Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

If you’re looking for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then you’ve come to the right place! This Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast is one of those recipes that makes you feel all cozy inside. The combination of tender beef and the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to treat yourself after a busy week, this pot roast is sure to impress.

What I love most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together in the Instant Pot. Gone are the long hours of waiting—now you can have that delicious, slow-cooked flavor ready in just over an hour!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, making dinner prep a breeze.
• Family-friendly flavors: Everyone will enjoy the rich taste of beef and sweet onions; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Savory satisfaction: With caramelized onions and herbs, each bite bursts with flavor, turning dinner into a special occasion.
• Versatile for any occasion: Perfect for weeknights or gatherings, it fits seamlessly into your meal rotation.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat for busy days, making meal planning easier!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dish. You probably have most of these at home already!

For the Roast

• 3-4 lbs beef chuck roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Cooking Liquid

• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup dry white apple vinegar (or additional broth)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 bay leaves

For Serving

• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or turkey thighs for a lighter option. They will absorb all those wonderful flavors too!
• Change up the cheese: If Gruyère isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute it with Swiss or mozzarella for delicious melty goodness.
• Add vegetables: Toss in some carrots or potatoes for an all-in-one meal that has even more heartiness!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for some heat if you enjoy a little kick in your comfort food.

How to Make Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Step 1: Sear the Meat

Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Pour in the olive oil and let it heat up. While that’s happening, season your chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, sear the roast on all sides until browned—this step creates a deep flavor base that’s essential for our pot roast!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Now it’s time to add those sliced onions into the same pot! Cook them while stirring occasionally until they turn golden brown—about 10-15 minutes. This process brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of your dish. Don’t forget to add minced garlic toward the end; it only takes a minute to release its aroma!

Step 3: Deglaze and Combine

Pour in the apple vinegar (or extra broth), scraping up any browned bits stuck at the bottom of your pot. These bits are packed with flavor! After deglazing, return your seared roast back into the pot along with beef broth, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Secure your Instant Pot lid tightly and set it to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 60 minutes. This process allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together while cooking your roast until it’s tender and juicy.

Step 5: Release Pressure

When cooking is complete, let your pot naturally release pressure for about 15 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure. This helps keep all that moisture locked in!

Step 6: Serve Your Masterpiece

Remove those bay leaves before shredding your roast with two forks right in the pot. Serve hot, topped with shredded Gruyère cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Cooking this delicious pot roast is a breeze with these helpful tips to ensure your meal comes out perfect every time!

• Sear the Meat: Taking the time to sear the beef before pressure cooking enhances the flavor through caramelization, giving your roast a rich and satisfying taste.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Whenever possible, opt for fresh thyme instead of dried. Fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor that can really elevate your dish.
• Don’t Skip the Vinegar: The addition of dry white apple vinegar (or extra broth) helps to tenderize the meat and adds a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness of the caramelized onions.
• Natural Pressure Release: Allowing for natural pressure release after cooking gives the meat time to rest and reabsorb its juices, making it even more tender when you shred it.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Gruyère cheese is delicious, don’t hesitate to try other options like Swiss or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for alternatives!

How to Serve Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

When it’s time to serve this mouthwatering pot roast, consider how you can make it visually appealing and enjoyable for your guests. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A few cracks of black pepper on top before serving can enhance the flavor profile and add visual interest.
• Caramelized Onions: Reserve some of the caramelized onions from cooking to use as an additional garnish for an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes complements the savory pot roast perfectly, providing a comforting base for soaking up all those flavorful juices.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate. Try carrots, Brussels sprouts, or root vegetables seasoned with olive oil and herbs.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans provide a crisp, fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the pot roast, making them an excellent side choice.
• Crunchy Baguette: Serve slices of crusty baguette on the side for dipping into the savory broth. It’s perfect for soaking up all those delicious flavors!

Enjoy preparing and sharing this delightful Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast is not only delicious but also an excellent option for meal prep. It keeps well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a perfect dish to make ahead of time for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pot roast to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the pot roast cool down entirely before freezing.
• Portion the roast into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• For easier meals, consider freezing in individual portions.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pot roast in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a covered saucepan over low heat on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Alternatively, use the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I use a different cut of meat for Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast?

Yes! While beef chuck roast is ideal due to its tenderness after cooking, you can also use brisket or round roast. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the cut you choose.

How do I make Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and check that your beef broth is also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same rich flavors without any gluten concerns!

Can I add vegetables to my Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast?

Absolutely! Feel free to add root vegetables like carrots or potatoes during the cooking process. Just chop them into uniform pieces and add them along with the broth for a complete meal.

What can I serve with Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or even rice. A simple green salad can complement it beautifully as well!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast! This dish brings together comforting flavors and tender meat that will surely impress your family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a special gathering, it’s bound to be a hit. Enjoy every moment in the kitchen and savor each delicious bite!