Description
This Savory French Onion Pot Roast is a tender, flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of slow-cooked beef roast with the savory goodness of French onion soup. With caramelized onions and a simple yet delicious gravy, this recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Pot Roast:
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3-4 lbs chuck roast (or brisket)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 large onion, sliced (for searing)
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2 tablespoons fresh garlic, minced
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2 cups beef broth (or stock)
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1 cup French onion soup (store-bought or homemade)
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2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
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2 teaspoons dried thyme
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1 bay leaf
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1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the gravy)
For the Caramelized Onions:
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2 large onions, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
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ear the Roast:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the roast from the skillet and set it aside. -
Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. This will enhance the caramelized flavor. -
Make the Cooking Liquid:
Add the beef broth, French onion soup, white wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. -
Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the seared roast to a slow cooker. Pour the cooking liquid (with onions and garlic) over the roast. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the roast is fork-tender and easily shreds. -
Caramelize the Onions:
While the roast is cooking, melt butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Stir to coat, then cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. If the onions start to burn, add a splash of water or broth to deglaze the pan. -
Finish the Pot Roast:
Once the roast is done, remove it from the slow cooker and set it aside. If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry, then stir it into the cooking liquid. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken. -
Serve:
Slice or shred the roast and serve with the caramelized onions on top. Spoon the rich gravy over the meat. You can serve this with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
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Slow Cooker or Oven: If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook this roast in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 3-4 hours, covered in a Dutch oven or roasting pan.
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Make-Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors intensify as it sits!
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Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add carrots, potatoes, or parsnips into the slow cooker during the last 2 hours of cooking for a one-pot meal.
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For More Flavor: If you want a deeper onion flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar when caramelizing the onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker) or 3-4 hours (oven)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American