01 - Preheat the oven to 325°F.
02 - Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels. Season all sides with salt and black pepper.
03 - In a large Dutch oven or heavy oven-safe pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until well browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove beef and set aside.
04 - In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Sauté 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
05 - Add carrots, potatoes, and celery. Stir to coat with oil and aromatics.
06 - Return the beef to the pot, nestling it among the vegetables.
07 - Pour in beef broth, water, and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, and add bay leaves.
08 - Cover with a tight-fitting lid and transfer to the oven.
09 - Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and vegetables are soft.
10 - Remove roast and vegetables to a serving platter; tent with foil to keep warm.
11 - For the gravy, skim excess fat from the liquid in the pot. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch and cold water until smooth, then stir into the pot.
12 - Bring to a simmer on the stovetop, whisking, until thickened, about 3 minutes.
13 - Slice or shred the roast. Serve with vegetables and spoon gravy over the top.