Yes, you can certainly cut the beef chuck roast into smaller portions to fit it into your 1.5 qt crock pot. This will not ruin the entire cut, but it's essential to follow some guidelines to ensure the best results.
Here's what you can do:
Preparation: Before cutting the roast, pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help with browning and searing.
Trimming: If there are any large pieces of fat or connective tissue on the roast, you can trim them to your preference.
Cutting: Divide the beef chuck roast into roughly equal-sized portions, considering the size and shape of your crock pot. You can cut it into 3-4 pieces, ensuring that each piece fits comfortably without overcrowding the crock pot.
Searing: While it's not mandatory, searing the smaller portions of the chuck roast in a hot pan before placing them in the crock pot can add extra flavor to the final dish. Sear each portion on all sides until they develop a nice brown crust.
Layering: If you want to add vegetables or other ingredients, you can layer them between the portions of the roast. This will help distribute the flavors more evenly.
Cooking Time: When you cook the smaller portions, keep in mind that they may require slightly less time than a whole roast. Monitor their internal temperature and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they reach the desired level of tenderness.
Liquid: Make sure to add enough liquid to the crock pot to provide moisture throughout the cooking process. This will help prevent the meat from drying out and create a delicious sauce or gravy.
Lid Fit: Ensure that the crock pot lid fits properly over the divided pieces, maintaining a good seal to retain heat and moisture.
By following these steps, you can adapt the beef chuck roast to fit your crock pot without ruining the overall quality of the dish. Enjoy your slow-cooked meal!