When the winter wind blows, you need a warm, filling meal. There is nothing like the smell of savory beef on a cold night.
This Easy French Onion Pot Roast is the ultimate comfort food for your family. It delivers tender meat and a rich, silky gravy every single time.
Why This Easy French Onion Pot Roast Works
This dish is perfect for those cozy winter weekends at home. You can set it in the oven and let it work its magic.
It uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Your family will think you spent all day in the kitchen.
The best part is the melt-in-your-mouth texture of the beef. It is a budget-friendly way to feed a hungry crowd.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making this roast is much easier than it looks. You start by searing the meat to lock in all those juices.
Then, you sauté the onions until they are soft and golden. The oven does most of the hard work for you.
Even beginners can master this slow-braised technique with ease. You just need a Dutch oven and a little bit of patience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You likely have most of these items in your kitchen right now. Fresh onions and beef make the perfect pair.
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 packet (1 ounce) dry French onion soup mix
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Season the beef chuck roast with black pepper and sear in olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
- Remove the meat and add the onions to the pot, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic, beef broth, French onion soup mix, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot, scraping the bottom to release browned bits.
- Return the roast to the pot and cover with a lid.
- Place in the oven and braise for 3.5 to 4 hours until the internal temperature reaches approximately 202 degrees Fahrenheit and the meat is fork-tender.
- Rest the meat for 15 minutes before serving with the onion gravy.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this roast warm over a pile of creamy mashed potatoes. The onion gravy is the star of the show here.
Add a side of roasted carrots or a simple green salad. It is a wonderful meal for a relaxed Sunday dinner.
Set the table, light a candle, and enjoy this hearty meal together. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce.
How to Store Leftovers
You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. Store the meat in the gravy to keep it moist.
This roast also freezes beautifully for up to three months. It makes for a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks.
To reheat, simply place it in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes. You can also use a microwave for a quick lunch.
Recipe Tips for Success
- Don’t skip searing the beef for a deeper flavor.
- Slice your onions thinly so they melt into the sauce.
- Use a low-sodium broth to control the saltiness easily.
- Let the meat rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- For a holiday twist, add a splash of red wine.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Always scrape the bottom of the pot for browned bits.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add sliced mushrooms for an extra earthy flavor.
- Use a gluten-free soup mix to fit dietary needs.
- Swap the thyme for rosemary for a different herbal note.
- Toss in some baby potatoes during the last hour.
Common Questions
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you certainly can. Sear the meat first, then cook on low for 8 hours. It will be just as tender and delicious.
What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
Any heavy, oven-safe pot with a tight lid will work. You can also use a deep baking dish covered tightly with foil. Just ensure the seal is very strong to keep moisture in.
I hope this cozy meal brings your family together this winter. It is truly a hug in a bowl for those cold nights. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Easy French Onion Pot Roast
Ingredients
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cups low -sodium beef broth
- 1 packet (1 ounce) dry French onion soup mix
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Season the beef chuck roast with black pepper and sear in olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
- Remove the meat and add the onions to the pot, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic, beef broth, French onion soup mix, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot, scraping the bottom to release browned bits.
- Return the roast to the pot and cover with a lid.
- Place in the oven and braise for 3.5 to 4 hours until the internal temperature reaches approximately 202 degrees Fahrenheit and the meat is fork-tender.
- Rest the meat for 15 minutes before serving with the onion gravy.
