Description

French Onion Pot Roast is a hearty, comforting dish that captures the essence of cozy family dinners without the need for wine. This recipe keeps all the rich, savory goodness of traditional pot roast while being wholesome and family-friendly. Perfect for both weekday meals and special weekend feasts, it’s a dish that everyone will love. With tender chuck roast, caramelized onions, and hearty vegetables, you’ll find this pot roast to be a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

3–4 pounds of chuck roast
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 large onions, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
4–5 carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
4–5 potatoes, peeled and quartered

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Roast

Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the seasoned roast in the pot and sear until browned on both sides. After searing, remove the roast from the pot and set it aside.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

In the same pot, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Balsamic Vinegar

Stir in the minced garlic and balsamic vinegar with the caramelized onions. Continue cooking until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 5: Combine with Broth and Herbs

Pour the beef broth into the pot, then add the fresh thyme and bay leaves. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

Step 6: Nestle the Roast

Return the seared pot roast to the pot, placing it among the caramelized onions.

Step 7: Add the Vegetables

Add the peeled and cut carrots and quartered potatoes around the roast, ensuring they are partially submerged in the broth for even cooking.

Step 8: Cook the Dish

Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until both the roast and vegetables are tender and infused with flavor.

Step 9: Serve the Pot Roast

Before serving, remove the bay leaves from the pot. Slice the pot roast and serve it alongside the carrots and potatoes, generously spooning the delicious onion gravy over the top.

Notes

Cooking Time

The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the roast and your stove. Ensure the meat is tender before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the French onion pot roast with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving again.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3-4 hours