French Onion Pot Roast

INTRODUCTION

French Onion Pot Roast is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of pot roast with the sweet and savory flavors of French onion soup. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become tender, while the caramelized onions add depth and sweetness. With some cheesy bread on top, this meal is a delightful treat that satisfies everyone at the table.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love French Onion Pot Roast. First, it is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can create a wonderful meal that will impress your family and friends. Second, the slow cooker does all the hard work for you. You can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. Third, the taste is absolutely delicious. The combination of tender beef, golden onions, and melted cheese creates a wonderful flavor explosion in every bite. Finally, this dish is perfect for meal prep. You can enjoy leftovers the next day, making it a great choice for busy weeks.

HOW TO MAKE French Onion Pot Roast

Making French Onion Pot Roast is a straightforward process. With some easy steps, you can prepare a comforting meal for your loved ones.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Large skillet
• Slow cooker (crock pot)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3-4 lb chuck roast
• Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)
• 3 Tablespoons butter (or coconut oil)
• 4 large yellow onions (halved through root end and thinly sliced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2/3 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
• 3/4 cup low sodium beef broth
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 Tablespoons water
• 8 oz French baguette (sliced, optional)
• 4 oz gruyere cheese (optional)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Sear the beef (10 min): Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. While the oil heats, season both sides of the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Sear both sides of the roast undisturbed for 4-5 minutes, until it develops a deep golden brown color. Once seared, transfer the roast to the slow cooker.

2. Caramelize the onions (20 min): Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet (you do not need to clean it). Add the sliced onions to the pan and cook them for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. After this, add the balsamic vinegar and minced garlic, cooking for another 5 minutes. Next, pour in the dry white wine and let it cook until reduced, about 5 minutes. The onions should now be very soft and golden brown. They will continue to cook down in the crock pot.

3. Slow cook (8-10 hours): Transfer the caramelized onions to the crock pot with the beef. Pour in the beef broth, and add the sprigs of thyme and bay leaves. Close the lid and set the slow cooker to low. Let it cook for 8-10 hours until the beef is tender enough to fall apart using a fork.

4. Toast the bread (5 min, optional): If you want to add the baguette, preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) just before the beef is ready. Drizzle the baguette slices with olive oil and then bake them on a sheet pan for about 5 minutes, or until golden brown.

5. Thicken and finish (10 min): When the beef is finished cooking, carefully open the lid of the slow cooker. Remove the thyme and bay leaves, and shred the beef with two forks. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water together, then stir this mixture into the shredded beef. If you are using the toasted bread, top the beef and onions with the baguette slices, and sprinkle generously with gruyere cheese. Close the lid of the slow cooker and cook on high for 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted, and the beef has thickened.

HOW TO SERVE French Onion Pot Roast

French Onion Pot Roast is best served warm, right from the slow cooker. Dish it out on plates, making sure to include both the tender beef and the caramelized onions. If you have added the toasted baguette and cheese, make sure to include that on each serving. You can serve it alongside a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

STORAGE & FREEZING: French Onion Pot Roast

If you have leftovers, you can store French Onion Pot Roast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

If you want to freeze it, let the pot roast cool completely first. Then place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

For a complete meal, you can serve French Onion Pot Roast with:

• Mashed potatoes
• Rice
• A crusty bread
• A light salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed or roasted vegetables

All these sides can complement the rich flavors of the pot roast and make your meal even more satisfying.

VARIATIONS

You can easily modify French Onion Pot Roast to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

• Add vegetables: You can add carrots, celery, or potatoes to the slow cooker with the beef for a heartier meal.
• Use different cheeses: While gruyere cheese is classic, you can also use Swiss or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the mix.
• Change the meat: While chuck roast works well, you could try using brisket or another cut of beef if you prefer.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of meat?
   Yes, you can use brisket or even a round roast, but the cooking time may vary depending on the cut.

2. Is there a substitute for dry white wine?
   Yes, you can use more beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a non-alcoholic option.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just set the slow cooker to low in the morning and let it cook throughout the day.

4. Can I cook it on high instead of low?
   Yes, you can cook it on high for about 4-5 hours. Just make sure the meat is tender before serving!

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR French Onion Pot Roast

To save time, you can prepare your ingredients the night before. Chop the onions, mince the garlic, and season the beef. Store everything in the fridge until you are ready to cook it the next day. Additionally, you can also sear the beef and caramelize the onions in advance and then combine everything in the slow cooker just before you want to start cooking. This way, you can have a delicious and hearty meal ready with minimal effort.

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