Description
Crock Pot French Onion Pot Roast is an irresistible comfort dish that combines tender beef with sweet, caramelized onions, all enveloped in a rich and savory gravy. This slow-cooked masterpiece is perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. With minimal hands-on time, this recipe is both effortless and satisfying, making it a go-to choice for meal prep or a cozy dinner. Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness as the savory broth infuses the beef, creating a delightful experience that’s sure to warm hearts and appetites alike.
Ingredients
- 3–4 lb chuck roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning, optional)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry apple vinegar (or more broth)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 3 tablespoons cold water (for thickening, optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the onions and garlic by slicing the onions into thin rings and mincing the garlic.
- In your slow cooker on high heat, combine butter, onions, garlic, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Stir well and cook for 20–30 minutes until softened.
- Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper. Optionally sear it in olive oil until browned.
- Place the caramelized onions at the bottom of the crock pot and nestle the roast on top. Add thyme and bay leaves.
- Pour in beef broth and apple vinegar until the roast is partially submerged.
- Cook on low for 8–9 hours or high for 5–6 hours until fork-tender.
- If desired, thicken gravy with cornstarch mixed with water during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–9 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg