Print

French Onion Pot Roast

French Onion Pot Roast
Print Recipe

French Onion Pot Roast combines the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions with tender, juicy beef cooked slowly in one pot for an irresistible, comforting meal perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat

  • 3 to 4 lbs beef chuck roast, well-marbled

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 4 to 5 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced or crushed
  • 2 to 3 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 2 bay leaves

Liquids & Fats

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with beef broth or balsamic vinegar)
  • 4 cups beef broth (enough to come halfway up the roast)

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Melt butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add thinly sliced yellow onions and a pinch of salt, stirring regularly. Cook slowly for about 40 minutes until the onions turn rich golden brown and develop deep sweetness.
  2. Sear the Beef Chuck Roast: Pat the beef roast dry and season generously with salt and black pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and sear the roast on all sides in the same pot or a separate pan until nicely browned, sealing in the juices.
  3. Deglaze the Pan: Remove the meat and pour in dry white wine (or broth if preferred) to deglaze the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
  4. Combine and Simmer: Return caramelized onions and seared roast to the pot. Add garlic, thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and enough beef broth to reach halfway up the side of the roast. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours until beef is fall-apart tender.
  5. Finish and Rest: Remove the roast and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. Skim excess fat from cooking liquid and simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken sauce if desired. Pour sauce over sliced roast before serving.

Notes

  • Patience with onions while caramelizing is essential for deep flavor.
  • Don’t skip searing the beef to create more taste layers.
  • Use a heavy pot like a Dutch oven or cast iron for even heat distribution.
  • Check liquid levels during cooking and add broth as needed to keep roast moist.
  • Rest the meat after cooking to retain juices and tenderness.
  • You can substitute portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
  • Red wine can replace white wine for a deeper flavor.
  • Add vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or potatoes to cook alongside for a fuller meal.
  • To make gluten-free, use gluten-free broth and verify all ingredient labels.
  • For slow cooker use, transfer everything after searing and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours.
  • To thicken sauce faster, whisk in a small amount of cornstarch slurry after simmering.

Nutrition

Keywords: French Onion Pot Roast, Pot Roast, French Onion Soup, Slow Cooker Roast, Comfort Food, One-Pot Meal, Caramelized Onions, Beef Chuck Roast

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/french-onion-pot-roast/