly.
8. Clean Your Air Fryer: After each use, ensure you clean the air fryer basket and interior. Built-up residue can affect the flavor of your steak and other dishes you prepare.

Storing & Reheating:

Refrigeration: Do you have chuck steak leftovers? Store the chuck steak in a shallow container and refrigerate for up to three days.

Freezing: For extended storage, freeze the cooled steak in an airtight container for up to six months.

Reheating: Heat the steak in a non-stick pan until it’s hot or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

There’s nothing quite like the fragrance of a pot roast flowing through your home, promising a hearty and delicious meal. The Mississippi-Style Pot Roast, with its unique combination of flavors, is a true testament to the magic of slow cooking. 

Ingredients

• 3–4 lbs chuck roast

• 1 packet ranch dressing mix

• 1 packet au jus gravy mix

• ⅓ cup (about 5 Tbsp) unsalted butter

• 6 whole pepperoncini peppers (plus 2–3 Tbsp juice from the jar)

• 2 Tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prep & season the roast

Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

2. Sear the beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 2–3 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms.

3. Assemble in slow cooker

Place the roast into the slow cooker. Sprinkle ranch dressing mix and au jus mix evenly over the top. Add the butter and pepperoncini peppers. Pour in 2–3 Tbsp of the pepperoncini juice for extra tang.

4. Cook low & slow

• Low setting: 8 hours

• High setting: 4–5 hours
  The roast is ready when it’s tender and shreds easily with a fork.

5. Shred & serve

Use two forks to gently shred the beef in the slow cooker, mixing it with the flavorful juices. Serve warm over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles, with the pepperoncinis on the side.

Tips & Variations

• For extra richness, add sliced onions or baby carrots to the slow cooker.

• Want it spicier? Add a few more pepperoncinis or a spoonful of their brine.

• Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and they taste even better the next day.

Craving more of this Mississippi charm? Light up your Pinterest board by pinning the picture below. Trust me, it’s roast-worthy!

Choosing the Right Cut

For this recipe, a chuck roast is perfect. It’s a tasty cut of meat that becomes exceptionally tender when slow-cooked. When shopping, look for a piece with good marbling to ensure a juicy outcome.

The Secret Ingredients

What sets the Mississippi-Style Pot Roast apart are its specific ingredients. The blend of pepperoncini peppers and ranch dressing mix might sound unusual, but trust us; it’s a match made in culinary heaven. The added ingredient in this recipe? A touch of smoked paprika for that extra depth of flavor.

Mississippi-Style Pot Roast Variations

The traditional Mississippi-style pot Roast is a dish that’s hard to beat, but for those who love to experiment or simply want to adjust the taste, here are some delightful variations to try:

Chipotle Mississippi Roast

Add 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the slow cooker. This will infuse your roast with a smoky and spicy flavor, excellent for those who like a little heat.

Olive and Tomato Roast

Swap pepperoncini peppers with a handful of Kalamata olives and cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle with some dried oregano and thyme for a Mediterranean twist.

Mushroom and Cream Roast

Add a cup of sliced mushrooms and replace half of the butter with a cup of heavy cream or cream of mushroom soup. This will provide the roast with a creamy, rich texture and taste.

Root Vegetable Roast

Add chunks of root veggies like carrots, parsnips, and turnips to the slow cooker. They’ll absorb the flavors and deliver an earthy, rich complement to the meat.

Remember, cookery is as much about imagination as it is about following recipes. Feel free to mix and match these variations or develop your own. The Mississippi-Style Pot Roast is a versatile dish that can be the canvas for many cooking adventures!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Roast

Every dish has its secrets, and the Mississippi-Style Pot Roast is no exception. Whether you’re a chef with years of experience or a kitchen novice, these tips and tricks will ensure that your pot roast is always fantastic:

1. Meat Quality Matters

• Marbling is Key: When picking a chuck roast, look for one with good marbling. Those little streaks of fat within the meat provide a juicy and flavorful outcome.
• Fresh Over Frozen: While frozen meat can work, fresh cuts tend to have finer texture and flavor.

2. Searing Secrets

• Pat it Dry: Before searing, pat the meat dry using paper towels. This ensures a lovely golden crust.
• High Heat: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the meat. A proper sear locks in the flavors.

3. Slow Cooker Savvy

• Layering: Place hard veggies, like carrots or potatoes, at the bottom of the slow cooker. They’ll cook more evenly this way.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure there’s enough space in your slow cooker. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.

4. Flavor Boosters

• Homemade Mixes: Consider making your ranch or au jus mix at home. This way, you can control the salt and MSG content.
• Broth Base: Add a cup of beef or vegetable broth to the slow cooker for an even richer flavor.

5. Serving Suggestions

• Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, let the roast rest for 10 minutes before shredding. This allows the juices to be redistributed.
• Pairing: This roast pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, but consider serving with polenta, rice, or a fresh green salad.

6. Storage and Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: If you have a bunch of leftovers, consider freezing portions for future meals. Just ensure it’s entirely cooled before freezing.

Are you looking to switch up your typical meatball recipe? Enter these Smoked Meatballs, where classic ground beef meets a sweet BBQ glaze.

This recipe takes the classical ground beef base, enhances it with aromatic herbs, and then introduces a game-changing BBQ sauce made from a combination of classic BBQ, honey, and brown sugar. This blend ensures each meatball is juicy and flavorful and has that distinctive smoky note that sets it apart.

Excellent for both weekday dinners and special events, these smoked meatballs are a delightful twist on a traditional, offering both familiarity and a refreshing taste experience. Let’s explore the ingredients and steps to get this dish to your dining table.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juicy results)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style work well)

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the BBQ Glaze

• 1 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite — smoky or sweet)

• ¼ cup honey

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions

1. Prep the Meatballs

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.

• Mix gently with your hands or a wooden spoon until the ingredients are just combined — avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

2. Shape the Meatballs

• Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized portions (about 1½ inches in diameter).

• Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper while you prepare the smoker.

3. Smoke the Meatballs

• Preheat your smoker to 200°F (93°C) using a mild wood like apple, cherry, or hickory for the best flavor.

• Arrange the meatballs evenly on the smoker grate.

• Smoke for 1 to 1½ hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

4. Make the BBQ Glaze

• While the meatballs are smoking, add BBQ sauce, honey, and brown sugar to a small saucepan.

• Simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.

5. Glaze and Finish

• During the last 10 minutes of smoking, brush the meatballs generously with the glaze.

• For a stickier finish, baste them again right before removing from the smoker.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes after removing them from the smoker.

• Serve as is, over mashed potatoes, in sandwiches, or as party skewers with extra glaze for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Smoked Meatballs

• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking — juicy meatballs are the goal.

• For extra depth of flavor, mix in ½ lb ground pork with the beef.

• Add red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.

Time Guide

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 to 1½ hours

• Total Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes

Think our Smoked Meatballs are a hit? Slide that photo below onto your Pinterest board. Who knows, it might just become the talk of your next dinner chat! 🙂

Why These Smoked Meatballs Are a Must-Try:

Unique Flavor Profile: Smoking the meatballs introduces an unparalleled richness of flavor. The smoky aroma mixed with the sweet and tangy BBQ glaze is a match made in culinary heaven.

Versatility: These meatballs are perfect for appetizers, sandwich fillers, or even the main course with spaghetti or mashed potatoes.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner, a BBQ party, or a potluck, these meatballs will surely be a hit.

Serving Suggestions:

Spaghetti & Meatballs: Toss your meatballs with some spaghetti and marinara sauce for a smoky twist on the traditional spaghetti meatballs.

Meatball Sub: Place the meatballs in a sub roll, top with some mozzarella and the BBQ glaze, and broil until the cheese liquefies.

On Skewers: Serve these meatballs on skewers as appetizers. The BBQ glaze makes them finger-licking good!

Smoky Meatball Sliders: Use mini buns to create meatball sliders. Place a meatball on each, top with a slice of cheddar cheese or mozzarella, a dollop of the BBQ glaze, and some lettuce. Perfect for parties!

Meatball Salad: Toss arugula or spinach with some olive oil, lemon juice, cherry tomatoes, and olives. Top with hot meatballs and drizzle with the BBQ glaze.

Rice and Meatballs: Serve these smoked meatballs on steamed rice or risotto bed. The BBQ glaze acts as a delightful sauce.

Loaded Meatball Pizza: Use these meatballs as a topping for your homemade pizza. Slice them up, spread them over your pizza base, add your favorite veggies, cheese, and bake!

Variations to Experiment With:

Cheese Center: Stuff your meatballs with a cube of fresh mozzarella or cheddar for a cheesy surprise in the middle.

Herb Infusion: Add some fresh basil or oregano to the meat mixture for an aromatic touch.

Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix for those who like it hot.

Veggie Boost: Mix finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini into the meatball mixture for an added veggie boost.

Asian Twist: Swap the BBQ glaze with a teriyaki glaze and sprinkle some sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired variation.

Mediterranean Flair: Add some feta cheese and olives to the meat mixture and swap parsley with fresh mint.

Taco Meatballs: Introduce taco seasoning to the beef mixture and serve with guacamole and salsa on the side.

Bacon-Wrapped: For an extra layer of flavor and smokiness, wrap each meatball in a bacon strip, like in the photo below, before smoking.

With these variations, the recipe becomes more versatile and caters to a broader range of taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a twist on a classic, these smoked meatballs will surely be everyone’s favorite!