This Crockpot French Onion Pot Roast is a cozy dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. Tender beef simmers in a rich and tasty onion gravy all day, filling your home with yummy smells!
Honestly, what’s better than pulling apart juicy roast beef with a fork? I love serving it with mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce. It’s a warm hug on dinner plates! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is great for slow cooking. It’s tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow. If you can’t find chuck roast, you can substitute with brisket or round roast, although they may not be as tender.
Onions: Yellow onions add sweetness that caramelizes beautifully with slow cooking. If you’re in a pinch, you can use sweet onions or even shallots for a milder flavor.
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is best, but store-bought works too. For a healthier option, use low-sodium broth. For those avoiding beef, vegetable broth is a good plant-based alternative.
Dry White Wine: This adds depth, but feel free to skip it if you prefer. A splash of apple cider vinegar or even a little lemon juice can add acidity in its place.
French Onion Soup Mix: You can use a homemade version with dried beef bouillon, onion powder, and seasoning if you want to avoid packaged mixes. It’s easy to whip up!
How Do I Make Sure My Roast is Tender and Flavorful?
The key to a tender roast is low and slow cooking. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Begin by seasoning the beef well, as this forms the flavor base.
- Don’t skip the searing! Browning the roast before slow cooking locks in flavor.
- The onions need to be cooked until golden—they’ll add great richness to the dish.
- For the best results, keep the lid closed while cooking to maintain moisture and heat.
- Let the roast rest before slicing; this helps the juices redistribute for a more tender result.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious and hearty meal that everyone will enjoy!
Crockpot French Onion Pot Roast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 lb beef chuck roast
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced (preferably yellow or sweet onions)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) French onion soup mix
- 1 tsp thyme (dried or fresh)
- 1 bay leaf
- 12 small yellow potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot French Onion Pot Roast takes about 15 minutes for prep and then simmers for 8 to 9 hours on low, or 4 to 5 hours on high. It’s a set-and-forget meal, so you can prepare it in the morning and come home to a warm, hearty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Roast:
Start by generously seasoning the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper on all sides. This enhances the flavor nicely!
2. Searing the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, carefully sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. This step adds great flavor. Once done, remove the roast from the heat and set it aside.
3. Caramelizing the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook while stirring frequently until the onions become softened and start to caramelize, which should take about 10 minutes.
4. Adding Garlic and Tomato Paste:
Next, add the minced garlic and tomato paste to the onions, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This mixture will add depth to your dish.
5. Assembling in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the seared roast into the slow cooker. Surround the roast with the halved potatoes and carrot chunks.
6. Pouring the Onion Mixture:
Pour the caramelized onion mixture over the roast, covering it well.
7. Adding Liquid and Seasoning:
Now, add the beef broth, dry white wine (if you’re using it), French onion soup mix, thyme, and bay leaf into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine everything, ensuring the flavors mix well.
8. Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 to 9 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef is tender and can be shredded easily.
9. Finishing Touches:
Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and discard it. This is a great time to taste and adjust your seasonings if needed.
10. Serving:
Before serving, garnish the pot roast with fresh chopped parsley for a nice touch. Serve the roast alongside the cooked vegetables and ladle the rich French onion gravy over everything.
Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Crockpot French Onion Pot Roast that’s perfect for an easy, comforting meal! It’s sure to become a family favorite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use brisket or a round roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut used.
What if I Don’t Have White Wine?
No worries! You can simply omit the white wine or substitute it with additional beef broth for that rich flavor. A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can also help to brighten the dish if you’d like.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the onions, sear the meat, and combine everything in the slow cooker the night before. Just store it in the fridge and cook it the next day! Just remember to bring the ingredients to room temperature before cooking for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.